How do I outline my paper?
Developing an outline is a useful exercise in writing, permitting the author to organize his/her thoughts in a logical fashion, conceptualize their topics, and proceed to a rigorous argument of a thesis. For a 20-30 page paper, three or four major parts should be sufficient, though there are always exceptions to this rule. The discipline of developing points under each main part will help when it comes time to write paragraphs articulating the paper's arguments.
Keep in mind that the introductory paragraphs (total of 1-3 pages) should accomplish several things:
- Introduce the topic and its significance; establish the topic within the historical context. Do not spend too much time and space on background narrative history (the most common writing problem). Move quickly to a focus on your argument.
- Briefly discuss the historiography of the subject (how have other historians approached this subject)
- Most importantly, state your own argument/thesis and explain how this approach and interpretation is significant
The rest of the paper should be devoted to explaining and supporting your argument in more detail with evidence from your primary and secondary sources.
Format - this is a suggested starting point. You should adjust it according to need. Use a formal outline style with Roman numerals for the main parts, capital letters for their major internal divisions. Arabic numerals for subdivisions and small letters for the details/evidence.
INTRODUCTION AND THESIS STATEMENT
I. FIRST MAIN POINT
A.
1.
a.
b.
c.2.
a.
b.B.
1.
a.
b.2.
a.
b.
II.-IV. follow pattern above
CONCLUSION - CONCISE SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS AND RESEARCH CONTRIBUTIONS
