Decimal Outline: Decimal Outline Format
A decimal outline is a form of outlining that shows how every part of a paper relates to the rest of the paper. It is similar to the alphanumeric outline but differs in the sense that a decimal outline uses decimals to note headings and subheadings. The main heading is noted by a whole number while a subheading is noted by a decimal that builds from the main heading.
Decimal Outline: Decimal Outline Format
The following is a decimal outline:
1. Introduction
The introduction paragraph introduces the topic. It gives the context and rationale for the research and sets out the writer’s stand and major claims. It should include:
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- The hook. The hook should introduce the topic in an interesting or artful way in order to grab the reader’s attention.
- Context. The context places the topic in its socio-historical or scholarly situation.
- Rationale. The rationale explains why it is important to research and read about your topic.
- Thesis statement. The thesis statement sets out the writer’s stand provides a preview of the major claim in your paper
2. Body paragraphs. The body paragraphs should include:
- First topic sentence. The first topic sentence specifies the first claim in support of the thesis
- First supporting point. The first supporting point gives the first reason that supports your claim.
- First explanation. Provide the first explanation or piece of evidence that supports the first argument.
- Second supporting point. The second supporting point gives the second reason that supports your claim.
- Second explanation. Give the second explanation or piece of evidence that supports the second argument.
- Third supporting point. The third supporting point gives the third reason that supports your claim
- Third explanation. Provide the third explanation or piece of evidence that supports the third argument.
- Concluding sentence. The concluding sentence ties the supporting points, evidence and explanations to the thesis statement.
3. Conclusion.
The concluding paragraph restates the writer’s stand and major claims as well provides a sense of closure. It should include:
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- First concluding point. The first concluding point should restate the stand that your paper has taken.
- Second concluding point. The second concluding point should restate the major claims of the paper.
- Final concluding point. The final concluding point should restate your thesis statement and link back to the context of the paper. It should finish off the paper by giving a final thought.