How do I use the "Write a Research Paper Outline" prompt?

Copy the prompt template, fill in the variables (TOPIC, ACADEMIC_LEVEL, PAPER_LENGTH, CITATION_STYLE, RESEARCH_FOCUS), and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini.

What AI tools work with this writing prompt?

This prompt works with chatgpt, claude, gemini. Simply copy and paste the template into any of these AI assistants.

Tips for getting the best results?

Start with your research question or thesis statement before building the outline structure Ensure each main section directly supports your central argument with specific evidence Include estimated word counts to maintain proper paper proportions and pacing Review your institution's specific formatting requirements and adjust the outline accordingly Consider potential counterarguments and plan where to address them in your outline

writing intermediate

Write a Research Paper Outline

Generate structured research paper outlines with proper academic format. Get clear sections, arguments, and citations for any topic.

Works with: chatgptclaudegemini

Prompt Template

Create a comprehensive research paper outline for the topic: "[TOPIC]" Research Paper Details: - Academic level: [ACADEMIC_LEVEL] - Target length: [PAPER_LENGTH] pages - Citation style: [CITATION_STYLE] - Specific focus/angle: [RESEARCH_FOCUS] Please structure the outline with the following components: 1. **Title Page Information** - Proposed paper title - Running head (if applicable) 2. **Abstract Section** (100-150 words) - Brief overview of what the abstract should cover 3. **Introduction Section** - Hook/attention grabber - Background information - Problem statement - Research questions or hypothesis - Thesis statement - Preview of main arguments 4. **Literature Review Section** - 3-5 key subtopics with brief descriptions - Types of sources to include for each subtopic - Gaps in current research to highlight 5. **Main Body Sections** (3-4 major sections) - Clear section headings - 2-3 subsections under each main section - Key arguments and evidence for each subsection - Potential counterarguments to address 6. **Conclusion Section** - Summary of key findings - Implications of the research - Suggestions for future research 7. **Additional Components** - References section notes - Potential appendices For each major section, include: - Estimated word count - 2-3 key points to cover - Types of evidence/sources needed - Connection to thesis statement Provide the outline in a clear, hierarchical format using proper academic outline notation (I., A., 1., a., etc.).

Variables to Customize

[TOPIC]

The main research topic or subject area for the paper

Example: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Adolescents

[ACADEMIC_LEVEL]

The educational level for which the paper is being written

Example: Undergraduate senior level

[PAPER_LENGTH]

Target length of the research paper in pages

Example: 12-15

[CITATION_STYLE]

Required citation format for the paper

Example: APA 7th edition

[RESEARCH_FOCUS]

Specific angle or aspect of the topic to focus on

Example: Focus on Instagram and TikTok usage among 13-18 year olds

Example Output

# Research Paper Outline: The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health in Adolescents **I. Introduction** (2-3 pages, ~750 words) A. Hook: Startling statistic about teen social media usage B. Background: Rise of social media platforms among youth C. Problem statement: Increasing mental health concerns in adolescents D. Research question: How does Instagram and TikTok usage affect mental health in 13-18 year olds? E. Thesis: Excessive Instagram and TikTok usage correlates with increased anxiety and depression in adolescents through comparison culture and sleep disruption **II. Literature Review** (3-4 pages, ~1000 words) A. Historical context of social media and youth B. Current research on social media's psychological effects C. Specific studies on Instagram and TikTok D. Gaps: Limited longitudinal studies on these platforms **III. Social Comparison Theory and Mental Health** (3-4 pages) A. Upward social comparisons on Instagram B. Body image and self-esteem issues C. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) phenomenon **IV. Sleep Disruption and Screen Time** (2-3 pages) A. Blue light exposure effects B. Addictive scrolling behaviors C. Impact on circadian rhythms **V. Conclusion** (1-2 pages) A. Summary of key findings B. Implications for parents and educators C. Future research directions

Pro Tips for Best Results

Start with your research question or thesis statement before building the outline structure
Ensure each main section directly supports your central argument with specific evidence
Include estimated word counts to maintain proper paper proportions and pacing
Review your institution's specific formatting requirements and adjust the outline accordingly
Consider potential counterarguments and plan where to address them in your outline