A short research paper outline is a plan that helps structure your upcoming research paper. Some key points to address in your short research paper outline include:
Introduction
The introduction paragraph should include a thesis statement explaining the purpose and focus of your research paper. For a short paper, aim to craft a clear and concise thesis statement in one to two sentences.
You may also include some brief context or background information in your introductory paragraph to set up your thesis statement. Keep the introduction relatively short at around 3-5 sentences.
Body Paragraph 1
Your first body paragraph should directly support your thesis statement. This can be done by presenting the first main point or idea related to your research topic.
Begin body paragraphs with a topic sentence directly connecting back to your thesis statement. Include 2-3 supporting sentences with facts, data, examples, or details that back up the topic sentence.
Consider including a short transitional sentence between the topic sentence and supporting details to smoothly connect ideas.
Body Paragraph 2
The second body paragraph should present a second main point or idea to support your thesis statement. Structure it similarly to the first body paragraph with a clear topic sentence followed by 2-3 supporting sentences.
Include a transitional sentence between body paragraphs 1 and 2 to seamlessly link ideas across paragraphs.
Conclusion
The conclusion should not introduce any new information but rather synthesize and wrap up what was covered in the body of the paper.
Restate the thesis statement using different phrasing or words to avoid direct repetition.
Briefly recap the two main points or ideas presented in the body paragraphs to reinforce how they support the thesis.
Consider leaving the reader with a final thought or takeaway as a way to conclude your research paper on a thoughtful note. Keep the conclusion concise at around 3-5 sentences.
Formatting Tips
Include a descriptive title at the top of your outline to inform readers of the research topic.
Clearly label sections “Introduction,” “Body Paragraph 1,” “Body Paragraph 2,” and “Conclusion” to delineate parts of the outline.
Number bullet points or use indentation to denote sub-points under each section header for easy scanning.
Leave space under each section to later insert full sentences and paragraphs into the outline.
Keep your outline to no more than 1-2 pages by using brief, succinct language to summarize key points of each section. Length of a full outline can vary based on the length and depth of the final paper.
Sources and Notes
Include a separate “Sources” or “References” section at the end to keep track of any sources you plan to cite or quote from in your actual research paper.
List sources alphabetically by author’s last name or first word of citation if no author is provided.
Use a consistent citation style like APA or MLA format to list article titles, publication dates, etc. for each source.
Optionally include a brief “Notes” section after sources to jot down any facts, quotes, or questions needing follow up research before drafting.
Benefits of Creating an Outline
Clarifies your line of argument and the flow of logical reasoning throughout your paper.
Ensures all parts of the paper are directly connected to and support your overall thesis statement.
Acts as a roadmap during the drafting process to stay organized and on track.
Provides flexibility to easily rearrange or substitute parts as needed if your perspective or focus shifts slightly during research.
Receiving early feedback on your outline from an instructor or writing tutor can help strengthen your paper before substantial drafting begins.
Significantly cuts down on writer’s block by breaking the daunting research paper task into clear, manageable steps.
By following the basic structure and template outlined here for body paragraphs, introduction, conclusion and works cited/references, students can craft a clear, coherent outline to guide successful completion of even a short research paper. Creating a well-organized outline saves time and stress in the long run by preventing issues later in the writing process. Taking the time to plan effectively through outlining is a highly valuable step toward writing quality research papers.