23 Creating a Rough Outline

Introduction to Rough Outlines

You have been reading and taking notes, developing a broad understanding of the topic. You should have some sense of how to answer your research question. As you read, identify the “answers” (evidence) to your research question. Create a rough outline to organize your ideas.

A rough outline is an early plan for your essay. It is not final. It helps you organize your ideas before you start writing paragraphs.

A rough outline usually includes:

• your research question (RQ)
• the focus of your research question (for example: cause, effect, comparison)
• the main answers to your research question, expressed as a short list, grouped into categories

Technique for creating a rough outline: Brainstorming a list

1. Review your reading notes and highlighted ideas in your articles.
2. Write your research question at the top of your page.
3. Brainstorm a list of 10-15 words or phrases that answer your research question.
4. Group similar ideas. Look at your list and identify ideas that seem to go together. Label groups of words with a different number. (In the example below there are four categories, so each answer has been labeled 1, 2, 3, or 4.) Each number corresponds to a category.
5. Name your categories. Choose a short phrase to describe each group.
6. Put your outline away. Look at it later with fresh eyes. Is there anything you would like to change or add?

Note: You will continue to refine this rough outline. It will help you write your thesis statement and your detailed outline, and it is likely to change as you explore your topic.

Example: Process for Creating a Rough Outline

Step 1: Choose a Research Question: What makes a good university?

Step 2: Focus type(s) – choose one or more.

• • cause
  • effect
  • comparison
  • definition
  • classification
  • process
  • argument
  • problem and solution

Step 4: Categorize: Analyze the list and group similar ideas together into categories. Put numbers next to each item designating its category.

Step 5: Then identify a word or phrase to describe each category. List the categories as 3-4 supporting points in a rough outline:

• • Category 1 – modern campus facilities
  • Category 2 – high quality instruction
  • Category 3 – technological support for student learning
  • Category 4 – opportunities for student growth and development

Step 6: Write a tentative thesis statement. Limit your supporting points to the three most important (for a 5-paragraph essay) or the two most important (for a 4-paragraph essay).

An attractive university typically offers high quality instruction, technological support, and opportunities for student growth and development.

or

An attractive university typically offers high quality instruction and opportunities for student growth and development.