Problem
A research paper outline is essentially a list of the key topics, arguments and evidence you want to include, divided into sections with headings so that you know roughly what the paper will look like before you start writing. A structure outline can help make the writing process much more efficient. As you create an outline think critically about what you are trying to explain or communicate in your research study.
The outline is the skeleton of your research paper. Start by putting down your research question and the main ideas that you are presenting. Do not worry about being too specific in the early stages of writing your outline, as you go over the materials that you have gathered, you will be able to extend and organize.
Outline for the study proposal. Consider the following questions:
A. What is the topic? = Depression in adolescent
B. Why is it significant?
C. What background material is relevant?
D. What is my problem statement and research question?
E. What organizational plan will best support my purpose?
The components of your outline should include a title page, abstract, introduction, research paper body, conclusion, and reference section.
A. The Introduction- This is an important element of a research paper. The purpose of the introduction is to grab the attention of the reader, present the reader with the topic, and use the problem statement and research question as an opportunity to get the attention of the reader.
B. The Body- includes fact-rich paragraphs that will allow you to build upon your problem statement and provide facts to support your argument. This section should elaborate on your research question and provide insight into the methods used to conduct your research and include investigative points or answers to questions pondered. You will also discuss your literature overview by documenting the literary sources used to support your theories and hypothesis.
C. The Conclusion- summarizes the main points addressed in the paper. It also reiterates the thesis statement and mentions future research.
D. Research Section- include all sources that were cited including in paper citations.