Writing an outline can be simple if you know what genre or audience you are targeting. At the same time, it can be difficult because of the audience and the purpose the writer has to convey. We will guide you on how to write the perfect outline in order to complete the task of writing for your audience as well as write for your specific needs. We will give you a brief, as well as an outline template, and tips on what to do in certain cases, as well as what to avoid when writing an outline.
Writers can construct a structured and cohesive outline according to the specific type needed. In fact, it should be written with a goal in mind. This includes the main topic which is the purpose of the message you intend to convey to your readers, as well as the classify the major elements for your audience.
Blank Outline Template
Write an outline template before you write your next essay or speech by using these 6 easy steps. It can help you stay focused and on track from the beginning to ending while at the same time, saving you valuable time as you go. In fact, most students and writers saying without an outline, they would be writing endlessly without making a clear consensus or making a valuable point. It’s a proven way to save time and energy as you research and organizing your thoughts when you write an outline. Besides keeping you focused and on topic, it’s actually a great way to prepare a speech or a written composition of any type. (17+ Blank Outline Templates)
Essay Outline Template
Writing your essay for your next exam can be easier for you when you follow a well-structured outline. The following guideline will help guide you as you keep your main points, and sub-points, to the main thesis statement. It will also keep you focusing on the thesis without becoming off the topic or subject.
Before you begin your research on your thesis or subject matter, following the guide, sentence by sentence, will keep it parallel and organized in it’s entirety. In fact, it has been compared to a “scaffold” in order to “build” your entire essay from the introduction to the conclusion. Most instructors, teachers, or professors will require their students to turn in an outline before they begin writing their required essay. The reason, again, it keeps you on target while focusing only on your thesis statement. Essay outlines are structured in alphanumerical style. (30+ Essay Outline Templates)
Formal Outline Template
Professors or instructors will ask for a formal outline when the students are about to write a written composition in any genre. When requesting a document which has specific categories or subjects, there are basic rules in formatting that normally are composed with the composition. These rules are different according to the genre or the specific project. When it is a formal outline, the general rules will apply. The general rules are universal, in other words, they are all formal.
- There is a logical order to all formal outlines.
- The higher the heading level, the more generalized the statement or sentence it will be.
- In alphanumerical order, an A is always going to be followed by the B.
- Either write a sentence structured outline or a “one-statement” structured outline, but never use the combination.
- All items in the outline should be parallel constructed.
- The more consistent the outline, the more cohesive it will be.
- Phrases do not use periods in formal outlines, but sentences do. (10+ Formal Outline Templates)
Book Outline Template
When authors write an outline for their new book they want to publish, they will normally start with the outline of the book. It looks like a table of contents. In this case, the table of contents can act as a guide to the book’s outline. Although, what if you do not have the completed manuscript yet. This is the perfect time to write the outline to a book. It not only acts like a guide, chapter by chapter, it gives the structure of how the book’s subject matter or story line. “How will the story unfold?” is the main question to the readers.
In fact, the story will have the beginning and ending. It will have a plot, characters, setting, the year or era it took place, and even a climatic ending or scene. These are only a few of the elements to a book’s outline. Nevertheless, it’s good to have an outline to a book because it draws up the story’s goal or main problem. Normally the problem is the antagonists with the protagonists in the way.
The organization of the ideas that surround the plot of a book or novel will eventually be based around the entire outline of the book. But, without the goal, or problem to solve, it can become a very boring story with no intention of ever being finished, what’s the use? The series of events will normally be followed by the reason for the events to finish. Therefore, a meaning or purpose must be fulfilled. Audiences will want to be intrigued and pulled into the story once they pick the book up, therefore, this is the reason for the conflict to be introduced at the beginning of the story. If, in fact, there is no scene in the book that describes the conflict, goal, or problem, readers will not be hooked and thus, put the book down. (17+ Book Outline Templates)
Social Media Strategy Outline Template
Using social media strategy outlines can help an individual stay on track with their social media accounts, their analytic, their followers, and most of all, be able to utilize these specific accounts to organize certain events/promos, business events, and personal agendas. With an outline for social media, you’ll stay on top of things, such as uploading photos, posting press releases, sales dates, comments for customer feedback while also appreciating what social media has to offer. This includes keeping a daily, weekly, and monthly log of organized agendas for their customers, clients, or followers. (7+ Social Media Strategy Outline Templates)
Research Paper Outline Template
An outline template for a research paper differs from any other type of outline for a written composition. With the outline for a research paper, it will have credible sources, references, and other factual information on where the findings and conclusions came from. If they are, in fact, true, these will be noted in footnotes, works cite page, or reference sheets, for instance. In other words, it has many sources as well as backup sources that are credible. They are normally backed by scientific data, statistics, conclusive strategies, and much more.
Research papers are known to be in-depth compared to a poetry analysis paper, for example. In fact, they will be written with graphs, images, or data findings too. This is why it is a good idea to have an outline for research papers because of its in-depth structure. (35+ Research Paper Outline Template)
Pharmacy Technician Course Outline
The Pharmacy Technician Course outline is formatted to specifically guide the student with the teacher’s goals and objectives of the course. Similar to a course syllabus, it will follow the program by stating its objective. Then, it will be followed by the orientation of the course thereby leaving the rest of the outline for its descriptives and definitions of each class or workshop. This entails the meaning of the course’s objective. For instance, when describing what “working at a pharmacy” is like, the description is in paragraph form right beneath the word, “Working at a pharmacy”. (4+ Pharmacy Technician Course Outlines)
Speech Outline Template
When you use a basic speech outline, you will feel grounded while sticking to the main topics of your subject. For instance, when you speak to your peers in your Geography class on how the earth has many historical parks, your outline should be right in front of you. This will ease your anxiety and nerves before and while you speak in front of your peers. Students or teachers will normally lay their “note-cards or cheat sheets” on a podium while you stand so as to glance at it every so often or when you need to. Most individuals will put them on flashcards or sheets of paper and on a podium so as to glance at them while speaking. This will help guide from one point to the other. (38+ Speech Outline Templates)
Presentation Outline Template
One of the main elements of giving a presentation is when you have to go up in front of a room full of strangers to speak. This can happen if your job requires you to sell a product or you have to give an award, for instance. If you ever have to do a presentation, having an outline of your presentation would help ease your anxiety thereby making your speech more professional sounding as well as keeping you focused.
Here is an outline that will save you when you have to say a presentation. Ultimately, you will feel confident during the beginning to the ending of your next presentation you give. The main thing here is feeling confident as well as believing in your product or topic. When you “believe” in your topic, you will sound more believable, as well as be able to recall point after point. With an effective presentation outline, points are given instead of sentences. These are the cues as to what you have to say; they should help you remember the ideas you want to present to your audience. (19+ Presentation Outline Templates)
Project Outline Template
The project outline is going to be used by companies or businesses in the same industry which is organized and used specifically for those industries. Normally, these project outlines are considered proposals. Therefore, at times, they can have estimates and descriptions of products that may be used in the project. In addition to these specifics, the cost of the labor and equipment can be added as well. The time frame of a project is also important in these specific outlines. Included in a project outline are the major points for specific tasks to complete the project.
All these will help in the implementation of the project at hand. These are normally outlined in detail. When presenting a project, it should be organized and well-structured for the reader to comprehend and clearly define the main goal or mission. It also includes the final conclusion of the project along with the main features of any other sub points. These are finalized in the end along with the final cost, if any, to the entire project. (17+ Project Outline Template)
Training Program Outline Template
A training program outline can be a life saver for an instructor or teacher for a course curriculum. In fact, when having to outline a training program, they will normally begin with a table of what to expect. Actually, the best type of outline for a training program should implement what to expect in the course. For instance, if a student is in a HVAC and Refrigeration training program, then they may need the outline such as a syllabus, the instructors manuals and books, plus, the underlying definitions of each topic that will be discussed.
Finally, with more people developing their own skills by attending such programs, outlines are ideal for those programs. Plus, to “fine tune” their experiences in their craft or career, they need these types of courses. This is why there are so many professions that are dependent on them. Although, without the outline, how will a prospective student know what they are getting into? This is the purpose of the training course outline. Similar to the Pharmacy Technician outline, it will have the purpose, the main topics of discussion and main keywords to define while having the overall mission and goal to its workload for the training program and the student taking it. (19+ Training Program Outline Templates)
Body Outline Template
This comes in handy especially when reading through a deep and wide subject. It provides a clue to those that have no idea about how to begin their study. A body outline template is also useful to young children. It helps them understand what is being taught. (27+ Body Outline Templates)
Event Outline Template
It can be outright stressful to host an event with no form of plan. This is where the event outline template comes in handy. With its short and pithy instructions, you are assured of an easy-going and enjoyable event. (9+ Event Outline Templates)
Sermon Outline Template
As the name suggests, this outline is especially for use among preachers. Those that love to deliver the message in a concise and orderly manner without wasting so much time. It is beneficial to both the preachers and recipients as it saves both their time. (12+ Sermon Outline Templates)
Wedding Outline Template
Without a shadow of a doubt, weddings can get on one’s last nerve if not properly organized. Right from the moment a lady is proposed to, she needs to have the ability to foresee the turnout of events. There is no better way to be sure of this than a wedding outline template. This will help the entire organizing committee reach out to every area of the wedding and not miss any part. (13+ Wedding Outline Templates)
Literature Review Outline Template
Whether a professor or student, studying literature has a specific and effective way of being studied. You need to have a pen and notebook by your side so as not to miss the main points. A literature review outline template helps reveal the orderly and organized flow of events. This will help you to avoid getting lost somewhere in the middle. (10+ Literature Review Outline Templates)
Biography Outline Template
When preparing for an in-depth study, you need to get your facts right so as to avoid giving misguided statements. This is especially so when it’s about yourself and you need to give accurate information about your achievements and the time fixtures. A biography outline template is to be turned to due to its accuracy and it’s also easy to follow. (15+ Biography Outline Templates)
Lesson Plan Outline Template
Naturally, when we hear the word, ‘lesson’, the very first thing that comes to mind is a teacher and the learning process. We are not mistaken, in our case, a teacher does need a lesson plan outline template. In order for the teachers to touch on all areas of study, they need to be well organized and prepared for the lesson. One way to achieve this is by acquiring a detailed and accurate lesson plan outline template. (23+ Lesson Plan Outline Templates)
Program Outline Template
It does not matter whether you are hosting a formal or informal event. You are definitely going to need a detailed program outline template. This will help the list of activities flow very smoothly without any hitches. What’s more, the time factor is given a priority due to the air of orderliness that rents the atmosphere. (18+ Program Outline Templates)
Course Outline Template
Every credible institution of higher learning recognizes the importance of a course outline template. This simply reveals how goal-oriented the management is. A course outline template is complete with all the plans for the duration of studies. All activities to be engaged in are included so as to avoid losing one’s bearing in the midst of the organizing fracas. (10+ Course Outline Templates)
Meeting Outline Template
We have all been in situations where we call a certain company to speak to the manager in charge. The reply we get most of the time is that they are in a meeting and we have to call back later. A closer look into the meetings held will reveal that it is not possible to hold one without a meeting outline template. This is simply because of its ability to keep the attendants on their toes and avoid wasting so much time. (13+ Meeting Outline Templates)
Agenda Outline Template
Once we are summoned for a meeting in our respective areas of work, we have no option but to comply. Before it starts, the secretary takes out an agenda outline template for revision purposes. Here, all the upcoming meetings and projects of the company are listed for future reference. (10+ Agenda Outline Templates)
Business Plan Outline Template
Starting a business is no joke at all. One needs to be adequately prepared before make it a reality. Among the preparations is a business plan outline template which is an ideal partner in every step of the way. It will avoid all manner of embarrassments such as forgetting the essential parts of the business. (20+ Business Plan Outline Templates)
Marketing Plan Outline Template
For every business to flourish and rise to the top, it is solely dependent on the marketing strategy used. A marketing plan outline template will be the judge of how well the marketing department is performing its duties. It comprises accurate and up-to-date plans on how to efficiently reach the most targeted clients. (16+ Marketing Plan Outline Templates)
Resume Outline Template
When drafting a resume, we are better off when we do thorough research so as to know what exactly is required of us. Most employers look for employees that are confident in what they do. A resume outline template will offer you the guidance you need to reach your goals. It can be so devastating to begin a journey whose course is unknown. (19+ Resume Outline Templates)
Cover Letter Outline Template
It is only right to get the right format of writing a cover letter beforehand. It is highly presumed today that cover letters are outdated. Another percentage holds on to the fact that they are still viable and resourceful. For it to be efficient, one needs to use a cover letter outline template as it targets even the most sensitive areas. (7+ Cover Letter Outline Templates)
Script Outline Template
Even a scriptwriter direly needs a well put script outline template for various reasons. First, a script needs a smooth flow of events for it to gain momentum. The more you watch a play is the more you begin to get exactly what it is about. (12+ Script Outline Templates)
Screenplay Outline Template
A screenplay needs nothing more than to depict the hidden events of a story. The one in charge of this is under pressure to deliver nothing but the best and most credible work. It is nothing complicated as it needs to follow some steps for it to have the right templates. (9+ Screenplay Outline Templates)
Novel Outline Template
Whether on the reading or writing end of this addictive pastime, you need to capture every moment in your mind. A novel outline template helps achieve your ultimate goal and sees to it that you get every moment of it and not miss a thing. (11+ Novel Outline Templates)
Story Outline Template
Watching and reading a certain movie or book gets us formulating ideas in our heads. The thrill comes on especially when reading an interesting book. A story outline template is efficient as it will cause the reader to be fully immersed in the full twist of events. It is common for most readers and viewers to get lost but an outline will get them back on track.(15+ Story Outline Templates)
Short Story Outline Template
When picking a book from the shelf, we are all thrilled to find out what exactly is in store for us and want to unleash the underlying turnout of events. A short story outline will not only draw you closer to the genre, but will get you deciding on whether to go on with the book or switch to another book. (7+ Short Story Outline Templates)
Chapter Outline Template
Every avid reader recognizes the true importance of a chapter outline template for its clarity and transparency. When looking through the chapter of study, a quick and thorough outline is sure to get you through the rest of it. (10+ Chapter Outline Templates)
Autobiography Outline Template
No one wants to get the facts about someone else wrong. All the more reason to engage in the use of an autobiography outline template. This way, you will get straight to all the necessary facts such as dates without missing out on any important of an autobiography. (23+ Autobiography Outline Templates)
Research Paper Outline Template
All kinds of research are involving and require nothing but the hard truth and facts. Among the best and efficient ways to ensure this is by using a research paper outline template. The correct outline of findings will make one thirsty for more and in constant search of more. (35+ Research Paper Outline Templates)
Research Outline Template
It can be entirely stressful for students engaging in this kind of research especially when they are new to it. A research outline template is enough to get them through the hard part and enjoying the rest of it. (13+ Research Outline Templates)
Proposal Outline Template
A proposal outline template comes in handy when talking business. When business partners meet to discuss new items or projects they would love to implement, a detailed outline of the same would be in order. All the categories of items to be discussed and tackled are listed here to avoid getting out of order. (6+ Proposal Outline Templates)
Report Outline Template
Every boss and teacher loves it when they give an assignment and a factual report is delivered in time. On the side of the employees and students. Stress knocks at the door when none of this is delivered. The good news is that a report outline template makes it even easier and the same is delivered in good time. (19+ Report Outline Templates)
Dissertation Outline Template
Most students take it as the worst punishment ever to write a dissertation outline template. With the drafting and endless hours of deep research, it is perceived as the perfect recipe that makes them lose their minds. A properly written dissertation outline template is the best way to handle the stress that comes along with it. (8+ Dissertation Outline Templates)
Outline Template for Google Docs
An outline for Google Docs is ideal for the student, the business person, the teacher, or any other individual that needs a well-structured outline for a document formatted specifically for the Google Docs. They are used when a community or group discussion are going to go over a document, for instance, but in the Google docs program. Much like Microsoft® Word docs, the outline concept is the same. Outlining a Google doc is simple. It’s basically another outline for a general document, but mainly to open and save in Google docs, specifically. (Google Docs Outline Template)
How to Write a Perfect Outline
TITLE: MAJOR purpose or idea
The general main theme, thesis, or point should be evident in the first sentence of an outline. Organizing a perfect outline, step by step, begins with a thesis or main idea. This is a great way to start any written composition, especially an outline.
[INTRODUCTION]
This paragraph is the introduction to the specific subject matter. The outline will briefly outline, but brief.
1. First main element (component)
A. Sub-point 1
- Illustration, example, or evidence
- Illustration, example, or evidence
B. Sub-point 2
- Illustration, example, or evidence
- Illustration, example, or evidence
2. Second main element (component)
A. Sub-point 1
- Illustration, example, or evidence
- Illustration, example, or evidence
B. Sub-point 2
- Illustration, example, or evidence
- Illustration, example, or evidence
3. Third main element (component)
A. Sub-point 1
- Illustration, example, or evidence
- Illustration, example, or evidence
B. Sub-point 2
- Illustration, example, or evidence
- Illustration, example, or evidence
Conclusion with “Clincher”
*Clinchers sum up the relevant, overall theme.
Tips for Writing an Outline
- Define topics – The main topic should be defined in the main title of the outline. The main topic is the purpose of the message.
- Divide categories – The major elements of an outline must be divided into categories, or classifications. This could be a minimum of three to five elements overall. If need be, a combination of minor elements with major ones can be one category.
- Unique evidence – Make it a point to keep every element unique by utilizing illustrations, evidence, and in-depth details in order to support your sub-points.
Things to Avoid
- Single sub-points – Do not use one single sub-point beneath a major element (or component) unless you have only one, then combine it with the major element or find another place to put it at or integrate with other sub points.
- Specific ideas – Do not group specific ideas if they are not relevant to the overall them only to fill in space or sub-points. Simply eliminate them. “When in doubt, leave it out!”
- Redundancy – Do not overuse statements or redundant words that can make your outline sound banal or boring, aka filler-like.