Describe how to plan an outline for the HiSET essay.

• A. Begin with a random draft; revise later; skip planning.
• B. Write the conclusion first; avoid main claims.
• C. Start with thesis, list main claims, gather supporting evidence, order sections logically, and plan a conclusion.
• D. Collect evidence first; ignore thesis.

Answer: (C)

Planning an outline for the HiSET essay is about building a clear road map before you write. A solid outline starts with a clear thesis, then lists the main claims that will support that thesis, then identifies the evidence or examples for each claim, arranges the sections in a logical order, and finally sketches a conclusion that circles back to the thesis. This approach gives you a focused blueprint, makes it easier to keep paragraphs purposeful, and helps you arrange evidence so each piece builds toward your overall argument. It also aids with transitions and pacing so you don’t run out of ideas or time. Without planning, you might draft randomly, which leads to a scattered essay and more rewrites. If you write the conclusion before you settle on the main claims, you end up with a summary that doesn’t advance a clear argument. If you collect evidence without a guiding thesis, you risk material that doesn’t fit together or support a single point.