Outlining a Thesis - Sample
Headings
Sub-headings
Sub-sub headings
100 words
100 words
500 words
100 words
100 words
100 words
Context/Background
1500 Words
100 words
500 words
100 words
100 words
100 words
100 words
100 words
100 words
500 words
100 words
100 words
100 words
2.1 Chapter introduction
2.2 Sub-theme/issue A
2.2.1 point 1
2.2.2 point 2
2.3 Sub-theme/issue B
2.3.1 point 1
2.3.2 point 2
2.4 Chapter conclusion
Body chapter 1 *
Theme/issue/topic 1
Body chapter 2 *
Theme/issue/topic 2
*Apply the above approach to headings
or other sections of your paper.
Body chapter 3 *
Theme/issue/topic 3
Conclusion
*
Try writing a sentence or two for each section. Try to create a very detailed outline,
with sections defined in sentences and numbers of words allocated for each section
and sub-section. This will be revised and updated numerous times.
Adapted from Dr. Rowena Murray, Centre for Academic Practice, University of Strathclyde
http://www.strath.ac.uk/Departments/CAP/dissertation
Learning Support & Development, Student Counselling Service
January 2007