If you want to succeed in the writing process, you will have to focus on the outline. It serves as a sketch or plan of your future paper. Outlines will help you organize the ideas on paper. Please have a look at the basic steps that will help you create an outline:
- If you want to create an argumentative outline, work on your topic. It should be narrow enough to prove that you are competent to discuss a specific question. If you do not know how to narrow down the focus, explore some pieces of literature to see what possible aspects in relation to your topic can be discussed.
- Clearly mention the purpose of writing. Please check the task file to see if you have to inform the reader about a notion, issue, event, etc. or persuade to accept a certain standpoint.
- Get ready to utilize evidential support. Regardless of your claims, you will have to provide relevant back-up information. If you want to prove that your opinions are the most valid, think about 3-4 main arguments to be included in the main body. It is especially topical in persuasive outlines because this type of writing depends much on the reasonable argumentation.
- Find credible sources. If you are asked to include evidential support, it means that you will have to present some examples, quotes, and statistical data in your writing. Carry out research on the given topic, focusing on credible and peer-reviewed sources. Do not forget to mention the explicit description of each source in the reference list. If you utilize electronic sources, please add the web link.
- Identify the future structure of your writing. If you do not know how to write an outline, think about possible parts. Check your argumentation, which will help you identify how many paragraphs you should to include. However, ensure that all your paragraphs are coherent and reflect the single purpose of writing.
- Include all paper parts in your outline: an introductory paragraph, main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Create some bullet points about what will be discussed in each paragraph.
- Remember that it is preferable to incorporate at least one sub-point for each key point that will be discussed in the main body paragraph.
- Check some sample outlines on the web to be sure how the structure of your plan should look like. There are various types of outlines written in a statement form, sentence form, etc. If you do not know which one to choose, either check the task file or consult your professor.
- Though not all professors ask students to create outlines, it is advisable not to start writing without it. Outlines will help you not to waste your thoughts and ideas because the basis of the subject matter will be placed on paper.
