Guidelines

To prepare to make an outline, sort all note cards into stacks having the same headings, and arrange stacks in a workable order for an outline.

Prepare a thesis statement. A "thesis statement" is a single declarative sentence which summarizes the paper. It should not be expressed in a question. It is a preview of what the paper is about, and it controls the paper’s content.

An outline should have the headings and subtopics written in parallel wording, which means that each section or heading has similar wording construction.

There should be from three to five main topics (indicated by Roman numerals).

Each heading should have at least two sub-headings.

Double space the lines.

Capitalize the first word of the headings in Levels 1 and 2, and all proper nouns.

Use one-inch margins on both sides, top, and bottom.

Check with your teacher to find out if the outline is formal (using complete sentences) or informal (using phrases or single words in a "parallel wording" format).

Example Layout--->

Completed Outline--->

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