ESSAY OUTLINE SAMPLE TEMPLATE
I. Introduction
Get the reader's attention – ask a leading question; relay
something enticing about the subject in a manner that commands
attention. You could start with a related quote, alluring description, or
narrative.
Thesis Statement
State the thesis – what you are going to discuss. You could
state the causes and effects to be discussed; comparison of subject
X and subject Y; your position on the issue; your proposal if
applicable; and the main points that will develop your argument.
II. Body
1. First Point, Topic sentence, Explanation
a. Supporting evidence (examples, facts, theories,
statistics, quoted authorities, details, reasons, etc.)
b. Supporting evidence
c. (Conclusion and lead-in)
2. Second Point
a. Support
b. Support
c. optional
3. Third Point
a. Support
b. Support
c. optional
III. Conclusion
Summarize your thesis and how your evidence supports your
points. Re-emphasize your thesis in a fresh way, showing how you
have achieved your purpose. You may wish to appeal to the reader
to see how you have come to a logical conclusion, or make a
memorable final statement.