Exercises

Return to the Types of Essays and Suggested Structures page of this module. One of the models you’ll see there is a Problem and Solution Essay outline, which is very convenient, since that’s the kind of project you’re currently working on!

1. Using that outline as a starting point, customize the content of the outline to fit your specific topic–your identified problem and your proposed solution(s). Revisit your working thesis statement to see if it needs to be updated, as well.
2. Draft a complete outline for your essay. Include a version of your most current working thesis statement.

Nothing about it is set in stone yet: this can change later as you write. For now, this helps you determine if you’ve clearly identified the problem, and have enough material in place to provide a convincing solution. It also gets you a leg up with the introduction and conclusion.