Looking for a Common App essay outline template

Hi guys, I'm trying to create a solid outline for my Common App essay before I start writing it. Does anyone have a good template or guide on how to structure an effective outline? It would help me a lot. Thanks!

Hey there! An outline can be a great way to organize your thoughts before diving into writing your Common App essay. While there's no one-size-fits-all template, I can suggest a general outline that can be customized to fit your specific story and writing style:

1. Introduction:

- Start with a hook: Grab the reader's attention with an interesting anecdote or a surprising fact.

- Introduce the main theme or topic: Give a brief overview of what you'll be discussing in your essay.

2. Background/Context:

- Provide any necessary context to help the reader understand your story (e.g., background information about your family, school, or community).

3. Main Body:

- Develop 2-4 main points that support your theme or topic. Each point should be related to a specific example, experience, or aspect of your life.

- For each main point, write a sub-outline containing:

A. Topic sentence: State the main idea of the paragraph.

B. Supporting details: Discuss specific examples, experiences, or anecdotes that illustrate your point.

C. Reflection/Analysis: Explain how each example connects to the overall theme of your essay and what you've learned from it.

4. Conclusion:

- Summarize your main points and reiterate the overall theme or message of your essay.

- Connect your experience to your future: Discuss how your experiences have prepared you for college and shaped your goals or aspirations.

Remember, this outline is just a starting point. Feel free to adjust it and add in your creativity to make it truly your own. The important part is to ensure that your essay is well-organized, coherent, and engaging. Happy writing!