essay format template word

APA Formatting and Style (7th ed.)

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Essay Template in Word

Craft A+ Essays with Essay Word Templates at Template.Net. Elevate your academic writing with professionally designed layouts for Argumentative Essays, Research Papers, and more. Streamline your composition process with customizable, user-friendly templates. Boost your grades effortlessly, exclusively at Template.Net. Fuel your success with Essay Word Templates – start writing excellence today!

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Outline Template for Essay – Word, PDF

An easy outline is like the skeleton of your essay. It presents the structure that you should follow when writing your essay. It helps you to remain focused, on tract, and prevents you from deviating from the main goals of your essay. In other words, we can say that an essay outline is a short plan of your essay. It covers the main ideas, topics, and structure of your paper.

The outline will enable you to organize your content sensibly and coherently. It’s thus essential to know how to create essay outlines since some instructors require students to submit their essay outline before working on their research papers. The draft offers the direction your essay will take and ensure you don’t miss out on any significant point in your paper. Writing academic papers can be a challenging affair; that’s why you should use essay outline templates to assist you in organizing your work and guiding your research process. With an essay outline, the writing process becomes easy and fast.

Essay Outline Templates

How to write an essay outline

• Read and understand your assignment: Before you start outlining your essay, it’s essential to ensure you’ve read and understood what your assignment entails; there is no need to rush into outlining your essay only to find you’re off topic. Thus before outlining your essay, know the purpose of your essay.
• Identify your audience: Although it’s your professor/teacher who will read your essay, you must figure out your intended audience and what you want them to know. Once you’ve identified your target audience, developing your arguments becomes easier. This will also help you in choosing the right resources and evidence for your arguments.
• State your thesis: Your thesis statement will be the hook that will capture your readers and enable them to gain interest in reading your paper. It should be arguable and offering sufficient details that will help your readers know what your essay is about.
• Choose a structure for your essay: After crafting your thesis statement, it’s upon you to choose a suitable structure for your essay. You can use the standard alphanumeric or decimal format for your essay. Although most individuals prefer the alphanumeric outline, you can use the decimal format if you deem it more precise and comfortable to use.
• Organize your outline: This is one of the most important and involving sections of your article. You should begin by outlining your introduction, thesis, and the essay body. When outlining your essay body, you should develop a topic sentence for each paragraph, including supporting evidence. If you include more details in your essay outline, your writing process will be easier.
• Outline your conclusion: The final part is outlining your conclusion. In this section, you’ll need to restate your thesis and a concluding statement. In simple terms, you’ll be stating if the problem you had identified has been solved.

Tips for writing a clear outline

Research on the topic.

Before you start outlining your essay, it’s crucial to conduct adequate research on the subject. Ensure you know your topic very well. Conduct your research both online and in the library to gather as much information about the problem as possible. Use keywords related to the topic to find useful information from Google. This background research will help in forming your opinions about the matter.

Identify essay objective

After forming your opinion about the subject, it’s now time to craft an objective for your research. This can be a thesis statement or a question that will help in starting a conversation with your audience. The objective will help you to focus on the topic and avoid straying from the main point.

List the key research points

At this point, you should list all the key points that will form your essay but avoid details. These points will act as the frame of your essay. You’ll later expand or shrink these points in your writing process; thus, no need to worry. Organize these points in order and ensure each point is relevant to the topic.

Revise your outline

Revise all the major points in your outline, and remove any redundant points and paragraphs. Each point in the outline must be related to the main topic and relevant to the thesis statement; if not, it has no room in the outline. You can also rephrase some of the points to make them relevant.

Proofread and edit your outline

Also, check for any grammar and spelling mistakes in the essay outline.

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Free Printable College Essay Format Templates [PDF, Word]

For numerous students, essay writing might seem like a mundane task. Yet, the moment you prime your mind to master the art of crafting excellent academic essays, you notice a spark of inherent aptitude kindling within you. Writing essays serves as a beneficial exercise in cultivating your creativity, imagination, and honing your skill in structuring thoughts succinctly.

The cornerstone of this process is understanding the optimal college essay format that can transform a regular piece of writing into an outstanding application essay. This article provides a comprehensive guide to doing just that.

Table of Contents

Purpose of College Admissions Essays

The labyrinth of the college admissions process is filled with numerous elements, each with its unique importance, but none quite as personal or as revealing as the college admissions essay. This essential piece is more than just a formal writing assignment ; it acts as a window, offering admissions officers an insightful peek into your life, character, aspirations, and potential.

The college essay can often seem daunting, but understanding its purpose will transform this task into an opportunity to express your unique individuality, stand out among a sea of applicants, and make a compelling case for your admission. Let’s explore these multifaceted purposes in detail:

College Essay Format Templates

College essay format templates are indispensable tools for students looking to craft a standout essay. As a guide, these templates offer a precise structure which aids in organizing thoughts and ideas in a manner that best resonates with the admissions officers.

At the heart of these templates is an intuitive outline. This outline typically includes an introduction, body, and conclusion, each with designated sections for specific details. The introduction is the part where a hook is stated, establishing an engaging start. An opening statement , offering a glimpse of the main idea or argument, follows this hook. The body of the essay, on the other hand, houses the main points, supporting details, and evidence. Lastly, the conclusion is where a summary of the main arguments or the restatement of the thesis is located.

Notably, these templates consider the formal academic style inherent in college essays . Attention to the coherence of ideas, use of proper language, and adoption of the appropriate writing style is emphasized. Hence, students can expect to produce a polished, professional essay using these format templates.

1. Showcasing Your Personality

College admissions essays allow you to show who you truly are beyond your grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities. It’s an opportunity for you to give admissions officers a glimpse into your personality, your values, your passions, and your aspirations. These essays allow you to show the human being behind the application, someone with unique perspectives, experiences, and qualities that can enrich the campus community.

2. Demonstrating Your Writing Skills

Your essay is a sample of your writing ability, which is a vital part of college life. It demonstrates your ability to communicate your thoughts effectively, succinctly, and clearly. Moreover, it reflects your critical thinking skills, how you can structure and present an argument, and your proficiency in using standard written English.

3. Adding Context to Your Academic Performance

Sometimes, your academic record may not fully reflect your potential, especially if you’ve had educational or personal challenges. Your essay can provide context to your academic performance, explaining any discrepancies or anomalies in your academic record and portraying your resilience and determination to succeed despite obstacles.

4. Displaying Your Interest in the College

The essay can also serve as a platform to express your genuine interest in the college and how it’s the right fit for your career goals and academic interests. By doing thorough research about the institution and indicating it in your essay, you show that you’ve made an informed decision to apply to that college.

5. Distinguishing Yourself From Other Candidates

Many students applying to college have similar grades and test scores. Your essay helps you stand out from the crowd. It gives you a chance to showcase unique experiences or qualities that may not be evident elsewhere in your application, providing a compelling reason for admissions officers to choose you.

6. Illustrating Your Potential Contribution to the College Community

Colleges are looking for individuals who will contribute positively to their community. Your essay can highlight how you can make a difference on their campus, whether through leadership, community service, entrepreneurship, or other ways that align with the college’s values.

Common types of college essays

Let’s delve into some common types of college essays . Each type requires a different approach and presents unique opportunities for self-expression and reflection.

Personal Statement

The personal statement is arguably the most common type of college essay. It’s often part of the Common Application for undergraduate admissions, and it requires you to discuss some aspect of your personal experience, values, or aspirations. The aim is to give the admissions officers a glimpse into who you are beyond your grades and test scores, highlighting your personality and what makes you unique.

Supplemental Essays

Supplemental essays are specific to each school and usually focus on why you’re interested in that particular college or university. These essays require thorough research about the school, its programs, culture, values, and offerings. It’s your opportunity to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and that you’re genuinely excited about the prospect of studying there.

Activity Essays

In an activity essay, you’re asked to discuss a particular extracurricular activity, hobby, or interest and its significance to you. This essay helps colleges understand what you’re passionate about outside of the classroom and how you could contribute to their community.

Scholarship Essays

These essays are usually required when you apply for a scholarship. They could ask you to discuss your academic and career goals, your community service experiences, challenges you’ve overcome, or other topics. The aim is to convince the scholarship committee that you’re deserving of financial assistance.

Disciplinary Essays

Disciplinary essays are a specific type of application essay where you’re asked to discuss any disciplinary action you’ve faced during your high school years. These essays are your chance to explain the circumstances and show how you’ve learned and grown from the experience.

Diversity Essays

Diversity essays are an opportunity for you to discuss how your unique background, experiences, or perspectives could contribute to the college’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. This could involve discussing your cultural heritage, personal identity, life experiences, or how you’ve promoted diversity and inclusion in your own community.

Intellectual Curiosity Essays

In these essays, you are asked to discuss an idea, work of literature , scientific concept, or another intellectual pursuit that has sparked your curiosity or inspired you. This helps colleges understand your academic interests and intellectual drive.

“Creative” or “Inventive” Essays

Some colleges offer prompts that encourage more creative or unconventional responses. These might involve writing a short story, describing yourself in a metaphor, or other creative prompts. These essays allow you to showcase your creativity and originality.

Formatting Basics

Let’s talk about the basic elements of formatting your college essay. Proper formatting not only makes your essay look neat and professional, but it also affects readability and leaves an impression on the reader. Here are some of the critical elements:

1. Font and Font Size

The font you choose should be clean, easily legible, and fairly standard. This is not the place to experiment with creative or decorative fonts. Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri are popular choices as they are straightforward and universally accessible.

The font size should ideally be 12 points, which is easy to read without being too large or too small. If the specific guidelines from the college mention a different size, however, you should follow that.

2. Margins and Spacing

Typically, you’ll want to set one-inch margins on all sides of your document (top, bottom, left, and right). This is the default setting on most word processing software and helps to create a clean frame around your text.

For spacing, most college essays should be double-spaced. Double spacing creates a clear visual separation between lines, making your essay easier to read.

3. Indentation and Alignment

The first line of every new paragraph should be indented by half an inch. This can be easily done by pressing the ‘Tab’ key on your keyboard at the start of each paragraph.

For alignment, your text should be ‘left-aligned’. This is the standard alignment for most formal documents. ‘Justified’ text, where both the left and right edges are aligned, can lead to irregular spacing between words and is generally not recommended for college essays.

4. Title and Headers

Unless otherwise specified in the application guidelines , you should include a title for your essay. The title should be centered and placed at the top of the first page, and it should provide a clear indication of your essay’s content. Keep it concise and avoid using complex phrases or jargon.

For headers, your last name and the page number should appear in the top right corner of every page (except on the first page if your teacher has asked for a title page). This is especially important for longer essays, in case pages get separated.

Finally, remember to proofread your essay not only for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes but also to ensure it adheres to these formatting guidelines. While the content of your essay is paramount, proper formatting shows attention to detail and respect for the reader, which can leave a positive impression.

Structure of the Essay

1. Introduction

The introduction is your first chance to grab the reader’s attention. It sets the tone for the entire essay and introduces the topic or main idea.

Importance of a Strong Opening

A strong opening is crucial because it is your opportunity to hook the reader’s interest from the start. This can be done in various ways, such as starting with a provocative question, a compelling story, a surprising fact, or a vivid description that engages the reader’s senses.

Elements of an Effective Introduction

An effective introduction generally includes a hook, some background information on the topic, and a clear thesis statement. The thesis statement is typically a sentence or two that summarizes the main argument or point of your essay.

2. Body Paragraphs

The body of your essay is where you develop your main argument and provide detailed support for your thesis statement.

Organization and Coherence

Each body paragraph should focus on one main point or idea, and this point should be clearly stated in a topic sentence at the start of the paragraph. The remaining sentences in the paragraph should provide further explanation or evidence to support this point.

To maintain coherence, the points or ideas in your body paragraphs should logically flow from one to the next, and each paragraph should connect back to your thesis statement.

Supporting Evidence and Examples

Evidence and examples are the concrete facts, details, and data that back up your main points. This can include statistical data, research findings, quotations from experts, or real-world examples. These elements give your essay credibility and make your arguments more convincing.

Transition Words and Phrases

Transitions help guide your reader through your essay and show how your ideas connect. Transition words and phrases like “however,” “in addition,” “for example,” or “as a result,” can indicate contrast, addition, illustration, or cause-and-effect relationships between your ideas.

3. Conclusion

The conclusion is your chance to wrap up your essay and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Summarizing Key Points

The conclusion should summarize the main points or arguments you’ve made in your essay. This doesn’t mean simply repeating what you’ve already said, but rather synthesizing your ideas – bringing them together to show how they collectively support your thesis statement.

Ending on a Strong Note

Your conclusion should leave the reader with a final thought or impression. This could be a call to action, a prediction, a reflection on the implications of your argument, or a provocative question that leaves the reader thinking.

1. Length and Word Count

General Guidelines for Essay Length

Essay length can vary depending on the assignment or application guidelines. However, a typical college essay is usually between 500-650 words. This length is long enough to develop a well-reasoned argument but short enough to keep the reader’s attention.

Adhering to Word Count Limits

If a word count limit is given, it’s important to stick to it. Going significantly over the limit may demonstrate an inability to write concisely, whereas significantly under the word limit may indicate that you haven’t developed your ideas fully.

Balancing Concision with Content

While it’s important to be concise, you also want to make sure you’re thoroughly addressing the essay prompt and supporting your points adequately. This often requires finding a balance between being succinct and providing enough detail.

2. Writing Style and Tone

Formal vs. Informal Tone

Academic writing typically uses a more formal tone, but college essays can often benefit from a more conversational style. While you want to maintain a level of formality, it’s also important to write in a way that feels authentic to you and reflects your voice.

Choosing Appropriate Language

Your language should be clear, precise, and accessible. Avoid overly complex words or phrases that can confuse the reader. Make sure any technical terms or jargon are clearly explained.

Avoiding Clichés and Slang

Clichés and slang can make your essay seem unoriginal or informal. Try to express your thoughts in a fresh, unique way, and use formal English rather than colloquial or slang language.

3. Grammar and Punctuation

Common Grammatical Errors to Avoid

Common errors include sentence fragments, run-on sentences, subject-verb agreement errors, and incorrect verb tenses. Double-check your work to avoid these mistakes.

Proper Use of Punctuation Marks

Correct punctuation enhances the readability of your essay. Pay careful attention to your use of commas, periods, colons, semicolons, and quotation marks.

Proofreading and Editing Tips

After finishing your initial draft, take the time to revise and proofread. Look for any errors, unclear sentences, or awkward phrases. Reading your essay out loud can help you spot areas that need improvement.

4. Personalization and Originality

Showcasing Your Unique Voice and Perspective

Your essay is an opportunity to share your unique voice and perspective. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. This personal touch can make your essay stand out.

Avoiding Generic and Clichéd Content

Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so avoid overused phrases or generic statements. Try to offer original insights and personal experiences that showcase who you are.

Incorporating Personal Anecdotes and Experiences

Personal anecdotes can make your essay more engaging and help illustrate your points. When appropriate, share personal experiences that have shaped you or reflect the argument you’re making.

How do you start a college essay?

Starting a college essay can feel like a daunting task. Your first sentences set the stage for everything that follows, so they need to grab the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading. Here are a few different strategies you can use to craft a compelling introduction:

1. Full Hemingway

Named after the famous author Ernest Hemingway, known for his direct and unadorned style, this approach involves beginning your essay with a vivid and concise narrative. This could be a personal anecdote or a relevant story that sets up the theme or main point of your essay. The aim is to draw the reader in with a clear and engaging story that leads directly into the main content of your essay.

For example: “I watched as the last sandcastle fell, washed away by the relentless tide. It was in that moment, my ice cream cone in hand and my heart heavy, that I first realized everything in life is transient.”

2. Mini-Hemingway

A smaller-scale version of the Full Hemingway, the Mini-Hemingway also begins with a brief, impactful anecdote or story, but this story is more of a snapshot. It’s a quick, vivid image or a few lines of dialogue that hint at a larger narrative or theme.

For example: “As the referee blew the final whistle, I looked up at the scoreboard: 0-1. Our season was over, but a new realization had just begun.”

In the Twist approach, you start your essay with a common belief or general statement, and then immediately challenge or “twist” it. This can surprise your reader and pique their curiosity.

For example: “We’ve always been told that practice makes perfect, but when I spent the entire summer practicing piano and still couldn’t play Chopin’s nocturnes, I realized that there was a missing piece in that old adage.”

4. Philosophical Question

Beginning your essay with a philosophical question invites your readers to ponder a deep, thought-provoking issue from the get-go. It can engage your reader’s curiosity and make them want to read on to see your perspective on the question.

For example: “What does it truly mean to be successful? Is it about the trophies and accolades, or is it something deeper, something more personal?”

5. Bold Statement

This approach involves opening your essay with a strong, even potentially controversial, statement. The key is to pique the reader’s interest and provoke them to want to read more.

For example: “Extracurricular activities, not academic classes, are the most important part of high school education.”

No matter which strategy you choose, remember that your goal is to engage the reader and lead seamlessly into the main theme or argument of your essay. Ultimately, your opening should be authentic, compelling, and representative of the story you are about to tell.

6. Trailer Thesis

The trailer thesis approach is akin to a movie trailer. Rather than waiting until the end of the introduction to present your thesis, you start with it. However, you only provide enough to pique the reader’s interest, keeping some elements back as if to say “stay tuned for more.”

For example: “Recounting the journey that led me to reject a traditional career path in favor of humanitarian work, this essay explores the transformative power of personal experiences.”

7. Random Personal Fun Fact

You can also begin your essay with a surprising or interesting personal fun fact. This should be related to the essay’s overall theme, as it can serve as a unique hook and provide a humanizing element to your story.

For example: “Not many people can say they’ve moved 12 times before their 18th birthday, but I can. This constant state of motion has shaped my perspective on life and adaptability.”

8. Shocking Image

Starting your essay with a shocking or striking image can immediately draw your reader in. This image could be a literal picture you paint with words or a metaphorical one that symbolizes a larger idea.

For example: “There it was: my childhood treehouse, now nothing more than a pile of splintered wood and faded dreams, bulldozed to make room for a new mall.”

How do you write a college application essay?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of writing a compelling college application essay:

Step 1: Understand the Prompt

Before you start writing , thoroughly read the essay prompt provided by the college. Understanding what the admissions committee wants to learn about you is the first step in crafting a meaningful and relevant essay.

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Reflect on your experiences, values, and interests. Consider what you want the admissions committee to know about you. Then, brainstorm a list of possible topics that align with the essay prompt and showcase these elements.

Step 3: Choose Your Topic

Pick a topic that allows you to highlight your unique qualities, tell a memorable story, or provide fresh insights. Remember, this essay is your opportunity to differentiate yourself from other applicants and demonstrate why you’d be a great fit for the college.

Step 4: Create an Outline

Before you start writing, create an essay outline . This should include your introduction with a thesis statement, body paragraphs with main points and supporting details, and a conclusion that wraps up your ideas and leaves the reader with a strong impression.

Step 5: Write the First Draft

Start writing your first draft based on the outline. Don’t worry about making it perfect on your first try. At this stage, your goal should be to translate your ideas into words and develop your narrative.

Step 6: Revise Your Essay

After writing your first draft, take the time to revise and refine your essay. Look for areas where you could be more specific, places where more detail or explanation is needed, and whether your essay effectively addresses the prompt.

Step 7: Proofread

Proofreading is a crucial final step. Look for grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and awkward phrases. Reading your essay aloud can also help you identify areas that need improvement.

Step 8: Get Feedback

Having someone else review your essay can provide valuable perspective. Consider asking a teacher, counselor, or trusted peer to read your essay and provide feedback. Remember, though, that this is your essay – make sure it stays true to your voice.

Step 9: Finalize Your Essay

After incorporating the feedback, review your essay one more time to ensure it’s the best it can be. Make sure it is cohesive, compelling, and addresses the essay prompt effectively.

Step 10: Submit Your Essay

Once you’re confident in your final draft, it’s time to submit your essay as part of your application. Ensure you follow all the instructions regarding format and submission guidelines.

What font and font size should I use for my college essay?

When writing a college essay, it is typically recommended to use a standard, readable font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. The most common font size is 12 points. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific guidelines provided by the college or university, as they may have their own preferences or requirements.

Should I double-space my college essay?

Yes, double-spacing is generally preferred for college essays. It helps improve readability and allows for easier grading and comments. Most colleges and universities require double-spacing unless stated otherwise in the guidelines. However, it’s always advisable to carefully review the instructions provided by the institution to ensure compliance with their formatting requirements.

Is there a specific structure or organization I should follow in my college essay?

While there is no one-size-fits-all structure for college essays, a common approach is to have an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention, presents a clear thesis statement, followed by body paragraphs that provide supporting evidence or examples, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and reinforces the thesis. However, it’s important to remember that the structure may vary depending on the topic, essay prompt, or personal writing style. It’s recommended to organize the essay in a logical and coherent manner that effectively communicates your ideas.

Are there any specific formatting guidelines I should follow for citations in my college essay?

The formatting guidelines for citations in a college essay generally depend on the citation style requested by the college or university. Common citation styles include MLA (Modern Language Association), APA (American Psychological Association), and Chicago/Turabian. Each style has its own rules for formatting in-text citations and creating a bibliography or works cited page. It’s essential to consult the specific style guide provided by the institution or seek clarification from your professor regarding the preferred citation format.

Should I include a works cited or bibliography page in my college essay?

Including a works cited or bibliography page is typically necessary when you use external sources in your college essay. This page provides a list of all the sources you cited or consulted during your research. The specific formatting and citation style for the works cited or bibliography page will depend on the guidelines provided by the college or university. Make sure to follow the instructions given by the institution or consult the appropriate style guide for accurate formatting.

Should I use a specific file format when submitting my college essay electronically?

The preferred file format for electronic submission of college essays will vary depending on the requirements of the institution. In most cases, PDF (Portable Document Format) is a widely accepted and recommended format for submitting essays electronically. PDF ensures that your document retains its formatting across different devices and operating systems. However, it’s crucial to carefully review the submission guidelines provided by the college or university to determine their preferred file format.

Can I use images or graphics in my college essay?

In general, college essays are primarily text-based and do not typically include images or graphics. The focus is on your writing and ability to express ideas effectively. However, there may be exceptions for specific types of essays or creative projects. If you believe that an image or graphic is crucial to convey your message or enhance your essay, it’s best to consult the guidelines or seek clarification from your professor regarding the inclusion of visual elements.

Are there any common mistakes I should avoid in my college essay format?

Yes, there are some common mistakes to avoid in your college essay format. These include:

• Neglecting to follow the guidelines: Ensure that you carefully read and adhere to the formatting and submission guidelines provided by the college or university.
• Using inappropriate fonts or font sizes: Stick to standard and readable fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial, and use a font size of 12 points, unless otherwise specified.
• Forgetting to include a title or following an incorrect title format: If required, include a concise and relevant title centered on the page, following the guidelines provided.
• Neglecting to double-space: Most colleges prefer double-spacing for essays unless stated otherwise in the instructions. Ensure that your essay is properly formatted.
• Failing to cite sources or not following the required citation style: If you use external sources, make sure to properly cite them within the text and include a works cited or bibliography page using the specified citation style.

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Helping kids learn to spell words is a daily challenge for most parents and teachers. Many methods have been implemented to train children, but the results aren't always outstanding. Instructing…

Betina Jessen

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Templates for every kind of writing

Make your pages pop with a customizable template for you to put your words into. everything from academic and research papers to work assignments to personal writing and journaling can benefit from starting your writing with a template. see which one gets the words flowing for you..

Write your way with a customizable template matched to your project

There are endless ways to write, to get ideas onto the page (or screen). No matter what kind of writing you're going to do, starting with a customizable writing template can help guide your work (or brainstorming). From resumes , and business plans , to school essays, journal writing, and other hobbies , there's a template for you to take advantage of. Dive into keeping a diary or meal planning. Keep a planner with pen and paper. Practice your penmanship—or your typing. However you like to do your writing, there's an easy-to-use, customizable template to help you get started.