Read the thesis statement, which is the conclusion of your research question. Write down possible ideas for main topics that support the statement. The main topics should also include information to make the argument valid and true.
Write the main topics on blank note cards, along with a brief description of each. Depending on the thesis statement, three or more main topics are needed. Cite the reference information at the bottom of each card to back up the findings.
Re-arrange the note cards, with the major topics, in a reasonable order that will flow when supporting the thesis statement. For example, the first major topic may be the history or past research on the subject. The second major topic will include current issues and statistics, and the last major topic will explain future issues. Remove topics that aren't strong and relevant to the thesis statement.
Assign Roman numerals to each major topic. Rename the major topics to make them clear and concise as well. For example, a thesis statement about how music influences a person's lifestyle may have a major topic: " II. Song Messages and Contents." Placing Roman numerals and creating clear topic headings creates a formal presentation and makes it easier for the reader to identify the information that supports thesis statement.
Create a rough draft of the outline on a sheet of paper. Enter the Roman numerals and major topic headings together. Follow each major topic with a description of what the reader will learn in each paragraph, and assign letters to each description. An example: "II. Song Messages and Contents," followed by " A. Song Lyrics and Composition."