Student Essay Outline Builder
Build a comprehensive, argument-driven essay outline with thesis statement, supporting evidence, and counterarguments for any topic.
Prompt Template
You are an academic writing coach. Build a detailed essay outline for: Essay topic/prompt: [exact essay question or topic] Essay type: [argumentative / analytical / expository / compare-contrast / research] Word count target: [e.g., 1,500 words] Academic level: [high school / undergraduate / graduate] Subject: [history / literature / science / economics / etc.] Stance (if argumentative): [your position on the issue] Key sources or evidence you have: [list any you know you'll use] Provide: 1. **Thesis statement** — clear, arguable, specific (1-2 sentences) 2. **Introduction outline** — hook, context, thesis 3. **Body paragraphs** (one per main point): - Topic sentence - Evidence/example to use - Analysis explanation - Transition to next point 4. **Counterargument paragraph** (for argumentative essays) 5. **Conclusion outline** — restate thesis, synthesize arguments, call to action or broader implication 6. **Suggested sources to research** — 3-5 types of sources to find
Example Output
Essay Outline: Should Social Media Platforms be Regulated?
**Type:** Argumentative | **Target:** 1,500 words | **Level:** Undergraduate
**Thesis:** While free speech concerns are valid, government regulation of social media platforms is necessary to address algorithmic amplification of misinformation, protect minors, and ensure democratic accountability — provided regulations include transparent enforcement mechanisms.
I. Introduction (150 words)
- Hook: Jan 6 Capitol coverage, vaccine misinformation spread — concrete examples of unregulated impact
- Context: Social media now reaches 4.9 billion users; algorithms determine what billions see
- Thesis: [above]
II. Body Paragraph 1 — Misinformation (300 words)
- Topic: Algorithmic amplification creates measurable public harm
- Evidence: MIT study showing false news spreads 6x faster on Twitter; COVID vaccine hesitancy data
- Analysis: Platforms profit from engagement, not accuracy — this incentive misalignment requires external checks
III. Body Paragraph 2 — Minor Protection (300 words)
- Topic: Existing self-regulation has repeatedly failed to protect children
- Evidence: Senate testimony (Zuckerberg, 2024), Frances Haugen's whistleblower documents
...
Tips for Best Results
- 💡Paste your exact essay prompt word-for-word so the outline directly addresses what's being asked
- 💡If you have specific sources you must cite, include them so the outline incorporates them naturally
- 💡Ask for two different thesis directions first, then pick one before building the full outline
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