Essay Mind Map Template

An essay plan works as a mind map because an essay is a tree already: one thesis, three or four arguments, and evidence hanging off each one. Seeing it as a map shows at a glance which argument is thin before you write a word.

Thesis: yourone-sentence claimArgument 1EvidenceAnalysisArgument 2EvidenceAnalysisArgument 3EvidenceAnalysisCounter-argumentRebuttalConclusionSo what?
Blank template. Best for: Students planning argumentative, persuasive or analytical essays.

How to fill it in

  1. Write your thesis as a single sentence in the centre.
  2. Add one branch per argument. If you can’t name it in five words, it isn’t clear yet.
  3. Under each argument add evidence (quote, data, example) and then your analysis of it.
  4. Add a counter-argument branch and your rebuttal.
  5. Export to Markdown: the branch order becomes your paragraph order.

Example: Should homework be banned in primary school?

Homework inprimary school doesmore harm than goodLittle learning gainCooper 2006 review: weaklink under age 11Time better spent readingfor pleasureWidens gapsDepends on help at homeQuiet space is not equalFamily stressEvening conflictLess play and sleepCounter: builds habitsRebuttal: short readingdoes this betterConclusionReplace with daily reading
Show as text outline
Homework in primary school does more harm than good
- Little learning gain
  - Cooper 2006 review: weak link under age 11
  - Time better spent reading for pleasure
- Widens gaps
  - Depends on help at home
  - Quiet space is not equal
- Family stress
  - Evening conflict
  - Less play and sleep
- Counter: builds habits
  - Rebuttal: short reading does this better
- Conclusion
  - Replace with daily reading

More templates

Questions people ask

How do I use this essay plan template?

Click “Use blank template” to open it in the free editor, select any idea and start typing to replace it. Tab adds a new branch, Enter adds a sibling. Your map saves in your browser automatically.

Can I download it as a PDF or image?

Yes. In the editor, open Export and choose PDF (A4), PNG or SVG. Markdown gives you the outline as text.