Writing an Outline

Example Essay Outline Introduction Thesis: _____________________ Body Paragraph #1- Topic Sentence: _____________ A. supporting idea B. supporting idea III. Body Paragraph #2- Topic Sentence: ____________ IV. Body Paragraph #3- Topic Sentence: ____________ V. Conclusion

The Thesis This is your main point/argument. It will also list the topics of your 3 body paragraphs. Example: It is wrong for school to sell sodas and junk food to students as it leads to more cases of childhood obesity and Type II diabetes, and it also keeps kids from getting the nutrition they need.

These Statement Topic Sentences Thesis Statement Topic Sentence Paragraph #1: The way you dress can have a big impact on an interview panel’s first impressions of you. Thesis Statement A job interview can often make or break your chances of getting your dream job. There are several things that you can do in an interview to increase the possibility of your success such as dressing properly, answering interview questions thoroughly, and asking good questions at the end of the interview. Topic Sentence- Paragraph #2: An interview is an opportunity for potential employers to get to know you better, so it is important that you answer each question as completely as possible. Topic Sentence- Paragraph #3: By preparing some thoughtful questions for the end of the interview, you can show the panel that you have prepared for the interview and want the job. © 2001 by Ruth Luman

Body Paragraphs Your body paragraphs are the “meat” of your essay. The topic sentence should refer back to on of your points outlined in your thesis statement. After your topic sentence, you should list 2 or 3 supporting details. **THESE COME FROM YOUR SOURCES AND ARE WHAT YOU SHOULD CITE!** Your final sentence will transition from one body paragraph to the next.

Example of a body paragraph… Junk food in schools can lead to more childhood obesity problems in the United States. According to recent studies, the more junk food available to students in an area, the higher their BMI (body mass index) (qtd. in Gorman “Junk Food Availability”). Some schools have even gone as far as to start serving fast food in their cafeterias, which only encourages the problem (Lehman “Why School Cafeterias”). But obesity is not the only problem that students have to face when it comes to junk food.

Conclusion Brings your paper to an end. Essentially sums up your introduction/body paragraphs.