Analytical Essay Outline Template
Copy this template and replace the bracketed text with your content.
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Hook: [Your attention-grabbing opening; a quote, question, or surprising fact]
B. Context: [2-3 sentences of background the reader needs]
C. Thesis: [Your main argument in one clear sentence]
II. BODY PARAGRAPH 1
A. Topic sentence: [First point supporting your thesis]
B. Evidence: [Quote, fact, or example from your source]
C. Analysis: [Explain HOW this evidence supports your point? this is the "so what?"]
D. Transition: [Bridge to next paragraph]
III. BODY PARAGRAPH 2
A. Topic sentence: [Second point supporting your thesis]
B. Evidence: [Quote, fact, or example]
C. Analysis: [Your interpretation and explanation]
D. Transition: [Bridge to next paragraph]
IV. BODY PARAGRAPH 3
A. Topic sentence: [Third point supporting your thesis]
B. Evidence: [Quote, fact, or example]
C. Analysis: [Your interpretation]
D. Transition: [Bridge to conclusion]
V. CONCLUSION
A. Restate thesis: [Rephrase your argument, don't copy]
B. Summarize: [Brief recap of your main points]
C. So what?: [Why this matters / broader implication]
Struggling to craft a strong thesis statement? Our dedicated guide on analytical essay thesis statement walks you through the what, how, and so what framework with examples showing exactly how to turn topics into analytical arguments.
Analytical Essay Structure Explained
Not sure how much space to give each section? Here's the standard breakdown.
Introduction (10-15% of your essay)
What to include:
- Hook (1-2 sentences)
- Context (2-3 sentences)
- Thesis (1 sentence)
Length:
For a 1,000-word essay, aim for 100-150 words. For a 2,500-word essay, aim for 250-400 words.
Keep it tight:
No more than 2-3 sentences before your thesis. Get to your argument quickly.
Your thesis is the foundation of your entire analytical essay, and it needs to make an arguable claim, not just state a fact. Therefore, choose a topic wisely, and for a perfect topic, browse our analytical essay topics.
Body Paragraphs (70-80% of your essay)
Structure:
Each paragraph follows the following pattern:
Point to Evidence to Analysis to Link
How many paragraphs?
Usually 3 for standard essays. Each should be 150-200 words for a 1,000-word essay.
The key:
Spend MORE time analyzing than quoting. For every sentence of evidence, write 2-3 sentences explaining what it means. See real examples of this structure in our analytical essay examples.
Conclusion (10-15% of your essay)
What to include:
- Reframe your thesis (don't copy-paste)
- Quick summary of insights
- End with "so what?" / broader significance
Length:
For a 1,000-word essay, aim for 100-150 words. For a 2,500-word essay, aim for 250-400 words.
Avoid:
Generic phrases like "In conclusion..." Just get to your point.
Quick Reference Checklist
Print this 1-page structure guide to keep at your desk while writing. Includes percentages, word counts, and the PEEL method.
Analysis Paper Format (By Length)
Depending on your assignment length, you may need to adjust the number of body paragraphs.
Short Essay (500-750 words)
- 3 body paragraphs
- 1 piece of evidence per paragraph
- Use the basic template above
Medium Essay (1,000-1,500 words)
- 4-5 body paragraphs
- 2 pieces of evidence per paragraph
- Add a counterargument paragraph if relevant
Research Paper (2,000+ words)
- 6-8 body paragraphs
- Multiple evidence sources per paragraph
- Include methodology/approach section if required
Want to check out a pre filled outline. Here is one to help you get started!
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Analytical Paragraph Template (PEEL Method)
Each body paragraph follows the same structure. Here's the PEEL method expanded:
P - Point (Topic Sentence)
[State the main idea of this paragraph in one sentence]
E - Evidence (Support)
[Insert your quote, data, or specific example here]
E - Explanation (Analysis)
[Explain HOW this evidence proves your point. This is where YOUR thinking shows don't skip it.]
L - Link (Transition)
[Connect to your thesis or bridge to the next paragraph]
Analytical Essay Outline (Filled In)
Here's what the template looks like with actual content, a literary analysis of The Great Gatsby:
I. INTRODUCTION A. Hook: "The American Dream promises success through hard work, but what happens when that dream becomes an obsession?" II. BODY PARAGRAPH 1 III. BODY PARAGRAPH 2 A. Topic: Gatsby's love for Daisy is transactional, not authentic
B. Context: In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald explores 1920s excess through Jay Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and status.
C. Thesis: Fitzgerald uses Gatsby's downfall to critique the American Dream, showing how the pursuit of wealth corrupts authentic connection.
A. Topic: Gatsby's wealth is built on illusion and crime
B. Evidence: "He and this Wolfshiem bought up side-street drug stores..."
C. Analysis: The source of Gatsby's fortune undermines the meritocracy myth central to the American Dream. His wealth doesn't represent hard work it represents moral compromise.
D. Transition: This corruption extends to his relationships.
B. Evidence: "Her voice is full of money"
C. Analysis: This equation of Daisy with money reveals Gatsby confuses economic value with human worth. He can't distinguish between loving Daisy and loving what she represents.
D. Transition: This confusion proves fatal.
[Continue for Body 3 and Conclusion...]
Note: This is a filled in OUTLINE, not a full essay.
Before you start outlining, make sure you're writing the right type of essay; many students confuse analytical with argumentative essays. Check our guide on analytical vs argumentative essays to understand the key differences.
Free Downloadable Resources
Get all three outline templates as PDFs:
Blank Outline Template
Fillable PDF you can type directly into
Structure Checklist
1 page quick reference for your desk
Reference Outline
Completed Gatsby sample for reference
All free. No email required. Download and use immediately.
Bottom Line
Now you've got a structure. Fill in the blanks, and you're halfway there. The hard part is the analysis itself, making sure every point connects back to your thesis. Good luck, and don't forget we're here if you need backup.
Want more information? Head over to our analytical essay guide to know more about the basics of analytical essays.
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