Here is an example outline. You can use this format or adapt it as you see fit:

I. Introduction: story, description, quote, scenario, situation or other information which explains the topic and leads to the Research Question and Answer (thesis–what you want to prove).

II. Body: Reasons to Believe Answer

A. Reason One.

1. Sub-point. (Why you can believe Reason One). Supported by evidence from sources (use the a, b, c, etc. if more than one piece of evidence will be used.

a. evidence #1

b. evidence #2

c. evidence #3

d. Analysis (your evaluation, etc.)

2. Sub-point. Supported by evidence from sources (continue with as many Sub-points as you have)

B. Reason Two

1. Sub point. (Why you can believe Reason Two). Supported by evidence from sources (use the a, b, c, etc. if more than one piece of evidence will be used.

a. evidence #1

b. evidence #2

c. evidence #3

d. Analysis (your evaluation, etc.)

2. Sub-point. Supported by evidence from sources (continue with as many Sub-points as you have)

C. Reason Three.

1. Sub-point. (Why you can believe Reason Three). Supported by evidence from sources (use the a, b, c, etc. if more than one piece of evidence will be used.

a. evidence #1

b. evidence #2

c. evidence #3

d. Analysis (your evaluation, etc.)

2. Sub-point. Supported by evidence from sources (continue with as many Sub-points as you have).

D. Reason 4 (You can have as many reasons as you need for your paper. Some of your reasons may be refuting objections or using other argument strategies listed below).

III. Conclusion: This is a final appeal to your reader. You may use a conclusive piece of evidence here or a quote or final story. You may want to end a story you began in the introduction or explain how if the reader is persuaded things will be better.