Composing a 5 Paragraph Essay Outline: Use Template

• Introduction
• Hook in readers
• Background Information
1. General information about a topic
2. Any other pertinent information
• Thesis Statement
1. Subtopic 1 (2nd paragraph of paper)
2. Subtopic 2 (3rd paragraph of paper)
3. Subtopic 3 (4th paragraph of paper)


• Subtopic 1
• Introduce reader to subtopic 1
1. Support
2. Support
• Transition


• Subtopic 2
• Introduce reader to subtopic 2
1. Support
2. Support
• Transition


• Subtopic 3
• Introduce reader to subtopic 3
1. Support
2. Support
• Transition


• Conclusion
• Wrap up thesis
• Reiterate any last points

So, this may look confusing, but this is what your standard 5-paragraph outline should look like. Of course, the outline will be filled out with your own information research, and ideas—but these are the general guidelines you can follow when drafting your next outline. All outlines will includes a numerical/alphabetical formatting with an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

• Introduction

The introduction in your outline will include a hook, thesis statement, any other important information, and a transition to the first subtopic of your paper. The hook will be sliver of information, statistic, or anecdote that will draw in your readers to continue reading. Next, you will bring introduce your thesis statement. The thesis statement is the main idea of your paper. It presents your topic, and outlines the subtopics you intend to provide as support for your topic.

• Three Body Paragraphs

Following the introduction of your outline, you will move on to the body paragraphs of your outline. The body paragraphs will be the three subtopics you have outlined in your thesis statement. Each subtopic will have its own Roman numeral, and support for the subtopic will be provided beneath the Roman numeral. Your support will be organized with numbers and letters, as seen in the example above. At the end of each body paragraph, you will include a transition that allows your paper to flow from supporting paragraph to supporting paragraph.

• Conclusion

After the supporting paragraphs, you will create your conclusion. The conclusion will reiterate your thesis statement, and bring your paper full circle. You will wrap up any loose ends and drive home your main point. Organize this information in the conclusion section of your outline.

With the use of the template found above, our outline guidelines and essays for sale available online, you will easily draft your next outline!