What does an outline for a paragraph look like?

An outline for a good paragraph should be structured something like this:

Topic Sentence

Example/Detail

Example/Detail

Example/Detail

Concluding Sentence

Now, let's breakdown what each of these pieces means and how best to use them:

First is a topic sentence. In today's world, people skim information far more than they ever read carefully, so a topic sentence is incredibly important. A topic sentence simply states what this particular paragraph is going to be about. It is like a thesis statement in some ways, but usually more specific and more casual. This sentence will highlight whether the information in the paragraph is going to be useful for the skimmer or not. It also helps to narrow down what the author is trying to accomplish in any given paragraph. 

Following the topic sentence comes some supporting details or examples. These are the "nitty-gritty" of a paragraph, so to speak. Examples and details might include quotes or summaries from a trusted expert or news source. They might include stories from the author's personal life. Or they may include strings of logic. In short, they are whatever is needed to sufficiently prove the argument of the topic sentence. This should be the strongest part of a paragraph. My chart above recommends three details, but that can vary based on the topic being discussed, the style of the paper, or the immediate need. 

Finally, a paragraph should finish with a strong concluding sentence. This will be a sentence that, without restating everything that has just been written, summarizes the argument of the paragraph. Concluding sentences are best when they can provide links to the topic sentence of the following paragraph.