Set your own limit for a long paragraph. Many instructors suggest roughly 100 to 200 words for academic body paragraphs, but follow your assignment or style guide.
How to use the reverse outline
Paste your full draft into the box and leave a blank line between paragraphs. ReverseOutline numbers each paragraph, shows its first sentence, counts words and sentences, and lists any words the paragraph repeats, which are often its real subject. Next to each paragraph, choose what it does in the argument and type one line saying what it says in your own words. The outline text underneath updates as you go and can be copied or printed.
Read the finished outline without looking at the essay. Ask whether each line supports the thesis, whether any two lines say the same thing, and whether the order is the most logical one. Every no is a revision task: cut, merge, move or rewrite the paragraph.
What the flags mean
A long flag means the paragraph is over your word limit and may be doing two jobs. A short flag marks a body paragraph under about fifty words that may not have room for a claim, evidence and analysis. One sentence paragraphs, paragraphs that open with a question and paragraphs that open with a quotation are flagged because they often bury the main point. Transitions such as however, therefore and in conclusion are shown in green so you can see where the argument turns.
Private by design
ReverseOutline has no server-side processing and no AI rewriting. Your essay stays in this browser and is saved in local storage on this device only, so it is safe to paste coursework, applications and unpublished drafts.
Frequently asked questions
How long should a paragraph be?
There is no fixed rule. In academic essays, body paragraphs of about 100 to 200 words are common; online writing is usually shorter.
Why are short paragraphs flagged?
A body paragraph under about 50 words rarely has room for a claim, evidence and analysis. Introductions and conclusions are not flagged.
Does it count sentences too?
Yes. Each paragraph shows its word and sentence count, and one-sentence paragraphs are flagged.
Is ReverseOutline free?
Yes. Pasting, outlining, copying and printing are free with no sign-up.
Is my essay uploaded?
No. Your text is analyzed in your browser and saved only on this device.