Writing a history research paper requires careful planning and preparation. Developing an outline is an essential first step that will help you organize your ideas and ensure your paper has a coherent structure and flow. Let’s take a look at the different components of a typical history research paper outline.
Introduction
The introduction should include a hook to engage the reader and introduce the topic. You’ll also want to provide some relevant context or background information to set up your main argument or thesis statement. Your thesis is the central argument of your paper that you will support and prove through your research and analysis. Make sure your thesis is focused and specific. Avoid vague or overly broad statements. The introduction generally ranges between 1-3 paragraphs.
Body Paragraph 1: Topic Sentence #1
Each main section or point you want to address in the body of the paper gets its own paragraph. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the focus of that paragraph and links back to your thesis statement. The topic sentence previews the argument or point you will prove in the paragraph. This first body paragraph may provide historical context, important dates, or background information to set the stage for your overall argument.
Body Paragraph 1: Evidence and Analysis
Include highly relevant evidence such as historical facts, dates, statistics, or quotes to support the topic sentence. Weave this evidence into your analysis. Explain how this evidence proves and reinforces the point made in the topic sentence. Show, don’t just tell, by connecting the specific evidence to your argument. Use analysis to draw conclusions about what the evidence means in the broader context.
Body Paragraph 1: Concluding Sentence
Wrap up the paragraph with a concluding sentence that summaries the main takeaway and links back to how this evidence supports your overall thesis. Send the reader to the next paragraph ready for the next point or section of evidence.
Body Paragraph 2: Topic Sentence #2
Introduce a new topic sentence and secondary point or piece of evidence to analyze. Link it back to the thesis and prior points made.
Body Paragraph 2: Evidence and Analysis
Include highly relevant evidence that supports this new point. Weave the evidence into your analysis and show how it specifically contributes to proving your thesis statement.
Body Paragraph 2: Concluding Sentence
Conclude the paragraph by summarizing the major takeaway and linking it back to your overall argument and thesis.
Body Paragraph 3: Topic Sentence #3
Continue following the same structure, introducing a new point or argument with a topic sentence, providing evidence to analyze within the paragraph, and concluding by summarizing and linking back to your thesis.
You can add or reduce body paragraphs based on the length and complexity of your specific paper assignment and research findings. Most research papers contain between 3-5 body paragraphs but may have more for longer assignments.
Conclusion
The conclusion should not introduce any new evidence or arguments. Summarize the main points made in your body paragraphs by restating the thesis statement. Discuss the broader implications and significance of your research findings. You can also suggest unanswered questions or ideas for future research. Keep the conclusion paragraph(s) brief while effectively recapping your overall analysis.
Bibliography/Works Cited
Compile full citations for all sources used in your research in proper citation format (MLA, Chicago, APA, etc.). Having a detailed outline will ensure you capture all referenced sources as you draft the paper itself.
Creating a detailed outline is an important step that ensures your history research paper is well-structured, flows logically, and proves your thesis through relevant evidence and analysis. Refer to the outline as you write to keep your paper focused and on track. You can modify the outline as needed during the research and writing process. An outline helps organize your thoughts and guides the development of a coherent, persuasive paper.