Lecture Notes: Using Outlines for Writing

Introduction to Outlines

• Purpose of an Outline:
  • Organizes thoughts about a topic or question.
  • Helps visualize ideas.
  • Unlike graphic organizers, outlines can accommodate multiple main ideas and details.
  • Similar to a first draft but focuses on organization and flow of ideas.
  • Removes the burden of complete sentences, effective paragraphs, and transitions.
  • Ensures structured writing for better readability and successful communication.

How to Create an Outline

• Outline Structure:
  • Main Ideas: Use Roman numerals.
  • Supporting Ideas: Use capital letters, indented one level.
  • Details/Examples: Indented further, labeled with numbers.
  • Additional Information: Indented one more level, labeled with lowercase letters.
  • Use labels and indentation to show importance and organization.

Example: Outline for "Looking at Art"

• Title: Looking at Art
• Main Ideas:
  • I. Describe
    • A. What do you see? (Supporting Idea)
      • Focus on elements: Color, line, shape, etc. (Details)
    • B. Make a list (Supporting Idea)
  • II. Relate
    • A. How do the parts interact? (Supporting Idea)
      • Characters and forms interaction (Details)
      • Characters and setting interaction (Details)
    • B. Where is your attention focused? (New Supporting Idea)
  • III. Interpret
    • A. What are the characters doing? (Supporting Idea)
      • Tell a story (Detail)
    • B. What does the artist want us to understand or feel? (New Supporting Idea)

Conclusion

• Outlining allows focus on structure without full sentences or paragraphs.
• Provides a map to guide the writing process.
• Facilitates clearer and more concise writing when expanded into full prose.