Example of a Narrative Outline

Crossing the Finish Line

I.

II.

III.

Introduction
a. Hook: My legs had reached complete exhaustion. My determination was dwindling.
With only one mile left of the marathon, I contemplated just giving up.
b. Set the scene: other marathoners were passing me from both sides. The
spectators voices started to become audible, signaling that the finish line was near.
c. Thesis: This last 5,280 feet was either going to make or break me.
Body Paragraphs
a. My Mind
i. Doubt
ii. Inner-fear
iii. Not wanting to let myself down or my family
iv. Did I just waste 5 months of training
v. Losing the drive to finish the last stretch
b. My body
i. Legs muscles were almost completed useless
ii. Could only slowly jog at this point
iii. Feet were throbbing
iv. Calves were burning
v. Blisters on my heels
vi. Nauseous from fear
Conclusion
a. Wrap-up
i. Seeing my son waiting for me with less than a mile left
ii. Knowing I had to do finish the end was in sight
b. Lesson
i. I can accomplish my goals/challenge myself