Write a Thesis Statement for Your Critical Lens Essay: Crafting a Strong Foundation

Write a Thesis Statement for Your Critical Lens Essay: Crafting a Strong Foundation

Are ⁣you ready to dive into the world of critical lens essays, ‌but unsure where to begin? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the ⁢first crucial step: crafting a strong thesis statement. ‌Consider your thesis as the foundation of your essay; it sets the stage for your arguments and​ positions you as a knowledgeable and confident writer. So, let’s⁤ unravel the secrets behind formulating ⁤an impeccable thesis ‍statement for your‍ critical lens essay. Get ready to build​ an unshakable foundation for your insightful‌ analysis!
Introduction: ⁤Understanding the‍ Importance‌ of Crafting a ‌Strong Foundation for Your Critical Lens Essay

Introduction: Understanding the Importance of ⁤Crafting ​a Strong Foundation for Your⁢ Critical Lens Essay

Crafting a strong foundation for your ‌critical lens⁣ essay is crucial in order to ensure clarity, coherence, and effectiveness in your writing. A well-crafted thesis statement forms the cornerstone⁣ of your essay, providing a clear ⁢focus and ⁣guiding the reader ‍throughout your analysis.

First and foremost, ⁣it is⁣ important ‌to understand ⁢the significance⁤ of ⁤a ​thesis statement. This concise​ statement serves⁢ as the main argument or claim of your ​essay, expressing your interpretation of the given⁤ quote or literary⁢ work. It not only⁣ sets the ​direction for your analysis but also highlights the key themes ⁣or ideas that you will explore and support throughout your essay.

A strong thesis statement​ should be⁤ clear, concise, and debatable. It should clearly state⁢ your ​position and⁢ provide a preview⁣ of‍ the ⁢main supporting points that will be discussed in‍ the body ⁢paragraphs.⁢ By crafting⁤ a strong foundation through‌ a well-structured and well-articulated thesis statement, you can ensure that your​ critical lens ‌essay remains focused and​ persuasive.

To create an effective thesis statement, consider the following tips:

  1. Familiarize yourself with the critical lens quote: Carefully‌ analyze and interpret the given quote, understanding its underlying⁣ message ⁢or themes. Identify⁣ the literary‌ elements ⁣and ⁢techniques used within the quote.

  2. Determine your stance:​ Formulate your⁣ own interpretation of the quote and determine whether you agree or disagree. This ⁤will help you establish‍ your‌ position and develop a clear thesis statement.

  3. Identify supporting evidence: Consider the​ literary works or ⁤texts that ⁢you⁤ will be using to support your ⁤analysis. Identify specific examples or quotes that reinforce ⁤your interpretation⁤ and contribute to the overall argument of your essay.

  4. Craft a clear and concise statement: ⁢Your thesis statement should be a‌ single sentence‌ that encapsulates your main ‍argument or claim. Avoid vague​ or generic⁣ statements ⁣and strive for specificity and ⁤clarity.

By‌ taking ‍the⁤ time to craft a strong foundation through a well-structured thesis statement, ⁤you ‍can ensure that your critical lens essay ‍is cohesive, persuasive, and ⁢thoroughly analyzed. Remember to clearly express your position and provide a preview of the ​supporting points that will be developed in the ⁤body ‍paragraphs. With a strong foundation ⁤in place,⁤ your essay is bound to make a⁤ lasting impression on the reader.

Key Elements ‌of a Thesis Statement: Defining its ​Purpose ‍and Components

The key ‌elements of a ⁢thesis statement are essential in crafting a ⁣strong foundation for your critical lens essay. By understanding ‍the purpose⁤ and components of a thesis statement, you can ⁢effectively convey your viewpoint and demonstrate your analytical skills.

Purpose:
A thesis statement serves as the ⁢main idea or argument of ‌your essay. It establishes the⁤ direction and focus​ of​ your writing, guiding readers⁢ towards ⁤your intended message.⁢ Your thesis statement should ​be concise, clear, and specific, ‍ensuring that⁣ all subsequent paragraphs ⁤support and⁤ develop ‍this ‌central idea.

Components:

  1. Topic: The topic is the subject of​ your essay, providing a general overview of what you will discuss. It should be‌ unique and relevant to your critical lens. ⁤Consider including keywords that capture the essence of your argument.

  2. Claim: ‌Your claim is‌ the standpoint or position you take on‍ the given quote or‍ critical lens. ⁤It should ⁢be ⁤debatable and specific, allowing for in-depth analysis. A‍ strong claim is​ one that‌ prompts​ readers to question, consider, or ‌evaluate your ⁤perspective.

  3. Analysis: Your ⁤thesis statement should include⁣ an analysis of⁢ the quote or critical lens in relation‍ to‌ your claim. This analysis ⁢demonstrates ​your ability ‌to critically ⁤examine and interpret the text,⁤ highlighting the key​ elements ⁣or ‍literary devices ⁢that‌ support‌ your argument.

  4. Blueprint: Lastly, your thesis statement can‍ include a ⁣blueprint ⁣that outlines ⁢the main⁤ points or arguments⁣ you will explore in‌ your essay. This blueprint serves as a‌ roadmap ⁤for your readers, informing them of what to expect in ‌the subsequent​ paragraphs.

To craft a ​strong foundation for ⁤your critical lens essay, ensure that your thesis⁤ statement encompasses these key elements. Remember to⁣ refine and revise your statement as you progress in your essay writing process, as ​it may evolve and become ⁣more nuanced.
Reflecting⁢ the Central ⁤Idea: Articulating your Perspective on the Critical Lens ⁤Quote

Reflecting⁢ the Central ⁢Idea: Articulating ⁤your Perspective‌ on the Critical Lens Quote

Crafting a Strong Foundation

To ‍craft a strong foundation for your critical lens essay, it is⁣ essential to start with a well-crafted thesis statement. A thesis statement ‍is ‍the central argument of ‍your​ essay, guiding the reader and providing⁤ a roadmap for your​ analysis.

The thesis statement should clearly articulate your perspective on⁢ the critical lens quote‌ and the texts​ you⁢ are⁤ analyzing. It should be concise, specific, and ‍debatable​ to engage ⁤readers and ⁢create interest in‌ your⁣ viewpoint. Remember, a strong thesis statement⁣ is⁣ the key to a successful essay, ​as it⁤ sets the tone for the‍ entire piece.

To create an ​effective thesis⁤ statement, first, consider the critical lens quote itself.‌ What is the quote ⁤suggesting, and how‌ does it⁢ relate to the texts you are analyzing? Break down the quote into its core⁣ elements, identifying ‍the themes, ideas, and concepts it encompasses.

Next, evaluate your own perspective on the quote. Do you agree, disagree, or have a nuanced ‌understanding of its implications?⁤ Analyze⁣ the‍ texts you have ⁢chosen and determine how they ⁢either ⁤support or‍ challenge the quote. This analysis will form the basis⁢ of your thesis ⁢statement.

Once you have a clear understanding of⁣ the quote and your perspective, craft​ a thesis statement ⁣that encapsulates⁢ your main argument. Be sure​ to ⁣include⁣ the texts‍ you are analyzing​ and ⁣the overarching theme or idea you​ will be exploring in your essay. Consider using strong and assertive language to convey confidence in your stance.

Here is an example of ​a well-crafted thesis statement: "Through a careful ⁤analysis of Jane ⁤Austen’s Pride ‍and Prejudice and⁢ F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, ⁢this essay will argue ⁣that the critical lens quote⁣ ‘In literature, evil‌ often triumphs, but ⁤never conquers’ is ​flawed as it fails to​ acknowledge ⁢the complex nature of evil and its lasting impact on characters ⁢and society."

Remember, a strong thesis ‌statement lays the foundation‍ for ⁤a coherent and persuasive‌ critical lens essay. Take the time to craft​ a clear and compelling argument that⁤ sets ⁣you ⁢on the ​path⁣ to success.

Analyzing the ‍Critical Lens Quote: Unpacking the Underlying ⁢Message

In‍ order⁣ to craft a strong foundation for your critical lens essay, it is essential to⁤ create a solid thesis statement.⁢ Your thesis statement is the central argument or main idea that you⁤ will be ⁢exploring and discussing in your essay. It should⁤ reflect your interpretation⁣ of ‌the critical⁤ lens quote and the texts that you will⁤ be analyzing.

When crafting your thesis statement, ⁢keep​ in mind that ⁢it should be clear, ‍concise,⁣ and⁢ focused. It ⁢should also provide a preview of the main points that ​you​ will be addressing ⁤in your essay.⁤ To ensure that your thesis statement‍ is strong, consider the⁤ following tips:

  1. Identify key themes: Take⁢ a‍ close look at​ the ‍critical lens quote‍ and identify the key themes ⁤or ​ideas that it conveys. These themes will serve as the ‍basis for your thesis‌ statement.

  2. Analyze​ the texts: ⁤Read and ⁤analyze the texts that you will be using to⁣ explore ‍the critical lens quote. Look for evidence and examples⁤ that‌ support your interpretation of the quote and the themes you have identified.

  3. Craft a specific thesis: Your thesis statement should not ​be too broad ​or general. Instead, it ​should be specific and focused, allowing⁣ you ‌to provide a ‌clear argument in your essay.

  4. Use strong language: ‌Choose words and phrases that​ convey confidence and authority. Avoid vague or weak language that may undermine the strength ‍of your ⁢thesis statement.

By following these ‌guidelines, you can create a solid‍ thesis statement that serves⁣ as a strong foundation for your ⁣critical lens ⁣essay. Remember ‍to revise and refine your thesis​ as ⁤you continue to analyze ⁢the texts⁣ and ⁣develop your argument.
Selecting Appropriate Literary References: Incorporating Textual Evidence into ⁣your Thesis Statement

Selecting Appropriate Literary References: Incorporating Textual⁤ Evidence into your Thesis Statement

Incorporating textual evidence into your thesis statement is crucial when writing a critical lens essay. As you delve into the world of literature, selecting appropriate ‌literary references can greatly enhance the strength of your argument and provide a solid foundation​ for ‌your⁣ analysis. Here are some tips for crafting a strong thesis statement that incorporates textual evidence⁣ effectively:

  1. Begin​ with a central claim: Your thesis statement should clearly state your main ⁢argument or interpretation ​of the text you ‌are analyzing. This claim will serve ⁣as the backbone of ​your‌ essay, ​guiding your analysis and‌ providing‍ focus⁣ to your writing.

  2. Choose pertinent literary‌ references: Selecting the right‌ literary references is essential for supporting your ‌thesis statement. Look ⁢for passages, quotes, or even entire scenes ⁤that directly relate to your central claim. These references ​should provide ⁤evidence to bolster your argument and offer insight into the themes‌ and ideas expressed in the text.

  3. Analyze ‍textual evidence: Once ⁣you‍ have chosen your literary ⁣references,‌ go beyond simply summarizing them. ‍Analyze⁤ the⁤ specific⁤ language, imagery, ⁢and‍ symbolism used in the ⁢text.⁢ Consider how these elements contribute to the ‌overall meaning or message of the work. ⁣The more detailed and precise your analysis, the stronger your thesis​ statement will be.

  4. Craft a concise ⁣and precise thesis statement: A strong thesis statement ​should be concise and focused. It ⁣should clearly state⁣ your⁣ main‍ argument and the textual ⁤evidence ​that⁣ supports it. Avoid vague or general statements and strive for clarity and specificity. Your‌ thesis⁢ statement‌ should ⁣provide a roadmap for ⁢your ‍essay, outlining the⁢ main points you will address and the ‍evidence you​ will use to support⁤ them.

Remember, ⁢incorporating⁢ textual evidence into your⁤ thesis statement requires careful thought and‌ analysis. By selecting appropriate⁤ literary references and crafting a ⁢strong foundation for your critical​ lens‍ essay, you can effectively⁢ communicate ⁣your interpretation and make ‍a compelling argument.

Structuring Your Thesis Statement: Crafting an Organized and Coherent Argument

Crafting a strong foundation ​for your critical ⁤lens essay starts ‍with a well-structured and coherent thesis ⁢statement. ​Your thesis statement serves as the backbone ⁢of​ your ⁢argument, setting the tone​ for ⁢the rest of your essay. In this ⁣post, we will explore the key elements of structuring a thesis⁤ statement that​ will help you craft a compelling and organized argument.

  1. Identify ⁤the critical lens: Begin by ​understanding the critical lens through which ⁢you‌ will ⁤analyze the text. This ​lens acts as a ⁤guide for interpreting and analyzing⁢ the ‍chosen literary work. ​It⁣ could be a quote, a statement,⁢ or a philosophical ​concept that you will use to analyze the text.

  2. Understand the‌ requirements: Familiarize yourself with ⁤the prompt and the requirements of ​your essay. This will ensure that your ‍thesis ⁢statement addresses the specific ‍criteria and directives provided ‌by your ‍instructor or examiner.

  3. Choose ⁤your stance: Once ‍you have identified the critical lens and understood ⁢the requirements,⁣ it’s time to determine⁤ your stance. Decide whether​ you agree ⁣or disagree with ‍the lens ⁢and formulate your thesis statement accordingly. Remember, ‍a strong ‌thesis statement presents a clear ​position and provides a roadmap ‌for the rest of your essay.

  4. Organize your argument:​ Your thesis statement should not only‍ express your stance but also provide a preview of the main arguments⁤ and evidence that ⁣will​ support your position. Organize your arguments in⁤ a logical order, keeping in ⁢mind the flow and coherence‌ of your essay. This ⁢will help guide your writing⁣ process and ensure that your argument‌ is ⁢convincing ⁢and well-structured.

Here is‍ an example of a well-structured thesis‌ statement for⁤ a critical lens essay:

"In George Orwell’s⁢ novel, 1984, the critical lens ‌’Power tends to corrupt ​and absolute power ‍corrupts‌ absolutely’ rings true, as the totalitarian regime depicted‍ in ⁢the⁣ novel⁤ exemplifies the destructive‌ nature of absolute‍ power. Through the⁤ characters of⁢ Big Brother,‍ the Party, and the Thought Police, Orwell​ illustrates⁣ the dangers of unchecked authority and the detrimental effects it has on individuals and society."

Remember, your⁢ thesis statement sets the stage for your​ critical lens essay⁤ and serves ⁣as a guide for your⁢ readers. By following ⁤these steps⁣ and crafting a strong foundation with⁢ a well-structured and ‌coherent ⁢thesis statement, you will‍ be well⁤ on your ⁤way to developing ​a ‌compelling and organized ⁢argument.
Capturing ‌the Essence of Your Analysis: Writing with‌ Clarity and Precision

Capturing the Essence of ⁢Your Analysis: ​Writing with Clarity ⁤and Precision

Writing a critical ⁤lens essay ‌requires⁢ a strong⁢ foundation, and​ one of ⁣the key elements of that foundation is​ a​ well-crafted thesis statement. A thesis statement ⁣is ⁤like a roadmap for​ your essay, guiding​ your reader through your‍ analysis and helping them understand ⁣the essence of your argument. Here are some‍ tips for creating ​a‌ strong​ and effective thesis‍ statement ​for your critical lens⁢ essay:

  1. Be⁣ clear⁢ and concise: Your thesis statement should clearly state ​your main argument ⁣or ⁢analysis in ‌a concise and ‌straightforward manner. Avoid using vague⁤ language or overly complex ⁤sentences that may confuse⁣ your reader. Keeping it simple and to the ⁣point ‍will ensure clarity and precision ​in your writing.

  2. Identify the‍ critical ⁢lens: ‌Your thesis statement should clearly identify the critical lens through which you will be analyzing the given quote or ⁢statement. This lens ‍acts⁢ as your perspective and provides the framework for ​your analysis. Make sure to explicitly mention​ the lens in your thesis statement to establish a strong foundation for your essay.

  3. Take‌ a stance: A strong‍ thesis statement takes a ​clear ⁢stance on the topic being discussed. It⁤ should express your opinion or interpretation of the quote or statement ‍and indicate the direction of your ​analysis. Avoid being wishy-washy or​ indecisive⁢ in your thesis statement; instead, confidently state your position and provide a solid foundation for your essay.

  4. Support with evidence: While your thesis statement presents ⁣your main argument, it‍ is important ‌to support it with evidence from the text(s) you are analyzing. This evidence could include specific‌ quotes, examples, or references to literary devices used ‍in the text.⁢ By⁣ including this ⁤evidence in your essay, you strengthen the validity of your ‌thesis statement and provide further clarity⁤ and ​precision⁤ to your analysis.

Crafting a strong thesis statement for your critical lens ​essay ⁤is the ⁤first step towards capturing the essence⁤ of your analysis. By ⁤being⁣ clear, concise,‍ and taking a ⁢clear stance, you will create a solid foundation that will guide your reader through your essay ⁣and showcase your⁢ analytical skills. Remember to support your thesis statement with evidence from the text,‌ and you’ll⁢ be well‍ on your way to writing a compelling and persuasive essay.
Refining Your Thesis Statement: Tips ‍for Revision and Improvement

Refining Your‌ Thesis Statement: ​Tips⁤ for Revision and Improvement

When it comes to writing ‌a critical lens essay, your ⁣thesis statement ‌serves as the ⁢foundation⁣ for your entire‌ essay. Crafting a ⁢strong thesis​ statement is crucial in ⁤order to effectively convey your argument and‍ support your viewpoints. Here‍ are ⁣some tips for refining and ‌improving ‍your‍ thesis statement:

  1. Take time‍ for reflection:​ Before diving into​ writing your ‍thesis statement, ⁤take​ a⁣ moment to reflect on‍ the key ⁣themes and ⁤ideas ⁢presented in the critical ‌lens. Consider the various perspectives and interpretations that can be derived from the quote provided. This‍ will help ⁤you⁢ develop⁤ a ⁢clear and‍ focused​ thesis⁢ statement.

  2. Be specific and concise: A strong thesis​ statement should be specific and ‍concise. Avoid making broad, sweeping statements ⁢that lack clarity. Instead, clearly state your argument and the main points⁤ you will be addressing in⁣ your essay.

  3. Use strong​ language: To make your thesis statement ‍impactful, use strong and ‍assertive language. This will help⁢ convey your‌ confidence in your argument and captivate ‍the reader’s attention. Avoid⁣ using weak or vague language that can ​weaken your thesis statement.

  4. Revise and refine: Once you have drafted your⁣ initial thesis statement, take the time to revise and ⁣refine it.⁣ Read it aloud to⁤ ensure it flows smoothly and effectively⁤ conveys your argument. Consider ⁢seeking feedback from peers⁢ or instructors to gain different perspectives and ⁣insight.

Remember, ⁢your thesis ‌statement sets the tone⁣ for your ⁢essay and provides a roadmap for ⁣your analysis. By following these tips for revision and improvement, ‌you can craft a strong foundation⁤ that will support your‍ critical ⁣lens essay.

Connecting Your Thesis⁢ Statement to the Rest‍ of Your Critical Lens Essay: Ensuring Coherence and ​Consistency

In ⁤order to ensure coherence and consistency in your critical lens essay, it is essential to establish a strong​ connection between your thesis statement and the rest of your writing. Your thesis statement ​serves as ​the foundation upon‍ which⁤ your essay is ⁤built, guiding the direction of your analysis and providing a clear focus ⁣for your ⁣arguments. Here are⁢ a few⁤ key tips to help ‍you craft a strong thesis statement that seamlessly connects with the rest of your essay:

  1. Clearly ​state your position: Your thesis statement ‍should clearly articulate your⁢ interpretation​ of ⁤the critical lens and the literary ⁢works being ⁤analyzed. Make sure‌ your position is‌ specific and focused,⁣ as it will serve as the main ​argument throughout your essay.

  2. Use​ the lens ‌to ⁣guide your analysis: Your⁢ thesis statement should ⁢reflect the way in which the critical lens is applied to the texts under​ examination. Consider⁤ how the ⁤lens influences your ​understanding of the works and how it shapes⁣ your interpretation of their themes, characters, and literary techniques.

  3. Provide ​a roadmap ​for your essay: Your thesis ‍statement should give readers a sense of what to expect in ⁣your ‍essay. It⁢ should​ outline ⁢the main⁢ points or arguments you will be making​ and provide a ‍clear structure⁣ for the rest​ of your writing.

  4. Stay true to your thesis: Throughout your ⁤essay, it is crucial to consistently refer back to your thesis statement. ‌Every paragraph and piece of evidence should connect ⁤back to⁣ your central argument, ensuring that your essay remains focused and coherent.

Remember, a strong thesis statement is the backbone ​of your critical ⁢lens⁤ essay. By crafting a ⁢clear and⁤ compelling thesis, you ‍will create a solid foundation upon which ⁢to build your⁤ analysis and ensure that your ⁣essay ‌maintains coherence and consistency⁣ from beginning to end.
Conclusion: Emphasizing the Importance of a Well-Crafted Thesis Statement for a‍ Strong Critical Lens Essay

Conclusion: Emphasizing the Importance of a Well-Crafted Thesis Statement ⁣for a‌ Strong Critical⁢ Lens Essay

In⁣ conclusion, the significance of a well-crafted thesis statement cannot⁤ be overstated when it⁢ comes to writing ⁢a strong ⁤critical lens essay.​ This crucial component serves ⁤as the foundation upon which your entire essay is built, ‍providing a clear and concise ‌roadmap for ‍your ⁢analysis of two literary works.‌ Let’s dive deeper into why a well-crafted thesis statement is ​so important:

  1. Focus and Clarity: ‌A strong thesis​ statement acts as a compass, guiding your writing and ensuring that you stay on⁢ track.⁤ It clearly states the purpose⁢ of ‍your essay and the specific ‌lens through which‍ you⁢ will⁤ analyze the chosen texts. By clearly ‍defining‍ your​ central argument, your‍ thesis statement serves⁤ as ‌a constant reminder of the main point you⁤ are trying to convey.

  2. Organization: Crafting a well-thought-out ⁢thesis statement allows you to organize ⁢your essay in a logical and coherent manner. It helps you structure your thoughts and ensures that you present your arguments in a systematic way, providing a smooth flow for your readers​ to follow. With a solid ‍thesis statement, you can effectively organize your‌ supporting evidence and examples, making your essay more compelling‌ and convincing.

  3. Depth ​of Analysis: A well-crafted thesis statement ‌sets the stage for a nuanced and comprehensive ⁢analysis⁤ of the texts. It encourages ⁣you to critically ⁤examine⁣ the themes, literary⁤ devices, and character development ⁤within the⁢ chosen⁢ works. By showcasing⁤ your‌ understanding of the texts and their underlying messages, your thesis statement lays the ​groundwork for a deep exploration of the‍ texts’ ‍meaning and relevance.

  4. Engagement‍ and Interest: A ‍strong thesis statement not only captivates your readers ‍but ​also sets⁣ the⁤ tone for ‍the rest ​of your essay. It sparks curiosity and encourages your audience to delve further into your analysis. A well-crafted thesis ‍statement⁢ presents a fresh and unique perspective, fostering a sense of ⁣intrigue and anticipation, which keeps your​ readers engaged throughout the essay.

In essence, a well-crafted thesis statement forms the backbone of a strong critical lens essay. It enhances the focus, organization, depth, and engagement of your writing, capturing the essence of your interpretation while providing a​ clear​ roadmap‍ for your readers. ‍So, take the time ‍to ‍craft a compelling ⁤thesis statement, and ‍you’ll be well on your way to writing a powerful and impactful essay.

Future Outlook

In conclusion, crafting a strong ‍foundation for‍ your⁣ critical lens essay begins with ⁢writing⁤ a ⁤clear and⁢ concise thesis statement.‌ By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively identify the two literary‌ works⁢ and the ​critical lens through which you will analyze them. Remember, a⁤ strong ‌thesis statement should be debatable, ⁢specific, and supported by evidence from the texts. By understanding the⁢ significance of a well-crafted thesis, you ‌can set the stage for a compelling ⁤and ‍thought-provoking essay.

Key takeaways from this article:

  1. A thesis statement forms the backbone⁤ of your ‌critical lens⁤ essay, providing a clear ⁢focus for your⁣ analysis.
  2. It is essential to⁤ analyze⁤ and understand the two literary works you are comparing and the critical lens you are applying.
  3. A⁣ strong thesis statement‍ is debatable and specific, capturing the essence of ⁤your argument.
  4. Use evidence from‌ the texts to support your thesis statement and strengthen ⁤your analysis.
  5. Take⁢ your‍ time to refine and revise ‍your ​thesis ⁢statement, ensuring it accurately‌ reflects your essay’s purpose.

By ‍using these ⁢insights, you are well-equipped to write a compelling thesis statement and lay a solid ‌foundation for an‍ impressive critical lens ‍essay. So, go ahead, unleash your ​analytical skills, and captivate your readers with a well-crafted thesis ‍statement!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *