As always, you should begin by forming several limiting topic questions about the Shakespeare authorship question that pertains to your topic (or candidate). When you have formed a good question to answer, then by answering the question in a clear statement, you will have formed your working thesis. (See Question and Thesis Worksheet)

After you have completed your working title and thesis statement, complete a scratch outline for your paper using the 6-part essay structure (see handout on essay structures).

Then complete the detailed paper planning worksheet (it may take more than 1 page). Your planning worksheet should be turned in as Ex. 9 when requested or with your final paper draft.