Outlining

Here is an example of an outline (with prompt questions):

• Introduction

• oWhat should the first sentence of your introduction be?
• oHow will you explain the context and importance of your paper?
• ■ What would the reader need to know and understand before your argument begins?
• Body Paragraph 1
• oWhat is your topic sentence/s?
• This is the first sentence or two of your paragraph. It should introduce the topic and why it is important for the argument.
• Body Paragraph 2
• oWhat sources will you use?
• ■ Describe how you will introduce the source AND how you will analyze it for the reader. Try to cite the source in your outline.
• Body Paragraph 3
• oHow will this paragraph end?
• How will you respond to the topic sentence and wrap up this part of your argument? Or, instead, will the argument continue into another paragraph? How will you transition?
• Conclusion
• oHow will the paper end?
• How will you summarize your argument and sections? How will you piece them together? What final claims or ideas do you want to give to your reader?

NOTE: Certain parts of your paper may require multiple paragraphs across many pages, while other parts may require only half a page. These differences are normal and can make your paper feel dynamic.