Sample Outline in MLA Format for a Research Paper
I. Introduction
A. Hook: Engaging opening statement or statistic related to the topic.
B. Background Information: Brief overview of the subject matter.
C. Thesis Statement: Clear, concise statement of the paper’s main argument or purpose.
II. First Main Point
A. Topic Sentence: Introduces the first key aspect of the thesis.
B. Supporting Evidence:
1. Citation from a credible source (Author’s Last Name Page Number).
2. Data, statistics, or examples to support the claim.
3. Analysis: Explanation of how the evidence supports the topic sentence.
C. Transition Sentence: Links to the next section.
III. Second Main Point
A. Topic Sentence: Introduces the second key aspect of the thesis.
B. Supporting Evidence:
1. Quotation or paraphrase from a scholarly source (Author’s Last Name Page Number).
2. Additional evidence, such as case studies or expert opinions.
3. Analysis: Interpretation of the evidence in relation to the thesis.
C. Transition Sentence: Connects to the subsequent section.
IV. Counterargument and Rebuttal
A. Acknowledgment of Opposing View: Present a potential counterargument.
B. Refutation: Provide evidence or reasoning to challenge the counterargument.
C. Reinforcement of Thesis: Reaffirm the paper’s main argument.
V. Conclusion
A. Restatement of Thesis: Paraphrase the thesis in light of the evidence presented.
B. Summary of Main Points: Briefly recap the key arguments.
C. Closing Thought: End with a thought-provoking statement, call to action, or broader implication.
VI. Works Cited
A. List of Sources: Alphabetically ordered, formatted according to MLA guidelines.
Example:
Smith, John. The Impact of Technology on Society. University Press, 2020.
Doe, Jane. “Globalization and Cultural Identity.” Journal of Sociology, vol. 45, no. 3, 2019, pp. 215-230.
Additional Notes for MLA Formatting:
- Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
- Double-space the entire document.
- Include a header with your last name and page number, right-aligned.
- Center the title of the paper; do not bold, underline, or italicize it.
- Use a legible font like Times New Roman in 12-point size.
This outline serves as a flexible template and can be adapted to suit the specific needs of your research topic.
