How to Write an Outline for a Political Science Paper

An outline can help your political science paper flow.

Writing an outline is an important part of a research paper. It helps you gather your ideas and develop a sequence for your political science paper. An outline is a rough frame for your paper that ensures that you include all important material. A well-written outline will help your paper flow. Combined with your research, this will enable you to complete your paper more quickly.

Instructions

1. Do your research and take notes for your political science paper.

2. Decide on an order for the elements of your outline, sequential or by topic, for example.

3. Use Roman numerals for sections, Arabic numerals for paragraphs and letters for points within each paragraph.

4. Find sample outlines to help you with the format if necessary. The format isn't too important unless you have to turn in your outline, but you should understand the outline.

5. Begin your outline with an introduction, the opening one or two paragraphs in which you present an overview of the topic and your thesis. Your outline does not have to include complete sentences. Short phrases to jog your memory will suffice.

6. Continue until you have included all points you want to make. This represents the body of your paper.

7. Finish your outline with a conclusion.

8. Rearrange your outline as necessary. Decide whether the order is correct or whether you need to do further research.

References

• A Research Guide for Students: How to Write an A+ Research Paper
• Los Angeles Valley College; "How to Write an Outline"; January 2001
• Academic Writing Tips; "How To Write A Political Science Paper"; March 2011