Essay Outline Template
This essay outline template helps students plan a five-paragraph essay on one page. It has boxes for the thesis statement, an introduction, three body paragraphs and a conclusion, plus fields for name, topic and date.
- Grade Level
- Grades 1 to 12
- Pages
- 1
- Formats
- PDF, Google Docs, Word
- Paper Size
- US Letter and A4
- Checked By
- Milo, Classroom Teacher
- Last Updated
- October 2026
Essay Outline Template Example
An 8th grader's outline for a five-paragraph essay on later school start times.
What's in the Essay Outline Template
Thesis Statement
A ruled box at the top for the main point the whole essay will make.
Introduction and Conclusion
Prompts for a hook, background and thesis, then for restating the thesis and the so what.
Three Body Paragraphs
Each box asks for a topic sentence, evidence and an explanation.
Editable Versions
Type into the Word, Google Docs or PDF file, or print it to fill in by hand. US Letter or A4.
How to Use the Essay Outline Template
Write the Thesis First
Draft your thesis in the top box before anything else. Everything below should support it.
Plan the Introduction
Jot down a hook, a little background, and your thesis in the Introduction box.
Fill In the Body Paragraphs
For each body paragraph, write a topic sentence, your evidence and an explanation of it.
Check the Order
Read down the page and make sure each body paragraph supports your thesis.
Finish the Conclusion
Restate your thesis in new words and write why it matters, then start drafting.
Essay Outline Questions
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