Outline in APA

Instructions for Outline

This is essentially your plan of attack for writing your paper. It should help guide you in your research and can be easily revised as you go through the research process. This is ONLY an example and is not directly related to the topic; it is only to provide you with an idea on developing an outline.

You MUST organize your paper topically, not by source. To do this, consider your topic and how it might be broken down into sub-topics. Construct a logical argument, making sure materials connect from one section to the next. In other words, be sure that your ideas make sense and flow well.

Under each of your sub-topics consider what sources you might use for information, evidence, or support. Go ahead and note that on your outline.

For example:

Thesis: Contrary to depictions of people with mental illness in movies, these individuals are more commonly the victims of violence rather than the perpetrators.

I. Background on how the myth started and is continued

a. Common depictions (examples)

b. Theories of why it matters

i. Repetition building belief

ii. Confirmation bias

II. What research actually shows

a. Realistic depictions

b. Statistics on violence and mental illness

c. Specific illnesses that may show higher incidence

III. Why this myth is dangerous in real life…

You would continue in whatever way you are comfortable identifying your flow. The point is to get an idea of what needs to be included and where it will go to have the most impact. You may include the authors or articles you plan to use with the info; whatever makes you most comfortable. Your thesis MUST be listed at the top of your paper. You must also attach an APA reference list of some of the sources you are considering using.

Rubric

Detailed outline 1 pt

APA style 1/2 pt

Organization 1/2 pt

(logical flow)