What is a Research Paper Outline? H2
A research paper outline can be defined as a structured distribution of ideas related to the topic. A research paper outline can also be considered as a literary tool to make the writing process smoother, and more organized.
An outline can make your writing well structured. It helps to organize your thoughts. An outline will also help in the uniform distribution of ideas. The research paper outline is a brief overview of your paper with the main points of your writing presented in bullets or in one line.
The outline of a research paper usually contains the following elements:
Introduction:
- Bulleted distribution of introductory points.e.g. Definitions.
Explanations:
- Bulleted distribution of explanatory points.
Conclusion:
- Concluding points of your research.
How to Write a Research Paper Outline?
Writing a research paper outline involves the following steps:
1. Select the Topic of the Paper
The first thing you need to do before starting writing an outline for a research paper is to decide the research paper topic on which you have to write the outline. Sometimes a topic may be given to you by your supervisor or teacher. But other times you have to decide on your own.
This choice itself can be quite tricky so be very careful. Go for the topics which are familiar and you have a good grip on them. The right selection of the topic can make your writing process quite convenient.
If you have selected the topic on which you have a strong grip, good background knowledge, and conceptual clarity. Crafting an outline for such a topic can be quite easier. You can easily discuss such topics, can make appealing subheadings, and write convincing bullet points.
2. Brainstorm and Write Down the Relevant Ideas
After choosing a suitable subject or title for your paper now brainstorm all the possible perspectives and ideas regarding the subject. You can list down your own ideas and can also find some from the internet.
After listing down all the ideas, evaluate them on the basis of relevancy and your ability to explain them. After finalizing the ideas you want to discuss in your paper, list them down separately.
3. Organize Your Ideas
Now combine the relevant ideas and group them in the subcategories. List the subcategories of the ideas under the main category. Define hierarchies for your ideas and decide which point you want your reader to read first.
Put the introductory points in the beginning. Then list the most important reasons, explanations, or discoveries. Then state the points that will most effectively conclude your paper.
Organize your ideas coherently and don’t let your readers feel that they are reading chunks of texts. Your text should be coherent enough to convey your point effectively.
4. Write Compelling Headings and Subheadings
Keeping in view the ideas you have listed and finalized. Create appealing headings from these ideas. This will help you grab your reader’s attention and keep them reading.
5. Format your Outline Well
There are a number of outline formats available for the outline. Depending on the hierarchy of your outline you can choose either a numeric, alphanumeric, full sentence, or decimal format. Also include all relevant sections according to the format like abstract, literature review, etc.
Following is a quick overview of different outline formats:
Alphanumeric Format
This is one of the most commonly used outline formats. Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, capitalized letters, and lower-case letters to arrange the flow of information. In the Alphanumeric outline, the text is written in brief points rather than long sentences.
Following is an example of an alphanumerically formatted outline:
Introduction
A. Main Point
1. Sub-Point
a. Subpoint of (1)
Full Sentence Format
This format is very similar to the alphanumeric format with the difference that in this format the points are written in full long sentences.
Introduction of the Research Paper
B. Main Point of the Introduction
2. Sub-Point of the main point of the introduction
b. Subpoint of (1)
Decimal Format
Except for the numbering system the decimal format is almost similar to the alphanumeric format. The text is written in the form of brief points in this format as well.
Following is an example of a decimal formatted outline.
1. Introduction of the Research Paper
1.1 Main Point of the Introduction
- 1.1.1 Sub-Point of the main point of the introduction
- 1.1.2 Subpoint of (1.1.1)
1.2 Next Point of the Introduction
1.2.1 Sub-Point of the main point of the introduction
1.2.2 Subpoint of (1.2.1)
Research Paper Outline Samples
Following are some research paper outline examples and samples to help you write an effective outline for your research paper.
Hope the blog has answered the majority of your queries regarding writing a research paper outline. But if something is still ticking in your mind don’t hesitate to reach our essay writer for all your answers and best outlines for your papers.
