Writing an outline in MLA format is a very important step when creating a successful research paper. An MLA outline template provides the structure and guidance for composing a paper that complies with the Modern Language Association’s guidelines and standards. With the proper formatting and structure, creating an outline allows students to organize their thoughts and ideas. This makes the writing and research process much clearer and focused.
This article will discuss MLA research paper outline examples, providing step-by-step instructions on how to format the outline and include the four primary sections: introduction, body, conclusion, and works cited. Following the guidelines of an MLA research paper outline will help you write a well-organized paper and improve your writing and research skills.
What is an MLA Format Outline?
An MLA outline is a statement or draft of content you want to include in your final paper. It helps organize your ideas, determine the scope of your paper, and divide your research and information into manageable sections.
In MLA format, outlines should use Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.) and be laid out in a logical, hierarchical manner to show how individual ideas relate to one another and to the main topic being researched. Levels of information are indented further and further to show that they build upon those above them. MLA does not specify a set number of levels but levels are typically kept to two or three.
The typical MLA outline consists of four primary sections:
Introduction
Body
Conclusion
Works Cited
Each of these primary sections have additional sub-points to further break down your paper’s structure. Let’s take a deeper look at a sample MLA paper outline for a research article on how social media is affecting political engagement among young voters.
I. Introduction
A. Background on the issue
B. Thesis statement: How social media platforms are changing the way young voters engage with politics and current affairs.
C. Brief mentions of 3 main points that will be covered in the paper
II. Body
A. Point 1: Increased awareness of current issues
1. Exposure to diverse viewpoints
2. More sources of info than traditional media
a. Newsfeeds, posts, stories etc.
3. Interaction with issues through likes, shares, comments
B. Point 2: Greater social motivation to participate
1. Desire to openly share opinions
2. Peer pressure to engage and take a stand
3. Sense of community and social belonging
C. Point 3: New avenues for direct political participation
1. Organizing and attending local events
2. Digital campaigning and fundraising
3. Directly contacting representatives
III. Conclusion
A. Restate thesis
B. Summarize 3 main points covered
C. Final thoughts on importance and implications of research
IV. Works Cited
This sample follows standard MLA formatting and provides a clear and logical flow of sub-points to support the central thesis. Let’s take a deeper look at what should be included in each of the primary sections.
Introduction Section of an MLA Outline
The introduction should accomplish several key objectives:
Provide background context on the research topic to establish why it is important and interesting. This could include important facts, definitions of key terms, brief history or overview of issues involved.
Clearly state the purpose and thesis in one concise sentence. The thesis should take a position and address what the essay will examine and conclude about the research topic.
Briefly mention the 3 main points or topics that will be discussed in the body paragraphs to foreshadow the paper’s structure and organization.
The introduction sets the stage for readers by engaging their interest, providing necessary context and defining the scope and goals of the research paper. It establishes a framework for the discussion to follow.
Body Section of an MLA Outline
The body is where you will present relevant evidence, analysis and discussion to substantiate the claims made in the thesis statement. It is typically broken into several paragraphs or sections, with each addressing a different main point that supports proving the thesis.
Topics for main points should relate directly back to addressing different aspects of the thesis statement.
Use relevant quotes, facts, examples and theories from research sources to analyze each topic. Weave these seamlessly into discussion paragraphs.
Include an introductory topic sentence stating the main idea at the start.
Provide analysis and discussion that ties evidence back to how it helps prove the thesis statement.
Organize and group logically related ideas together using consistent indentation formatting.
Conclude body paragraphs by connecting back to the overall purpose and thesis. Transition smoothly into the next topic.
Conclusion Section of an MLA Outline
The conclusion should achieve the following:
Restate the thesis statement initially to tie all research together.
Briefly summarize the 3 main points or topics that were examined in body paragraphs.
Comment on the significance of research findings, limitations, need for future study, or implications.
Tie everything back full circle to the introduction’s background information.
End with a final impactful statement that leaves a strong impression.
Works Cited Section of an MLA Outline
This appears at the end of the outline and provides full citation information for all research sources referred to throughout. Use hanging indentation formatting for this section.
List sources alphabetically by author last name. Include all necessary elements for proper MLA citations such as:
Author names (or organization if no author given)
Title of source
Title of container (larger work source is from like a book or website), italicized
Publication details like publisher, publication date
URLs or DOIs if referencing digital sources
Access date if source could change or update online
Following this consistent outline structure based on MLA formatting standards will ensure your research paper draft is well-organized and reader-friendly. It helps ensure you successfully prove your thesis with quality evidence and analysis. The outline serves as an essential map to follow during the research and writing process.
An MLA outline template provides a clear framework for developing a research paper. It allows students to arrange and flow their evidence and thoughts in the most logical, streamlined manner. By adhering to standard sub-point indentation and four primary section organization, writing an outline is a key first step towards producing a professional, well-structured paper that complies with MLA citation and layout guidelines. Using research paper outline examples like the one given here can help steer your writing in the right direction.
Andrew Stroud