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Writing
 


Developing an Outline

Outline (from OWL at Purdue University) - This page provides an introduction to the outline, with the following sections:

  • The Importance of Outlines
  • How to Construct Your Own
  • What Should an Outline Look Like? Two Template Possibilities
  • Helpful Links

Developing an Outline (from OWL at Purdue University) - This page gives detailed rules for breaking down information in an outline.

Sample Outline (from OWL at Purdue University) - This page gives an example of an outline written to support a specific thesis.

Writing a Thesis Statement

The Thesis or Question (from OWL at Purdue University) - This page provides an introduction to the thesis statement and links in the left menu to more helpful pages on the thesis. The following topics may be of interest to you:

  • Introduction - This page links to a description of the two main types of research essays. Keep in mind that in this rotation, you are constructing an argumentative (persuasive) piece.
  • Example - This page gives an example of a thesis formed both as a statement and as a question.
  • Defining Features - This page clearly explains what a thesis statement really is. Additional links are provided.
  • Constructing Effective Statements/Questions
  • The "So What?" Test
Planning (Invention): When you start to write (from OWL at Purdue University) - If you are having difficulty with traditional ways of developing your thesis, try some of the creative strategies listed on this page.

Building an Argument

Persuasive Writing - This page provides tips for writing a persuasive piece.

Establishing Arguments - This article provides information on writing an argument or persuasive paper. Explore the four links at the bottom of the webpage to review the entire article.  The sections include:

  • Developing Strong Thesis Statements
  • Using Research and Evidence
  • Organizing Your Argument
  • Using Rhetorical Strategies for Persuasion

Organizing Your Argument - Watch this clear and entertaining slide show for helpful instruction in building an argument.

Writing an Essay

How to Write an Essay - This site gives easy-to-understand instructions for building an essay.

How to Write a Five Paragraph Essay (from About.com) - This is a basic article about the five paragraph essay with links for further exploration.

General Writing Tips

The Keys to Effective Writing (from the College Board) - This link gives some helpful tips for writing essays and papers.

Four Tips to Improve Your Writing Skills (from the College Board) - This page lists common writing mistakes that students often make and that you should try to avoid.

Useful Writing Handouts - This page provides printer-friendly resources on a wide array of writing skills.

Writing an Executive Summary

How to Write an Executive Summary - This source gives you seven steps for writing an executive summary.

wikiHow: How to write an executive summary - This source offers helpful tips and instructions for creating an executive summary.

Guidelines for Writing an Executive Summary - Note: This link opens in a PDF, so you will need Adobe Acrobat to view the file.