An Investment Thesis is a detailed concept that outlines the expected parameters of an investment, such as its financial and performance potential, that must be satisfied for the investor to pursue it. This document serves as a guide for the investor’s investment decisions, and is based on research, assumptions, financial projections, and the data gathered and analyzed.

Armed with an Investment Thesis, an investor can examine options for potential investments and judge their overall appropriateness for the individual's needs and goals. This document serves several key functions:

1. outlining the potential or existing business the investor would like to pursue 2. evaluating the risk/reward profile of the business 3. assessing the various business models used in the industry 4. gauging the industry’s competitive landscape 5. helping identify the most suitable business opportunity to pursue.

In simpler terms, an investment thesis helps investors make sound decisions when investing their hard-earned money by helping them understand their own goals and motivations. It also serves as the premise against which investment advice will be provided.

An Investment Thesis should be comprehensive and thoroughly examined. Financial projections should be made considering a worst-case scenario and a base-case scenario. The Investment Thesis should also include an analysis of risk factors and a strategy for mitigating them. A thorough review should be conducted to ensure that all factors are thoroughly explored and discussed.

Successful investors often make an Investment Thesis part of their process for making informed decisions about their investments. They rely on Investment Theses to make sure that the investments they make are well thought out and that their decisions are based on facts and data.

The Investment Thesis also serves to differentiate investors from those who are just looking for quick profits. Investing should be seen from a long-term perspective, so an Investment Thesis is a way to ensure continuity in the decision-making process. Having a written outline to refer to can often help investors keep their focus on the facts and future plans.