The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used for research papers and reports in liberal arts and humanities fields such as English, foreign languages, literature, cultural studies and art history. One key aspect of MLA style is following a standard outline format to plan and organize research paper content.
Creating an outline allows writers to effectively develop main ideas and structure supporting points to accomplish research objectives. An MLA research paper outline template provides the structure needed to write a research paper systematically and for readers to easily follow logical arguments. The basic outline consists of an introduction, body, and conclusion sections.
Introduction Section
The introduction should be approximately 5% of the total paper length which for a standard 10-12 page paper typically amounts to 500 words or less. The introduction serves to clearly introduce readers to the topic being researched, provide background context or history, explain why the topic warrants investigation and present the central thesis or argument.
The introduction begins with an attention grabbing opening sentences followed by background context that establishes the scope without going into too much unnecessary detail. The next paragraph introduces the debate, problem or issue under investigation while underscoring its significance and timeliness for readers. Finally, the conclusion to the introduction states the thesis concisely in one sentence declaring the precise central argument to be proven within the paper.
Body Section
The body constitutes approximately 80-85% of the total paper and presents the bulk of evidence gathered through research to validate claims made in the thesis. An effective MLA research paper outline divides body sections into coherent paragraphs structured around key points that together prove the central argument.
The body uses topic sentences to introduce paragraphs each focusing on supporting main ideas, facts, examples, quotations or analysis relating back to the thesis. Smooth transitions should link paragraphs both within and between each body section. Sections are typically arranged from least to most important with effective flow achieved through strategic ordering and logical progression of ideas.
Conclusion Section
The conclusion represents the remaining 10-15% of the paper and effectively restates the thesis while summarizing major evidence from research findings. Instead of introducing new information or analysis, the conclusion reiterates significance and ramification of discoveries made regarding the thesis. An effective conclusion leaves readers with a strong sense of closure by reflecting on implications and calling readers to action such as suggesting future research opportunities.
References Section
An MLA research paper outline also includes a properly formatted works cited list containing full citations for all sources used within the body of research according to MLA guidelines. Citations appear in alphabetical order by author surname and provide sufficient publication detail to locate each source. In-text parenthetical citations corresponding to sources are also properly incorporated within paragraphs.
Template and Example Outline
The following represents a basic template for an MLA research paper outline:
I. Introduction
A. Background Context
B. Thesis Statement
II. Body Paragraph 1: Main Point 1
A. Supporting Detail 1
B. Supporting Detail 2
III. Body Paragraph 2: Main Point 2
A. Supporting Detail 1
B. Supporting Detail 2
IV. Body Paragraph 3: Main Point 3
A. Supporting Detail 1
B. Supporting Detail 2
V. Conclusion
A. Restate Thesis
B. Implications
VI. Works Cited
Example of an outline for a paper on cybersecurity and privacy:
I. Introduction
A. Rise of technology and online activity
B. Thesis: Existing cybersecurity and privacy policies inadequately protect users due to lack of regulation and oversight
II. Weaknesses in Current Technical Defenses
A. Data breaches and hacking incidents
B. Insecure default settings and lack of updates
III. Inadequate Legal Protections
A. Unclear and inconsistent privacy policies
B. Lack of meaningful consent and oversight
IV. Calls for Stronger Regulation and Oversight
A. Proposed legislation and standards
B. Role of government oversight
V. Conclusion
A. Reiterate thesis that new policies and laws are urgently needed
B. Future implications if issue remains unaddressed
VI. Works Cited
By following a standardized MLA research paper outline format, students can effectively develop main ideas and structure content to ultimately produce a well-organized paper proven through credible evidence and smooth logical flow. Clear outlines help writers stay focused and on topic throughout the research and writing process.