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Do you want to learn more about why an outline is good or
bad? Jump to a handout that clarifies some
of the differences between a good outline and a bad outline.
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When planning and writing an outline, you want to represent
your introduction with your thesis statement, your body paragraph with your
topic sentences and some details, and your conclusion. For the body paragraphs, remember that
you need to put your points in a carefully considered order. You can’t just randomly write down your
points or write them down in the order you thought of them. That could make for an essay that’s awkward
to write and even more awkward to read.
You need to move through your arguments logically and keep similar
ideas together.
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This
handout (pdf) could help you visualize your plan and make your ideas more
persuasive. Print the map that best
fits your assignment, and write (yes, write) down your ideas in the appropriate
spaces.
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Several
CCSF-endorsed computer programs and Web sites could bring more depth to the
work you do during outlining by offering you different ways to see and hear
the development of your thesis-support essay.
- Inspiration
is a fun program which allows you to organize your paper graphically
with shapes, colors, and lines.
Then, with the touch of a button, it will turn what you’ve done
into an outline.
- Draftbuilder
is another program that helps you plan and arrange your ideas, as well
as take notes, in the process of writing an essay.
- Try hanging with the SLOTH
- Try the Thesis Builder &
Outline Outliner
- And remember—the Microsoft
Word program offers an outline
view too!
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If a 1-minute student video were to appear here, what
would you like to see the student address?
Do you know of a student who would be able to offer a minute of tips
or advice--or even share some frustration--about this topic? |
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If a 1-minute teacher video were to appear here in the
"Do It" column, what would you like to see the teacher address?
Do you know of a teacher who would be willing to offer a minute of
"Do It" tips or advice--or even share
some frustration--about this topic? |
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