The example below is a full outline of a short essay. On a timed writing test, you will not have the time to write a complete outline, but you should at least write a scratch outline. In a scratch outline, you generally just write a working thesis statement, and topic sentences (See highlighted areas below).
Introduction
- The hook – use an interesting fact, or a quote; give reader a reason to continue
- Background – give brief information to introduce your thesis statement
- Thesis statement – state clearly the direction you will take with the topic / optional: include points of development
Body Paragraphs
Write a topic sentence on the first point of development
- Provide details, examples, reasons, illustration, or facts to support your topic sentence.
- Conclude and lead into the next paragraph
Write a topic sentence on the second point of development
- Provide details, examples, reasons, illustration, or facts to support your topic sentence.
- Conclude and lead into the next paragraph
Write a topic sentence on the third point of development (optional)
- Provide details, examples, reasons, illustration, or facts to support your topic sentence.
- Conclude and lead into conclusion
Conclusion
- Restate the thesis statement
- Summarize main points
- Final thought
