Argumentative essay outline
Title
Introduction
“hook” sentence: Make your reader interested in your essay.
Background information: Provide some information on your topic that will help readers understand your thesis and your essay. Why is your essay interesting and relevant?
Thesis statement: What is your argument and what are your reasons to support it?
Body paragraph 1 and 2
Topic sentence: Support your argument and your thesis with one of your reasons. The topic sentence should summarize the point made in your paragraph and support the argument made in your thesis.
Example: Provide a specific example to support your topic sentence. A specific
example should come from a reputable source, like a newspaper or journal article. If your example comes from such a source, make sure you “cite your source” and indicate where you found the information.
Transition: Do not end your paragraph with an example. Explain the importance of the example, and lead your reader to the next paragraph.
Counter argument and refutation (the purpose of this paragraph is to address the opposite point of view, but to also strengthen your argument by disproving the opposite point of view)
Topic sentence: (counter argument) Summarize what the opposing point of view to your argument is.
Refutation: Address the counter argument. Demonstrate why the opposing side is wrong or less important.
Example: You should provide an example to support your refutation.
Conclusion
Restate your thesis in different words.
Your final thoughts on the topic should be written clearly and concisely. Remind the reader why your argument is important.