Writing Outlines for an Assignment

Hi, this is KB again. I'd like to talk about outlines for assignments and how they can help you to produce better work.

Here is a long version of an outline:

Assignment Question: (fill in relevant information)
Length of Assignment suggested: (fill in relevant information)

Thesis Paragraph/Introductory Paragraph

Sentence 1/Topic Sentence/Thesis sentence: (You describe the overarching plan of the assignment & research question for the assignment & your assignment plan)
Sentence 2/Relevant quotation or supporting evidence: (Here you can just write down the quotation or supporting evidence you are going to use for the overarching plan above)
Sentence 3: (Here you explain the significance of the supporting information or documentation)
Sentence 4: (Here you summarize your argument and then introduce the next topic)

Topic Sentence/Paragraph 2: (You introduce your first argument. It should be related to to the plan above)
Sentence 2/Paragraph 2: (You use a relevant supporting evidence, see above)
Sentence 3/Paragraph 3: (Explanation)
Sentence 4/Paragraph 4: (Summary)

You can use a numbering system like this:

1.1 - Thesis paragraph
1.2 - Supporting Documentation
1.3 - Argument
1.4 - Summary

You don't need to write the entire paper out. You can use point form to guide you. This plan/outline is meant to help you make logical connections in your paper. First, topic sentences should present a coherent argument or structure when you read them in sequence, one topic sentence after another. Second, I tell students that evidence in an assignment is information that backs up your arguments. It's the data related to backing up your point in the topic sentence. It is not just information that merely agrees with your arguments. Evidence/data/quotations illustrate and strengthen your arguments. This is always followed with analysis or a discussion of why this evidence backs up your argument. Your outline is the obvious place to make these connections - probably in point form.

In terms of length, you should consider that each page of your assignment is roughly 500 words (single spaced, Times New Roman, 12 pt). You need to plan your assignment out so that the length will match the tutor's expectations. It should fall within no more or no less than 10% of this suggested length.

Of course, the conclusion should come naturally from the arguments you have presented throughout the paper. When you get to the end, it is suggested you go back and examine your thesis sentence to ensure that you have presented the strongest case possible for your argument throughout your paper as well. If you know, because you have written a clear outline, what evidence you are going use in your assignment, it will help you get the work you need done. In short, an outline isn't more work at all; it allows you to make a structured critical argument in your assignments every time, thus improving your marks and letting your words fully describe your ideas.

I learned how to do this late in my academic career. I wish I'd known how to do this when I was a young undergrad struggling with making strong critical arguments. However, I do want every student to succeed. Using an outline is one way to succeed in making strong critical arguments in your assignments, ensuring that you actually do answer the 'assignment question' and that you haven't taken a wrong turn in your assignment. Until next time, all the best.

KB