How to Write an Essay: Create a Preliminary Outline

Jot down the major points you will  need to make to support your thesis

You can add more points later, so it's ok if you don't have all of the information you need right now

​​​​​​​Ask yourself questions to fill out your outline, such as:

• Does the reader need some background information before I begin to develop my supporting points?
• Why would someone disagree with my thesis?
• What kind of evidence can I use to support/prove my thesis?
  • Examples/case studies?
  • Scientific/clinical studies?
  • Statistics?
  • Expert testimony?
• Who is most affected by my topic?

Arrange the points on your outline in logical order, e.g.:

• Put related ideas together
• Use chronological order
• Arrange in order of importance or complexity
• Begin with background information and then develop claims