Introduction:
A research paper outline in the humanities is an essential organizational tool. While writing a paper and conducting research, it is easy to lose track of your original arguments or get sidetracked by interesting tangents. An outline ensures your paper remains focused on your central research question and thesis. It structures your ideas and provides a roadmap for crafting a clear and coherent paper.
This outline discusses the key elements and structure of a basic research paper outline in the humanities. Keep in mind that this is just a template and outlines can vary in their level of detail depending on the length, complexity and needs of your particular research paper. The goal here is to provide you with a clear structure to organize your arguments and ideas.
I. Introduction
Opening paragraph: Introduce your topic and explain why it is worth examining. Provide context and grab the reader’s interest.
Thesis statement: Clearly state your central argument or research question in 1-2 sentences. This is the core idea or hypothesis you will explore and prove over the course of the paper.
II. Background information
Briefly summarize existing scholarly conversations, debates or viewpoints related to your topic to establish context for your original analysis. Identify gaps or weaknesses in the current research.
Define key terms or concepts related to your topic that readers may need explained for comprehension.
III. Body Paragraph 1
Topic sentence: State the main point or argument you will make in this paragraph.
Evidence/analysis: Cite and discuss sources that support your main point. Analyze how they back up your argument.
Conclusion: Briefly restate the main point and its significance or how it relates to your overall thesis.
IV. Body Paragraph 2
Repeat structure from above with a new main point or argument.
V. Body Paragraph 3
Repeat structure from above with final main point or argument.
VI. Conclusion
Restate thesis and main arguments
Discuss significance or broader implications of your findings. Leave reader with important takeaways.
Suggest areas for potential future research.
This outline provides a basic template to structure an original research paper in the humanities. By following this general format, you can effectively organize your ideas and arguments to clearly convey your central thesis to the reader. Of course, outlines can be modified to suit differing types of research papers. The key is establishing a logical flow that moves from establishing context to making original analytical points to drawing conclusions. An outline ensures your writing stays on track and demonstrates a thorough, well-researched analysis.