What's the best way to create a thesis statement and outline?

2 How to create a thesis statement

There are different ways to create a thesis statement, but one common method is to use a formula that consists of three elements: a topic, a point, and a reason. For example, if you are writing a paper about the effects of social media on mental health, you could use this formula:

Topic: Social media

Point: has negative effects

Reason: on mental health

Then, you could combine these elements into a thesis statement:

Thesis statement: Social media has negative effects on mental health because it increases anxiety, lowers self-esteem, and disrupts sleep patterns.

Of course, you can modify this formula to suit your specific topic and argument, but the idea is to have a clear and concise statement that expresses your main point and reason.

4 How to create an outline

Different types of outlines, such as alphanumeric, decimal, or full-sentence, share common features. Generally, they include headings, subheadings, and bullet points that indicate the hierarchy and relationship of ideas. Moreover, symbols like Roman numerals, letters, or numbers are used to label each level of the outline. For example, an alphanumeric outline for a paper on social media and mental health may look like this: Introduction (A hook, background information, and a thesis statement); Body Paragraph 1 (Topic sentence, evidence, analysis, and transition); Body Paragraph 2 (Topic sentence, evidence, analysis, and transition); Body Paragraph 3 (Topic sentence, evidence, analysis, and transition); Conclusion (Restatement of thesis statement, summary of main points, implication or recommendation). You can create your outline with a word processor or spreadsheet program such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word. Alternatively, you can use index cards, sticky notes or a whiteboard to brainstorm and arrange your ideas. Ultimately what matters is finding a format that works for you and your paper.

5 How to revise your thesis statement and outline

Creating a thesis statement and an outline is not a one-time process. You may need to revise them as you conduct more research, develop your argument, or receive feedback from your instructor or peers. Before revising, ask yourself questions such as: Is your thesis statement clear and focused? Does it reflect your purpose, audience, and genre of your paper? Does the outline follow a logical structure? Are all main points and subpoints included? Does it provide enough evidence and sources for each point? Is there any irrelevant, redundant, or contradictory information? Is the outline using consistent symbols, labels, and indentation? By revising your thesis statement and outline, you can improve the quality and clarity of your paper while avoiding potential problems or errors in the writing process.

6 How to use your thesis statement and outline

When creating and revising your thesis statement and outline, you can use them to guide your research and writing process. Utilize your thesis statement as a focal point for finding relevant, current, and credible sources that either support or challenge your argument. Additionally, use your outline as a framework for your writing; follow the structure and order of the outline to write clear and coherent paragraphs that are connected to your thesis statement. Furthermore, use these tools as references for your revision. Check if your paper matches the thesis statement and outline, and make any necessary changes. Finally, use them as tools for communication; share them with instructors or peers for feedback, suggestions, or questions. Ultimately, by using your thesis statement and outline, you can make the research and writing process more efficient, effective, and enjoyable.