1. Review of Steps To Date:
Select the Topic
Research in Authoritative Summaries
Narrow the Topic
Build the Working Bibliography
Take Notes . . .
and before Step 6–
“Construct the Rough Draft”

2. (Significant Input from Dr. James Tollett & Prof. Sally Shelton)
Outlining
(Significant Input from Dr. James Tollett & Prof. Sally Shelton)

3. Research Paper Proposal
Format per pp , Vyhmeister, and pp , Seminary’s Research and Writing Manual– includes the following Sections for a Thesis or long Research Paper (Bold highlighted items part of paper):
- Abstract
- Outline
- Background
- Thesis Statement/Statement of the Problem
- Purpose
- Significance/Objective
- Delimitations/Limitations
- Definition of Terms
- Methodology
- Presuppositions/Assumptions
- Hypothesis/Tentative Solution
- Annotated Bibliography

4. Outlining the Material
First Level Heading for Major Divisions
A. Second Level Subheadings for Secondary Headings
1. Third Level Subheading for Development of Sub-points
2. Third Level Subheading for Development of Sub-points
B. Second Level Subheadings for Secondary Headings
First Level Heading for Major Divisions *(see p. 9, R/W Manual, for
another example)
Note: Each division of outline should point back to the Thesis Statement

5. Basic Format for a Paper
Introduction
A. Thesis Statement
B. Key Terms defined . . .
Body of Paper
A. Major Point #1
1. Minor Point #1
2. Minor Point #
B. Major Point #2
C. Major Point #
Conclusion
A. Point back to Thesis Statement
B. Briefly Summarize
C. Make recommendations or practical applications . . .
For Example (taken from notes for a Dr. Tollett sermon) –
Must have at least
two sub-points beneath
each major point