How to Create an Effective EE Outline for a Logical Flow
Why the EE Outline Matters
The Extended Essay (EE) demands a clear, coherent structure. A logical outline ensures your argument unfolds naturally, guiding the reader from your research question to reflective conclusion. It also helps you meet the IB assessment criteria for coherence, argument quality, and structure.
Key Components of a Good EE Structure
A well-structured EE typically includes:
- Introduction: Present your Research Question (RQ), context, and thesis.
- Body: Develop your argument step-by-step—chronologically, thematically, or comparatively.
- Conclusion: Synthesize your findings, highlight limitations, and reflect on implications.
RevisionDojo’s EE strategy guide reinforces these elements and emphasizes how structure affects marks.
Before You Outline: Clarifying Your RQ and Arguments
To build a logical outline, first:
- Finalize a focused Research Question.
- Identify your key arguments and supporting evidence.
- Decide on the direction of your analysis—exploratory or argumentative.
RevisionDojo’s insight on crafting effective RQs and research planning can be valuable here.
Choosing an Effective Outline Strategy
Select a strategy based on your subject and content:
- Thematic: Excellent for subjects like Literature or Music—grouping chapters by theme.
- Chronological: Works well for History and Economics—tracking change over time.
- Comparative: Ideal for Sciences or Language essays—formal comparison of methods or texts.
RevisionDojo’s EE templates showcase examples for each outline style.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an EE Outline
Step 1: Draft the Intro Structure
- Define your topic and scope.
- Include your RQ, rationale, and overview of approach.
Step 2: Break Down Key Points into Sections
- Map out major chapters/sections for each claim or theme.
- Indicate sub-points and evidence for each.
Step 3: Add Supporting Evidence and Transitions
- Briefly note data, quotes, or experiments—you’ll elaborate in drafts.
- Include signpost phrases for reader flow (e.g. “Moving to…,” “Another key point…”).
Step 4: Plan the Conclusion
- Highlight main findings.
- Reflect on limitations or unanswered aspects.
- Suggest future research or implications.
RevisionDojo’s EE outline templates provide editable visuals for guidance.
How to Maintain Logical Flow
- Use signposting language to guide readers through transitions (e.g. “Firstly… Subsequently… Finally…”).
- Maintain clear cause-effect or compare-contrast structures.
- Ensure each section naturally leads to the next.
RevisionDojo emphasizes how logical transitions directly impact coherence and criterion C scores
Real Student Examples and Templates
History EE Example
- Introduction → Historiographical context → Thematic chapters on causes → Evaluation → Conclusion
Science EE Example
- Intro → Methodology critique → Data-led chapters → Comparative assessment → Concluding implications
English/Literature EE Example
- Intro → Theme-based chapters (e.g. identity, conflict) → Textual comparisons → Reflective synthesis
RevisionDojo’s subject-specific outline samples offer real-world structure models.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake How to Fix It Listing without linking Add transitional reasoning between points Inconsistent paragraph development Map similar lengths and detail levels in each section Lack of reflection Insert planned reflection prompts in the outline
RevisionDojo’s guides outline these pitfalls and offer corrective strategies.
Tips from Top IB Scorers
- Start with a super-detailed outline, then refine it with supervisor feedback.
- Align your outline and draft with the EE assessment criteria (e.g., analysis, argument, structure).
RevisionDojo maps outline expectations to official IB criteria for alignment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is a good word count for an EE outline?
A1: A 500–800 word outline gives enough structure without over-detailing.
Q2: Should the outline include sources?
A2: Reference key sources or data in bullet form—detail them in your draft.
Q3: How many sections should the EE outline have?
A3: Typically 4–6 major sections. Longer subject areas might allow more, but balance is key.
Q4: When should I finalize my outline?
A4: Aim to finalize it about one month before your first full draft, allowing time for revision.
Q5: Is it okay to revise the outline later?
A5: Absolutely—refine it as your research deepens, but maintain logical flow.
Q6: Can outlines differ by EE subject?
A6: Yes, structure should match the method and style of your subject (e.g., science versus literature). RevisionDojo offers tailored approaches. (revisiondojo.com)
Conclusion: Structure Is Your Superpower
An outline is more than a plan—it’s your roadmap. A well-designed EE outline builds logic, coherence, and clarity from the start. Use structure to support analytical depth and reflective insight, rather than simple organization.
Call to Action
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