Peabody Library Research Channel

Why create an outline?

Research paper outlines provide you with the ability to organize your information in a hierarchical or logical order. Another benefit is that an outline helps you keep track of large amounts of information. 

Here are the primary reasons for creating an outline:

  • Aids in the writing process
  • Organizes ideas
  • Arranges your material logically
  • Shows relationship among ideas

Creating an outline before writing your paper will make organizing your thoughts a lot easier. Whatever outline you decide to develop, whether it be hierarchical or just making notes about main ideas, it will be beneficial to your writing process and paper. 

How to write an APA based paper outline

Peabody Library Outline Template