MLA Format Outline Template for a Research Paper
When writing a research paper, developing an outline is crucial. An outline helps organize thoughts, design a plan of action, and clarify the direction of the paper. Using an MLA format research paper outline template is important for properly citing sources and organizing the paper according to MLA guidelines.
While briefly outlining the purpose and scope of the paper, pay close attention to properly structuring paper components, properly citing all sources with correct in-text citations and references, and developing a strong thesis statement. An MLA format outline template serves as a guide throughout the research and writing process.
The Modern Language Association (MLA) is responsible for developing MLA format, which is a writing style and format commonly used in humanities and liberal arts courses. MLA guidelines specify formatting conventions for documents written in MLA style, including font type and size, margins, page headers, in-text citations, and works cited pages.
When using an MLA format outline template for a research paper, the first level of the outline should provide an introduction with a thesis statement. The thesis statement is a single sentence that concisely summarizes the main point or argument of the paper. The thesis must be specific and debatable and guide the structure of the paper.
The next levels of the outline break the paper into the body paragraphs that will be used to support and develop the thesis. Under each body paragraph, sources should be cited that will provide evidence and discussion for each point. MLA format requires peer-reviewed sources like books and journals. The body is separated into meaningful sections guided by the thesis.
The outline should also include a conclusion paragraph to wrap up the key points and reiterate how the thesis was supported. The final section of the outline is the works cited page, which lists all sources cited in the paper in MLA format. This section allows for easy insertion of correctly formatted source citations at the end once writing is complete.
Here is a sample outline template in MLA format:
I. Introduction
A. Thesis Statement: Discuss the X event in history and how it impacted Y through Z means.
II. Background information on the event
A. Cite Source 1 for context on when and where event occurred
III. Impact on group/place Y
A. Cite Source 2 on the specific impact
B. Cite Source 3 to further explain impact
C. Cite Source 4 to provide an opposing view of impact
IV. Impact through means Z
A. Cite Source 5 to show impact through means Z
B. Cite Source 6 to support impact of means Z
C. Counterargument on impact of means Z
V. Conclusion
A. Restate thesis and summarize key impacts
VI. Works Cited
A. Source 1
B. Source 2
C. Source 3
D. Source 4
E. Source 5
F. Source 6
This sample MLA format outline divides the research paper into logical paragraphs and sections with sources cited for each topic that will be discussed. Using a clear template structure keeps the organization consistent with MLA style guidelines. Referring to the outline during the writing process ensures all important components receive adequate coverage and sources are correctly cited.
When developing your own MLA format outline, adapt this template to fit your specific research paper topic, substituting relevant details. Make sure to always cite peer-reviewed sources from the library database and provide both in-text citations and a complete works cited list. The outline serves as the foundation and guide that leads to a well-structured, thoroughly researched MLA style paper. Proper use of this template format streamlines the writing process and results in a satisfactory final paper.