How to use different types of essay outlines

Need to write an important essay but not sure how to start? Find out how to use different types of essay outlines.

When you’re writing an essay, it’s essential that you have a clear theme, as it guides your entire work direction. But to cover the critical aspects of your essay theme, you also need to spend time creating a strong essay outline.

For your text to convey your thoughts to the reader, it must have a clear, coherent structure. This article will help you choose the type of essay outline to structure information in your work correctly.

If you need additional information on essay outline definition and types, and other essential points to consider, we recommend you check out this material.

To get started on your essay structure, list the facts you want to include in your essay. Your theme will help you decide what you want to include.

Once you’ve done that, decide the order in which you want to place your arguments. There are several types of essay outlines to help you with that. You can choose between a short or extended outline, and whether it should be in alphanumeric or decimal style.

An example of an alphanumeric essay outline

An alphanumeric style uses symbols to mark the hierarchy of the points you want to discuss. This form will allow you to divide the sections of your essay into small logical parts.

Here’s an example of a five level, full sentence alphanumeric outline format:

I. What is capitalism

    A. What is the definition of capitalism

         1. Definition of Author 1

             a) Where and when did capitalism develop?

                 (1) How did capitalism evolve in the first 50 years?

                      (a) Historical predecessors of capitalism

An example of a decimal essay outline

A decimal outline uses only numbers to mark the hierarchy of the points you want to discuss.

Here’s an example of a decimal essay outline:

1. What is capitalism

    1.1. What is the definition of capitalism

           1.1.1. Where and when did capitalism develop?

                    1.1.1.1. How did capitalism evolve in the first 50 years?

                                 1.1.1.1.1. Historical predecessors of capitalism

An example of a topic or short essay outline

A topic or short outline is useful when organizing an essay consisting of one to five pages (approximately 250-1500 words).

You don’t want your final paper to be too complicated or lengthy, and this type of outline will help you define the critical points for the introduction, the main body, and the conclusion. The topic essay outline will also help you replace an unnecessary issue with another while writing.

Here’s an example of a topic or short essay outline:

What is Capitalism

I. Introduction – What is Capitalism

   A. Present your thesis statement: Capitalism gives you complete freedom.

II. Paragraph 1 – Capitalism

     A. The definition of capitalism

III. Paragraph 2 – Advantages

      A. Gaining assets and personal freedom

IV. Paragraph 3 – Future development

      A. Future development of capitalism

V. Conclusion

   A. Restate your thesis statement. You can make decisions and achieve your goals.

An example of a sentence or extended essay outline

An extended or sentence essay outline comes in handy when writing an extended essay (from five pages). These type of essays demand a thorough analysis, lots of information, and evidence. So you need a detailed sentence structure in order not to miss any vital information.

Here’s an example of a sentence or extended essay outline:

What is Capitalism

I. Introduction – What is Capitalism

  A. Present your thesis statement: Capitalism gives you complete freedom of choice and action.

II. Paragraph 1 – Definition of capitalism

    A. Capitalism is an economic system of distribution and production based on private property and legal equality.

III. Paragraph 2 – Advantages of capitalism

     A. Gaining assets, technological progress, and personal freedom are the main advantages of capitalism.

IV. Paragraph 3 – Future development

      A. Capitalism alternatives, potential, and future development.

V. Conclusion

  A. Restating a thesis statement. In a capitalistic society, you must make decisions, take responsibility for them, and achieve your goals.

Remember, an A+ grade worth essay starts with writing a great essay outline. If you succeed in organizing your essay outlines properly, you will be able t write better essays in a shorter time.