Step 9. Prepare a Working Outline

Organize

Sort your notes and thoughts into categories and subcategories. Organize them in a logical or chronological order.

A. Thesis Statement & Introduction

B. Body - Idea 1

1. Background
2. Supporting Information
3. Facts & Statistics
4. Conclusion

C. Body - Idea 2

1. Background
2. Supporting Information
3. Facts & Statistics
4. Conclusion

D. Body - Idea 3

1. Background
2. Supporting Information
3. Facts & Statistics
4. Conclusion

E. Counter Argument

1. Description of Opposing Views
2. Supporting Information from Opposing Views
3. Analysis & Conclusion about Counter Argument

F. Summary & Final Conclusion

1. Summary of Main Arguments & Counter Arguments
2. Summary of Evidence
3. Conclusion

Additional Resources

• Developing an Outline (OWL Purdue Univ.)
• Writing: Considering Structure and Organization (Dartmouth College)
• Outlines (Univ. of Kansas)

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