outline for an informative research paper

Informative Essay Guide

Informative Essay Outline

Last updated on: Jun 20, 2023

Learn How to Create an Informative Essay Outline

By: Jared P.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jun 1, 2021

An informative essay is written to educate readers on a particular topic. This type of essay can be written for several purposes, such as defining a term or comparing and contrasting something. This type of essay doesn’t require your opinion on the topic.

The purpose of writing an informative essay is to educate others on a certain topic. You should not express your opinion and do not try to persuade others to take a certain action.

If you are writing an informative essay for the first time, better create an outline first. The informative essay outline will help you structure your essay in the best way possible.

In this blog, you will learn about the basic rules for creating an informative essay outline. These guidelines and a sample outline are designed to help students get started with their projects successfully.

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What is an Informative Essay Outline?

An informative essay outline is like a checklist or action plan that you need to complete. The outline helps the writer not to lose focus while working on the essay. Creating an outline is not necessary, but expert writers recommend it. An outline is the only way not to get lost in the middle of the writing process.

The purpose of an outline for an informative essay is to highlight ideas that you want to include in your essay.

Writing an outline is important because of the basic structure that it provides. In addition, the outline should contain some specific details regarding the layout of the essay. Creating an outline prior to the essay writing process is the key to writing a successful essay.

Outline Your Way to Writing Excellence!

How to Write an Informative Essay Outline?

The layout of an informative essay is similar to other types of academic essays. These include argumentative essays, persuasive essays, narrative essays, etc.

The outline for an informative essay should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Understanding what to include in each part of the informative essay is very important for a successful informative essay.

Informative Essay Introduction

Any idea how to start an informative essay?

Remember this is the section where you need to introduce your topic and provide a thesis statement. In a few lines, introduce the topic you are writing your essay on and provide some background information.

The introduction should end with a strong thesis statement. This statement should tell the audience what direction your essay is going to take. Therefore, make sure the thesis statement is brief, clear, and concise.

Tips for Writing an Effective Introduction:

• Make sure to narrow down the scope of your essay.
• There must be a connection between your introduction and thesis statement.
• Hook your readers at the start of your introductory paragraph.

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Informative Essay Body Paragraphs

The main body of an informative essay is usually composed of three paragraphs. There are two things that you should consider while composing the body paragraphs of an informative essay. One is the target point, and the second is supporting facts.

Each body paragraph of an informative essay should begin with an idea (topic sentence). This is one sentence statement on which the whole paragraph will be based on. This statement must be in cohesion with the thesis statement written in the introductory paragraph.

After that, provide supporting evidence from the most credible sources. The evidence you provide must relate to your main target point. Don’t forget to quote sources and properly cite information to avoid plagiarism.

At the end of each body paragraph, summarize your points and explain their relevance to the thesis statement. Effective body paragraphs for an informative essay depend on the following points.

• Making a claim
• Evidence in support of the claim
• Provide an explanation in the last

The informative essay can have more than three body paragraphs depending upon the chosen topic.

Tips for Effective Body Paragraphs:

• Do not provide your opinion or point of view on the topic.
• Completely rely on facts and research.
• Discuss the strongest point in the first body paragraph.
• Don’t forget to use transition words for a smooth flow of information in your body paragraphs.

Informative Essay Conclusion

This is the last part where you need to wrap up your information. Begin the conclusion by restating the thesis statement. After that, write about your major arguments and their purpose. The goal of the conclusion is to provide the reason for your informative essay and its importance in the real world.

The conclusion should describe the purpose of your informative essay and what it means for your readers. You should summarize your key arguments and provide a strong closing statement to summarize all your key points.

Tips for a Strong Conclusion:

• Highlight the key points of your argument.
• Do not introduce any new ideas in the conclusion.
• Restate the thesis in other similar words and terms.

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Informative Essay Outline Template Free

Most of the essay outline contain the same elements. But each essay outline has particular points that you need to focus on. It is important to be well-aware of the distinctive features to come up with a good informative paper.

INFORMATIVE ESSAY OUTLINE ELEMENTARY

5Th TO 8TH GRADE INFORMATIVE ESSAY OUTLINE TEMPLATE

INFORMATIVE ESSAY OUTLINE TEMPLATE FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL

INFORMATIVE ESSAY OUTLINE HIGH SCHOOL

INFORMATIVE ESSAY OUTLINE FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Informative Essay Outline Example

Wondering where you can get free informative essay outline examples? Having a well-written example in hand will help you in coming up with successful work. You can easily find many informative essay examples online for your help.

5 PARAGRAPH INFORMATIVE ESSAY OUTLINE

Sample Informative Essay Outline

Hopefully, the above guidelines and examples help you in writing a great informative essay. However, informative writing is sometimes not easy, especially when you are working on an unfamiliar topic.

In this situation, it is better to get help from professional writers. At 5StarEssays.com, we provide the best ‘ do my essay paper ’ help to students struggling with their academic papers.

Our essay writers can help you create high-quality essays and research papers in no time. To get the best custom essay writing help, all you need is to contact us and hire our essay writer.

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Masters Essay, Literature

Jared P. is a renowned author and writing service provider with over fifteen years of experience in the publishing industry. He has a Ph.D. degree in English Literature and has spent his entire career helping students achieve their academic goals by providing expert writing assistance.

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Informative Essay Outline – Ultimate Guide & Examples

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Writing an informative essay requires excellent research skills to educate your audience; I know this from first-hand experience. But creating an outline for your paper is easier said than done. I promise!

I created this guide to show you the correct outline for writing an informative essay with examples. Follow my tips so you can organize your thoughts and ideas.

What Is an Informative Essay?

An informative essay’s purpose is to inform and educate readers on a specific topic. Some reports seek to define a term, while others compare and contrast different objects. Some informative essays analyze data or provide procedures for doing something.

It’s the type of essay that should present something other than an opinion. That means you should omit personal pronouns “I” and “me” on the paper. You should also not persuade your reader in an informative essay.

Informational Essay Outline

Most essays and speeches follow four parts: an introduction, thesis, body, and conclusion. The main purpose is to help the writer connect all the information and support their thesis statement. Below is an outline for an informative essay structure with examples.

• Introduction

The essay introduction is where you introduce the topic of your choice. It should be shorter than the body paragraphs because it merely provides a background of your informative essay topic. Give the readers an overview of the body paragraph.

This part also includes the relevance of your topic. Ask yourself why you are writing about this subject. What makes it timely?

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Here’s an example:

“Tobacco, a plant that contains an addictive drug called nicotine, kills over 8 million people worldwide annually. It occurs as individuals inhale and exhale the burning plant material’s fumes.”

The thesis statement is often part of the introduction. It’s a complete sentence at the end of the first paragraph discussing what the informative essay will inform its readers. The thesis should be brief, concise, and written in simple terms.

For example:

“Smoking is the major cause of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and stroke.”

• Body paragraphs

The main body of the essay includes a paragraph for every supporting detail. Teachers usually require students to have three points in this section. For every target point, the writer should support it with facts.

The target point is also known as the topic sentence. This statement will serve as the basis of the paragraph for cohesion. After that, support the sentence with facts and studies. Don’t forget to cite your sources to avoid plagiarism.

Don’t forget to summarize each point after every body paragraph to tie everything together.

Below is an example of a body paragraph about one target point.

“Smoking can cause cancer because it weakens the body’s immune system or damages a cell’s DNA. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (2014), nearly 9 out of 10 deaths caused by lung cancer are caused by smoking cigarettes or exposure to second-hand smoke. Although treatments are advancing, it continues killing more people than other types of cancer.”

The informative essay conclusion summarizes the entire essay, highlighting the key points. Here, you should restate your thesis statement and the paper’s purpose. Do not introduce any new ideas or recommendations.

Here is a quick sample informative essay conclusion.

“Smoking is responsible for a majority of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. It increases the risk of cancer, stroke, and diabetes. Nevertheless, people consume it because of the adrenaline rush that creates short-term energy and pleasure. With an effective action plan, anyone can quit this bad habit for good.”

How to Write an Informative Essay: The Writing Process

Now that you know the correct structure of an informative essay, here are some tips for writing one.

Review the Instructions

If you’re writing an informative essay for school, the teacher might have specific instructions for the activity or topic. Find out what you should write about and what they want to read from your paper.

Then, learn the required word and paragraph count. Some professors also have instructions for the writing style guide you should follow.

Formatting guidelines are also common among high school and college professors. Make sure to follow the font style, spacing, and size instructions.

A good essay is about more than just content. Teachers also grade these aspects to help you practice formality in writing. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unclear about the instructions.

Choose a Narrow Topic

Broad themes like love, weather, music, and technology are not recommended when writing an informative essay. Pick a topic that does not include general knowledge.

Consider smoking, for example. This topic is too broad for a 500-word essay. Try focusing on a subtopic, such as the diseases it causes or why people smoke. Perhaps you can also write about the correlation between smoking and poverty.

Create a Logical Thesis Before Writing the Body

You can only create subtopics for your informative essay if you already have a solid topic and thesis statement. Consider what you want your reader to know and why you choose this subject.

Start with a question in mind and write an initial answer. Research the topic, then formulate a tentative response. Make sure it’s based on facts with credible sources and summarizes your overall exposition. A logical thesis statement for this essay type also doesn’t include an opinion.

Create Several Drafts

Whether you’re asked to submit drafts or not, making several versions of your paper is crucial to ensure its quality. After every draft, you should create a more improved version of it with a better structure and fewer errors.

If you have to submit every draft, the lecturer may write their comments and return the paper for revision. Revising is the process of adding or removing information, fixing sentences, rearranging, or changing your evidence. It helps make your writing more understandable.

Here are some guide questions when revising your informative essay.

• Are some parts of your informative essay in proportion with others?
• Do you spend too much time on general knowledge and less on evidence?
• Does the paper follow the thesis statement?
• Is the formality appropriate?
• Does the essay follow a logical pattern?
• Are all the facts accurate?
• Have you cited all information appropriately?

Write a Successful Conclusion

Your outline for an informative essay should include a successful conclusion. It wraps up what you have been informing your readers. You can take from general to specific information while focusing on restating your topic.

Do not add extra information to your conclusion unless it’s a call to action for possible future research. In general, this part of the essay should restate your thesis statement, explain why the topic is essential, and address your main points.

One tip for writing a successful conclusion is to use your introductory paragraph as a guide. It also contains the thesis statement and main points. So, you can reword it and add a closing sentence. Provide closure to the reader, leaving them with a significant impression.

Proofread Your Paper

Proofreading is the final stage in the essay writing process before submitting your informative paper or persuasive essay. This step is crucial because professors also grade your essay or academic paper based on a technicality in informative writing. Check for grammar, punctuation, formatting, and spelling errors to make your writing more precise and accurate.

Review from the larger aspects of your text to the narrow ones. Check your complex sentence constructions, variety, vocabulary, and repetitive phrases. You also want to review your list of references. Are you using the correct style guide?

Learn More Writing Tips for Essay Writers

Writing an informative essay takes more than just research skills. You also need to ensure clarity, organization, and coherence in your work. Take a moment and read some informative essay examples you can find online. 

The best method to write an informative essay is to have a specific thesis statement which you can expand in the body paragraphs. Revise, edit, and proofread your work before submitting the final draft. I hope my guide and tips helped you on your way!

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How to Create an Informative Research Paper Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crafting an informative research paper outline is the first crucial step toward producing a well-organized and insightful academic paper. An effective outline serves as a roadmap, guiding the writer through the complex process of research and writing, ensuring that no vital point is overlooked.

By structuring thoughts and ideas systematically, an outline not only streamlines the writing process but also enhances the clarity and coherence of the final paper. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or a student tackling your first major project, understanding how to create a detailed and effective outline can significantly elevate the quality of your work.

Understanding the Informative Research Paper Outline

An informative research paper aims to educate readers on a specific topic by providing facts and information without expressing personal opinions.

What Is an Informative Research Paper?

An informative research paper presents data, statistics, and factual information on a given subject. It focuses on delivering unbiased content to enhance the reader’s knowledge. These papers rely on credible sources and present information logically and coherently.

Importance of a Structured Outline

A structured outline is vital for an informative research paper. It helps organize thoughts and data systematically. With a clear outline, researchers can ensure all key points and subtopics are covered, making the writing process more efficient. The outline provides a framework that enhances the clarity and logical flow of the final paper.

Components of a Research Paper Outline

An efficient research paper outline has essential components that structure the document and make it coherent. Each section caters to a specific aspect, organizing data and arguments systematically.

Abstract and Introduction

The Abstract provides a concise summary of the research, highlighting key findings and the purpose of the paper in 150-250 words. It offers a snapshot for readers to grasp the core topic and results quickly. The Introduction sets the stage for the paper. It introduces the research problem, provides background information, and states the research questions or hypotheses. This section also discusses the significance and objectives of the study, grounding readers in the context.

Methodology and Materials

The Methodology outlines the research design and procedures. It details how data was collected, describing the tools, techniques, and processes used to ensure replicability. This section must specify the methods utilized to analyze the data, whether qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. The Materials subheading lists all resources and tools required for the research, like lab equipment, software, or questionnaires.

Results and Analysis

The Results section presents the findings of the research without interpretation. It includes data in textual form, tables, and figures to illustrate key outcomes. This section offers a factual representation of the data collected. In the Analysis part, researchers interpret the results. They explain the implications, connect findings to the hypotheses or research questions, and discuss the study’s relevance. This section also addresses any anomalies and potential limitations.

Writing Effective Body Paragraphs

Crafting effective body paragraphs is crucial for presenting research findings logically and coherently. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or point while integrating evidence to support the claims.

Developing Key Points

A key point represents the main idea of a body paragraph. Writers identify central concepts relevant to their research question. For instance, if discussing climate change impacts, one paragraph could focus on rising temperatures. These points should align with the thesis statement, ensuring coherence throughout the paper. Use topic sentences to introduce each key point. Follow these with supporting details and examples to add depth and clarity to the argument.

Integrating Sources and Evidence

Evidence and sources validate the key points made. Select credible, up-to-date sources from peer-reviewed journals and reputable publications. For example, when supporting a claim about renewable energy benefits, include data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Use direct quotes, paraphrased information, or statistical data to back up assertions. Properly cite all sources in-text and in the bibliography to avoid plagiarism and enhance the paper’s credibility. Integrating evidence seamlessly involves blending it with the writer’s own analysis to maintain a coherent narrative.

By systematically developing key points and integrating evidence, writers can enhance the clarity and persuasiveness of their body paragraphs, contributing to a well-structured and informative research paper.

Crafting a Concluding Section

A well-crafted conclusion strengthens the overall research paper by summarizing key findings and presenting recommendations for future research.

Summarizing Key Findings

Summarize the essential discoveries from the entire study to bring the research full circle. Highlight the most significant results by revisiting the research question and objectives. Ensure the summary aligns closely with the key points and evidence discussed in the body paragraphs. This in-depth recapitulation aids in reinforcing the research’s primary contributions.

Recommendations and Future Research

Identify gaps and areas needing further investigation based on the study’s findings. Offer explicit recommendations for future research endeavors by suggesting specific topics or questions that remain unanswered. Share practical implications that may benefit practitioners or policymakers. These recommendations can propel the research field forward by providing clear directions for continued inquiry.

Crafting an informative research paper outline is essential for guiding writers through the complex process of organizing their thoughts and findings. By focusing on critical components like the Abstract, Introduction, Methodology, Materials, Results, and Analysis sections, writers can ensure their research is presented logically and coherently. Aligning key points with the thesis statement and integrating credible evidence enhances the paper’s credibility and impact. A well-crafted conclusion that summarizes key findings and offers recommendations for future research can significantly elevate the paper’s quality. With a structured outline, writers can produce a compelling and insightful research paper.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of creating a research paper outline.

A research paper outline is crucial as it guides the writer in structuring the paper effectively. It ensures all essential components are included and helps maintain a logical flow of ideas, enhancing coherence and readability.

What are the key components of a research paper?

Key components include the Abstract, Introduction, Methodology, Materials, Results, and Analysis sections. Each part plays an essential role in presenting and supporting the research findings.

How should body paragraphs be crafted in a research paper?

Body paragraphs should logically present research findings, align key points with the thesis statement, integrate credible evidence, and blend evidence with analysis to support the argument clearly.

Why is it important to align key points with the thesis statement?

Aligning key points with the thesis statement ensures that the research paper stays focused and coherent. This alignment helps in reinforcing the central argument and enhances the overall persuasiveness of the paper.

What is the role of credible evidence in a research paper?

Credible evidence supports the key points and arguments presented in the paper. It enhances the reliability and validity of the research, making the conclusions more convincing to the readers.

How should evidence be integrated into analysis?

Evidence should be seamlessly blended with analysis to demonstrate how it supports the argument. This integration involves explaining the relevance of the evidence and interpreting its significance in the context of the research.

What makes a well-crafted conclusion in a research paper?

A well-crafted conclusion summarizes key findings, reinforces the thesis, and provides recommendations for future research. It can also suggest practical implications, thus enhancing the overall quality and impact of the research paper.

Why is summarizing key discoveries important in the conclusion?

Summarizing key discoveries in the conclusion helps to reinforce the main arguments of the paper, providing a clear takeaway for the readers. It also ensures that the research findings are effectively communicated.

What are the benefits of offering recommendations for future research?

Offering recommendations for future research highlights areas that need further investigation. It encourages ongoing scholarly discussion and can pave the way for future studies, adding value to the existing research.

How can practical implications improve the impact of a research paper?

Practical implications demonstrate the real-world relevance of the research findings. They can make the research more applicable and beneficial for practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders, thereby enhancing its impact.

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• A Research Guide
• Writing Guide
• Essay Writing

How to Write an Informative Essay

• Informative essay definition 
• How to write informatively
• Structure and outline
• How to start
• Step-by-step writing guide
• Informative essay topics 
• Formatting tips
• Informative essay examples

Informative essay definition

Learning to write informatively.

• As you choose a subject, you have been given or something that inspires you, take your time to research the topic by taking notes . It means you should process and sort all the details and facts you can find. While there are many solutions to the problem, think about the best way to organize your writing and essay formatting. Developing an outline and discussing what you already know about the subject might be helpful. If you have any questions that still need to be addressed with online and library searching, try to answer them in your research as you write and use them as the main element of your informative writing essay.
• The next step is developing a clear content map (i.e., a mind map). It stands for keeping the facts sorted according to your methodology. It should reflect what you already know and have learned about the chosen subject. Make sure that your facts appear in order of importance. Do not make your informative essays into a summary!  Add other supplementary facts and various examples to make your writing vivid. The best way to do that is to connect topic sentences to your thesis statement or the main point.
• Before writing an essay, create a classic outline for your informative essay . Since you already have the basic information ready, work on the formatting and the table of contents to use only the most important. It will help you create your first draft and start editing before you write the final parts and submit an edited version.
• Final editing essay part. The most difficult part is the editing and proofreading. If this aspect is too challenging, approaching an essay helper is the best solution, especially if you need a good friend to assist you and read it aloud. In addition to grammar and spelling corrections, focus on the logic and flow of the narration.

Informative essay structure and outline

• An introduction with a basic explanation that concludes in an informative essay thesis part.
• Three to five body paragraphs that outline information from the most to the least important.
• Unusual facts and examples.
• An essay conclusion with a summary of the facts.
• An introduction with a hook sentence . You should start with information that will instantly inspire your readers. An informative essay introduction can even be a question or an unusual fact you provide immediately.
• Thesis Statement part. Since you must write without bias or an opinion, your thesis statement should outline the most important fact and explain why something is important or worth exploring. In informative essay writing, you must narrow things down to 2-3 sentences by keeping the main idea clear. Remember that you can edit your thesis statement as you write. Many college professors even recommend adding a thesis statement when the paper has been finished.
• Body paragraphs. Make it a rule to use only one idea per paragraph. Choose only essential facts that can be supported by evidence and verified later. If you are told to have five paragraphs for your main content, narrow things down to five. As you write, consider adding the most relevant details that people can relate to. While the use of citations in an essay is recommended, use it only when it is absolutely necessary to avoid bias issues.
• Conclusion. As you are ready to write a conclusion for an informative essay, you must reiterate your thesis statement, as it provides a summary and a reminder. Do not introduce any new facts in this section, and avoid citations. It should be approached as your final opportunity to check whether your readers understand all the previous essay content.

How to start writing?

• What formatting and citation style should be used?
• What are the fonts and word count that must be followed?
• The submission date and the necessity of an outline.

Step-by-step informative essay writing guide

Step 1: create a working rough draft, step 2: topic sentences, step 3: essay structure processing, step 4: editing your first draft, step 5: checking the flow, step 6: final editing, step 7: proofreading, choosing informative essay topics.

• The importance of physical education beyond P.E. lessons for college students and the link to stress reduction.
• An analysis of community colleges in the United States through the lens of friendliness and affordability.
• An instruction on how to survive through assignment revisions.

Informative essay formatting tips

• Choose a topic that you know well and take time to research it by turning to online libraries like Google Scholar, Science Direct, or PubMed if you are researching medical subjects.
• Create an outline and focus on topic sentences that explain an important fact.
• Consider helpful examples and implementation of practical case studies.
• Do not take sides but lead your readers to a conclusion based on facts.
• Provide a helpful explanation if something is not meant for a wide audience.

Helpful informative essay examples

• Western Technical College – Informative Writing Samples. 
• Harvard College Writing Center – General Essay Structure. 
• Monash University – How to Build an Informative Essay

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Mar 20, 2023

How to Write an Informative Essay | Outlines and Examples

Discover the Art of Informative Essays: Engage, Learn, and Be Inspired by These Compelling Examples – Read on to Elevate Your Writing Skills!

An informative essay is written to disseminate knowledge about a specific subject. These writings will typically address one of the five W's (who, what, where, when, and why) in a given topic. Naturally, they can also respond with "how," suggesting a method.

Opinions and attempts to persuade readers to adopt your point of view have no place in informative writing. Only argumentative writing is allowed to play that part. If your instructive essay is particularly engaging, it may inspire your readers to pursue further research on the topic; however, they will have to make that decision independently.

To get you started, we've provided some informative essay samples as well as resources to help you select a subject and craft your paper.

What Is an Informative Essay?

An informative essay is a type of academic writing that explains about a particular topic or subject. The primary goal of an informative essay is to provide information on a topic, idea, or concept in a clear, concise, and organized manner. The purpose of the essay is to increase the reader's knowledge and understanding of the subject matter.

An informative essay is different from other types of essays, such as persuasive or argumentative essays. While persuasive essays aim to convince the audience to take a particular viewpoint or to take action, informative essays are written solely to provide information. This means that the essay should be unbiased, objective, and free from personal opinions or biases.

When writing an informative essay, it is essential to choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to the audience. It is also essential to conduct thorough research on the topic and to use credible sources, such as academic journals, books, and reputable websites. It is also essential to use a formal tone, clear language, and appropriate grammar and punctuation.

An informative essay is a type of academic writing that aims to provide information on a particular topic or subject in a clear, concise, and organized manner. The essay should be unbiased, objective, and free from personal opinions or biases.

The structure of an informative essay typically follows a basic format, including an introduction that provides background details and a distinct thesis statement, body paragraphs that outlines key arguments along with supporting proof, and a conclusion that offers a synopsis of the information presented. When writing an informative essay, it is essential to choose a topic that is interesting and relevant to the audience and to use credible sources and a formal tone.

How to Create an Informative Essay Outline?

Writing an informative essay outline is an essential step in the essay writing process. An outline provides a structure and a framework for the essay, allowing the writer to organize their thoughts and ideas before beginning to write. A good outline will help to ensure that the essay is clear, concise, and well-structured.

The outline for an informative essay typically includes the following sections: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each section has a specific purpose and should be structured in a particular way.

I. Introduction

The introduction of an informative essay should provide background information on the topic and introduce the thesis statement, which is the main idea of the essay. The introduction should also capture the reader's attention and motivate them to continue reading.

A. Hook: The hook is the opening sentence or two of the essay. It should be attention-grabbing and relevant to the topic.

B. Background information: The background information provides context for the topic and helps the reader understand why the topic is important.

C. Thesis statement: The thesis statement is the main idea of the essay. It should be clear, concise, and specific.

II. Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of an informative essay provide detailed information on the topic. Each paragraph should focus on a particular aspect of the topic and be organized in a logical and coherent manner.

A. Topic sentence: The topic sentence is the first sentence of each body paragraph. It should clearly state the main point of the paragraph.

B. Supporting details: The supporting details provide evidence and examples to support the topic sentence.

C. Transitions: Transitions help to connect the paragraphs and make the essay flow smoothly.

III. Conclusion

The conclusion of an informative essay summarizes the main points of the essay and restates the thesis statement in a new way. The conclusion should also leave a lasting impression on the reader.

A. Restate thesis statement: The thesis statement should be restated in a new way to remind the reader of the main idea of the essay.

B. Summarize main points: The main points of the essay should be summarized in a concise and clear manner.

C. Final thoughts: The conclusion should end with final thoughts that leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Crafting an outline for an informative essay is a crucial stage in the process of essay writing. The purpose of creating an outline for an informative essay is to establish the topics you aim to address and to structure ideas accordingly.

The outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, each with a specific purpose and structure. By following these guidelines, writers can create an informative essay that is clear, concise, and well-structured.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Informative Essay Format

Despite the fact that all essays have a similar structure, each type has its own distinctive features and peculiarities. It is a must to be aware of them in order to create a well-structured informative research paper outline. Structuring an informative essay outline can help you organize your thoughts and ideas and ensure that you cover all the necessary information.

Here are 7 steps to help you create a well-structured informative essay outline:

Choose a Topic

Select a topic that you are familiar with and that you find interesting. Ensure that the topic is suitable for an informative essay and that there is enough information available for you to research.

Conduct Research

Research your topic thoroughly using reputable sources such as academic journals, books, and websites. Gather information that will help you to support your arguments and make your essay more persuasive.

Create a Thesis Statement

Write a clear thesis statement that summarizes the main argument or purpose of your essay. Your thesis statement should be concise and focused, and it should provide a clear direction for your essay.

Create an Introduction

Begin your essay with an introduction that provides background information on your topic and introduces your thesis statement. Your introduction should be engaging and informative, and it should capture the reader's attention.

Create Body Paragraphs

The body of your essay should consist of several paragraphs, each of which should focus on a specific point or argument. Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas, and support your arguments with evidence such as examples, statistics, and other forms of evidence.

Create a Conclusion

Conclude your essay with a summary of your main points and a restatement of your thesis statement. Your conclusion should provide closure to your essay and leave a lasting impression on your reader.

Proofread and Edit

Edit and proofread your essay for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Ensure that your essay is well-structured, easy to read, and well-supported with evidence.

Overall, following these seven steps will help you create a well-structured informative essay outline that will guide you in writing an effective and persuasive essay.

Comprehensive Analysis of All of the Outline's Subsections

Outlines for informative papers typically consist of the same five or six parts as those for other kinds of essays. This type of writing task usually requires a specific structure. Begin with a one-paragraph opening, then move on to the body—which should be at least three paragraphs long—and end with a closing. It's likely that this will appear recognizable to you.

Let's read more carefully through the parts of the research report. See to it that you have painted a distinct image of the content that each paragraph will address.

Introduction:

In the introduction of your informative essay structure, you should define your subject in simple terms. Rather than relying on your own assumptions, check that you are using the actual definitions provided by reputable sources. The so-called "prehistory" of the subject can be included, as it often contains fascinating tidbits that aren't common knowledge.

To back up the thesis assertion made at the outset of the paper, you should provide arguments in the body of your work. It is suggested to devote each paragraph to a single subject idea, so the number of body paragraphs will be determined by the number of arguments.

Controversial Arguments: 

Before responding to an opponent's claims, make sure you've done your homework and collected all the information you'll need to present a well-reasoned response. There will be more than one way to look at the heart of any given subject. It is for this reason that you must exercise caution when gathering evidence and showing your opponent's arguments.

Each line needs to not only make a case but also provide proof to back up that case. Include the identities of the scientists and scholars who created the relevant references in your citation. Paint a vivid image of the subject at hand. That's why it's up to you to clarify everything that's crucial.

The Conclusion: 

Many students make the mistake of thinking that the conclusion section of a summary must be a direct reiteration of the thesis statement. In the final section, you should restate the processed data and direct the reader's attention to the most important parts of the study.

The most important guideline to follow is to explain in the conclusion how the reader can profit from the study findings.

2 Informative Essay Examples

The Key Causes Resulting in Water Pollution

Water pollution is a serious environmental issue that poses a significant threat to human health and the ecosystem. It occurs when harmful substances are introduced into water bodies such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and groundwater, making them unsuitable for human consumption and other uses.

The causes of water pollution are diverse, ranging from industrial and agricultural practices to household activities. This essay examines the key causes of water pollution and their impacts on the environment and human health.

Industrial activities:

Industrial activities are a significant cause of water pollution, especially in developed countries. Industries such as mining, manufacturing, and oil drilling often release harmful chemicals and waste into water bodies, contaminating them with toxic substances.

For instance, the discharge of untreated wastewater from factories and refineries leads to high levels of pollutants in water bodies. These pollutants can cause waterborne diseases, kill aquatic plants and animals, and render water unsafe for human consumption.

Agricultural practices:

Agricultural activities are another significant cause of water pollution. The use of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides in farming has led to the contamination of water bodies. When these chemicals are washed away by rain or irrigation, they end up in rivers and lakes, causing water pollution. Excessive use of fertilizers, in particular, has been linked to the eutrophication of water bodies.

Eutrophication is a process in which excessive nutrients in water promote the growth of algae, which reduces the amount of oxygen available for other aquatic organisms, leading to the death of fish and other aquatic life.

Household activities:

Household activities are also responsible for water pollution. These activities include the disposal of household waste, cooking oils, and detergents into water bodies. Septic systems and faulty sewer lines also contribute to water pollution. When households dispose of their waste improperly, it ends up in water bodies, contaminating them with harmful substances.

Detergents contain phosphates, which can cause eutrophication when they enter water bodies. Moreover, septic systems and faulty sewer lines can cause water contamination when they leak or overflow.

Mining activities:

Mining activities, particularly those involving open-pit mines, can cause significant water pollution. Open-pit mines generate large amounts of waste, which is often dumped into nearby water bodies. This waste contains toxic substances such as heavy metals, which can contaminate water and cause severe health problems.

The use of chemicals such as cyanide and mercury in mining operations also contributes to water pollution. These chemicals are used to extract gold and other minerals from ores, but they can contaminate water bodies if not handled properly.

Oil spills:

Oil spills are one of the most devastating causes of water pollution. When oil spills occur, they can have catastrophic effects on the environment and the economy. Oil spills can result from accidents involving oil tankers, pipeline leaks, and offshore drilling.

The spilt oil can spread over large areas, contaminating water bodies and killing aquatic plants and animals. The toxic substances in the oil can also pose a significant health risk to humans who come into contact with them.

Impacts of water pollution:

Water pollution has severe impacts on the environment and human health. For instance, water pollution can lead to the death of fish and other aquatic organisms, reducing biodiversity. Water pollution can also make water unsafe for human consumption, leading to waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever.

Furthermore, water pollution can lead to the destruction of ecosystems, reducing the ability of natural systems to provide essential services such as water purification, flood control, and erosion prevention.

In conclusion, water pollution is a significant environmental problem that can have severe consequences for aquatic life and humans. The causes of water pollution are diverse and can come from industrial and agricultural practices, household activities, mining activities, and oil spills.

To prevent water pollution, it is crucial to implement measures that reduce the release of pollutants into water bodies, such as improved industrial processes, sustainable agriculture practices, proper disposal of household hazardous waste, responsible mining practices, and oil spill prevention measures.

By working together to address water pollution, we can protect our water resources and ensure a healthier future for ourselves and the environment.

The Importance of Education in the 21st Century

Education is a fundamental pillar of society, and it plays a crucial role in the development of individuals and nations. In the 21st century, education has become more critical than ever before, given the rapid pace of technological advancements and globalization. This essay discusses the importance of education in the 21st century and how it impacts individuals and society as a whole.

Globalisation and Technological Advancements:

The 21st century is marked by a new era of globalization, characterized by the integration of economies, cultures, and societies across the world. Technological advancements, such as the internet and social media, have made it easier for people to communicate and access information, breaking down traditional barriers and boundaries.

In this context, education is essential for individuals to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate this new world successfully. Education enables individuals to communicate, think critically, and adapt to changes in the environment, including technological advancements.

Employability:

In the 21st century, the job market is highly competitive, and employers demand a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Education plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the job market.

Education enables individuals to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in their fields of interest, making them more competitive in the job market. Additionally, education fosters the development of soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers.

Personal Development:

Education is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills; it is also about personal development. Education enables individuals to develop a sense of identity, values, and beliefs, shaping their character and worldview. Education also promotes personal growth by exposing individuals to new ideas, perspectives, and cultures, broadening their horizons and promoting tolerance and diversity.

Social Development:

Education is critical for social development, promoting social mobility and reducing inequalities. Education enables individuals from different backgrounds and social classes to access the same opportunities and pursue their dreams, irrespective of their socioeconomic status.

Education also promotes social cohesion and community building by fostering a sense of civic responsibility and promoting active participation in society.

Environmental Sustainability:

In the 21st century, environmental sustainability is a crucial global issue that requires urgent action. Education plays a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. Education enables individuals to understand the impact of human activities on the environment and develop strategies to mitigate these impacts.

Education also promotes a culture of environmental stewardship, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their actions and work towards a sustainable future.

Innovation and Creativity:

Innovation and creativity are critical drivers of economic growth and social progress in the 21st century. Education plays a crucial role in promoting innovation and creativity by fostering a culture of experimentation and risk-taking. Education enables individuals to develop critical thinking skills, think outside the box, and come up with creative solutions to complex problems.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, education is critical for the development of individuals and society in the 21st century. It enables individuals to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate a rapidly changing world, compete in the job market, and pursue personal and social goals. Education also promotes environmental sustainability, innovation, and creativity, promoting economic growth and social progress.

As such, investing in education is essential for building a better future for individuals and society as a whole.

In conclusion, writing an informative essay can be a rewarding experience, as it allows you to share your knowledge on a particular topic with others. By following the steps outlined in this article and utilizing the examples provided, you can create a well-structured and informative essay that will captivate your audience. Remember to thoroughly research your topic, organize your ideas, and use clear and concise language to convey your message. If you're looking for additional support in creating high-quality essays, sign up for jenni.ai ! Our AI-powered writing assistant can help you generate ideas, structure your essay, and even provide autocompletion suggestions to help you write faster. With jenni.ai, you can create engaging and informative essays with ease. Don't hesitate, click the button below to sign up for jenni.ai today and start writing your best essays yet!

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Writing an Informative Essay

Informative essays engage readers with new, interesting, and often surprising facts and details about a subject. Informative essays are educational; readers expect to learn something new from them. In fact, much of the reading and writing done in college and the workplace is informative. From textbooks to reports to tutorials like this one, informative writing imparts important and useful information about a topic.

This tutorial refers to the sample informative outline and final essay written by fictional student Paige Turner.

Reasons to Write Informatively

Your purpose for writing and the audience for whom you are writing will impact the depth and breadth of information you provide, but all informative writing aims to present a subject without opinions or bias. Some common reasons to write informatively are to

• report findings that an audience would find interesting,
• present facts that an audience would find useful, and
• communicate information about a person, place, event, issue, or change that would improve an audience’s understanding.

Characteristics of Informative Essays

Informative essays present factual information and do not attempt to sway readers’ opinions about it. Other types of academic and workplace writing do try to influence readers’ opinions:

• Expository essays aim to expose a truth about an issue in order to influence how readers view the issue.
• Persuasive essays aim to influence readers’ opinions, so they will adopt a particular position or take a certain course of action.

Expository and persuasive essays make “arguments.” The only argument an informative essay makes is that something exists, did exist, is happening, or has happened, and the point of the essay is not to convince readers of this but to tell them about it.

• Informative essays seek to enlighten and educate readers, so they can make their own educated opinions and decisions about what to think and how to act.

Strategies for Writing Informatively

Informative essays provide useful information such as facts, examples, and evidence from research in order to help readers understand a topic or see it more clearly. While informative writing does not aim to appeal emotionally to readers in order to change their opinions or behaviors, informative writing should still be engaging to read. Factual information is not necessarily dry or boring. Sometimes facts can be more alarming than fiction!

Writers use various strategies to engage and educate readers. Some strategies include

• introducing the topic with an alarming fact or arresting image;
• asserting what is true or so about the subject in a clear thesis statement;
• organizing the paragraphs logically by grouping related information;
• unifying each paragraph with a topic sentence and controlling idea;
• developing cohesive paragraphs with transition sentences;
• using precise language and terminology appropriate for the topic, purpose, and audience; and
• concluding with a final idea or example that captures the essay’s purpose and leaves a lasting impression.

Five Steps for Getting Started

1. Brainstorm and choose a topic.

• Sample topic : The opioid epidemic in the United States.
• The opiod epidemic or even opiod addiction would would be considered too broad for a single essay, so the next steps aim to narrow this topic down.

2. Next, write a question about the topic that you would like to answer through research.

• Sample question : What major events caused the opioid crisis in the United States?
• This question aims to narrow the topic down to causes of the epidemic in the US.

3. Now go to the Purdue Global Library to find the answers to your research question.

As you begin reading and collecting sources, write down the themes that emerge as common answers. Later, in step four, use the most common answers (or the ones you are most interested in writing and discussing) to construct a thesis statement.

• Sample answers: aggressive marketing, loopholes in prescription drug provider programs, and economic downturn.

4. Next, provide purpose to your paper by creating a thesis statement.

The thesis attempts to frame your research question. The sample thesis below incorporates three of the more common answers for the research question from step two: What caused the opioid crisis in the United States?

• Thesis Statement : Aggressive marketing, loopholes in prescription drug provider programs, and economic downturn contributed to the current opioid crisis in the United States.
• Writing Tip : For additional help with thesis statements, please visit our Writing a Thesis Statement article. For help with writing in 3rd person, see our article on Formal Vs. Informal Writing .

5. Now follow each numbered step in the “Suggested Outline Format and Sample” below.

Sample answers have been provided for “I. Introduction” and “II. First Cause.” A complete sample outline can be seen here. A complete sample informative essay can be seen here.

Suggested Outline Format and Sample

I. INTRODUCTION

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the main topic: Sample topic sentence : There is a current prescription pain medication addiction and abuse epidemic possibly caused by an excessive over prescription of these medications.

B. Now provide a couple sentences with evidence to support the main topic: Sample sentence one with evidence to support the main topic : According to Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in testimony before the 115th Congress, “In 2016, over 11 million Americans misused prescription opioids … and 2.1 million had an opioid use disorder due to prescription opioids” (Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis, 2017, p. 2).

C. Sample sentence two with evidence to support the main topic : Volkow indicated “more than 300,000 Americans have died of an opioid overdose” since 2013 (Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis, 2017, p.2).

D. Sample sentence three with evidence to support the main topic : According to Perez-Pena (2017), the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 25,000 people in the United States died in 2015 from overdosing on opioids Fentanyl, Oxycodone, and Hydrocodone.

E. Toward the end of the introduction, include your thesis statement written in the 3rd-person point-of-view: Sample thesis statement : Potential solutions to the growing opioid epidemic may be illuminated by examining how opioid addiction is triggered through aggressive pharmaceutical marketing, how opioid addiction manifests among prescribed patients, and how economic downturns play a role in the increase of opioid addiction.

F. Write down the library sources you can use in this introductory paragraph to help support the main topic.

• Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis, 2017
• Perez-Pena, 2017
• Writing Tip : For more help writing an introduction, please refer to this article on introductions and conclusions .

II. FIRST CAUSE

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the first cause of the opioid epidemic: Sample topic sentence that introduces the first cause : One issue that helped contribute to the opioid epidemic is aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical manufacturers.

B. Now provide sentences with evidence to support the first cause: Sample sentence one with evidence that supports the first cause : Perez-Pena (2017) concluded that while the healthcare industry was attempting to effectively and efficiently treat patients with chronic pain, pharmaceutical companies were providing funding to prominent doctors, medical societies, and patient advocacy groups in order to win support for a particular drug’s adoption and usage.

C. Sample sentence two with evidence to support the first cause : In fact, pharmaceutical companies continue to spend millions on promotional activities and materials that deny or trivialize any risks of opioid use while at the same time overstating each drug’s benefit (Perez-Pina, 2017).

D. Next, add more information or provide concluding or transitional sentences that foreshadows the upcoming second cause: Sample concluding and transitional sentence that foreshadow the second cause : Although aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies played a large role in opioid addiction, patients are to blame too, as many take advantage of holes in the healthcare provider system in order to remedy their addiction.

E. Write down the library sources you can use in this body paragraph to help support the first cause:

• Writing Tip : For more assistance working with sources, please visit the Using Sources page here.

III. SECOND CAUSE

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the second cause.

B. Now provide sentences with evidence to support the second cause.

C. Next, add more information or provide concluding or transitional sentences that foreshadows the upcoming third cause.

D. Write down the library sources you can use in this body paragraph to help support the second cause:

• Writing Tip : Listen to Writing Powerful Sentences for information and features of effective writing.

IV. THIRD CAUSE

A. First provide a topic sentence that introduces the third cause.

B. Now provide sentences with evidence to support the third cause.

C. Next, add more information or provide a concluding sentence or two.

D. Write down the library sources you can use in this body paragraph to help support the third cause:

V. CONCLUSION: Summary of key points and evidence discussed.

• Writing Tip : For more help writing a conclusion, refer to this podcast on endings .
• Writing Tip : Have a question? Leave a comment below or Purdue Global students, click here to access the Purdue Global Writing Center tutoring platform and available staff.
• Writing Tip : Ready to have someone look at your paper? Purdue Global students, click here to submit your assignment for feedback through our video paper review service.

See a Sample Informative Essay Outline here .

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dang bro i got an A

Having faith with all this mentioned, that i will pass my english class at a college. Thank you for posting.

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How to Write a Research Paper Outline (with Examples)

Writing a research paper is an essential part of an academic career. However, the task can be quite challenging especially for early career researchers unfamiliar with the nuances of academic research and writing. Creating an impactful research paper demands meticulous attention to detail, an in depth understanding of the topic and research methodology, and the ability to communicate the findings in an accurate and easy to understand way. This is where a research paper outline becomes useful. Writing a research paper can be made simpler and more efficient with a well-organized plan. A well-structured research paper outline offers the fundamental foundation on which researchers can construct their narratives logically, ensuring that the study report is well-presented and interesting for readers.   

Table of Contents

This article takes a look now at the benefits of having a good research paper outline and also provides guidance on creating one.  

4 steps to create a well-structured research paper outline    

List the key components  .

To begin with, researchers must list down the key components that should be included in the research paper outline . Start with identifying your research question. Organize your key ideas and thoughts so that you are able to clearly convey the various aspects of your research question or thesis statement. Create separate points for the introduction, literature review, methodology, results, significance of your research along with its limitations. These sections will help you organize your thoughts and ensure that all relevant information is included in your research manuscript.  

Structure the outline logically  

As you create your outline, make sure that there is logical flow of ideas and arguments. Think through the sequence in which you will present your topic and ideas. Structure the research paper outline in a way that allows a clear and continuous narrative that is easy to understand. For example, the introduction must be concise and engaging and must clearly introduce the research topic. The main paragraphs must focus on the research problem and arguments with supporting evidence. Experts suggest using headings and sub-heads to help organize ideas and data into sub-groups. The concluding section should have a summary of your study’s main points and key takeaways with recommendations for future research.   

Provide supporting evidence  

It is important to provide adequate supporting evidence and examples that underpin your key idea or argument. This helps to fit your study into the larger context of your subject area. It may be a good idea to collect all your data and relevant sources right from the start. Experts suggest providing at last three supporting evidences for each of your main ideas and including appropriate and accurate citations in the research paper outline .  

Review and edit  

Finally, take time to review the outline and make necessary modifications as you come across new data and information. To do so, you must have sufficient knowledge of the existing and current literature on the topic. Make sure that your ideas are in a logical order, and you have not missed out anything from your research notes.  

3 tips to draft a great research paper outline   

• Be concise and clear: Avoid adding unnecessary details to your research paper outline . Try instead, to focus only on the key ideas, information and supporting evidence for your study. Experts suggest avoiding the use of lengthy sentences and recommend the use of short phrases, sub-heads, and bullet points to outline ideas.  
• Stay consistent with formatting: To ensure consistency in formatting, researchers can choose from different kinds of research paper outline templates. The most commonly used ones are:
• The alpha-numerical template where the points are written as short sentences,   
• The full sentence format where whole sentences are written with specific points   
• The decimal format where the main point is presented as a whole number (1, 2) and sub-points are given as decimal points (1.1, 1.2).   
• Seek feedback from supervisors: Once you have completed the outline, it is a good idea to share it with your supervisors and mentors and seek their insights. Their inputs will help ensure that your research paper outline is on track.   

Research paper outline example

Given below is a research paper outline example that you can use as a starting point.

I. Introduction

• Background and context of the research topic
• Problem statement and research question  
• Significance of the study

II. Literature Review

• Overview of relevant literature  
• Discussion of previous research and findings  
• Identification of gaps and areas for further exploration  

III. Methodology 

• Explanation of the research design  
• Description of data collection methods  
• Discussion of data analysis techniques

IV. Results

• Presentation of research findings  
• Data visualization (tables, graphs, charts, etc.)  
• Explanation of key results

V. Discussion

• Interpretation of the results  
• Comparison with existing literature  
• Addressing limitations and implications of the study

VI. Conclusion

• Summary of the research paper  
• Final remarks and suggestions for future research   

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• How to write an essay outline | Guidelines & examples

How to Write an Essay Outline | Guidelines & Examples

Published on August 14, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay outline is a way of planning the structure of your essay before you start writing. It involves writing quick summary sentences or phrases for every point you will cover in each paragraph , giving you a picture of how your argument will unfold.

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Table of contents

Organizing your material, presentation of the outline, examples of essay outlines, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about essay outlines.

At the stage where you’re writing an essay outline, your ideas are probably still not fully formed. You should know your topic  and have already done some preliminary research to find relevant sources , but now you need to shape your ideas into a structured argument.

Creating categories

Look over any information, quotes and ideas you’ve noted down from your research and consider the central point you want to make in the essay—this will be the basis of your thesis statement . Once you have an idea of your overall argument, you can begin to organize your material in a way that serves that argument.

Try to arrange your material into categories related to different aspects of your argument. If you’re writing about a literary text, you might group your ideas into themes; in a history essay, it might be several key trends or turning points from the period you’re discussing.

Three main themes or subjects is a common structure for essays. Depending on the length of the essay, you could split the themes into three body paragraphs, or three longer sections with several paragraphs covering each theme.

As you create the outline, look critically at your categories and points: Are any of them irrelevant or redundant? Make sure every topic you cover is clearly related to your thesis statement.

Order of information

When you have your material organized into several categories, consider what order they should appear in.

Your essay will always begin and end with an introduction and conclusion , but the organization of the body is up to you.

Consider these questions to order your material:

• Is there an obvious starting point for your argument?
• Is there one subject that provides an easy transition into another?
• Do some points need to be set up by discussing other points first?

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See an example

Within each paragraph, you’ll discuss a single idea related to your overall topic or argument, using several points of evidence or analysis to do so.

In your outline, you present these points as a few short numbered sentences or phrases.They can be split into sub-points when more detail is needed.

The template below shows how you might structure an outline for a five-paragraph essay.

• Thesis statement
• First piece of evidence
• Second piece of evidence
• Summary/synthesis
• Importance of topic
• Strong closing statement

You can choose whether to write your outline in full sentences or short phrases. Be consistent in your choice; don’t randomly write some points as full sentences and others as short phrases.

Examples of outlines for different types of essays are presented below: an argumentative, expository, and literary analysis essay.

Argumentative essay outline

This outline is for a short argumentative essay evaluating the internet’s impact on education. It uses short phrases to summarize each point.

Its body is split into three paragraphs, each presenting arguments about a different aspect of the internet’s effects on education.

• Importance of the internet
• Concerns about internet use
• Thesis statement: Internet use a net positive
• Data exploring this effect
• Analysis indicating it is overstated
• Students’ reading levels over time
• Why this data is questionable
• Video media
• Interactive media
• Speed and simplicity of online research
• Questions about reliability (transitioning into next topic)
• Evidence indicating its ubiquity
• Claims that it discourages engagement with academic writing
• Evidence that Wikipedia warns students not to cite it
• Argument that it introduces students to citation
• Summary of key points
• Value of digital education for students
• Need for optimism to embrace advantages of the internet

Expository essay outline

This is the outline for an expository essay describing how the invention of the printing press affected life and politics in Europe.

The paragraphs are still summarized in short phrases here, but individual points are described with full sentences.

• Claim that the printing press marks the end of the Middle Ages.
• Provide background on the low levels of literacy before the printing press.
• Present the thesis statement: The invention of the printing press increased circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.
• Discuss the very high levels of illiteracy in medieval Europe.
• Describe how literacy and thus knowledge and education were mainly the domain of religious and political elites.
• Indicate how this discouraged political and religious change.
• Describe the invention of the printing press in 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg.
• Show the implications of the new technology for book production.
• Describe the rapid spread of the technology and the printing of the Gutenberg Bible.
• Link to the Reformation.
• Discuss the trend for translating the Bible into vernacular languages during the years following the printing press’s invention.
• Describe Luther’s own translation of the Bible during the Reformation.
• Sketch out the large-scale effects the Reformation would have on religion and politics.
• Summarize the history described.
• Stress the significance of the printing press to the events of this period.

Literary analysis essay outline

The literary analysis essay outlined below discusses the role of theater in Jane Austen’s novel Mansfield Park .

The body of the essay is divided into three different themes, each of which is explored through examples from the book.

• Describe the theatricality of Austen’s works
• Outline the role theater plays in Mansfield Park
• Introduce the research question : How does Austen use theater to express the characters’ morality in Mansfield Park ?
• Discuss Austen’s depiction of the performance at the end of the first volume
• Discuss how Sir Bertram reacts to the acting scheme
• Introduce Austen’s use of stage direction–like details during dialogue
• Explore how these are deployed to show the characters’ self-absorption
• Discuss Austen’s description of Maria and Julia’s relationship as polite but affectionless
• Compare Mrs. Norris’s self-conceit as charitable despite her idleness
• Summarize the three themes: The acting scheme, stage directions, and the performance of morals
• Answer the research question
• Indicate areas for further study

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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You will sometimes be asked to hand in an essay outline before you start writing your essay . Your supervisor wants to see that you have a clear idea of your structure so that writing will go smoothly.

Even when you do not have to hand it in, writing an essay outline is an important part of the writing process . It’s a good idea to write one (as informally as you like) to clarify your structure for yourself whenever you are working on an essay.

If you have to hand in your essay outline , you may be given specific guidelines stating whether you have to use full sentences. If you’re not sure, ask your supervisor.

When writing an essay outline for yourself, the choice is yours. Some students find it helpful to write out their ideas in full sentences, while others prefer to summarize them in short phrases.

You should try to follow your outline as you write your essay . However, if your ideas change or it becomes clear that your structure could be better, it’s okay to depart from your essay outline . Just make sure you know why you’re doing so.

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How to Write an Outline in APA Format

• Before Starting Your Outline
• How to Create an Outline

Writing a psychology paper can feel like an overwhelming task. From picking a topic to finding sources to cite, each step in the process comes with its own challenges. Luckily, there are strategies to make writing your paper easier—one of which is creating an outline using APA format .

Here we share what APA format entails and the basics of this writing style. Then we get into how to create a research paper outline using APA guidelines, giving you a strong foundation to start crafting your content.

At a Glance

APA format is the standard writing style used for psychology research papers. Creating an outline using APA format can help you develop and organize your paper's structure, also keeping you on task as you sit down to write the content.

APA Format Basics

Formatting dictates how papers are styled, which includes their organizational structure, page layout, and how information is presented. APA format is the official style of the American Psychological Association (APA).

Learning the basics of APA format is necessary for writing effective psychology papers, whether for your school courses or if you're working in the field and want your research published in a professional journal. Here are some general APA rules to keep in mind when creating both your outline and the paper itself.

Font and Spacing

According to APA style, research papers are to be written in a legible and widely available font. Traditionally, Times New Roman is used with a 12-point font size. However, other serif and sans serif fonts like Arial or Georgia in 11-point font sizes are also acceptable.

APA format also dictates that the research paper be double-spaced. Each page has 1-inch margins on all sides (top, bottom, left, and right), and the page number is to be placed in the upper right corner of each page.

Both your psychology research paper and outline should include three key sections:

• Introduction : Highlights the main points and presents your hypothesis
• Body : Details the ideas and research that support your hypothesis
• Conclusion : Briefly reiterates your main points and clarifies support for your position

Headings and Subheadings

APA format provides specific guidelines for using headings and subheadings. They are:

• Main headings : Use Roman numerals (I, II, III, IV)
• Subheadings: Use capital letters (A, B, C, D)

If you need further subheadings within the initial subheadings, start with Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3), then lowercase letters (a, b, c), then Arabic numerals inside parentheses [(1), (2), (3)]

Before Starting Your APA Format Outline

While APA format does not provide specific rules for creating an outline, you can still develop a strong roadmap for your paper using general APA style guidance. Prior to drafting your psychology research paper outline using APA writing style, taking a few important steps can help set you up for greater success.

Review Your Instructor's Requirements

Look over the instructions for your research paper. Your instructor may have provided some type of guidance or stated what they want. They may have even provided specific requirements for what to include in your outline or how it needs to be structured and formatted.

Some instructors require research paper outlines to use decimal format. This structure uses Arabic decimals instead of Roman numerals or letters. In this case, the main headings in an outline would be 1.0, 1.2, and 1.3, while the subheadings would be 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3, and so on.

Consider Your Preferences

After reviewing your instructor's requirements, consider your own preferences for organizing your outline. Think about what makes the most sense for you, as well as what type of outline would be most helpful when you begin writing your research paper.

For example, you could choose to format your headings and subheadings as full sentences, or you might decide that you prefer shorter headings that summarize the content. You can also use different approaches to organizing the lettering and numbering in your outline's subheadings.

Whether you are creating your outline according to your instructor's guidelines or following your own organizational preferences, the most important thing is that you are consistent.

Formatting Tips

When getting ready to start your research paper outline using APA format, it's also helpful to consider how you will format it. Here are a few tips to help:

• Your outline should begin on a new page.
• Before you start writing the outline, check that your word processor does not automatically insert unwanted text or notations (such as letters, numbers, or bullet points) as you type. If it does, turn off auto-formatting.
• If your instructor requires you to specify your hypothesis in your outline, review your assignment instructions to find out where this should be placed. They may want it presented at the top of your outline, for example, or included as a subheading.

How to Create a Research Paper Outline Using APA

Understanding APA format basics can make writing psychology research papers much easier. While APA format does not provide specific rules for creating an outline, you can still develop a strong roadmap for your paper using general APA style guidance, your instructor's requirements, and your own personal organizational preferences.

Typically you won't need to turn your outline in with your final paper. But that doesn't mean you should skip creating one. A strong paper starts with a solid outline. Developing this outline can help you organize your writing and ensure that you effectively communicate your paper's main points and arguments. Here's how to create a research outline using APA format.

Start Your Research

While it may seem like you should create an outline before starting your research, the opposite is actually true. The information you find when researching your psychology research topic will start to reveal the information you'll want to include in your paper—and in your outline.

As you research, consider the main arguments you intend to make in your paper. Look for facts that support your hypothesis, keeping track of where you find these facts so you can cite them when writing your paper. The more organized you are when creating your outline, the easier it becomes to draft the paper itself.

If you are required to turn in your outline before you begin working on your paper, keep in mind that you may need to include a list of references that you plan to use.

Draft Your Outline Using APA Format

Once you have your initial research complete, you have enough information to create an outline. Start with the main headings (which are noted using Roman numerals I, II, III, etc.). Here's an example of the main headings you may use if you were writing an APA format outline for a research paper in support of using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety :

• Introduction
• What CBT Is
• How CBT Helps Ease Anxiety
• Research Supporting CBT for Anxiety
• Potential Drawbacks of CBT for Anxiety and How to Overcome Them

Under each main heading, list your main points or key ideas using subheadings (as noted with A, B, C, etc.). Sticking with the same example, subheadings under "What CBT Is" may include:

• Basic CBT Principles
• How CBT Works
• Conditions CBT Has Been Found to Help Treat

You may also decide to include additional subheadings under your initial subheadings to add more information or clarify important points relevant to your hypothesis. Examples of additional subheadings (which are noted with 1, 2, 3, etc.) that could be included under "Basic CBT Principles" include:

• Is Goal-Oriented
• Focuses on Problem-Solving
• Includes Self-Monitoring

Begin Writing Your Research Paper

The reason this step is included when drafting your research paper outline using APA format is that you'll often find that your outline changes as you begin to dive deeper into your proposed topic. New ideas may emerge or you may decide to narrow your topic further, even sometimes changing your hypothesis altogether.

All of these factors can impact what you write about, ultimately changing your outline. When writing your paper, there are a few important points to keep in mind:

• Follow the structure that your instructor specifies.
• Present your strongest points first.
• Support your arguments with research and examples.
• Organize your ideas logically and in order of strength.
• Keep track of your sources.
• Present and debate possible counterarguments, and provide evidence that counters opposing arguments.

Update Your Final Outline

The final version of your outline should reflect your completed draft. Not only does updating your outline at this point help ensure that you've covered the topics you want in your paper, but it also gives you another opportunity to verify that your paper follows a logical sequence.

When reading through your APA-formatted outline, consider whether it flows naturally from one topic to the next. You wouldn't talk about how CBT works before discussing what CBT is, for example. Taking this final step can give you a more solid outline, and a more solid research paper.

American Psychological Association. About APA Style .

Purdue University Online Writing Lab. Types of outlines and samples .

Mississippi College. Writing Center: Outlines .

American Psychological Association. APA style: Style and Grammar Guidelines .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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• Informative Essay Outline
• How to Write an Essay Outline: Full Guide With Examples

Table of Contents

Informative essay outline toolkit, how to write an outline for an informative essay.

Once you are done with these steps, this is what your structure will look like

Introduction.

• Artificial Intelligence is transforming the job market at an unprecedented rate
• Mention the increasing prevalence of AI in various industries.

With the advancement of Artificial Intelligence, the job market is being reshaped which makes it necessary to get a deeper understanding of its impact.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

• Provide an overview of the development and adoption of AI technologies.
• Highlight the rapid growth of AI in industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.

Job Disruption and Automation

• Explain how AI is automating tasks previously performed by humans
• Present statistics on job displacement due to automation.

Job Creation and Transformation

• Discuss how AI is creating new job opportunities in emerging fields
• Highlight the importance of reskilling and upskilling to adapt to the changing job landscape.
• Reiterate the thesis statement, emphasizing the significance of understanding AI's impact on the job market
• Summarize the key points presented in the essay.

This is what your outline will look like

Firstly, the essay will discuss the rise of artificial intelligence by highlighting its development and rapid growth in various industries. Secondly, the essay will shed light on the loss of jobs for humans and increasing automation by explaining how AI is automating tasks previously done by humans. Finally, the essay will also discuss how AI is creating new job opportunities in emerging fields, and highlight the importance of adaptation to the changing job landscape.

1. Identify the topic

The first and crucial step in creating an outline for an informative essay is to clearly identify the topic you will be exploring. This is where you set the stage for your reader, providing them with a clear understanding of what your essay will cover. Your chosen topic should be specific and focused, ensuring that your reader knows what to expect. In this section, you should emphasize the importance of a well-defined topic and its role in guiding the entire essay.

If you are writing an essay on artificial intelligence, your topic can be “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Job Market”

2. Define the objective

Once your topic is established, the next step involves defining the objective of your informative essay. It's essential to clarify that the purpose of an informative essay is to educate and inform your reader about a particular subject. Your aim is to provide valuable insights and knowledge to your audience. Here, you should emphasize the educational aspect of your essay and how it aims to broaden the reader's understanding.

If your objective is to elaborate on a topic or provide information regarding it, you can state, “The aim of the essay is to understand the advancement of AI and its impact on the job market”

3. Craft the thesis

In this section, dedicate your efforts to crafting a concise and focused thesis statement for your informative essay. Your thesis statement should present the central theme or topic of your essay without expressing any personal opinions or biases. It serves as the guiding light for your entire essay. Emphasize the importance of a clear and informative thesis statement in guiding your essay.

Continuing the example, your thesis statement for the topic could be, “With the advancement of Artificial Intelligence, the job market is being reshaped which makes it necessary to get a deeper understanding of its impact.”

4. Main points

Now, outline the main points that will structure your informative essay. Typically, an informative essay consists of several paragraphs, each dedicated to a specific aspect of your topic. These main points will serve as the foundation of your essay, each conveying valuable information to your reader. Highlight the simplicity of the informative essay's structure and the role these main points play in conveying information.

The main points for your essay could be

5. Sub-points

After introducing the main points of your essay, the next step involves providing in-depth elaboration on each of these points, substantiated by relevant examples and evidence. In this section, you will explicitly outline the sub-points to be discussed under each main point, specifying the examples and data that will reinforce your arguments. Emphasize the need for concrete evidence and examples to support your informative essay.

All will be explained with examples and backed with statistical data.

6. Evidence and citations

Academic integrity is paramount in informative essays. Therefore, in this section, you should emphasize the importance of citing all information presented and attributing examples, quotes, and data that support your arguments. Clearly outline the sources from which you will be drawing information to ensure credibility. Highlight the necessity of rigorous research and proper citation practices in informative writing.

You can cite real-world examples, and case studies, and provide information on the advancements in Artificial intelligence.

7. Introduction and hook

A captivating introduction is essential to engage your reader's attention. In this section, emphasize the significance of a hook—a compelling opening that sparks curiosity and encourages the reader to delve into your essay. Rhetorical questions, anecdotes, or surprising facts can serve as effective hooks for informative essays. Emphasize the role of the introduction in setting the tone for your essay.

You can start the introduction with a rhetorical question to create a hook like “If robots will do everything, what will humans do”. Then continue to provide an overview of the development of AI, and mention the increasing prevalence of AI

8. Conclusion

After presenting your key points, it's essential to craft a thoughtful conclusion for your informative essay. The conclusion should summarize the main points and reiterate the thesis statement. Additionally, you can leave the reader with a thought-provoking question or a call to action to encourage further reflection. Highlight the role of the conclusion in leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

In the conclusion, you will reiterate the thesis statement, emphasizing the significance of understanding AI's impact on the job market then summarize key points you made in the essay.

9. Transitions

Smooth transitions are essential to ensure the coherence and flow of your informative essay. Transition words and phrases help connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs seamlessly. In this section, emphasize the use of transition words to guide the reader through your essay's logical progression. Highlight the importance of these transitions in making the essay easy to follow.

In your informative essay, you can use words like “then”, and “lastly”, etc. to transition from one concept, idea, or sentence to another

10. Refine and review

Finally, stress the significance of revisiting and refining your outline. Ensure that it maintains logical coherence and comprehensiveness. Make any necessary revisions as you review, ensuring that each point contributes effectively to your informative essay.

Finally, during the review, you will need to ensure that each point flows logically and you have included all the necessary information and didn't add any extra points.

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An outline is a formal system used to develop a framework for thinking about what should be the organization and eventual contents of your paper. An outline helps you predict the overall structure and flow of a paper.

Laughlin, Mitzi S. "Developing a Strong Outline." In Professional Writing in Kinesiology and Sports Medicine . Mark Knoblauch, editor. (New York: Routledge, 2024), pp. 13-22; Why and How to Create a Useful Outline. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University.

Importance of...

Writing papers in college requires you to come up with sophisticated, complex, and sometimes very creative ways of structuring your ideas . Taking the time to draft an outline can help you determine if your ideas connect to each other, what order of ideas works best, where gaps in your thinking may exist, or whether you have sufficient evidence to support each of your points. It is also an effective way to think about the time you will need to complete each part of your paper before you begin writing.

A good outline is important because :

• You will be much less likely to get writer's block . An outline will show where you're going and how to get there. Use the outline to set goals for completing each section of your paper.
• It will help you stay organized and focused throughout the writing process and help ensure proper coherence [flow of ideas] in your final paper. However, the outline should be viewed as a guide, not a straitjacket. As you review the literature or gather data, the organization of your paper may change; adjust your outline accordingly.
• A clear, detailed outline ensures that you always have something to help re-calibrate the objectives of your writing should you feel yourself drifting into subject areas unrelated to the research problem. Use your outline to set boundaries around what you will investigate.
• The outline can be key to staying motivated . You can put together an outline when you're excited about the project and everything is clicking; making an outline is never as overwhelming as sitting down and beginning to write a twenty page paper without any sense of where it is going.
• An outline helps you organize multiple ideas about a topic . Most research problems can be analyzed from a variety of perspectives; an outline can help you sort out which modes of analysis are most appropriate to ensure the most robust findings are discovered.
• An outline not only helps you organize your thoughts, but it can also serve as a schedule for when certain aspects of your writing should be accomplished . Review the assignment and highlight the due dates of specific tasks and integrate these into your outline. If your professor has not created specific deadlines, create your own deadlines by thinking about your own writing style and the need to manage your time around other course assignments.

How to Structure and Organize Your Paper. Odegaard Writing & Research Center. University of Washington;  Laughlin, Mitzi S. "Developing a Strong Outline." In Professional Writing in Kinesiology and Sports Medicine . Mark Knoblauch, editor. (New York: Routledge, 2024), pp. 13-22; Why and How to Create a Useful Outline. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Lietzau, Kathleen. Creating Outlines. Writing Center, University of Richmond.

Structure and Writing Style

I.   General Approaches

There are two general approaches you can take when writing an outline for your paper:

The topic outline consists of short phrases. This approach is useful when you are dealing with a number of different issues that could be arranged in a variety of different ways in your paper. Due to short phrases having more content than using simple sentences, they create better content from which to build your paper.

The sentence outline is done in full sentences. This approach is useful when your paper focuses on complex issues in detail. The sentence outline is also useful because sentences themselves have many of the details in them needed to build a paper and it allows you to include those details in the sentences instead of having to create an outline of short phrases that goes on page after page.

II.   Steps to Making the Outline

A strong outline details each topic and subtopic in your paper, organizing these points so that they build your argument toward an evidence-based conclusion. Writing an outline will also help you focus on the task at hand and avoid unnecessary tangents, logical fallacies, and underdeveloped paragraphs.

• Identify the research problem . The research problem is the focal point from which the rest of the outline flows. Try to sum up the point of your paper in one sentence or phrase. It also can be key to deciding what the title of your paper should be.
• Identify the main categories . What main points will you analyze? The introduction describes all of your main points; the rest of  your paper can be spent developing those points.
• Create the first category . What is the first point you want to cover? If the paper centers around a complicated term, a definition can be a good place to start. For a paper that concerns the application and testing of a particular theory, giving the general background on the theory can be a good place to begin.
• Create subcategories . After you have followed these steps, create points under it that provide support for the main point. The number of categories that you use depends on the amount of information that you are trying to cover. There is no right or wrong number to use.

Once you have developed the basic outline of the paper, organize the contents to match the standard format of a research paper as described in this guide.

III.   Things to Consider When Writing an Outline

• There is no rule dictating which approach is best . Choose either a topic outline or a sentence outline based on which one you believe will work best for you. However, once you begin developing an outline, it's helpful to stick to only one approach.
• Both topic and sentence outlines use Roman and Arabic numerals along with capital and small letters of the alphabet arranged in a consistent and rigid sequence. A rigid format should be used especially if you are required to hand in your outline.
• Although the format of an outline is rigid, it shouldn't make you inflexible about how to write your paper. Often when you start investigating a research problem [i.e., reviewing the research literature], especially if you are unfamiliar with the topic, you should anticipate the likelihood your analysis could go in different directions. If your paper changes focus, or you need to add new sections, then feel free to reorganize the outline.
• If appropriate, organize the main points of your outline in chronological order . In papers where you need to trace the history or chronology of events or issues, it is important to arrange your outline in the same manner, knowing that it's easier to re-arrange things now than when you've almost finished your paper.
• For a standard research paper of 15-20 pages, your outline should be no more than a couple of pages in length . It may be helpful as you are developing your outline to also write down a tentative list of references.

Muirhead, Brent. “Using Outlines to Improve Online Student Writing Skills.” Journal on School Educational Technology 1, (2005): 17-23; Four Main Components for Effective Outlines. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; How to Make an Outline. Psychology Writing Center. University of Washington; Kartawijaya, Sukarta. “Improving Students’ Writing Skill in Writing Paragraph through an Outline Technique.” Curricula: Journal of Teaching and Learning 3 (2018); Laughlin, Mitzi S. "Developing a Strong Outline." In Professional Writing in Kinesiology and Sports Medicine . Mark Knoblauch, editor. (New York: Routledge, 2024), pp. 13-22; Organization: Informal Outlines. The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Organization: Standard Outline Form. The Reading/Writing Center. Hunter College; Outlining. Department of English Writing Guide. George Mason University; Plotnic, Jerry. Organizing an Essay. University College Writing Centre. University of Toronto; Reverse Outline. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Reverse Outlines: A Writer's Technique for Examining Organization. The Writer’s Handbook. Writing Center. University of Wisconsin, Madison; Using Outlines. Writing Tutorial Services, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. Indiana University; Writing: Considering Structure and Organization. Institute for Writing Rhetoric. Dartmouth College.

Writing Tip

A Disorganized Outline Means a Disorganized Paper!

If, in writing your paper, it begins to diverge from your outline, this is very likely a sign that you've lost your focus. How do you know whether to change the paper to fit the outline, or, that you need to reconsider the outline so that it fits the paper? A good way to check your progress is to use what you have written to recreate the outline. This is an effective strategy for assessing the organization of your paper. If the resulting outline says what you want it to say and it is in an order that is easy to follow, then the organization of your paper has been successful. If you discover that it's difficult to create an outline from what you have written, then you likely need to revise your paper.

Why and How to Create a Useful Outline. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Laughlin, Mitzi S. "Developing a Strong Outline." In Professional Writing in Kinesiology and Sports Medicine . Mark Knoblauch, editor. (New York: Routledge, 2024), pp. 13-22.

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APA Research Paper Outline: Examples and Template

Table of contents

• 1 Why Is Research Paper Format Necessary?
• 2.1 Purpose of research paper outline
• 2.2 APA outline example
• 3.1 APA paper outline example
• 3.2 Introduction:
• 3.4 Conclusion:
• 4 The Basic APA Outline Format
• 5 APA Style Outline Template Breakdown
• 6.1 APA Research Paper Outline Example
• 6.2 APA Paper Outline Format Example
• 7.1 First Paragraph: Hook and Thesis
• 7.2 Main Body
• 7.3 Conclusion
• 7.4 Decimal APA outline format example
• 7.5 Decimal APA outline format layout
• 8.1 A definite goal
• 8.2 Division
• 8.3 Parallelism
• 8.4 Coordination
• 8.5 Subordination
• 8.6 Avoid Redundancy
• 8.7 Wrap it up in a good way
• 8.8 Conclusion

Formatting your paper in APA can be daunting if this is your first time. The American Psychological Association (APA) offers a guide or rules to follow when conducting projects in the social sciences or writing papers. The standard APA fromat a research paper outline includes a proper layout from the title page to the final reference pages. There are formatting samples to create outlines before writing a paper. Amongst other strategies, creating an outline is the easiest way to APA format outline template.

Why Is Research Paper Format Necessary?

Consistency in the sequence, structure, and format when writing a research paper encourages readers to concentrate on the substance of a paper rather than how it is presented. The requirements for paper format apply to student assignments and papers submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed publication. APA paper outline template style may be used to create a website, conference poster, or PowerPoint presentation . If you plan to use the style for other types of work like a website, conference poster, or even PowerPoint presentation, you must format your work accordingly to adjust to requirements. For example, you may need different line spacing and font sizes. Follow the formatting rules provided by your institution or publication to ensure its formatting standards are followed as closely as possible. However, to logically structure your document, you need a research paper outline in APA format. You may ask: why is it necessary to create an outline for an APA research paper? Crafting a well-organized APA outline is crucial for any research paper. If you’re struggling with this process, consider seeking help from a professional research paper writer , who can guide you through each step.

Concept & Purposes of Research Paper Outline

A path, direction, or action plan! Writing short essays without a layout may seem easy, but not for 10,000 or more words. Yet, confusing a table of contents with an outline is a major issue. The table of contents is an orderly list of all the chapters’ front matter, primary, and back matter. It includes sections and, often, figures in your work, labeled by page number. On the other hand, a research APA-style paper outline is a proper structure to follow.

Purpose of research paper outline

An outline is a formalized essay in which you give your own argument to support your point of view. And when you write your apa outline template, you expand on what you already know about the topic. Academic writing papers examine an area of expertise to get the latest and most accurate information to work on that topic. It serves various purposes, including:

• APA paper outline discusses the study’s core concepts.
• The research paper outlines to define the link between your ideas and the thesis.
• It provides you with manageable portions that you can handle.
• The research paper’s APA outline enables the detection of structural faults or gaps.
• As shown in the example, it must clearly comprehend the subject at hand.

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APA outline example

This research paper outline example will guide you in formatting the layout for a clear direction to work on. It eliminates the inconsistency along with lacking proper substance in the paper.

Understanding the APA Outline Format

It would not be wrong to say there is no standard outline format. The official publishing handbook does not give precise guidelines for preparing an outline. But, it requires certain basic guidelines to follow regarding typeface, font size, structure, margins, etc.

APA paper outline example

Moreover, the final shape of your work relies on your instructor’s specifications and your particular preferences for APA citation format. Though, it would be better to follow some standards for formatting your outline, for instance:

Times New Roman is a widely accessible standard typeface for an APA essay format in 12-point font. However, serif and sans serif fonts like Arial and Georgia are acceptable in font size 11pt.

The text of your paper format should be double-spaced.

The primary headlines use Roman and Arabic numerals to write an outline.

Headings & Subheadings

While writing an APA essay, there are particular standards for utilizing headings in your outline: I – Main headings are numbered by Roman numerals like I, II, III, IV A  – Subheadings are numbered with Capital letters (A, B, C, D) 1  – The APA outline uses Arabic numerals (1-9 type numbers) within those subheadings. a  – Below Arabic number subheadings, lower-case letters are used (a, b, a). [1] – Headings below those subheadings use Arabic numbers enclosed in parenthesis.

APA format offers a standard layout for each paper, such as

• 1-inch margins on the top, bottom, left, and right.
• The page number on the upper right corner.

The structure of writing an outline consists of three major sections:

• Introduction

Introduction:

This section highlights crucial background information.

Explain the primary points that support your ideas.

Conclusion:

• Summarize your key arguments.
• Explain how these concepts support your ultimate stance, as shown in APA outline example below.

An outline in APA has three common formats that vary in the numeric sequence of all. To make it easier for you, we have compiled all three templates. You can format your document using these examples for added coherence and structure.

The Basic APA Outline Format

APA Style Outline Template Breakdown

Numbering the APA style format follows five levels of headings that use different alphabets and numbers. For instance, I – Headings use Roman numerals like I, II, and III. A – CAPITAL ALPHABETS”, such as A, B, C, etc. 1 – Headings and subheadings use Arabic numbers (1, 2, 3). a – If there are further headings (the fourth level), use lower-case alphabets. [1] – Headings below that (the fifth level) use Arabic numerals enclosed in parentheses, such as [1], [2], [3].

Full Sentence Outline Format

As the name specifies, the full-sentence style outline format requires every line to be a proper sentence. Full-sentence APA style outline is best recommended for essays and speeches. It gives your writing process an idea or a logical path to follow.

APA Research Paper Outline Example

If you are looking for how to write a research paper outline APA in Full Sentence Format, here is an example:

Full Sentence APA format heading utilizes Roman numerals I, II, and III. Every heading must be a full sentence. Here is an APA style paper outline template for the full-sentence format that will clear all your confusion on how to write an outline in full-sentence format.

APA Paper Outline Format Example

I. Introduction

III. Conclusion

Decimal Outline Format

The decimal outline format for APA research papers differs from other formats. The decimal APA style is simple and uses paragraphs for structure. It contains three main paragraphs, introduction, main body, and conclusion.

First Paragraph: Hook and Thesis

• The first paragraph is a sentence or two that introduces the central concept of your article.
• Introduce your topic or subject of study where your research is applicable as a context for further research.
• Explain why the mentioned issue is essential or relevant to the audience.
• A thesis statement is a claim that you make throughout your whole essay.
• The topic phrase is the first point in any writing to support a thesis statement.
• Give an explanation or provide evidence to support your point.
• Provide verifiable facts, figures, and/or citations from credible sources in your writing. It helps in the substantiating assertion.
• Include as many supporting statements and related evidence in your decimal outline.

Finally, when you write an outline, provide a concluding remark to support your claims.

Decimal APA outline format example

1.0 The main heading 1.1 Subheading under the main heading 1.2 Second digit is represented by subheadings under the main headings 1.2.1 Further division adds another digit in decimal format 1.2.2 You can number them as per the number of paragraphs or points, or lines An easy way to write in decimal APA outline format is to remember the structure, i.e.; 1.1.1 = Heading.Paragraph.Sentence/point under paragraph.”

Decimal APA outline format layout

1.0 Main heading 1.1 First paragraph for first heading. 1.2 Second paragraph for first heading. 1.2.1 First point or sentence for the second paragraph. 2.0 Second heading 2.1 Second heading, first paragraph. 2.2 Second heading, second paragraph. 2.2.1 Second, heading, second paragraph, first sentence, or point. 3.0 Decimal working 3.1 You must remember that each digit represents a segment. 3.2 It is easier to remember the placement of numbers. 3.2.1 First digit represents the heading 3.2.2 Second digit represents the paragraph under the main heading <3.2.3 The third digit represents any point or sentence under the paragraph.

Tips for Writing an Outline: Organize Your Ideas

You may feel it is easier to write without outlines, but once you start writing, organizing your ideas or thoughts becomes hard. Even if you have some fantastic ideas, producing an engaging story is practically hard. If you are not first creating an outline or conceptual guides while writing a research paper, you may lose track. A well-written outline is essential in completing your paper and maintaining quality. Establishing your point in paper writing is easy if you create an outline first. You can find an APA research paper outline template that best suits your requirement. Moreover, these tips can help you polish your writing. These tips and sample papers can help you write outstanding outlines without making any hassle.

A definite goal

For better expression, make a list of primary objectives on a title page in a single phrase or less. Your goal should be specific and measurable. If it is too broad or imprecise, you will not achieve anything. If you are working on a large paper format that covers a variety of themes or topics, you may have a more general purpose in mind. But, if you plan to write an essay, the aim should be as specific and clear as possible to be effective.

Breaking things up rather than allowing them to become verbose is known as the division rule. Make sure that each subsection in the document corresponds to its parent heading. If it doesn’t compare to the section, removing it or moving it to another location is better.

Parallelism

It is mainly related to the consistency and structure of the document. It keeps your paper’s layout tidy and also ensures relevancy. For instance, if you begin one heading with a verb, make sure all other headings and subheadings also start with a verb.

Coordination

Having headings aligned is critical to creating a well-organized outline. This rule also applies to subheadings, which is a good thing. If one title is less important than another, consider changing your layout by incorporating it into a subsection instead.

Subordination

Subordination deals with maintaining a connection between your paper’s headings and subheadings. It helps in the proper sequencing of headings and subheadings. Headings should be broad at the outset. At the same time, the subheadings become more particular as they go further into the document.

Avoid Redundancy

While writing a paper outline, look through it many times and cross out any items that aren’t necessary or have no significance. While outlining, make sure to be specific and concise. It will prevent you from adding information that does not supporting your final essay. Remove all the extra information and points while c that weighs you down while you write.

Wrap it up in a good way

Creating an outline does not only help in writing a coherent term paper, but it also helps in ending with precise understanding. Be considerate of your audience’s time and effort when you write an outline in APA, and ensure it serves its purpose. If you still have any doubts about formatting your paper outline, you can use this APA-style research paper outline template to write your document. We have provided Outline Format Example for every style.

People find it hard to write an outline in APA, but if you are aware of the requirements and structure, it’s no breeze. Sometimes, your instructor may alter your paper format by introducing or removing existing sections. As a result, if you come across any templates for an outline in APA, pay close attention to them. If you are looking for a quick answer to how to outline an APA paper, here’s a standard logical sequence of typical parts to include when writing an outline in APA:

• Thesis statement
• Techniques employed
• Body of paper
• Conclusions section
• List of references

A well-written outline is an excellent tool for presenting an outstanding paper. Including the key components while writing an outline for a research paper is necessary.

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Research Paper: A step-by-step guide: 3. Thesis Statement & Outline

• 1. Getting Started
• 2. Topic Ideas
• 3. Thesis Statement & Outline
• 4. Appropriate Sources
• 5. Search Techniques
• 6. Taking Notes & Documenting Sources
• 7. Evaluating Sources
• 8. Citations & Plagiarism
• 9. Writing Your Research Paper

About Thesis Statements

Qualities of a thesis statement.

Thesis statements:

• state the subject matter and main ideas of a paper.
• appear in the first paragraph and announces what you will discuss in your paper.
• define the scope and focus of your essay, and tells your reader what to expect.  
• are not a simple factual statement.  It is an assertion that states your claims and that you can prove with evidence.
• should be the product of research and your own critical thinking.
• can be very helpful in constructing an outline for your essay; for each point you make, ask yourself whether it is relevant to the thesis.

Steps you can use to create a thesis statement

1. Start out with the main topic and focus of your essay.

youth gangs + prevention and intervention programs

2. Make a claim or argument in one sentence.  It can be helpful to start with a question which you then turn into an argument

Can prevention and intervention programs stop youth gang activities?  How?  ►►►  "Prevention and intervention programs can stop youth gang activities by giving teens something else to do."

3. Revise the sentence by using specific terms.

"Early prevention programs in schools are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement by giving teens good activities that offer a path to success."

4. Further revise the sentence to cover the scope of your essay and make a strong statement.

"Among various prevention and intervention efforts that have been made to deal with the rapid growth of youth gangs, early school-based prevention programs are the most effective way to prevent youth gang involvement, which they do by giving teens meaningful activities that offer pathways to achievement and success."

5. Keep your thesis statement flexible and revise it as needed. In the process of researching and writing, you may find new information or refine your understanding of the topic.

You can view this short video for more tips on how to write a clear thesis statement.

An outline is the skeleton of your essay, in which you list the arguments and subtopics in a logical order. A good outline is an important element in writing a good paper. An outline helps to target your research areas, keep you within the scope without going off-track, and it can also help to keep your argument in good order when writing the essay.  Once your outline is in good shape, it is much easier to write your paper; you've already done most of the thinking, so you just need to fill in the outline with a paragraph for each point.

To write an outline: The most common way to write an outline is the list format.  List all the major topics and subtopics with the key points that support them. Put similar topics and points together and arrange them in a logical order.    Include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. 

A list outline should arrange the main points or arguments in a hierarchical structure indicated by Roman numerals for main ideas (I, II, III...), capital letters for subtopics (A, B, C...), Arabic numerals for details (1,2,3...), and lower-case letters for fine details if needed (a,b,c...). This helps keep things organized.  

Here is a shortened example of an outline:

Introduction: background and thesis statement

I. First topic

1. Supporting evidence 2. Supporting evidence

II. Second Topic

III. Third Topic

I. Summarize the main points of your paper II. Restate your thesis in different words III. Make a strong final statement

You can see examples of a few different kinds of outlines and get more help at the Purdue OWL .

• << Previous: 2. Topic Ideas
• Next: 4. Appropriate Sources >>
• Last Updated: Apr 18, 2023 12:12 PM
• URL: https://butte.libguides.com/ResearchPaper

The Writing Process

Making expository writing less stressful, more efficient, and more enlightening

Creating a Detailed Outline

To construct a detailed outline:

• Use a hierarchical structure of main ideas, supporting ideas; supporting details. (Use the outline numbering system of your word processor or Google/One Drive to start at the top level with Roman number I, then A, then i, then (a), then 1…)
• Except for your (working) thesis statment, don’t feel you need use complete sentences unless you particularly like one from your freewrite). You may often omit articles, pronouns, prepositions, and often the verb “to be” (see sample outline);
• Do NOT omit other verbs, though; for example, “Economic development” is not an idea, but rather a topic. “Economic development stagnated mid-1990s” is an idea…
• Once you have transferred all the ideas from Step 1, look over the outline and see if you have enough evidence to adequately prove your thesis. If not, or if some places need evidence, either DO MORE OF STEP 1 or do some research to fill in vacant parts of your outline. Remember, your outline should contain EVERY POINT that you’re going to write in your paper (although of course new ideas or questions may arise in your mind as you write, but that’s good! It means your paper will be even more sophisticated.)

Click here to practice constructing your own detailed outline .

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Home » Research Paper Outline – Types, Example, Template

Research Paper Outline – Types, Example, Template

Table of Contents

By creating a well-structured research paper outline, writers can easily organize their thoughts and ideas and ensure that their final paper is clear, concise, and effective. In this article, we will explore the essential components of a research paper outline and provide some tips and tricks for creating a successful one.

Research Paper Outline

Research paper outline is a plan or a structural framework that organizes the main ideas , arguments, and supporting evidence in a logical sequence. It serves as a blueprint or a roadmap for the writer to follow while drafting the actual research paper .

Typically, an outline consists of the following elements:

• Introduction : This section presents the topic, research question , and thesis statement of the paper. It also provides a brief overview of the literature review and the methodology used.
• Literature Review: This section provides a comprehensive review of the relevant literature, theories, and concepts related to the research topic. It analyzes the existing research and identifies the research gaps and research questions.
• Methodology: This section explains the research design, data collection methods, data analysis, and ethical considerations of the study.
• Results: This section presents the findings of the study, using tables, graphs, and statistics to illustrate the data.
• Discussion : This section interprets the results of the study, and discusses their implications, significance, and limitations. It also suggests future research directions.
• Conclusion : This section summarizes the main findings of the study and restates the thesis statement.
• References: This section lists all the sources cited in the paper using the appropriate citation style.

Research Paper Outline Types

There are several types of outlines that can be used for research papers, including:

Alphanumeric Outline

This is a traditional outline format that uses Roman numerals, capital letters, Arabic numerals, and lowercase letters to organize the main ideas and supporting details of a research paper. It is commonly used for longer, more complex research papers.

I. Introduction

• A. Background information
• B. Thesis statement
• 1 1. Supporting detail
• 1 2. Supporting detail 2
• 2 1. Supporting detail

III. Conclusion

• A. Restate thesis
• B. Summarize main points

Decimal Outline

This outline format uses numbers to organize the main ideas and supporting details of a research paper. It is similar to the alphanumeric outline, but it uses only numbers and decimals to indicate the hierarchy of the ideas.

• 1.1 Background information
• 1.2 Thesis statement
• 1 2.1.1 Supporting detail
• 1 2.1.2 Supporting detail
• 2 2.2.1 Supporting detail
• 1 2.2.2 Supporting detail
• 3.1 Restate thesis
• 3.2 Summarize main points

Full Sentence Outline

This type of outline uses complete sentences to describe the main ideas and supporting details of a research paper. It is useful for those who prefer to see the entire paper outlined in complete sentences.

• Provide background information on the topic
• State the thesis statement
• Explain main idea 1 and provide supporting details
• Discuss main idea 2 and provide supporting details
• Restate the thesis statement
• Summarize the main points of the paper

Topic Outline

This type of outline uses short phrases or words to describe the main ideas and supporting details of a research paper. It is useful for those who prefer to see a more concise overview of the paper.

• Background information
• Thesis statement
• Supporting detail 1
• Supporting detail 2
• Restate thesis
• Summarize main points

Reverse Outline

This is an outline that is created after the paper has been written. It involves going back through the paper and summarizing each paragraph or section in one sentence. This can be useful for identifying gaps in the paper or areas that need further development.

• Introduction : Provides background information and states the thesis statement.
• Paragraph 1: Discusses main idea 1 and provides supporting details.
• Paragraph 2: Discusses main idea 2 and provides supporting details.
• Paragraph 3: Addresses potential counterarguments.
• Conclusion : Restates thesis and summarizes main points.

Mind Map Outline

This type of outline involves creating a visual representation of the main ideas and supporting details of a research paper. It can be useful for those who prefer a more creative and visual approach to outlining.

• Supporting detail 1: Lack of funding for public schools.
• Supporting detail 2: Decrease in government support for education.
• Supporting detail 1: Increase in income inequality.
• Supporting detail 2: Decrease in social mobility.

Research Paper Outline Example

Research Paper Outline Example on Cyber Security:

A. Overview of Cybersecurity

• B. Importance of Cybersecurity
• C. Purpose of the paper

II. Cyber Threats

A. Definition of Cyber Threats

• B. Types of Cyber Threats
• C. Examples of Cyber Threats

III. Cybersecurity Measures

A. Prevention measures

• Anti-virus software
• Encryption B. Detection measures
• Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)
• Security Operations Center (SOC) C. Response measures
• Incident Response Plan
• Business Continuity Plan
• Disaster Recovery Plan

IV. Cybersecurity in the Business World

A. Overview of Cybersecurity in the Business World

B. Cybersecurity Risk Assessment

C. Best Practices for Cybersecurity in Business

V. Cybersecurity in Government Organizations

A. Overview of Cybersecurity in Government Organizations

C. Best Practices for Cybersecurity in Government Organizations

VI. Cybersecurity Ethics

A. Definition of Cybersecurity Ethics

B. Importance of Cybersecurity Ethics

C. Examples of Cybersecurity Ethics

VII. Future of Cybersecurity

A. Overview of the Future of Cybersecurity

B. Emerging Cybersecurity Threats

C. Advancements in Cybersecurity Technology

VIII. Conclusion

A. Summary of the paper

B. Recommendations for Cybersecurity

• C. Conclusion.

IX. References

A. List of sources cited in the paper

B. Bibliography of additional resources

Introduction

Cybersecurity refers to the protection of computer systems, networks, and sensitive data from unauthorized access, theft, damage, or any other form of cyber attack. B. Importance of Cybersecurity The increasing reliance on technology and the growing number of cyber threats make cybersecurity an essential aspect of modern society. Cybersecurity breaches can result in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal liabilities. C. Purpose of the paper This paper aims to provide an overview of cybersecurity, cyber threats, cybersecurity measures, cybersecurity in the business and government sectors, cybersecurity ethics, and the future of cybersecurity.

A cyber threat is any malicious act or event that attempts to compromise or disrupt computer systems, networks, or sensitive data. B. Types of Cyber Threats Common types of cyber threats include malware, phishing, social engineering, ransomware, DDoS attacks, and advanced persistent threats (APTs). C. Examples of Cyber Threats Recent cyber threats include the SolarWinds supply chain attack, the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack, and the Microsoft Exchange Server hack.

Prevention measures aim to minimize the risk of cyber attacks by implementing security controls, such as firewalls, anti-virus software, and encryption.

• Firewalls Firewalls act as a barrier between a computer network and the internet, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent unauthorized access.
• Anti-virus software Anti-virus software detects, prevents, and removes malware from computer systems.
• Encryption Encryption involves the use of mathematical algorithms to transform sensitive data into a code that can only be accessed by authorized individuals. B. Detection measures Detection measures aim to identify and respond to cyber attacks as quickly as possible, such as intrusion detection systems (IDS), security information and event management (SIEM), and security operations centers (SOCs).
• Intrusion Detection System (IDS) IDS monitors network traffic for signs of unauthorized access, such as unusual patterns or anomalies.
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) SIEM combines security information management and security event management to provide real-time monitoring and analysis of security alerts.
• Security Operations Center (SOC) SOC is a dedicated team responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and responding to cyber threats. C. Response measures Response measures aim to mitigate the impact of a cyber attack and restore normal operations, such as incident response plans (IRPs), business continuity plans (BCPs), and disaster recovery plans (DRPs).
• Incident Response Plan IRPs outline the procedures and protocols to follow in the event of a cyber attack, including communication protocols, roles and responsibilities, and recovery processes.
• Business Continuity Plan BCPs ensure that critical business functions can continue in the event of a cyber attack or other disruption.
• Disaster Recovery Plan DRPs outline the procedures to recover from a catastrophic event, such as a natural disaster or cyber attack.

Cybersecurity is crucial for businesses of all sizes and industries, as they handle sensitive data, financial transactions, and intellectual property that are attractive targets for cyber criminals.

Risk assessment is a critical step in developing a cybersecurity strategy, which involves identifying potential threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences to determine the level of risk and prioritize security measures.

Best practices for cybersecurity in business include implementing strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, regularly updating software and hardware, training employees on cybersecurity awareness, and regularly backing up data.

Government organizations face unique cybersecurity challenges, as they handle sensitive information related to national security, defense, and critical infrastructure.

Risk assessment in government organizations involves identifying and assessing potential threats and vulnerabilities, conducting regular audits, and complying with relevant regulations and standards.

Best practices for cybersecurity in government organizations include implementing secure communication protocols, regularly updating and patching software, and conducting regular cybersecurity training and awareness programs for employees.

Cybersecurity ethics refers to the ethical considerations involved in cybersecurity, such as privacy, data protection, and the responsible use of technology.

Cybersecurity ethics are crucial for maintaining trust in technology, protecting privacy and data, and promoting responsible behavior in the digital world.

Examples of cybersecurity ethics include protecting the privacy of user data, ensuring data accuracy and integrity, and implementing fair and unbiased algorithms.

The future of cybersecurity will involve a shift towards more advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and quantum computing.

Emerging cybersecurity threats include AI-powered cyber attacks, the use of deepfakes and synthetic media, and the potential for quantum computing to break current encryption methods.

Advancements in cybersecurity technology include the development of AI and machine learning-based security tools, the use of blockchain for secure data storage and sharing, and the development of post-quantum encryption methods.

This paper has provided an overview of cybersecurity, cyber threats, cybersecurity measures, cybersecurity in the business and government sectors, cybersecurity ethics, and the future of cybersecurity.

To enhance cybersecurity, organizations should prioritize risk assessment and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes prevention, detection, and response measures. Additionally, organizations should prioritize cybersecurity ethics to promote responsible behavior in the digital world.

C. Conclusion

Cybersecurity is an essential aspect of modern society, and organizations must prioritize cybersecurity to protect sensitive data and maintain trust in technology.

for further reading

X. Appendices

A. Glossary of key terms

B. Cybersecurity checklist for organizations

C. Sample cybersecurity policy for businesses

D. Sample cybersecurity incident response plan

E. Cybersecurity training and awareness resources

Note : The content and organization of the paper may vary depending on the specific requirements of the assignment or target audience. This outline serves as a general guide for writing a research paper on cybersecurity. Do not use this in your assingmets.

Research Paper Outline Template

• Background information and context of the research topic
• Research problem and questions
• Purpose and objectives of the research
• Scope and limitations

II. Literature Review

• Overview of existing research on the topic
• Key concepts and theories related to the research problem
• Identification of gaps in the literature
• Summary of relevant studies and their findings

III. Methodology

• Research design and approach
• Data collection methods and procedures
• Data analysis techniques
• Validity and reliability considerations
• Ethical considerations

IV. Results

• Presentation of research findings
• Analysis and interpretation of data
• Explanation of significant results
• Discussion of unexpected results

V. Discussion

• Comparison of research findings with existing literature
• Implications of results for theory and practice
• Limitations and future directions for research
• Conclusion and recommendations

VI. Conclusion

• Summary of research problem, purpose, and objectives
• Discussion of significant findings
• Contribution to the field of study
• Implications for practice
• Suggestions for future research

VII. References

• List of sources cited in the research paper using appropriate citation style.

Note : This is just an template, and depending on the requirements of your assignment or the specific research topic, you may need to modify or adjust the sections or headings accordingly.

Research Paper Outline Writing Guide

Here’s a guide to help you create an effective research paper outline:

• Choose a topic : Select a topic that is interesting, relevant, and meaningful to you.
• Conduct research: Gather information on the topic from a variety of sources, such as books, articles, journals, and websites.
• Organize your ideas: Organize your ideas and information into logical groups and subgroups. This will help you to create a clear and concise outline.
• Create an outline: Begin your outline with an introduction that includes your thesis statement. Then, organize your ideas into main points and subpoints. Each main point should be supported by evidence and examples.
• Introduction: The introduction of your research paper should include the thesis statement, background information, and the purpose of the research paper.
• Body : The body of your research paper should include the main points and subpoints. Each point should be supported by evidence and examples.
• Conclusion : The conclusion of your research paper should summarize the main points and restate the thesis statement.
• Reference List: Include a reference list at the end of your research paper. Make sure to properly cite all sources used in the paper.
• Proofreading : Proofread your research paper to ensure that it is free of errors and grammatical mistakes.
• Finalizing : Finalize your research paper by reviewing the outline and making any necessary changes.

When to Write Research Paper Outline

It’s a good idea to write a research paper outline before you begin drafting your paper. The outline will help you organize your thoughts and ideas, and it can serve as a roadmap for your writing process.

Here are a few situations when you might want to consider writing an outline:

• When you’re starting a new research project: If you’re beginning a new research project, an outline can help you get organized from the very beginning. You can use your outline to brainstorm ideas, map out your research goals, and identify potential sources of information.
• When you’re struggling to organize your thoughts: If you find yourself struggling to organize your thoughts or make sense of your research, an outline can be a helpful tool. It can help you see the big picture of your project and break it down into manageable parts.
• When you’re working with a tight deadline : If you have a deadline for your research paper, an outline can help you stay on track and ensure that you cover all the necessary points. By mapping out your paper in advance, you can work more efficiently and avoid getting stuck or overwhelmed.

Purpose of Research Paper Outline

The purpose of a research paper outline is to provide a structured and organized plan for the writer to follow while conducting research and writing the paper. An outline is essentially a roadmap that guides the writer through the entire research process, from the initial research and analysis of the topic to the final writing and editing of the paper.

A well-constructed outline can help the writer to:

• Organize their thoughts and ideas on the topic, and ensure that all relevant information is included.
• Identify any gaps in their research or argument, and address them before starting to write the paper.
• Ensure that the paper follows a logical and coherent structure, with clear transitions between different sections.
• Save time and effort by providing a clear plan for the writer to follow, rather than starting from scratch and having to revise the paper multiple times.

Advantages of Research Paper Outline

Some of the key advantages of a research paper outline include:

• Helps to organize thoughts and ideas : An outline helps to organize all the different ideas and information that you want to include in your paper. By creating an outline, you can ensure that all the points you want to make are covered and in a logical order.
• Saves time and effort : An outline saves time and effort because it helps you to focus on the key points of your paper. It also helps you to identify any gaps or areas where more research may be needed.
• Makes the writing process easier : With an outline, you have a clear roadmap of what you want to write, and this makes the writing process much easier. You can simply follow your outline and fill in the details as you go.
• Improves the quality of your paper : By having a clear outline, you can ensure that all the important points are covered and in a logical order. This makes your paper more coherent and easier to read, which ultimately improves its overall quality.
• Facilitates collaboration: If you are working on a research paper with others, an outline can help to facilitate collaboration. By sharing your outline, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.

About the author

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Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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Informative Essay Outline

Informative essay generator.

An Informative Essay Outline serves as a structural framework, guiding writers to effectively convey their ideas. Crafting such an outline ensures clarity and coherence in essays. This complete guide, enriched with practical examples, is designed to simplify the process of creating an informative essay outline. It highlights the significance of structure in essay writing, making it an indispensable tool for anyone seeking to master the art of presenting information systematically. Incorporating Essay Examples in this guide further aids in understanding the nuances of essay writing, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and seasoned writers.

Download Informative Essay Outline Bundle

In school, students in English subjects are required to do essays. These essays may be in a form of a descriptive essay , narrative essay , expository essay, persuasive essay or even an informative essay. These essays follow a certain structure or format to maintain its unity, coherence and organization. Let’s say you are to write an informative essay How are you going to do it? You know very well that the purpose of an informative essay is to give information to educate other people about a certain topic. In this article, you will be able to know how to create a good informative essay.

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What is an Informative Essay? – Definition

An informative essay is a style of informative writing that aims to educate the reader on a specific subject. It’s characterized by presenting facts and data without the inclusion of personal opinions or persuasive elements. The primary goal is to inform and enlighten the audience about the topic at hand. In a short informative essay , this is achieved in a concise manner, ensuring that the essential information is conveyed clearly and efficiently. This type of essay is fundamental in academic and educational contexts, as it focuses on the clear presentation of facts, aiding in the development of research and writing skills.

What are the 5 Parts of an Informative Essay?

Informative essays are pivotal in academic writing, especially for students and educators. They offer a structured way to convey knowledge and understanding on a particular topic. A well-crafted informative essay typically consists of five main components, each serving a unique purpose in delivering clear and concise information. Below, we delve into these components, crucial for anyone looking to enhance their writing skills in creating persuasive essays , narrative essay examples, and other forms of academic writing.

1. Introduction

The introduction is the gateway to your essay. It begins with a hook that grabs the reader’s attention, followed by a brief overview of the topic. The introduction sets the tone for the entire essay and should be engaging yet informative. It culminates in a thesis statement, which is the backbone of your essay. This statement clearly outlines the central idea or argument that your essay will explore. Crafting a compelling introduction is essential, as it prepares the reader for the detailed exploration of the topic that follows.

2. Thesis Statement

Embedded within the introduction, the thesis statement is the guiding star of your essay. It presents your central argument or the main point you wish to convey. A well-formulated thesis statement is concise and specific, offering a clear direction for the essay. It lays the foundation for the arguments and evidence that will be presented in the body paragraphs. A strong thesis statement is essential for maintaining focus and coherence throughout your essay.

3. Body Paragraphs

The body of an informative essay is where the bulk of the information is presented. It typically consists of three paragraphs, each dedicated to a specific point or aspect of the topic. These paragraphs should follow a logical sequence and each should start with a topic sentence that relates back to the thesis statement. This is where you present evidence, facts, and examples to support your thesis. For instance, when discussing narrative essay examples , each paragraph might explore different aspects like character development, plot structure, or thematic elements.

4. Supporting Evidence

Within the body paragraphs , supporting evidence plays a crucial role. This evidence can come in various forms, such as statistics, quotes, or real-life examples. The key is to ensure that all evidence directly supports the main points and adds value to your argument. For instance, in a short essay, selecting the most impactful evidence is vital to maintain conciseness while effectively conveying your argument.

5. Conclusion

The conclusion is where you wrap up the essay by summarizing the main points and restating the thesis in light of the evidence presented. It’s important to end with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. The conclusion should not introduce new information but should neatly tie all the parts of your essay together, reinforcing your thesis and providing a final perspective on the topic.

In summary, an informative essay is structured around these five essential components. Each part plays a critical role in crafting a cohesive and compelling narrative. Whether you’re writing persuasive essays, narrative essay examples, or any academic piece, understanding and utilizing these five parts effectively can significantly enhance the quality of your writing. Remember, the goal is to inform and enlighten your audience with a well-structured and insightful essay.

How do you end an informative essay?

You end an informative essay by simply rephrasing the thesis statement , summarizing the main points in the body of the essay and providing a closing sentence that would have a connection to your introduction.

How many paragraphs are in informative essay?

Basically, an informative essay has a maximum of four to five paragraphs.

Does an informative essay need a thesis?

An informative essay needs a thesis. Without a thesis, all of the information you provided will be unfocused.

Whenever you want to share a specific information to your target readers or to anybody, you always have to do intensive research to make your details accurate. You should also choose a topic that is timely or interesting enough to keep the attention of your readers. An informative essay is a best tool for an author to educate people on what is the truth behind every single information.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write an Informative Essay on the process of photosynthesis.

Create an Informative Essay discussing the benefits and drawbacks of urbanization.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Why and How to Create a Useful Outline

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Why create an outline? There are many reasons, but in general, it may be helpful to create an outline when you want to show the hierarchical relationship or logical ordering of information. For research papers, an outline may help you keep track of large amounts of information. For creative writing, an outline may help organize the various plot threads and help keep track of character traits. Many people find that organizing an oral report or presentation in outline form helps them speak more effectively in front of a crowd. Below are the primary reasons for creating an outline.

• Aids in the process of writing
• Helps you organize your ideas
• Presents your material in a logical form
• Shows the relationships among ideas in your writing
• Constructs an ordered overview of your writing
• Defines boundaries and groups

How do I create an outline?

• Determine the purpose of your paper.
• Determine the audience you are writing for.
• Develop the thesis of your paper.
• Brainstorm : List all the ideas that you want to include in your paper.
• Organize : Group related ideas together.
• Order : Arrange material in subsections from general to specific or from abstract to concrete.
• Label : Create main and sub headings.

Remember: creating an outline before writing your paper will make organizing your thoughts a lot easier. Whether you follow the suggested guidelines is up to you, but making any kind of outline (even just some jotting down some main ideas) will be beneficial to your writing process.

How To Write An Informative Research Paper

Published by gudwriter on February 1, 2021 February 1, 2021

Informative research papers are meant to shed light on a specific subject for an audience interested in knowing more about it. Informative writing presents facts as they are about the subject without seeking to form an opinion in the audience, but instead provoke curiosity on the subject. Informative research papers are incredibly prolific in sciences and technology.

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Types of Informative Research Papers

An informative essay can take on different forms. You could write it to explain a term or concept. You can also write an analysis type of essay to explore a specific subject. Some informative essays are in the form of ‘how-to’ essays, while others compare and contrast different subjects.

The writer must present factual evidence on what is or what happens. In sciences, this details experiments, while in humanities, it involves a rigorous literature review. The writer must use credible sources of information and cite them in a reference section. A mix of primary and secondary sources makes the facts presented more credible. The research paper’s main body links different facts to explain the current or future state of the subject. A conclusion is needed to show how this research applies or how it will impact future events.

An Informative essay is structured pretty much like other academic essays except for a few slight differences which every student should be aware of. To avoid making any mistakes or making any assumptions which might later affect your final grade, relieve yourself from all this stress and get an online research writer who will help you out.

Main Elements of an Informative Essay

1. the introduction.

This is where you tell the reader what the subject of the essay is about. What will the reader be informed about? This section has an overview of the subject e.g., Cryptocurrencies . This also includes defining the different terms that relate to the subject of discussion. This touches on the background information on the subject, such as how cryptocurrencies have grown since 2009.

 A brief on what is to be covered by the essay should also be included to avoid wasting the reader’s time. Including a thesis statement is essential in defining the essay; for example, Cryptocurrencies will form the bulk of online money by 2030. The introduction section is the only chance the writer gets to catch and maintain the reader’s attention.

2. The body

This middle section of an informative essay forms the bulk of it. This is where you support the thesis statement with facts, statements, statistics, and supporting evidence. Many informative research papers have 3-4 body paragraphs. This may vary on the higher side for a complicated subject or one with a broad scope. Use the words to pages converter to calculate how many pages a certain number of words is.

The body fills out all the terms, concepts, and ideas in the introduction. If you are writing on the role of cryptocurrencies in online transactions, for example, body paragraphs would include;

• Defining cryptocurrencies and an explanation of how they come about (mining)
• How cryptocurrencies are exchanged and verification of transactions
• Differences between cryptocurrencies and Fiat money
• Advantages of using cryptocurrencies
• Common transactions involving cryptocurrencies
• The future of cryptocurrencies

3. The conclusion

This part of an informative research paper wraps up the evidence presented in the body and makes deductions or inferences that support the thesis statement. This is where you restate the thesis statement by linking it to what the research paper has presented as factual. You also reiterate the importance of discussing the subject. An excellent informative research paper should also seek to offer foresight into the subject e.g., the role of cryptocurrencies in e-commerce in the next ten years.

Read on how to tame a wild tongue sample essay that may help you understand on how to write quality essays.

A conclusion is usually done in one or two paragraphs. The closing statements of a good conclusion should provoke the reader to delve deeper into the research subject.

4. The references

Informative research papers depend on citations to prove their credibility when presenting secondary research i.e., facts uncovered in other sources. It is also an academic requirement lest the writer gets penalized for plagiarism and copyright violations. The citations should be done according to the demanded format e.g., MLA format. Be sure to provide a reference for each citation.

How to Pick a Topic for an Informative Research Paper

• Exposé on an original topic – This is where you research a relatively new topic or sub-topic e.g., A new type of cryptocurrency
• Further investigation into a popular topic – This is research that is meant to shed better light on a specific subject e.g., mining of cryptocurrencies

It is essential to bear in mind that a research paper consumes resources in time and money. It is prudent to keep the scope of the research manageable.

Examples of informative research paper topics

• Is it easier for multilingual students to learn new languages?
• Is there any significant suicide rate among students in public colleges?
• How to develop mental health with proper counseling?
• How to learn sign language for communicating with the deaf and dumb?
• What causes some people who grow up in dire circumstances to overcome them?
• Who is responsible for high school hate crimes?
• Explain the consequences of having alcohol on the school campus.
• What does “living below the poverty line” mean?
• How has the internet boosted communication?
• How does fast food affect our health?
• What affects a couple’s decision on how many children to have?
• What is homelessness? What causes people to be homeless?
• Why Obama’s care does more harm than good?
• Which is the most similar to our Earth planet?
• Why does Nicki Minaj dress as she dresses? Is it a simple media stunt, or is there a deeper reason?
• How to reduce the influence of social media on our lives?
• Causes and effects of frictional unemployment
• How does acrophobia affect people?
• What are the four explanations for why we forget things?
• What is the rule of reciprocity?
• What is schizophrenia? What are the different types of this disease? Is there a cure?
• The effects of online and mobile banking on employment in the financial sector
• Top reasons that lead to the high level of obesity among the US population
• What is a nanobot, and what problems can be solved with the help of nanobots?
• What are the effects on a family when a parent becomes a meth addict?

Common Mistakes Made When Writing Informative Essays

To write the perfect informative essay, you must avoid the following common mistakes.

1. A poor structure

As indicated above, the structure of an informative essay includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. This structure must be adhered to lest your work will be confusing for the reader.

2. Having no thesis statement or a weak one

The importance of a thesis statement in an informative essay cannot be overstated. Most of the time, students proceed with their essays and forget all about the thesis statement. The thesis statement helps draw the readers’ attention and makes the essay catchy. It also gives the reader an overview of what you are going to talk about. You can also use our thesis statement generator tool for an outstanding thesis statement.

3. Not having an outline

After coming up with a topic for the informative essay, the next thing you should do is to create an outline. How does an outline help? Well, it helps you stick to the subject as most students find themselves wandering away from the point. More so, it will help your writing flow and prevent you from getting stuck in the middle of the essay.

When writing an informative essay, it is essential to stay enthusiastic throughout, even if you don’t like the topic you are discussing. Also, do not forget the objective of writing this essay, which is informing and educating the audience on a given topic. Proofread your work and  check for plagiarism  before submitting your work to get an A Grade.

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Fears and Worries at Nighttime in Young Children: Development and Psychometric Validation of a Parent-Report Measure (FAWN-YC)

• Open access
• Published: 16 September 2024

Cite this article

You have full access to this open access article

• Amy Shiels   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6147-7388 1 ,
• Laura Uhlmann   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6282-9736 1 ,
• Lara J. Farrell   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-4231-2227 1 , 2 ,
• Erinn Munro-Lee 1 &
• Caroline L. Donovan   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6380-635X 1 , 2  

This paper outlines the development and psychometric evaluation of the Fears and Worries at Nighttime—Young Children (FAWN-YC) scale; a parent-rated measure for children aged 3–5 years. Based on previous literature, it was hypothesised that the measure would be represented by a six-factor solution, with four clusters of fear types and two behavioural manifestations of fears. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA; N = 436) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; N = 383), resulted in a final 17 items that loaded onto 3 factors: Nighttime Fear Focus (8 items, α = 0.92), Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference (5 items, α = 0.90), and Dark Fear (4 items, α = 0.88). Evidence of convergent validity was found through strong associations between the total score and subscales of the FAWN-YC with measures of child anxiety, fear, sleep, externalizing and conduct problems. Furthermore, there was support for divergent validity (through a very weak to no relationship with a measure of prosocial behaviours), and evidence for temporal stability was also established with 2-week test–retest reliability. Overall, the results provide strong preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of the FAWN-YC total score and subscales. Implications for the use of the measure in research and clinical practice are discussed.

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

Introduction

Nighttime fears are a heterogenous group of fears that include separation fears, personal safety fears, imagination-based fears, and darkness fears [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. Nighttime fears are particularly prevalent in young children and are often considered developmentally normal, with almost 60% of 4- to 6-year-olds experiencing difficulties with fear at night [ 4 ]. Although nighttime fears are transient for many children, approximately 10 to 30% experience fear at night that is severe, persistent, interferes substantially with sleep, and requires significant family accommodation [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. Cross-sectional literature indicates that compared to controls, preschool aged children with severe nighttime fears demonstrate increased general fears, internalising and externalising behaviours, and lower effortful control [ 8 ]. Similarly, El Rafihi-Ferreira et al. [ 9 ] found that internalising behaviours were positively associated with parent-reported child nighttime fear in a sample of preschool aged children whose parents attended a nighttime fear treatment program.

Indeed, severe nighttime fears are impairing, reaching diagnostic thresholds for an anxiety disorder (i.e., specific phobia and/or separation anxiety), and/or a sleep disorder (most commonly insomnia [ 10 , 11 ]. Anxiety and behavioural sleep disorders in the preschool developmental period can lead to numerous problematic consequences in both the short- and long-term. Anxiety in the preschool years frequently endures into later childhood and beyond, and predicts lower school engagement, poorer peer relations and functional impairment during the school-age years, as well as sleep difficulties and psychopathology into adulthood [ 4 , 12 , 13 ]. Similarly, behavioural sleep problems in the preschool period have been shown to persist into adolescence if untreated, with numerous deleterious social, emotional and educational consequences [ 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 ].

Nighttime fears have recently gained renewed attention in the paediatric sleep literature as an important contributor to behavioural insomnia symptoms during the preschool developmental period [ 12 , 21 ]. In a recently published 25-year review of nighttime fears in children, Lewis et al. [ 21 ] analysed studies employing behavioural, and cognitive-behavioural interventions. It was concluded that treating nighttime fears resulted not only in significant reductions in nighttime fears and dark phobias, but also significantly improved sleep and reduced general fears, anxiety, internalising and externalising behaviour problems in children aged 3–12 years. Thus, for many young children, nighttime fears are at the root of difficulties with sleep and problems at bedtime. Given the high prevalence and deleterious consequences associated with nighttime fears, it is crucial that we comprehensively understand them and have a measure to screen for them early in life.

Nighttime fears vary both in terms of their focus and the behavioural difficulties resulting from them. With respect to focus, some children experience one specific fear, while others experience multiple fears, with nighttime fears generally clustering into presentations of separation fears (being away from parents), darkness-related fears (sounds, shadows), personal safety fears (being harmed by an intruder) and fears of the imagination (e.g., ghosts; [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]). With respect to behavioural difficulties manifesting as a result of nighttime fears, children may demonstrate resistance and refusal to participate in activities leading up to bedtime, they may cry and call out at bedtime, they may be unable to stay in a darkened bedroom or leave their room for other reasons [ 9 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 ].

In order to effectively treat nighttime fears, clinicians must consider both the type of nighttime fear and the behavioural outcomes they produce. For example, a child who cries and repeatedly comes out of their room because they are afraid of the dark and therefore cannot remain alone in their darkened bedroom, will require a specific intervention. The treatment plan would include an exposure hierarchy which gradually exposes the child to being comfortable in the dark. This intervention would also include parenting strategies such as parent-mediated child relaxation skills, and effective praise. Alternatively, a young child who tantrums and refuses to take part in the bedtime routine because they are worried about being separated from their family at bedtime will require an alternative intervention. This treatment plan would likely begin with parenting strategies such as behaviour management skills (i.e., a bedtime routine reward chart, effective praise, how to negotiate with a young child, etc.) followed by an exposure hierarchy focused on gradually separating from their caregiver at night [ 6 ]. A comprehensive measure of nighttime fears and the behavioural outcomes they lead to, may assist in the development of an individual case formulation and evidence-based treatment plan. However, to date, such a measure has not been developed.

Despite nighttime fears being an important factor in the development and maintenance of sleep problems in young children, their assessment is notably absent from the vast majority of both paediatric anxiety and sleep measures developed to date. In fact, a validated measure for this vulnerable, preschool aged developmental period (i.e., ages 3–5 years) is yet to be developed. Within the paediatric anxiety literature, there are a few psychometrically validated measures assessing dark or night fears, however there is currently no measure for use in preschool aged populations. For instance, the self-report Fear of the Dark Scale [ 26 ], was designed for use with adults and adolescents. The child self-report Nighttime Fears Scale [ 27 ] and the child self-report and parent-report Children’s Nighttime Fear Survey [ 3 ] were developed for children over 7 and 8 years of age respectively. Turning to the paediatric sleep literature there exists only two measures that have been validated with a population which includes preschool aged children that include aspects of nighttime fears: the parent-report Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire [ 28 ] and the parent-report Manifestations and Vulnerabilities of Behavioural Insomnia in Childhood Scale [ 29 , 30 ]. However, both of these are comprehensive sleep measures with minimal items pertaining to fears and anxiety at night. For clinical and research purposes, both sleep measures provide insufficient detail on the type of nighttime fears and the particular behavioural manifestations that may result from them.

Both self-report and parent-report rating scales are limited by the amount and type of information that can be collected. Additionally, when it comes to parent-reports, Muris et al.’s [ 4 ] study of 4- to 12-year-olds concluded that parents provided a remarkable underestimation of the frequency of their child’s nighttime fears. Indeed, when examining the results reported separately by age group (4–6 years, 7–9 years and 10–12 years), there was a vast difference between child and parent reported fear frequency in the two older age groups. However, in the youngest group, there was a much smaller difference between the percentage of children (58.8%) and their parent (44.3%) reporting nighttime fears (operationalised in Muris et al. [ 31 ] as frequency). As for nighttime fear content in childhood, studies have found that children and their parents report very similar results [ 3 , 4 ]. Most scales assessing anxiety and sleep in preschool aged children are parent-report [ 32 , 33 ]. Designing a parent-report measure of nighttime fears allows for clinicians and researchers to easily include the measure in a relevant survey battery. Furthermore, when comparing parent-report measures with other methods of data collection for dark and nighttime fears (e.g., interviews, tests of passive approach, psychophysiological records, see Orgilés et al. [ 27 ], psychometrically validated parent-report scales offer a reliable, standardised, time efficient and cost-effective method to collect data on young children.

Given the lack of a validated measure of nighttime fears in preschoolers, researchers examining the treatment of nighttime fears in young children have instead relied on adapted interviews [ 8 , 25 , 34 , 35 ], checklists [ 2 ], modifications of other valid measures (such as general fear measures), or unvalidated measures [ 36 , 37 , 38 ]. A psychometrically validated parent-report measure of nighttime fears for children in the preschool developmental period is therefore warranted for both research and clinical purposes.

The aim of this research was to develop and psychometrically validate, a parent-rated measure of nighttime fears in preschool aged children titled Fears and Worries at Nighttime – Young Children (FAWN-YC). Based on previous research [ 1 , 2 , 4 ] it was hypothesised that the FAWN-YC would best be explained by a 6-factor solution including four nighttime fear clusters (1) personal safety fears, (2) separation fears, (3) imaginal/fantasy fears, and (4) inherent characteristics of the dark fears), and two avoidance and interference clusters (5) at bedtime/sleep and (6) in the dark/at nighttime). It was also hypothesised that these factors would be correlated with each other and may represent a general factor structure of overall nighttime fears and worries.

It was further hypothesised that scores on the FAWN-YC would demonstrate strong internal consistency, strong convergent validity (i.e., positive correlations) with theoretically related constructs including measures of fear, anxiety, sleep problems, sleep anxiety, conduct problems and emotional problems, as well as divergent validity (i.e., low, weak to no relationship) with the theoretically unrelated construct of prosocial behaviour. Finally, it was hypothesised that the test–retest reliability of the FAWN-YC would be strong over a 2-week period.

General Method

Godfred et al.’s [ 39 ] three phase approach for scale development in health, social, and behavioural sciences was used to guide scale development in conjunction with Spruyt and Gozal’s [ 40 ] steps in paediatric sleep tool development. The three phases include: Phase (1) Item development ; aimed to generate items and assess the measure content through use of an expert panel. Phase (2) Scale development ; aimed to pilot test the measure, conduct item reduction analyses and conduct an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to examine the factor structure. Phase (3) Scale evaluation ; aimed to confirm the factor structure using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and examine the psychometric properties of validity (convergent validity and divergent validity) and reliability (internal consistency and test–retest reliability).

For all phases, participants (i.e., parents of children aged 3–5 years) were recruited internally at the university through a staff and student call for research and the first-year psychology research pool, and externally through advertisement on social media and in private childcare centres, primary schools and early childhood groups and associations. Data for all phases were collected online using Lime Survey, hosted by the University’s research survey centre. Participants were excluded if their child was outside the age range (< 3 years or > 5 years) or if their child had been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental or intellectual disorder. All measures (with the exception of demographic questions) required a response to prevent missing data. Participation was voluntary and anonymous, and participants were free to withdraw from the study at any time. Participants were first presented with an electronic copy of information and consent forms, and only those who provided digital consent went on to complete the online survey. Following survey completion, participants could choose to be directed to a separate survey to enter a prize draw for the chance to win $AU20–$50 gift cards and to provide student details to gain course credit for participation (if applicable).

Phase 1: Item Development

The aims of Phase 1 were to generate items and assess the measure content through use of an expert panel. The item pool was designed to capture the six theoretically derived nighttime fear domains. The domains included sub-types of nighttime fear (including (1) personal safety fears, (2) separation fears, (3) imaginal/fantasy fears, and (4) inherent characteristics of the dark fears), as well as associated avoidance and interference behaviours, at (5) bedtime/sleep and (6) in the dark).

The hypothesised factor structure served as a framework for item creation [ 41 ] with items specifically generated to tap into each content area (i.e., factor). The instructions, factors and initial 62 item pool were generated based on a scientific literature review [ 1 , 2 , 4 ], as well as contribution from field professionals (three academics, two clinical psychologists, two PhD psychology candidates studying sleep and child anxiety, four provisional psychologists, two early primary school teachers, and a case manager from a large psychology clinic) and end users (two fathers and three mothers of preschoolers with nighttime fears).

It has been suggested that a minimum of 3 items, and preferably 5—6 items, are required to represent a factor [ 42 ]. As subsequent psychometric analyses were designed to reduce the final number of items, and as EFA performs better when factors are overdetermined, it was decided to be over inclusive (i.e., by a minimum of 50%) when generating items [ 41 , 42 , 43 ]. Therefore, for a proposed 6-factor solution with 5–7 items per factor as the desired scale size, between 48 to 66 items (8–11 per factor) was determined to be ideal. The response format used a 6-point Likert scale requiring parents to rate how true each item is of their child (0 = not at all true, 1 = rarely true, 2 = sometimes true, 3 = often true, 4 = very often true and 5 = always true), with reference to the previous week, or most recent regular week.

A neutral midpoint option was not provided in order to avoid complacency and indecisiveness. A greater number of options (i.e., 6) were included in order to increase precision and variability in measurement, as well as to increase internal consistency and dependability [ 40 , 44 , 45 ]. Items were written according to the basic principles described by Clark and Watson [ 43 ], Spruyt and Gozal [ 40 ], which highlight the importance of avoiding dated phrases, double-barrelled questions, complex wording and colloquialisms.

To examine the measure content, the scale was then sent for review to an expert panel from the USA and Australia (N = 7) with expertise in paediatric anxiety, sleep, and scale development. Experts were asked to provide feedback on clinical and research relevance, comprehensiveness, comprehensibility of individual items, the hypothesised factor structure, instructional blurb and rating scale. Following expert feedback, minor wording edits were made, and five items were removed.

Phase 2: Scale Development

This phase aimed to pilot test the measure and conduct item reduction analysis before conducting an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to examine the factor structure.

The resulting pool of 57 items were then pilot tested with 120 parents of children aged 3 to 5 years. The aim of the pilot was to gain anecdotal feedback on the wording of the instructions and items, and to psychometrically examine the items for purposes of item reduction and refinement. Spruyt and Gozal [ 40 ] recommend that pilot trials are an important step before factor analysis to determine whether or not items, scale or layout need to be changed in any way (rather than simple deletion). The minimum N required to conduct a pilot test is generally the number of items on the scale plus one [ 41 ], with more than 100 participants being considered ideal [ 43 ]. Therefore, the 120 participants for the pilot test was deemed sufficient.

Pilot Test Participants

Detailed demographic information for each sample used in this research is outlined in Supplementary Table 1. The participants for the pilot test were 120 parents aged between 22 and 55 years ( M  = 36.10, SD  = 5.47), who reported being either the mother (99.2%), or father (0.8%) of a child aged between 3 and 5 years old ( M  = 3.91, SD  = 0.78). The majority of adult respondents were Caucasian (88.3%), married (79.2%) had a household income over AUD$100, 001 (67.5%), and had completed a bachelor degree (34.2%). The majority of children were male (59.2%) and lived with both parents (91.7%).

Pilot Test Item Reduction Analysis and Results

Items were considered for removal if they met both of the following criteria: (1) item redundancy or low correlations with other items (i.e., inter-item correlations of r > 0.80 or < 0.30 respectively); (2) poor item statistics (i.e., if all response options were not utilised, or there were corrected item-total correlations of r < 0.40). Using these criteria, the item pool was reduced to 37 items. There were no changes made to the wording of items, instructions or general layout based on participant feedback.

Exploratory Factor Analysis

Efa participants.

The participants for the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) were 436 parents aged between 19 and 56 years ( M  = 33.88, SD  = 6.65), who reported being either the mother (79.7%), father (14.5%), or primary caregiver (5.8%) of a child aged between 3 and 5 years old ( M  = 3.99, SD  = 0.85). The majority of adult respondents were Caucasian (80.2%), married (64.1%) had a household income over AUD$100, 001 (45.8%), and had completed a bachelor degree (29.1%). Just over half of the children were female (50.2%) and the majority lived with both parents (76.6%). Refer to Supplementary Table 1 for further demographic details.

EFA Data Analysis

Prior to conducting the EFA, items were removed if they met two or more of the following criteria: (1) item redundancy or insufficient correlations with other items (i.e., inter-item correlations of r > 0.80 or < 0.30 respectively), (2) poor item statistics (i.e., if all response options were not utilised), or if there were corrected item-total correlations of r < 0.40, and/or (3) age bias (i.e., if a singular item correlated (r > 0.35) with the reported age of the child or parent [ 41 , 43 ]. Eight items were excluded based on these criteria, leaving 29 items for the EFA, none of which required reverse scoring.

The R package ‘psych’ (v. 4.3.0) [ 46 ] was used to conduct a series of EFAs, using polychoric correlations and specifying principal axis factoring with oblique rotation (i.e., direct oblimin). This rotation technique was selected as factors were likely to be correlated [ 47 ]. The number of factors retained was established using parallel analysis [ 48 ], examination of the scree plot [ 49 ], the Kaiser–Guttman criterion (i.e., retention of factors with eigenvalues ≥ 1.0, [ 50 , 51 ], and inspection of the pattern matrix. During factor extraction, items were assessed for poor primary-factor loading (i.e., < 0.40) or small communalities (i.e., < 0.40), cross-loading (i.e., secondary factor loadings of ≥ 0.30), lack of conceptual/face validity (i.e., loading of an item on a factor that did not align with theory or hypothesised factor), and whether or not they formed part of a non-robust factor (i.e., a factor with less than three items). Decisions regarding item exclusion and retention were both data- and theoretically driven [ 41 , 43 ].

EFA Results

Barlett’s test of sphericity was significant (χ 2  = 9711.95, df = 406, p  < 0.001) and the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value was 0.96, indicating that the initial 29 items were appropriate for factor analysis. Additionally, all measures of sampling adequacy taken from the diagonal of the anti-image correlation table, were = > 0.80, and all assumptions were met. The scree plot, Kaiser–Guttman criterion, and parallel analysis converged on a four-factor solution, rather than the hypothesised 6-factor solution. Upon inspection of the pattern matrix, it was identified that the four types of nighttime fears (personal safety fears, separation fears, imaginal/fantasy fears, and inherent characteristics of the dark fears), collapsed onto a single factor, representing ‘Nighttime Fear Focus’. The second factor contained items pertaining to the avoidance and interference behaviours at bedtime/sleep representing ‘Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference’. The third factor pertained to both fear of the dark itself and the manifesting behaviours in the dark representing ‘Dark Fear’. The fourth factor consisted of three unrelated items that did not align with theory or the proposed factor structure and were consequently removed from the scale. Nine additional items were removed from the scale due to cross loading (5 items), misalignment with theory (one item), and redundancy (3 items).

A final EFA was conducted with the 17 remaining items, revealing a three-factor solution that explained 70% of the total variance. The final 17 items and scale statistics are presented in Table  1 , with all items loading strongly onto their primary factor with no cross-loadings. The first factor (‘Nighttime Fear Focus’) consisted of eight items pertaining to various fears at nighttime (including personal safety fears, separation fears, imaginal/fantasy fears), with loadings ranging between 0.52 and 0.93. The second factor (‘Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference’) consisted of five items capturing bedtime/sleep avoidance behaviour and interference, with loadings between 0.63 and 0.96. The third factor (‘Dark Fear’) consisted of four items reflecting both fear of the dark and specific avoidance behaviour and interference of darkness, with loadings ranging between 0.75 and 0.87. The factors were moderately to strongly correlated with each other (r = 0.62–0.78).

Phase 3: Scale Evaluation

Phase 3 aimed to confirm the factor structure of the 17-item FAWN-YC, examine the possibility of a general factor structure and examine the psychometric properties of validity (convergent validity and divergent validity) and reliability (internal consistency and test–retest reliability over a 2-week period).

Phase 3 Procedure and Participants

The same recruitment methods were used as those outlined in the General Methods except that, at the end of the survey, participants were given the opportunity to provide their unique participant identification code and email address in order to be contacted to complete an additional, later survey for the purpose of test–retest reliability.

The participants were 383 parents and primary caregivers aged between 21 and 66 years ( M  = 35.39, SD  = 6.11), who reported being either the mother (96.3%), father (2.1%) or primary caregiver (0.5%) of a child aged between 3 and 5 years old ( M  = 4.33, SD  = 0.79). Fifteen participants began the questionnaire but were excluded due to having children with neurodevelopmental disorders, and another 5 were excluded due to having children outside the selected age range. The majority of adult respondents were Caucasian (90%), married (65%) had a household income over AUD$100, 001 (57.2%), and had completed a bachelor degree (34.5%). Just over half of the children were male (52.0%) and the majority lived with both parents (79.4%). Refer to Supplementary Table 1 for further demographic details.

Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Cfa data analysis.

Prior to analysis, descriptive statistics were examined for outliers, and assumptions were all checked and met. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 29) analytic software and Amos Graphics (Version 29). Amos Graphics was used to conduct a CFA with a robust maximum likelihood estimation to confirm the factor structure identified in the EFA. To evaluate model fit, several commonly used indices were considered (χ 2 , χ 2 relative to sample size, adjusted goodness of fit index (AGFI), comparative fit index (CFI), and root mean square error of association (RMSEA)). While a non-significant χ 2 is indicative of “good” model fit, it is sensitive to large sample sizes, such as that used in the current study. For a large sample size, it is therefore recommended to divide χ 2 by the degrees of freedom with ratios of 2–3 indicative of “good” model fit [ 52 ]. Adequate model fit can also be determined by an AGFI greater than 0.90 and a CFI greater than 0.95. A RMSEA less than 0.05 is also considered “good” model fit, values between 0.05 and 0.08 indicative of “fair” and “acceptable” fit, and values between 0.08 and 0.10 indicative of “mediocre fit” [ 53 ]. The model was also compared to a general-factor model (i.e., whereby all 17 items were allowed to load onto a single latent factor) using the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). Lower AIC values indicate a model that is more parsimonious and better-fitting [ 54 ].

CFA Results

A CFA was performed with items constrained to load onto their respective factors, and factors allowed to covary as per the EFA results and a-priori theory. According to model fit indices, the hypothesised measurement model had acceptable to good fit to the data in this sample, χ 2 (114, N  = 383) = 275.51, p  < 0.001, χ 2 / df  = 2.42, AGFI = 0.90, CFI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.06 (CI90 = 0.05, 0.07) and AIC = 353.51 and explained a total of 70% of the variance. The standardised confirmatory factor loadings for each item are presented in Table  1 . The Cronbach alphas for each subscale (α = 0.86–0.90) and the total score (α = 0.92) were acceptable, with moderate to strong correlations between each subscale (r = 0.54–0.83).

A general factor model was also examined, whereby all 17 items were allowed to load onto a single latent factor. This model had poor fit, χ 2 (119, N = 383) = 1228.00, p < 0.001, χ 2 /df = 10.319, AGFI = 0.55, CFI = 0.70, RMSEA = 0.16 (CI90 = 0.15, 0.16) and AIC = 1296.00 While the AIC revealed that the general factor model had poorer fit compared to the measurement model, the standardized loadings for each item in the general factor model were moderate to strong (0.55 to 0.75). There were also strong positive correlations found between the total score and the three subscales and furthermore, the total score demonstrated acceptable internal consistency in both EFA and CFA (α = 0.95 and 0.92 respectively). Therefore, while model fit suggests the 3-factor model is a considerably better fit that the general factor model, the strength in the other psychometric properties provide preliminary evidence for use of a total FAWN-YC score.

Psychometric Tests of Validity and Reliability

IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 29) analytic software was used to conduct all tests of validity and reliability.

Validity: Convergent and Divergent Validity

Convergent and divergent validity measures, sleep problems.

The total score and Sleep Anxiety subscale score of the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ; [ 28 ] were used to examine the convergent validity of the FAWN-YC. The CSHQ is a 33-item (e.g. “ Child needs parent in the room to fall asleep ”) parent-report instrument that contains items related to common sleep behaviours in children. Items are rated on a three-point Likert scale (1 = rarely [0–1 night per week] to 3 = usually [5–7 nights per week]), with each question asked in relation to the previous week. The total score, calculated by summing all items, may range from 33 to 99, with higher scores indicating more problematic child sleep behaviours, and total scores over 41 being indicative of a clinical level paediatric sleep problem [ 28 ]. The 4-item Sleep Anxiety subscale is calculated by summing the 4 component items, and may range from 4 to 12, with higher scores indicative of greater sleep anxiety.

The CSHQ has been used with parents of children from early childhood to early adolescence [ 33 ] and has shown acceptable total internal consistency with both community (α = 0.72; [ 55 ]) and clinical (α = 0.77; [ 29 , 30 ]) samples of parents of young children aged 3 to 5 years. The CSHQ total score has also demonstrated acceptable test–retest reliability (range between 0.62 and 0.79 [ 28 ]). The Sleep Anxiety subscale has demonstrated slightly lower than acceptable internal consistency with both community (0.63) and clinical (0.68) samples [ 28 ].

The Preschool Anxiety Scale (PAS; [ 56 ]) measures child anxiety and was used to examine convergent validity. The PAS is a 28-item (e.g. “ Is tense, restless or irritable due to worrying ”) parent-report instrument designed for children aged 3 to 5 years. The items are rated on a 5-point scale from 0 =  not at all true to 4 =  very often true . Items are summed to produce a total score that may range from 0 to 112, with higher scores indicating greater anxiety. The PAS has a strong evidence base, including evidence of convergent and divergent validity in clinical and community populations, and evidence of sensitivity to intervention effects and strong inter-assessor agreement [ 13 ]. Internal consistency in previous studies of preschoolers using the total PAS has been acceptable (α = 0.92; [ 30 ]).

Mythical Creatures Fears and Vulnerability Fears

The 13-item Mythical Creatures Fears (e.g. ghosts or spooky things) and 7-item Vulnerability Fears (e.g. being alone) subscales of The Modified Fear Survey Schedule for Children–II (FSSC– IIP; [ 57 ]) were used to examine convergent validity. The FSSC– IIP is a parent-report survey specifically designed for parents of children aged 3 to 9 years, with parents asked to rate their child’s level of fear of the subject of each item (e.g. imaginary creatures) on a 3-point scale from 1 =  not scared (not applicable) to 3 =  very scared . Items on the subscale are summed to produce a subscale score, with higher scores indicating greater fear of mythical (imaginary) creatures or the feeling of vulnerability (being alone, being in the dark). The factor structure of the FSSC– IIP has been supported in a large Australian sample [ 57 ] and acceptable internal consistency has been demonstrated (α = 0.70; [ 58 ]).

Conduct Problems, Emotional Symptoms and Prosocial Behaviours

The Conduct Problems and Emotional Symptoms subscales of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ; [ 59 ]) were used to examine the convergent validity, while the Prosocial Behaviours subscale was used to measure divergent validity. The SDQ is a 25-item parent-report instrument for use with parents of children aged 2–17 years. Items on the SDQ are rated on a three-point Likert scale (0 = not true to 2 = certainly true) with each question asked in relation to the previous 6-month period. Higher scores on the Conduct Problems and Emotional Symptoms subscales are indicative of greater problems, while higher scores on the Prosocial Behaviour subscale indicate more positive behaviours. The SDQ has shown satisfactory construct validity and acceptable internal consistency with large samples of parents of young children aged 3 to 5 years (Conduct Problems, Emotional Problems and Prosocial Behaviour subscale α ranges of mothers and fathers = 0.72 to 0.84 [ 60 ]).

Convergent and Divergent Validity Data Analysis and Results

Prior to analysis, descriptive statistics were examined for outliers, and assumptions were all checked and met. Bivariate correlations were used to assess convergent and divergent validity. Table 2 presents the means, standard deviations, bivariate correlations and Cronbach’s alphas of all variables used in this phase. Correlations between the FAWN-YC composite and subscale scores and measure of convergent validity were all significant and in the predicted directions ( r  = 0.30 to 0.82, p  < 0.01). With respect to divergent validity, correlations between the FAWN-YC composite score and subscales and the SDQ prosocial subscale were all non-significant, with the exception of a very weak negative correlation between the Dark Fear subscale and the prosocial subscale of the SDQ ( r  = − 0.10, p  < 0.05).

Reliability: Internal Consistency

Cronbach’s α was used to assess the internal consistency of the FAWN-YC factors in both the EFA and CFA samples, which are reported in Table  1 . As cited in Godfred et al. [ 39 ], when it comes to validating scales α = 0.70 is acceptable, and between α = 0.80 and 0.95 is preferred. In both the EFA and CFA samples, the total score reached preferred internal consistency in (α = 0.95 and 0.92 respectively). The internal consistency of each factor also reached preferred reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.86–0.92).

Reliability: Test–Retest

Test–retest reliability procedure and participants.

Participants from phase 3 recruitment who consented to be contacted again were invited via email to complete the FAWN-YC two weeks after the first administration. Responses recorded at Time 1 and Time 2 were matched using a unique participant identification code. Only participants who completed the second assessment within the two-week retest period were included. Of the 383 participants, 229 consented to be contacted and entered their unique code and email address. Of the 229, 120 were contactable and were emailed a link to complete the survey within the allocated time frame (i.e., ± 48 h from 2 weeks post completion of the phase 3 initial survey). In the email, participants were reminded of their unique code and given instructions to enter it at the beginning of the survey. Of the 120 participants contacted, 52 went on to complete the retest survey within the allocated time period. The resulting 52 participants were aged between 21 and 47 years (M = 34.46, SD  = 5.85) and reported being either the mother (98.1%) or father (1.9%) of a child aged between 3 and 5 years old (M = 4.92, SD  = 1.19). The majority of adult respondents were Caucasian (84.6%), married (63.5%) and had completed a bachelor degree (59.6%), with just over half of the families having a household income over AUD$100, 001 (50%), The majority of children were male (57.7%) and living with both parents (80.8%).

Test–Retest Data Analysis and Results

Intraclass correlation coefficient estimates, 95% confidence intervals based on a 2-way mixed-effects model with absolute-agreement were run. Confidence interval values greater than 0.90 indicate excellent reliability, values between 0.75 and 0.9 suggest good reliability, values between 0.5 and 0.75 suggest moderate reliability and values less than 0.5 suggest poor test–retest reliability [ 61 ]. Intraclass correlation coefficient estimates suggested temporal stability over a two-week period for the FAWN-YC total score and subscales. The FAWN-YC composite score was considered excellent (ICC = 0.95, 95% CI [0.90, 0.97]), as was the Dark Fears subscale (ICC = 0.95, 95% CI [0.92, 0.97]). Both the Nighttime Fear Focus subscale (ICC = 0.88, 95% CI [0.79, 0.93]) and the Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference subscale (ICC = 0.93, 95% CI [0.86, 0.96]) were considered to have good reliability.

The purpose of this research was to develop and psychometrically evaluate the Fears and Worries at Nighttime—Young Children (FAWN-YC); a parent-rated measure for children aged 3–5 years (freely available in the Supplementary materials including scoring key). Phase 1 aimed to generate items and assess the measure content through use of an expert panel. Phase 2 aimed to pilot test the measure, conduct item reduction analysis and conduct an Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to examine the factor structure. Phase 3 aimed to confirm the factor structure using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and examine the psychometric properties of validity (convergent and divergent) and reliability (internal consistency and test–retest). Although 6 subscales were originally proposed, the results of Phases 2 and 3 indicated a 3-factor structure best fit the data. The final 17 item scale consisted of three subscales measuring: Nighttime Fear Focus (8 items), Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference (5 items) and Dark Fear including avoidance and interference of darkness (4 items). The internal consistency of the three subscales and total score was found to be acceptable, and the convergent and divergent validity of the scale was supported. Finally, the FAWN-YC total score and subscales demonstrated test–retest reliability, indicating temporal stability over a two-week period.

The total score and subscales of the FAWN-YC demonstrated strong psychometrics including internal consistency, test–retest reliability, convergent validity and divergent validity suggesting that the scale is a psychometrically sound and valid measure of nighttime fears and worries in young children, that will provide a useful instrument for researchers and clinicians alike. Indeed, although our findings support the independent use of the three FAWN-YC subscales over the composite score, the total score demonstrated very strong psychometric properties, providing preliminary support for its use.

With regards to convergent validity, Phase 3 demonstrated that the FAWN-YC total score and its three subscales were all significantly and positively correlated with theoretically and empirically linked variables related to nighttime fears in young children, with the strength of each of these correlations making theoretical sense. For instance, the ‘Nighttime Fear Focus’ subscale correlated most strongly with a measure of child anxiety (PAS; [ 56 ]), the ‘Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference’ subscale correlated most strongly with a measure of total child sleep problems (CSHQ [ 28 ]), and the ‘Dark Fear’ subscale correlated most strongly with the Vulnerabilities subscale of the Modified Fear Survey Schedule for Children–II (FSSC-IIP [ 57 ]), which has three (of seven) items related directly to fear of the dark. Overall, the findings suggest that higher levels of nighttime and darkness fears and their behavioural manifestations are related to higher levels of both internalising (e.g., anxiety), and externalising (e.g., conduct problems) behaviours, as well as sleep problems. The findings therefore are consistent with previous research reporting links between nighttime fears, internalising, externalising, and sleep problems in preschool aged children [ 8 , 9 ] and thus support the overall validity of the subscale and total scale scores.

Although psychometrically strong, the factor structure of the FAWN-YC is different to what was predicted. Six factors were originally hypothesised, with four factors predicted to cluster around distinct fear categories (personal safety fears, separation fears, imaginal/fantasy fears, inherent characteristics of the dark fears) and two representing different types of interference (bedtime/sleep time and the dark/night). However, while the ‘Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference’ factor emerged as distinct, the different types of nighttime fears and the dark avoidance and interference factors did not , and instead emerged as two factors. Most nighttime fear types clustered onto the one factor, ‘Nighttime Fear Focus’, which was characterised by worries and fear of things at nighttime (being alone, safety, imaginal), whereas fear of dark itself and avoidance and interference in the dark merged together to create a separate factor (i.e., ‘Dark Fear’). Given the way in which these factors have emerged, combined with evidence of correlation strengths and convergent validity, children who score high in the ‘Nighttime Fear Focus’ factor may be more representative of children with anxiety (i.e., separation anxiety, generalised anxiety), whereas children scoring high in ‘Dark Fear’ may represent more fear-based symptomology (i.e., specific phobia of the dark). Future research could examine whether this measure could predict distinct comorbidity clusters using clinical samples.

Although the predicted factor structure was based on a review of the literature [ 1 , 2 , 4 ], the literature reviewed was less than optimal in several ways. First, most studies examining nighttime fear types in children have focused on primary school aged children and young adolescents, rarely including preschool children. Given the specific developmental characteristics of preschool children, it may be that younger children experience fears at night differently to their older counterparts being more likely to experience a range of nighttime fears rather than specific ones. Second, only one study (that did not include children under 8.5 years of age, that used a relatively small sample from the Netherlands, and that was conducted almost 4 decades ago) examined the factor structure of their reported measure [ 3 ]. All other studies either clustered fears based on face validity or based their categories on the one study that did use factor analysis [ 1 , 2 , 4 ]. Although this research requires replication, the findings regarding factor structure speak to the importance of developing a nighttime fear measure specifically for preschool children, and highlight the differences between young children and their older child and teenage counterparts.

It is noteworthy, and indeed surprising, that items related to co-sleeping were ‘dropped’ from the ‘Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference’ factor due to poor primary-factor loading, insufficient correlations with other items and poor item statistics. When examining the behavioural manifestations of nighttime fears, the authors chose to use the sentence starter “Because of fears at nighttime, my child…” with the intention to gather information pertaining to parental perception of the behaviours directly related to child nighttime fears. The fact that co-sleeping items were dropped from this subscale therefore suggests that reactive co-sleeping may not be the result of nighttime fears in preschool aged children. Interestingly, a recent systematic review and cross-cultural meta-analysis examining co-sleeping and sleep problems in childhood noted the inconsistency in the relationship between co-sleeping and sleep anxiety and concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest a causal relationship [ 62 ]. Furthermore, most of the studies included in the review by Peng et al. did not include children in the preschool developmental period, with most co-sleeping literature focussed either on infants or primary school aged children. It may well be that co-sleeping is better explained by other child and parent factors rather than nighttime fears. The factors may possibly include child anxiety disorders (particularly separation anxiety) [ 63 , 64 ], child behavioural difficulties such as bedtime resistance) [ 62 ] and even parental distress [ 23 , 65 ]. Clearly reactive co-sleeping in the preschool development period warrants further investigation in this regard.

Limitations and Directions for Future Research

This series of research allowed for the systematic development and psychometric testing of the FAWN-YC, using large sample sizes, and advanced statistical techniques. However, there were a number of limitations that should be noted. First, sensitivity and specificity were not tested, nor was this sample large enough, or demographically heterogenous enough, to determine norms. Collecting a larger, more diverse sample in the future, and including an accompanying clinical interview, would allow examination of the ability of the FAWN-YC to differentiate between children with and without problematic nighttime fears, and to determine norms. Second, the generalisability of the results of this study was limited by the proportion of male to female parents and caregivers completing the surveys. Although large sample studies indicate good inter-parent agreement in ratings of behavioural and emotional problems in preschool-aged children [ 66 ], future research would benefit from further attempts to recruit fathers in parent samples. Third, the sample was homogenous in terms of ethnicity, level of education, and wealth, thus limiting the generalisability of results to other populations. Future studies should strive to include samples that are more heterogenous in terms of these constructs. Finally, previous research suggests that parents can underestimate the frequency and intensity of their young child’s fears [ 67 ]. As is the case for all measures of anxiety and internal thoughts and states in the preschool developmental period, the FAWN-YC total score, and in particular the Nighttime Fear Focus subscale, may be susceptible to variance in the child’s ability to understand and share their fears and worries. It may also be susceptible to variance due to the parent’s ability to perceive their child’s fears and worries, which is indeed an important area for future inquiry. Similarly, as young children may lack the cognitive sophistication to respond to questionnaires and interviews, future research may include more objective measures (i.e., skin conductance, actigraphy or recordings/observations of child’s nighttime behaviours) to further validate the FAWN-YC.

Implications and Conclusions

The findings of this research indicate that the 17-item Fears and Worries at Nighttime—Young Children (FAWN-YC) is a psychometrically valid, parent-report scale of nighttime fears. The FAWN-YC provides researchers and clinicians with a valid and reliable tool to assess the specific nighttime fear the child may have, the variety of nighttime fears the child has, and importantly, parental perceptions regarding how nighttime fears are affecting their child’s nighttime behaviours.

For researchers, The FAWN-YC provides a user-friendly, psychometrically valid measure of nighttime fears in children that may be used in a variety of studies including epidemiological studies, studies examining the antecedents and consequences of nighttime fears, and studies aiming to determine the efficacy of treatment programs designed to treat nighttime fears in this population.

For clinicians, the FAWN-YC may assist in the conceptualisation and treatment of children with nighttime fears. For example, although the focus of the fears/worries did not cluster into separate categories as expected (e.g., separation, imaginal, etc.), clinicians may still examine the scale at an item level to identify specific target fears in treatment. Thus, the brevity of the scale provides an efficient means of gathering information from parents to use for case formulation and treatment planning. Indeed, clinicians may use subscale scores to determine whether the child’s fears and worries are interfering with sleep and bedtime behaviours (subscale level) and in what specific manner (item level), or if the child is also afraid of the dark (subscale level).Therefore, the FAWN-YC may assist in identifying the target of an exposure hierarchy and the requirement for combinations of child relaxation skills, co-regulation skills, and/or parent upskilling such as behaviour management, exposure games and psychoeducation. Thus, the FAWN-YC is likely to be of significant value in both research and clinical settings, informing our understanding and treatment of fear, anxiety and sleep difficulties in preschool aged children.

While childhood nighttime fears can be developmentally normal and transient in nature, approximately 10 to 30% of young children experience fear at night that is severe, persistent, interferes substantially with sleep, and requires significant family accommodation [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. While literature examining nighttime fears in the preschool developmental period (3–5 years) is expanding, a validated measure of nighttime fears in young children does not yet exist. This paper outlines the development and psychometric evaluation of the Fears and Worries at Nighttime—Young Children (FAWN-YC) scale, a parent-rated measure for children aged 3–5 years. Based on previous literature, it was hypothesised that the measure would be represented by a six-factor solution, with four clusters of fear types (separation fears, darkness-related fears, personal safety fears and fears of the imagination) and two behavioural manifestations of fears (behaviours at bedtime/sleep and behaviours in the dark). However, exploratory factor analysis (EFA; N = 436) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; N = 383), resulted in a final 17 items that loaded onto only 3 factors: Nighttime Fear Focus (8 items, α = 0.92), Bedtime/Sleep Avoidance and Interference (5 items, α = 0.90), and Dark Fear (4 items, α = 0.88). The findings of this factor structure speak to the importance of developing this measure specifically for this unique developmental period, and highlights the differences between preschoolers and their older child and teenage counterparts. Evidence of convergent validity was found through strong associations between the total score and subscales of the FAWN-YC with measures of child anxiety, fear, sleep, externalising and conduct problems. Furthermore, there was support for divergent validity, and evidence for temporal stability over a 2-week period. Overall, the results provide strong preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of the FAWN-YC total score and subscales and evidence for the importance of developing a nighttime fear measure specifically for preschool aged children. The FAWN-YC provides a psychometrically valid and user-friendly measure of nighttime fears in young children. This measure is likely to be of significant value in both research and clinical settings, informing our understanding and treatment of fear, anxiety and sleep difficulties in preschool aged children.

Data Availability

Please contact the corresponding authors of this paper to request access to data.

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Study conception by L.F. and E.M-L. Study design by L.F., E.M-L., A.S. and C.D. Material preparation, data collection, data curation, project administration and analysis were performed by A.S. All drafts and final manuscript were written by A.S. Previous versions of the manuscript were reviewed by L.U and C.D. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.

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Shiels, A., Uhlmann, L., Farrell, L.J. et al. Fears and Worries at Nighttime in Young Children: Development and Psychometric Validation of a Parent-Report Measure (FAWN-YC). Child Psychiatry Hum Dev (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10578-024-01758-3

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s10578-024-01758-3

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