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Example APA Outline

(Naming Convention for document prior to upload:

TOPIC:

NARROWED TOPIC:

THESIS:

TITLE:

I. The Introduction. The purpose of the introduction is to explain why you are writing your

paper (PURPOSE). The introduction is also, where you introduce key information discussed in

your paper. THE LAST SENTENCE OF YOUR INTRODUCTION WILL BE YOUR THESIS

STATEMENT.

A. The Topic/Problem

B. The Topic/Problem

C. The Thesis of your paper: Topic + opinion (position)

II. The Body. The purpose of the body is to support the thesis statement made during the

introduction.

A. Major point/issue #1 introduced with connection to thesis

1. The Main Idea: Specific examples to support and validate the thesis statement

2. Evidence and Analysis that supports that your paragraph’s main idea is valid.

3. Other perspectives on the issue (may not coincide with your own)

4. Link the final sentence or sentences to the main idea. Show the reader why this paragraph is important and then transition (foreshadow) what is to come

in the next paragraph

B. Major point/issue #2 introduced with connection to thesis

1. The Main Idea: Specific examples to support and validate the thesis statement

2. Evidence and Analysis that supports that your paragraph’s main idea is valid.

3. Other perspectives on the issue (may not coincide with your own)

4. Link the final sentence or sentences to the main idea. Show the reader why this paragraph is important and then transition (foreshadow) what is to come

in the next paragraph

C. Major point/issue #3 introduced with a connection to thesis

1. The Main Idea: Specific examples to support and validate the thesis statement

2. Evidence and Analysis that supports that your paragraph’s main idea is valid.

3. Other perspectives on the issue (may not coincide with your own)

4. Link the final sentence or sentences to the main idea. Show the reader why this paragraph is important and then transition (foreshadow) what is to come

in the next paragraph

V. Conclusion The purpose of the conclusion is to restate your thesis, briefly review the major

issues presented in the body, and to offer a final statement of opinion or point toward future

research. IT IS NOT A PLACE TO MENTION OR STATE ANYTHING NEW!

VI. References Page (1 page) Minimum of four references

Note: Remember to maintain a thought per paragraph to maintain your focus.

Your paper is not about a stream of consciousness. This is about informing or making an argument or a point, or

taking a position. This is about having to reflect on your research and making sense of it.

Also, review the APA Paper template for additional notes.