Essay Outline: Essential Steps ,Examples And Guideline

An essay outline is the structure of an essay. It helps a writer to provide a textual representation of the thesis and supporting points. Knowing how to write an outline for an essay is essential. Here’s why:

• An essay outlinehelps in organizing the writer’s thoughts.
• An outline gives readers a quick synopsis.
• A well-structured outline directs readers through the paper.

The process of crafting an essay outline follows some straightforward steps. We’ll walk you through the basics in this blog. So sit tight!

What is an Essay Outline?

An essay outline is an informal way of planning your essay structure. The summarized points, sentences, or phrases can help you plan and achieve your assignment goals.

Essay Outline Example

Most academic essay follow a basic structure with the following sections.

Introduction

• A hook or an engaging statement to grab your readers’ attention.
• Background information on the subject
• A strong thesis statement in one or two lines

Body

• First Main Idea:
• Introduce the supporting evidence
• Elaborate on the Supporting evidence
• Connect the supporting evidence to the main idea
• Second Main Idea:
• Introduce the supporting evidence
• Elaborate on the Supporting evidence
• Connect the supporting evidence to the main idea
• Third Main Idea:
• Introduce the supporting evidence
• Elaborate on the Supporting evidence
• Connect the supporting evidence to the main idea

Conclusion

• Restating the thesis
• Summary of the supporting ideas from the essay
• Explore the questions and implications
• Insightful ending statement or a call to action

Citations

Bibliography or footnotes

The following essay outline example of an argumentative essay will give you a better idea.

Italian Ice vs. Ice Cream – which is Better?

Introduction

Highlight the difference between ice cream and Italian ice and their popularity.

Thesis: Italian ice is more refreshing than ice cream and has a lower calorie count.

Body

Italian ice has a lower calorie count than regular ice cream.

• Talk about the calorie count in each serving of ice cream and Italian ice.
• Cite how health-conscious consumers prefer Italian ice.

Italian ice is vegan and animal-cruelty free.

• Highlight the advantages of consuming vegan ice vs. animal-sourced ice creams.
• Discuss how Italian ice is a more accessible and environmentally friendly choice.

Italian ice is more refreshing than regular ice creams.

• Explain how the lack of dairy makes Italian a better treat on a summer day.
• Discuss instances where consumers feel hotter consuming dairy-based ice creams.

Conclusion

Restate how Italian ice is better than ice cream and summarize the supporting ideas.

Read also: Learn The Standard Essay Format 

How to Write an Outline for an Essay?

Outlining can become easy when you focus on the key elements. Here are a few things to consider:

• Gather reliable research materials from credible sources.
• Take time to plan and develop your thesis.
• Note the ideas and sources under different headings.
• Know where to include the references.
• Make your introduction catchy
• Check the writing requirements of your citation style.
• Summarize the key points and make suggestions in the conclusion.

APA Essay Outline Example

APA and MLA are two popular outlining methods.

• APA essay outline uses abstracts, while MLA uses sentence-style citations.
• In an APA essay outline, a title page is necessary. On the contrary, an MLA outline does not require a title page.

The following APA essay outline example and sample essay outline in MLA is for your reference.

APA Title Page

• Title: Dangers of Using Mobile Phones
• Student Name: Julie Stevenson
• Professor’s Name: Stephanie Gomez
• Class (Optional): Class of 2023

Introduction

Mobile phone usage has drastically increased over the years. Excessive use of it can be detrimental to regular life.

Thesis

The paper focuses on the negative aspects of mobile phone usage. Continuous use can leave individuals socially deprived and increase health issues and accidents.

Body

Health Challenges Due to Cell Phone Usage

“Mobile phones communicate with radiofrequency (RF) radiations. Such radiations have a thermal effect which increases the body temperature. Low radiations can trigger headaches.” (“Phones and you”)

Several radiations have cancerous elements and lead to terminal illness. However, there is still not enough evidence to support this statement. This brings us to how mobile phones make individuals socially deprived.

Mobile Phones Limit Human Interaction

"Mobile phone usage has reduced the quality of human interaction. People hesitate to be open and honest. Another key point is children are less empathetic and considerate towards one another." ("Mobile Phones and Open Communication.”)

People are so attached to their phones that they fail to live in the moment. Studies found humans are less empathetic than a decade ago. This is mainly among the current generation of children. Besides this, mobile phone usage can also be life-threatening.

Texting/Talking While Driving

“Reports suggest drivers who text-driving have 91% lower focus than devoted drivers." ("Texting while driving is a danger for all.")

Cell phone usage while riding can be life-threatening. More deaths from text-driving have been recorded than drink-driving.

Conclusion

End the essay with a conclusive sentence. For example, the excessive use of mobile phones will push humanity to its doomsday.

Read also: How To Write An Article Review: Tips And Examples

Essay Outline in MLA

Introduction

The UK is the home of ancient architectural structures. One such architectural marvel is Stonehenge.

Thesis

The paper focuses on the history of Stonehenge and its purpose. It was built in 3001 BC and is widely known as a religious place of worship.

Body

Paragraph 1

Studies suggest that Stonehenge was built around 3001 BC. Pagans built the first segment of this historical gem at the end of the Stone Age. This brings us to the aspect of religious belief.

Paragraph 2

Many believe that the ancient Britons placed these stones for religious activity. From the 2^nd millennium AD to this day, Stonehenge has been treated as the symbol of Paganism practice. More evidence has come to light surrounding this mysterious structure.

Conclusion

Overall, Stonehenge has stirred great interest among historians and commoners alike. Surprisingly, there’s no evidence of how it was built.

Did you get the trick?

Great!

Below are the essay outlines of different essay typer for a better idea of essay structuring.

Essay Outlines of Popular Essay Types

Argumentative Essay Outline

Let’s look at the details of a classical argumentative essay outline:

Introduction

• Open with a hook to keep readers engaged.
• Provide enough background information to understand the subject.
• Craft a strong thesis explaining your viewpoint and why you feel so

First Reason

• Pick the least controversial reason to support your overview
• Provide the first evidential support
• Then, the second evidential support, followed by the third, and so on.
• Summarize the first reason and bring it together with evidential support.

Second Reason

The second, third, and other reasons will follow a similar format as the first. Make sure your transition is from the least to the most controversial.

First opposing viewpoint

Start with the reasons for opposing views. Then, showcase the opponent's defenses and evidence. Next, list the weaknesses and loopholes in the arguments. Use concrete evidence to refute their argument and reinforce your stand.

Second opposing viewpoint

The second, third, and opposing viewpoints will follow a similar format as the first.

Conclusion

Restate your stand on the subject and thesis statement. Refer to your strongest evidence and rebuttals of opposing arguments. Eventually, conclude with a call to action or something thoughtful.

Persuasive Essay Outline

Introduction & Thesis

Gate crashing and vehicle break-ins are common in American schools. The existing security level is insufficient to ensure students’ safety.

Body

Vehicle break-ins are a regular thing.

Support your claim with the latest break-in stats and data.

Increased security cameras can improve campus life.

Discuss the value of campus safety with suitable anecdotes and quotes.

The outcome justifies the expenses.

State how other schools have controlled break-ins with more security cameras. Next, cite statistics to persuade your readers about the installation charges.

Conclusion

Summarize the key points and emphasize the importance of campus security. Then, state how security cameras can improve safety.

Informative Essay Outline

Here’s an informative essay outline example focusing on the downsides of drinking:

Introduction

Did you know drinking alcohol impacts one’s visual acuity? It’s about time for people to recognize the damages of alcohol consumption.

Thesis

Alcohol may provide a relaxing effect on the nervous system, but it affects productivity.

Body

Alcohol's effect on the human brain

• Development of cerebral stroke, especially in the elderly
• Disturbance of blood supply causing lethargy and an inability to focus
• Sleep disturbance

A person becomes dependent on substance

• Lack of interest in learning new things
• Immune to criticism
• The tendency towards aggression and irritability

Irreversible changes in the brain structure

• Mental and peripheral nervous system damages
• Long-term, expensive medical treatment

Conclusion

Prolonged consumption of alcohol affects vision and reaction time. People must understand the dangers of drinking and give up. If not, it will only create more problems.

5 Paragraph Essay Outline

Take a look at the basic elements of a 5 paragraph essay outline:

Introduction

• Include background information for readers to make sense of the topic.
• Develop a strong thesis statement indicating a paper’s purpose.
• Create an overview of the supporting ideas.
• Include the title, author, and genre in case it’s a response to a text.

Body

Paragraph 1

• Pick one main idea and write a topic sentence supporting the thesis
• Explain the main idea using examples, data, and other supporting details.
• All ideas should closely connect with the topic sentence and central idea.

Paragraphs 2 & 3

The subsequent paragraphs should begin with a topic sentence. Use logical transitional words or phrases to maintain coherence. Maintain paragraph unity while focusing on the central idea.

Conclusion

To sum up, revisit the paper's overall purpose and explain its importance. Reiterate the thesis, summarize the main points, or end with a thought-provoking sentence.

Narrative Essay Outline

How to create a narrative essay outline? Let’s find out!

Introduction

• Write an intriguing hook statement. Use a rhetorical  question, fact, or quote.
• Set the scene to give a glimpse of what your readers can expect ahead.
• Explain the topic’s significance and relevance to them.
• Finally, define the thesis. Hint at what is yet to come.

Body

Begin the narration with the background information, characters, and event onset. In the next paragraph, use a short anecdote and story climax. The third paragraph should focus on another anecdote and story resolution.

Use facts, examples, and follow the sequential order to present your data. In any event, avoid narration deviation. Instead, stick to the first person unless you are writing about someone else.

Conclusion

Restate the key details and stress the key takeaways. Explain how the subject is relatable to others and end with a call to action.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay Outline

Key points to consider while drafting a rhetorical analysis essay outline:

Introduction

The introduction briefly presents the topic you'll analyze.

Give details of the author, their claims, a summary of your work, and the thesis statement.

Tell your readers why you want to analyze the text and its relevance. Describe the author's claims, assertions, or implications and the techniques used for argument and persuasion. At the same time, determine if you agree with the author’s claims/assumptions.

Body

In the body paragraphs, do the rhetorical analysis. Explain the methods used by the author to persuade or inform the readers. Use quotations, Aristotle's rhetorical triangle, and other key elements in the final analysis. Demonstrate why the writer has chosen a certain approach and its effect on the audience. After, provide all the necessary information for developing your argument.

Conclusion

Restate the main arguments and emphasize how the author has achieved their objective. Only focus on the points discussed in the body. Finally, sum up the impact of the text on the readers.

Compare and Contrast Essay Outline

Here’s a compare and contrast essay outline example of is a private car a luxury or necessity: 

Introduction

• Topic introduction
• Theme
• Thesis covering all areas

Body

Paragraph 1:

Topic 1: Benefits

• Argument: Personal cars are comfortable and spacious
• Argument: Personal cars reduce traveling struggles

Topic 2: Contrast

• Argument: Private cars are expensive.
• Argument: Becoming a skilled and confident rider or driver takes time.

Paragraph 2

Topic 1: Benefits

• Argument: Urban places are safe and convenient for a private car
• Argument: Private cars are comfortable for outstation travel.

Topic 2: Contrast

• Argument: Car maintenance in small towns can be expensive
• Argument: Private cars are a bad option for rural areas as roads are poorly maintained.

Conclusion

Summarize what you've written and state the value of the subject. Make suggestions or recommendations, if necessary.

Synthesis Essay Outline

A standard synthesis essay outline consists of three major parts.

Introduction

• Brief description of what your paper is about
• A hook, background information, and the thesis statement
• Your thesis should focus on the central argument.

Body

The first paragraph should present a counterargument to the thesis. It should highlight your ability to think from the opposing views.

The following body paragraphs’ format should look like this:

• Supporting argument
• Topic sentence
• Evidence
• Analysis of evidence

Conclusion

Conclude with a final sentence or address the unanswered questions.

Research Essay Outline

A research essay outline generally varies with the level of organization. It depends on research, literature review, or methods and results.

The first level of organization

• Introduction
• First main idea
• Second main idea
• Third main idea
• Conclusion

The second level of organization

Introduction

• Background information
• Thesis/hypothesis

Main idea

• Supporting evidence/quote
• Supporting evidence/quote

The third level of organization

Introduction

• Background information
• Relevant history
• Relevant history
• Thesis/hypothesis

Main idea

• Supporting topic 1
• A brief description
• A brief description
• Supporting topic 2
• A brief description
• A brief description

The fourth level of organization

Introduction

• Background information
• Relevant history
• Quotes/references
• Relevant history
• Thesis/ hypothesis

A clear statement of the hypothesis/thesis

Quotes/reference to another literature

Main Idea

• Supporting idea
• Short description
• Quotes/references to other literature
• Supporting idea
• Short description
• Another short description

Conclusion

Summary of arguments and conclusion statement

Read also: Learn About The Differences Between Prose Vs Verse

College Essay Outline

Introduction 

• Hook to engage readers
• Preview the central idea
• State the thesis

Body

• Supporting ideas & detail with examples and stories
• Supporting idea II & detail with examples and stories
• Supporting idea III & detail with examples and stories

Conclusion

• Restatement and reflection on the thesis
• Summary of all main points
• Closing statement

Expository Essay Outline

An example of an expository essay outline on the history of the printing press:

Introduction

• The invention of the printing press
• Background information on the printing press
• The thesis statement focuses on the reformation

Body

Life before the printing press

• Supporting information and data
• Describe the illiteracy rate, political and religious changes

Invention and use of the printing press

• The implication of new technology
• The rapid spread of technology
• Reformation

The printing press and reformation

• Religious trends after the invention of the printing press
• Bible's translations during the reformation
• Major religious and political effects

Conclusion

Summarize the main details while highlighting the significance of the printing press.

Descriptive Essay Outline

A descriptive essay outline must consist of the following components:

Introduction

• A hook sentence to grab readers’ attention.
• Background information explaining the importance and the purpose
• A short thesis statement based on the subject

Body

Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence and add sensory details. Then, include actual details and use suitable transitions.

Conclusion

Summarize the main points from the body sections. Conclude with a clincher statement.

Analytical Essay Outline

An analytical essay outline follows the structure of a five-paragraph essay.

Introduction

The introduction comprises two key elements: hook and thesis statement.

• The hook should be relevant to your essay's theme and topic.
• A thesis is based on your viewpoint and your topic’s goal and analysis.

Body

The body sections should support your claims using relevant information. In brief, focus on a specific topic and cover the following:

• Topic sentence
• Supporting material/evidence
• Logical transition

Conclusion

Here, restate the thesis statement and briefly summarize the key points. In short, justify the main argument using valid evidence.

Rhetorical Essay Outline

Introduction

Begin your rhetorical analysis essay outline with:

•  A hook
•  Author's name and work title
•  Persuasive techniques
•  A solid thesis statement

Body

Each section should:

• Explain the author’s persuasive techniques using Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle.
• Offer evidence/quotations supporting your statement
• Justify why the writer took a particular approach and what makes it successful
• Consider what the audience feels about it

Conclusion

Summarize the key points and conclude with a powerful closing statement.

Reflective Essay Outline

When making a reflective essay outline, include the following:

Introduction

A reflective essay introduction should be appealing and effective. Next, it should have:

• An argument, a debate, or a problem
• An attention-grabbing opening sentence
• A brief overview of the context
• A thesis statement

Body

Paragraph 1: Detailed description of the event, person, or place with supporting evidence

Paragraph 2: Description of thoughts and feelings with linking sentences

Paragraph 3: A proper analysis of the experience

Conclusion

Brief what you said in the essay and restate the thesis. In essence, try to add a reflective question.

Reflection Essay Outline

Like other outlines, a reflection essay outline consists of these sections:

Introduction

• Carefully specify the object you are reflecting on
• Write a concise summary of the piece
• Develop a thesis statement focusing on the main lesson you've learned.

Body

Each section will focus on a single claim and examine your opinions. For that purpose, stick to the below structure:

• Section 1: Main idea, supporting evidence, analysis of the topic
• Section 2: Main idea, supporting evidence, analysis of the topic
• Section 3: Main idea, supporting evidence, analysis of the topic

Conclusion

Summarize the key lessons discussed in the body. Sum up with a concluding sentence.

Explanatory Essay Outline

An explanatory essay outline sets the stage for the following sections.

Introduction

Start with a hook or an intriguing detail or question. Briefly give some background information. Next, state your thesis, giving an idea of the main argument. Keep it clear, short, and focused.

Body

All paragraphs should be evidence-based, well-explained, and well-organized, supporting the thesis. Hence, use credible sources and peer-reviewed journals for analysis. Organize your paper logically and end every paragraph summarizing the main point.

Conclusion

Strong conclusions emphasize a topic’s importance, relevance and offer a solution. Therefore, always end with a powerful closing line reinforcing the main idea.

Compare Contrast Essay Outline

Two methods can be used to write a compare contrast essay outline.

Point-by-point Method

Introduction

• Introduce the main topic
• Specify your theme
• Present your thesis statement

Body

Paragraph 1: Context 1

• Topic Sentence
• Topic 1
• Argument
• Argument
• Topic 2
• Argument
• Argument

Paragraph 2 & 3: Context 2 & 3

• Topic sentence
• Topic 1
• Argument
• Argument
• Topic 2
• Argument
• Argument

Conclusion

Sum up everything you’ve discussed in the paper.

 

Block Method

Introduction

• Introduce the main topic
• Specify your theme
• Present your thesis statement

Body

Paragraph 1

• Topic Sentence
• Aspect 1
• Argument
• Argument
• Aspect 2
• Argument
• Argument
• Aspect 3
• Argument
• Argument

Paragraph 2

• Topic Sentence
• Aspect 1
• Argument
• Argument
• Aspect 2
• Argument
• Argument
• Aspect 3
• Argument
• Argument

Paragraph 3‍

In this section, evaluate the comparisons and explain their significance. Give real-life facts for the audience to relate.

Conclusion

Sum up everything you’ve discussed in the paper.

Creating an Effective Essay Outline – the Final Checklist

• Does the outline properly structure the entire document?
• Does the evidence support the main idea?
• Do the supporting points have enough relevant evidence listed?
• Do all the supporting evidence and points make sense?
• Is the outline organized in a proper order?
• Is the outline easy for someone else to follow?

In any event, develop an outline to ease writing. Start with a rough draft and gradually polish it as you research. Outlining may seem hard initially, but things will improve with time and practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. What is an essay outline?

An essay outline is a plan for writing an essay. It includes pointers, short phrases, or summarized sentences from each paragraph. Writers can refer to them to develop the paper from scratch.

Q.2. How do you make an essay outline?

Here’s what you should do to create an outline for an essay:

• Place the thesis at the beginning
• List the key points supporting the thesis.
• Organize the supporting ideas in bullets
• Sub-divide each support point to develop your outline

Q.3. Why is an essay outline important?

Essay writing can confuse you, especially tricky topics. An outline can fix the problem. Outlining will help you divide the paper into multiple sections. You can conduct effective research and organize your data to stay on track while writing.

Q.4. What is the basic format of an essay outline?

 The standard format of an essay outline consists of the following:

• An introduction for the main idea, the purpose and importance, and the thesis.
• Three body paragraphs with supporting evidence
• A cohesive conclusion to sum up the discussed points.

Q.5. What is a paragraph outline?

A paragraph outline summarizes one or more paragraphs discussed in the paper. It begins with an opening argument and continues with the following ideas.

Q.6. What are the popular types of essay outlines?

An outline keeps track of the points you want to elaborate on in your paper. Three commonly used essay outlines:

• Alphanumeric outline
• Decimal outline
• Full-sentence outline

Q.7. What do you understand by a 5-point outline?

An outline is developed for a five-paragraph essay with five points. It is widely prevalent among students, especially for timed written assignments.

Q.8. What is the format of an outline?

You can structure an outline in the form of paragraphs. Generally, you start with a paragraph and list out topics. Then, note the points you want to discuss in each section in bullets. You can use this format to perfect your paragraphs and points arrangement.

Q.9. Why should you outline?

Outlining is important for the following reasons:

• To develop your writing
• To determine the purpose of your writing
• To organize your paper
• To examine the topic and communicate the context
• To understand how much research is necessary
• To get a concise review of the study
• To determine the scope for future study  

Q.10. How to write an essay outline quickly?

Steps to follow to write an essay outline quickly:

• Choose a topic you want to write about.
• Decide the purpose of the text.
• Define what you want to analyze with your text
• Research, make notes, and write down the sources
• Organize your resources under "main ideas" and "supporting ideas."
• Decide how you want to present your paper
• Lastly, arrange the sequence in proper order.