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Plan

Having a plan or an outline before you jump into writing can help you structure your essay and develop your ideas logically. In addition, an outline can make the writing process less daunting by breaking down the task into manageable chunks.

After researching and taking notes, jot down two or three main ideas you want to discuss in your essay. For each idea, note down evidence and examples that support these ideas. You may need to go back and do further research once you have your initial ideas. Remember to note the sources of your information.

What is a logical order to present your ideas? Can you link the ideas to each other and to your overall argument?

Organise your information

  • Identify themes, concepts, issues and theories.
  • Group related points.
  • Rank in terms of importance, sequence, logic, or chronology.
  • Identify information that helps explain and provides evidence for a main point.
  • Consider possible transitions between ideas.

Create a writing outline/plan

  • Order your ideas eg, some organisational patterns.
  • Identify the relationship between ideas.
  • Recognise any gaps in logic.
  • Maintain control of your writing.

The outline should consist of:

  • A thesis statement
  • Main points or issues
  • Sub points or issues
  • Evidence    
 
    
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