Harvard Outline

Click the links below to learn more about that part of the outline and the essay part.

1. Introductory Paragraphs
   • Here are some Strategies for Introductions.
   • Provides background and gives information to introduce subject.
     • Writing a Good Thesis Statement: a strong, concise, well-worded thesis statement. Write the thesis statement first. This will keep you focused on your topic. Write exactly what it is you want to say, and do it briefly. (Little, Brown, 2b) Determine your purpose for writing. (Little, Brown, 2c)
     • Developing Unified and Coherent Paragraphs
2. Body
   • Paragraph 1
     • First, a word about Paragraph Unity
     • Supporting the Thesis Statement
     • Developing the Topic Sentence with Concrete Details .
       • Relates to thesis statement. Use to remind reader of thesis.
         • Detail 1 to support Topic Sentence.
           • Adding Sentence Detail
         • Detail 2 to support Topic Sentence.
         • Detail 3 to support Topic Sentence.
   • Paragraph 2
     • Transitional Expressions
     • Topic Sentences
       • Relates back to thesis statement. Use to remind reader of thesis.
       • Detail 1 to support Topic Sentence.
       • Detail 2 to support Topic Sentence.
       • Detail 3 to support Topic Sentence.
   • Paragraph 3
     • Transitional Expressions
     • Topic Sentences
       • Relates back to thesis statement. Use to remind reader of thesis.
         • Detail 1 to support Topic Sentence.
         • Detail 2 to support Topic Sentence.
         • Detail 3 to support Topic Sentence.
3. Concluding Paragraph
   • Summary Paragraph of the three elements. Paraphrase your thesis statement. Review for the reader your purpose for writing.

1. Good, solid writing requires attention to much detail. If you find yourself somewhat rusty when it comes to writing, consult this Student Help File for a collection of exercises and explanations of the elements of good writing.
2. Some other writing elements that may be of interest to you:
   • Comma Use
   • Comma Splices
   • Expanding Simple Sentences
   • Making Sentences Specific
   • Punctuation Patterns
   • Word Choice
   • Now take a look at the Essay Grading Criteria I will use to grade your essays