When are outlines required?

For questions with a 500+ word count, OR essay style papers that are 2+ pages, focused on a
single question/prompt, it is our policy to include an outline along with your final answer.
Failure to do so will result in deduction of a page from your essay. For a more in-depth look at
the different types of essay style answers that may require an outline please see recommended
Format and Quality Control guidelines.

How to form an outline?

1. Identify the topic of your essay in addition to your thesis statement.

2. Identify the main categories/paragraphs of your essay.
3. For each category, add brief notes on the supporting evidence/information.
4. An outline should help in developing writing skills and structuring the final assignment.

Example framework of an outline

I. Introduction
A. Topic/focus of the essay
B. Thesis Statement
II. First paragraph description
A. Summary of first piece of supporting evidence/information
B. Summary of second piece of supporting evidence/information
III. Second paragraph description
A. Summary of first piece of supporting evidence/information
B. Summary of second piece of supporting evidence/information
IV. Third paragraph description
A. Summary of first piece of supporting evidence/information
B. Summary of second piece of supporting evidence/information
V. Conclusion
A. Restatement of thesis
B. Concluding remarks