Build my prompt

Text & chat prompt

Build a strong essay outline

Build a strong essay outline: a free, copy-paste prompt for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste the prompt and replace each [BRACKETED] field with your own details.

Text & chatChatGPTGeminiClaude

The prompt

Help me plan an essay. Do not write it for me.

Question or topic: [ESSAY QUESTION]
Word count: [NUMBER]
Level: [SCHOOL / UNDERGRAD / MASTERS]
My rough ideas: [IDEAS]

Give me: a thesis statement (3 options), paragraph-by-paragraph outline with the point and evidence for each, counter-arguments to address and 5 types of sources I should look for. Then ask me 3 questions to sharpen my argument.
Copy & open ChatGPTCopy & open GeminiCopy & open Claude Customise in the builder

Pro tip: Write the essay yourself from the outline. Use the AI as a planner, not a ghostwriter.

How to use this prompt

  1. Open ChatGPT and start a new chat.
  2. Paste the prompt.
  3. Replace each [BRACKETED] field with your real details and paste in your own text where asked.
  4. Reply with follow-ups such as "make it shorter" or "make it sound more like me".

Prompt at a glance

Category
Text & chat
Works with
ChatGPT · Gemini · Claude
Length
66 words
Fields to fill in
ESSAY QUESTION, NUMBER, SCHOOL / UNDERGRAD / MASTERS, IDEAS
Last updated

Frequently asked questions

Which AI tools work with this prompt?

It is written for ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude. Paste it into your preferred tool and adjust the wording if the result is off.

What do I need to fill in?

Replace these fields before you send it: ESSAY QUESTION, NUMBER, SCHOOL / UNDERGRAD / MASTERS, IDEAS. Each field shows an example in the prompt.

Should I paste private information into the prompt?

Only what the task needs. Remove names, contact details and other sensitive data before pasting a resume or document into any AI tool.

More chat & writing prompts

Before and after example: Rewrite resume points (ATS-friendly) Text & chat · TrendingRewrite resume points (ATS-friendly)ChatGPT · Gemini · Claude Text & chat · TrendingMock interview practice (one question at a time)ChatGPT · Gemini · Claude Text & chat · TrendingResearch a company before your interviewChatGPT · Gemini · Claude Text & chat · TrendingViral Reel / Shorts script with a hookChatGPT · Gemini · Claude

See all 373 chat & writing prompts →