One of the most important initial steps for writing a research paper is to create a research paper outline. An outline is a skeleton, plan, map, or blueprint of your research paper that helps you to organize your writing process by highlighting the main points, sub-points, and details to include in the final research paper write-up.
An outline can be described as an important research and writing tool that provides a structure, flow, and format for information to be included in the paper. Notably, the moment you make a quality outline, writing a research paper becomes efficient because it organizes thoughts and ideas, direct the flow of information, and ensures that everything is included.
If your professor, teacher, or TA requests an outline before the research paper or as part of the submission, they want to understand your thought process as you compose the paper. Even when not asked, creating an outline will save you time and help you plan, which can subsequently help you escape the snare of writer’s block.
In this post, our best research paper writers share insights on how to get started with your research paper outline, what to include, the examples of different types of outlines with examples, and the steps to make an excellent outline for a research paper.
We must look at an example to understand what goes into a research paper outline. Below is an example of an outline for a research paper that explores the topic “Covid-19 Vaccination.”
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Background information on COVID-19 and the development of vaccines
B. Overview of the COVID-19 vaccination debate
C. Thesis statement: The COVID-19 vaccination debate encompasses various perspectives on the safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations surrounding vaccination.
II. SAFETY CONCERNS AND EFFICACY OF COVID-19 VACCINES
A. Overview of vaccine development and approval process
B. Discussion of safety concerns raised by skeptics
C. Examination of scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines
D. Analysis of real-world data and vaccine effectiveness
III. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE VACCINATION DEBATE
A. Vaccine distribution and global equity
B. Vaccine mandates and personal freedoms
C. Vaccine hesitancy and public health implications
D. Ethical responsibilities of individuals, governments, and pharmaceutical companies
IV. MISINFORMATION AND ITS IMPACT ON THE VACCINATION DEBATE
A. Spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories
B. Analysis of the factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy
C. Impact of Misinformation on public health efforts
D. Strategies to combat misinformation and promote accurate information
V. CASE STUDIES: EXAMINING THE COVID-19 VACCINATION DEBATE IN DIFFERENT CONTEXTS
A. Comparison of vaccination debates in different countries or regions
B. Analysis of diverse cultural, social, and political factors influencing the debate
C. Lessons learned from successful vaccination campaigns
VI. CONCLUSION
A. Recap of key points discussed in the paper
B. Evaluation of the COVID-19 vaccination debate and its implications
C. Call to action for promoting informed decision-making and public health initiatives
As you might have rightfully noted, the introduction contains an attention grabber to hook the readers. This can be a definition, question, anecdote, statistic, or claim to get the readers psyched to read your research paper. It also contains a statement of the significance of the topic, which gives some background information. The final sentence or two should outline the paper's research question, problem, or specific focus (the thesis statement).
The major/main points listed in your outline are the building blocks of your paper. You will note that the major points build up on each other through to the conclusion. Every main point has a clear claim related to your research question or thesis statement.
The sub-points or the minor points are the subtopics within the main points. You use them to develop the nuances of your main points. They are pieces of evidence that you use to make a case for the main point. The body paragraph comes immediately after the topic sentence (main point) and before the conclusion. They can be examples, supporting facts and ideas, statistics from various sources, etc.
Note that you should include sub-points and further sub-points or details below the main points in the body paragraphs. This helps you structure your body paragraphs well so there is a flow of information. Repeat this for all the body paragraphs in your research paper. The conclusion should link to the introduction by rephrasing the thesis statement and highlighting the main points, recommendations, or a call to action.
A typical research paper outline can have between two to four layers of organization. The first two layers are superficial, while the subsequent layers (if needed) are more detailed.
As the example above shows, the levels are represented using a combination of Roman numerals, uppercase letters, Arabic numerals, and lowercase letters, sometimes symbols. Your professor will decide on the type of outline they need.
The first level organization contains the skeleton of the research paper, including:
The second level includes the topics that support the thesis, the main ideas, and the conclusion. Notably, each main idea should have at least two supporting ideas or sub-topics listed in your outline.
An example of the second level
The third level of organization contains information on the topics you previously listed. Informed by research, you should share minor details such as examples, facts, statistics, and other relevant content.
II. Main idea
A. Supporting topic
1. A brief description of supporting information
2. A brief description of supporting information
B. Supporting topic
Finally, the fourth level of organization comprises the most detailed information, such as references, quotes, observations, specific data, and other relevant facts supporting the main ideas.
There are three ways to organize a research paper outline: alphanumeric, full sentences, and decimal formats. Depending on the instructions or whatever topic you are writing about, you can do the alphanumeric, decimal, or full-sentence research paper outline.
II. Main idea
A. Supporting topic
1. A brief description of supporting information
a) Quotes or references to another piece of literature
b) Quotes or references to another piece of literature
2. A brief description of supporting information
B. Supporting topic
1. A brief description of supporting information
2. A brief description of supporting information
As the name suggests, this is an outline where the topics are listed using Roman numerals, and subtopics are listed using capital letters while the specific points are further listed using Arabic numerals. Further details for the individual points (short notes) are written in lowercase letters.
Below is an Example:
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Background information
B. Definition and scope of AI
C. Research question and thesis statement
II. HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF AI
A. Origins of AI
B. Key milestones in AI
C. AI Applications and Impact on Society
III. ADVANCEMENTS IN AI TECHNOLOGY
A. Machine and deep learning algorithms
B. Natural language processing and understanding
C. Computer vision and image recognition
IV. ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF AI
A. Automation and productivity improvements
B. Decision-making and efficiency in industries
C. Creation of new job opportunities and industries
V. SOCIAL BENEFITS OF AI
A. Healthcare advancements and improved patient care
B. Enhanced public safety and security measures
C. Accessible and personalized education and learning
VI. ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF AI
A. Resource optimization and energy efficiency
B. Environmental monitoring and conservation efforts
C. Climate change modeling and mitigation strategies
VII. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN AI DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT
A. Bias and Fairness in AI Algorithms
B. Privacy and data protection concerns
C. Accountability and Transparency in AI decision-making
VIII. CHALLENGES AND POTENTIAL RISKS OF AI
A. Job displacement and economic inequality
B. Ethical Dilemmas and unintended consequences
C. Cybersecurity threats and AI misuse
IX. PUBLIC PERCEPTION AND ACCEPTANCE OF AI
A. Attitudes towards AI in society
B. Public understanding of AI capabilities and limitations
C. Promoting ethical AI adoption and responsible use
XI. CONCLUSION
A. Summary of key benefits of AI to Society
B. Reflection on Challenges and future directions
C. Recommendations for Harnessing AI's Potential for societal well-being
The complete sentence outline is almost the same as alphanumeric online in that the text is written in complete sentences instead of short notes or points. The sentences can be incomplete; ensure you do not do quick blurbs.
It is an easier way to structure a research paper, as it is specific enough to give a clear picture of the final draft. It is time-consuming to prepare but worth it in the end.
Here is an example of a full-sentence research paper outline on Corporal Punishment.
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Background information on corporal punishment
B. Importance of studying the topic
C. Research question and thesis statement
II. DEFINITION AND FORMS OF CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
A. Explanation of corporal punishment
B. Different forms of corporal punishment (e.g., spanking, paddling, slapping)
C. Cultural and regional variations in corporal punishment practices
III. HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
A. Overview of the historical use of corporal punishment
B. Evolution of societal attitudes towards corporal punishment
C. Impact of historical practices on present-day perceptions
IV. PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS OF CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
A. Psychological effects on children (e.g., increased aggression, anxiety)
B. Impact on parent-child relationships and trust
C. Potential long-term consequences for mental health and well-being
V. LEGAL AND POLICY CONSIDERATIONS
A. Global perspective on the legality of corporal punishment
B. International human rights standards and corporal punishment
C. National laws and regulations concerning corporal punishment
VI. ALTERNATIVES TO CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
A. Positive discipline approaches
B. Effective parenting strategies for behavior management
C. Role of Education and awareness in promoting alternatives
VII. RESEARCH STUDIES ON CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
A. Overview of existing research findings
B. Studies exploring the efficacy and effectiveness of corporal punishment
C. Critiques and limitations of research on corporal punishment
VIII. CASE STUDIES AND REAL-LIFE EXAMPLES
A. Analysis of specific cases involving corporal punishment
B. Examination of Cultural, social, and educational contexts
C. Lessons learned and implications for policy and practice
IX. CONCLUSION
A. Summary of key findings and main arguments
B. Implications for individuals, families, and society
C. Recommendations for future research and policy development
The decimal outline is also similar to the alphanumeric outline, which only uses a system of numbers with increasing decimal points. The main topics are listed as whole numbers, the subtopics with one decimal point, and the points under the subtopics further listed to two decimal points. Finally, further details are listed with three decimal points. It helps you organize lengthy technical research papers to help the writer know their point in the paper.
Here is an example of a decimal research paper outline:
I. Introduction
1.1 Background information on opioid abuse
1.2 Definition and Scope of opioid abuse
1.3 Research Question and thesis statement
II. Prevalence and Impact of opioid abuse
2.1 Statistics on opioid abuse rates
2.2 Health and societal consequences of opioid abuse
2.2.1 Physical health effects of opioid abuse
2.2.2 Mental health implications of opioid abuse
2.2.3 Social and Economic Impact of opioid abuse
III. Factors contributing to opioid abuse
3.1 Prescription Practices and Overprescribing
3.1.1 Role of healthcare professionals in opioid prescribing
3.1.2 Patient factors influencing opioid misuse
3.2 Availability and accessibility of opioids
3.2.1 Illicit opioid markets and drug trafficking
3.2.2 Internet Sales and online pharmacies
3.3 Societal factors influencing opioid abuse
3.3.1 Cultural Norms and attitudes towards pain management
3.3.2 Socioeconomic Disparities and opioid abuse
IV. Opioid addiction and withdrawal
4.1 Neurobiology of opioid addiction
4.1.1 Effects of Opioids on the Brain’s reward system
4.1.2 Development of Tolerance and Dependence
4.2 Symptoms and stages of opioid withdrawal
4.2.1 Acute withdrawal symptoms
4.2.2 Protracted withdrawal and post-acute withdrawal syndrome
V. Prevention and intervention strategies
5.1 Prescription monitoring programs and Guidelines
5.2 Non-opioid pain management alternatives
5.2.1 Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
5.2.2 Psychological Interventions for pain management
5.3 Harm reduction approaches
5.3.1 Needle exchange programs and safe injection sites
5.3.2 Overdose Prevention and naloxone distribution
5.4 Treatment Options for opioid addiction
5.4.1 Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
5.4.2 Behavioral Therapies and Counseling
VI. Policy and legal considerations
6.1 Regulatory Measures to control opioid availability
6.2 Legal Frameworks for opioid prescribing and Dispensing
6.3 Criminal justice approaches and drug courts
VII. Education and public awareness
7.1 School-based prevention programs
7.2 Community Outreach and education campaigns
7.3 Stigma Reduction and destigmatization efforts
VIII. Future directions and challenges
8.1 Emerging Trends in opioid abuse and Misuse
8.2 Addressing the opioid crisis within vulnerable populations
8.3 Research Gaps and Areas for further investigation
IX. Conclusion
9.1 Summary of key findings on opioid abuse
9.2 Implications for public health and Policy
9.3 Recommendations for Addressing the opioid crisis
Although many people consider writing an outline easy, it is somehow daunting. Many people find it challenging to structure a research paper, especially if it is their first. We can confidently say that you must abandon the perfectionism mindset when drafting an outline for a research paper. Below are the steps to guarantee you a top-quality outline:
The first step to writing a perfect outline is selecting a suitable topic. In most cases, your professor or teacher might request you choose a research paper topic for yourself and submit it for approval or choose from the list in the assignment prompt. Whatever the case, ensure you choose a topic you are comfortable sharing more details with your audience. You should ensure it is neither too narrow nor too broad and researchable. In most cases, specific essay topics can double as research paper topics. Our custom essay writers can also suggest 3-4 suitable research topics based on your preference, research scope, and instructions. Place your order and get the necessary personalized research topics help/suggestions.
Although outlining is not the first step of writing a research paper, it comes first before writing a paper. You need to do preliminary research to gather primary and secondary sources that you can use to explore the topic. The preliminary research helps you determine your stance, perspective, or argument. Preliminary research can be done by reading both scholarly and non-scholarly sources. The aim is to identify the viewpoints of other authors, conflicting ideas, and facts. Realigning the findings will come in handy in the next step, developing the thesis statement.
Coming up with a researchable, provable, and concise thesis statement for a research paper sets you miles ahead in the writing process. Following the research, develop a research question or hypothesis, then turn it into a research thesis statement. It should be the main argument driving every research paper aspect. For instance, you can choose to explore the main disadvantages of institutional racism against Black Americans. Ensure that your thesis covers the central argument relating to the topic. The research paper's body paragraphs and subsequent sections will focus on it.
A research paper is ideally founded on a proper and thorough research process. Initially, you were familiar with the topic. However, in this step or phase, the aim is to identify and organize scholarly sources that you can get ideas to support your thesis statement. Sift through the resources to find compelling evidence that supports your argument. Begin with general information supporting the thesis statement and go deep into the most critical aspects of the topic. Identify arguments and counterarguments with the most appropriate evidence. Take notes as you research to develop an outline and later use them for writing your research paper.
With the notes from the research, make a comprehensive list of all the topics, main ideas, subtopics, and minor points you want to address in your research paper. Every detail in the outline should relate to the thesis, so avoid tangential ideas. Make the outline as straightforward as possible but take notes and highlight your notes further to have an easier writing process. If you can get quotes, examples, and illustrations from sources, please include them in your research paper outline. You will save much time when writing your first draft.
You typically have everything you can piece together into an outline. But first, you must select an appropriate research paper outline. It should align with your assignment instructions or as per your preference. You can use a simple outline if it is a short research paper (8-10 pages long). However, an advanced research paper with a lot of content that requires a lot of research ensures that you use a more detailed outline. If it is for personal use, refine it to suit your requirements. However, if you share with a professor or team, ensure you are detailed enough. Essentially, the decimal or the alphanumeric outline formats can work for longer research papers. It narrows down to preferences and convenience.
The next step entails using a hierarchical arrangement for the ideas to be present in the research paper. Prioritize the topics, ideas, and sub-topics chronologically and hierarchically. Some topics can make perfect sense when they come first or after specific points; ensure that that reflects in your outline. Create a good framework for your research paper outline by putting the topics in a predefined order. Begin with the main ideas, sub-topics, sub-topics of the sub-topics, and finally, the supporting details. A good framework reflected through the outline is important in writing a perfect research paper. If you need to rearrange the entire paper or do more research, do not shy if you arrive at a perfect outline that addresses the rubric requirements.
If your research paper has headings and subheadings, include them within the outline. Visualizing the headings and subheadings should follow the selected format. APA, Harvard, Chicago, and MLA each have rules regarding the placement or levels of headings and subheadings. Take note of that and include them as appropriate.
In the last step, you must reevaluate your outline to ensure that everything has fallen into its proper place. Countercheck that all the topics, sub-topics, ideas, and supporting details are optimally presented. Ensure there is a logical flow of ideas and that each body paragraph addresses a single idea. Review your research notes and the entire content to ensure everything is included. Check the format of your outline and submit it if there are no issues.
The most critical aspect of creating an effective outline is consistency in your ideas, headings, logical flow, organization, and specificity levels. You should consider these tips if you want to stand out:
Writing an outline for a research paper should be a simple task, yet many students struggle with it. Remember to follow the nine steps we have outlined above and familiarize yourself with the various formats of research paper outlines alphanumeric, decimal, and full sentences. Also, note the tips we shared, for they will be helpful. Your introduction should start with an attention grabber, followed by the background information that could include the hypothesis or the research question, the thesis statement, and a roadmap or signpost of the rest of the paper. The body, which is the main part of your research paper, should be outlined following the type of research paper you are writing. If it is a scientific or experimental research paper, use the IMRAD format to organize the outline. Finally, the conclusion should have a summary of the paper and a call to action or recommendation in the end for closure to your readers.
If writing a research paper outline sounds like too much work for you, you can hire a research paper writer from our website to create one for you. You will save time, which you can use to do things you cannot delegate to a third party. All the outlines are original, error-free, and human-written. Our experienced writers are ready; place that order today.
A research paper outline is a structure, sketch, skeleton, map, or blueprint for the research paper detailing the main and minor ideas, headings, subheadings, and supporting details so that anybody reading it can visualize the contents expected in the research paper. Outlines are essential for organizing information and help reduce writing time since everything is well figured out.
Although not mandatory, making an outline part of your writing process is essential. It is an important step before writing a research paper as it helps organize ideas and points.
A standard research paper outline has between two to four levels of organization. The first two layers are generalized, while the last two are detailed and to the point.
A research paper outline should contain the essential sections of your research paper organized logically. You can include the introduction, methodology, results, Analysis, and discussion sections. As well, include the main points of your conclusion. It should have the same structure as that of your upcoming research paper.
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