How to write an outline

An outline is a tool writers use to keep their thoughts in order. Whether written before as a guide or after as a diagnostic tool, the outline is essential to clarity.

Outlines give brief a brief summary whether in words, phrases or full sentences. The points are ordered with a simple hierarchy shown by the type of numbering and the indentation. Every point must have at least a second point, for example, every I. must have a II., every a. must have a b. If you cannot come up with a second point, you don’t need the first one, or need to find a way to include the information elsewhere. Each point must pertain to its heading and should be parallel with the other points (if you use full sentences with your points, you should use full sentences for ALL your points. The style of numbering and indentation must also be consistent throughout.

Example:

Bad Outline

1. Intro

a,  attention getting sentence

b, intriguing information

c, listing of the following points

2. Body

* Point Number One

1, lead

2, More interesting info

3, Here I will explain the how certain facts and statistics prove my point

4, transition

*Point Number 2

1, lead

2, A little more interesting info

3, funny story about something that happened while I was researching this paper

4, transition to the next paragraph

*Point Number three

1, info

2, how it all applies

3. Conclusion

Better Outline

I. Introduction Paragraph

A. attention getting sentence

B. intriguing information

C. listing of the following points

1. Point Number One

2. Point Number Two

3. Point Number Three

II. Body Paragraphs

A. Point Number One

1. Lead Sentence

2. Interesting information

3. Explanation of information

4. Transition to next paragraph

B. Point Number Two

1. Lead Sentence

2. Interesting information

3. Explanation of information

4. Transition to next paragraph

C. Point Number three

1. Lead Sentence

2. Interesting information

3. Explanation of information

4. Transition to next paragraph

III. Conclusion Paragraph

A. Restatement of points

B. Short summary

C. Conclusion sentence

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