Hi, there Prosperous authors! Welcome back to our blog series on writing basics for authors. In the previous post, we discussed how to understand your audience and tailor your writing to meet their needs and preferences. If you haven’t read it yet, you can check it out here.

In this blog, we will explore the process of creating an outline that works for your nonfiction content. An outline serves as a roadmap for your writing, allowing you to organize your thoughts, ideas, and arguments in a logical and coherent manner. It also helps you maintain focus, avoid getting stuck, and ensure that your content flows smoothly.

But how can you craft an effective outline for your nonfiction work? While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are some general steps and tips that can assist you in creating a robust outline.

• Choose your outline method

There are several methods you can employ to outline your nonfiction work, depending on your personal preferences and the nature of your content. Here are a few common approaches:

• The Hierarchical Structure: This method involves using headings and subheadings to organize your main points and supporting details. It offers a clear and straightforward way to structure your content.
• The Mind Map: This method involves creating a visual representation of your ideas, using branches to connect related concepts. It encourages creativity and exploration of different angles.
• The Problem-Solution Format: This method focuses on identifying a problem and providing solutions. It helps you present your ideas in a logical and persuasive manner.
• The Chronological Order: This method arranges your content in a sequential timeline. It is useful when you want to present information in a step-by-step or historical format.

Feel free to adapt or combine these methods to suit your specific needs. You may also explore various tools or software options that can aid in creating your outlines, such as mind-mapping applications, note-taking platforms, or word processors.

Now, let’s delve further into the topic of outlining for nonfiction authors.

• Outline your main points

Once you have selected your preferred outline method, it’s time to outline your main points. These points form the backbone of your nonfiction work and convey the key ideas or arguments you wish to communicate.

To outline your main points effectively, consider the following:

• Identify your central theme or thesis statement: This encapsulates the main idea or argument that your work revolves around. It should be clear, concise, and captivating.
• Determine your main points: These are the primary arguments or concepts that support your thesis statement. Each main point should be distinct, relevant, and well-supported by evidence.
• Organize your main points: Decide on the most logical and coherent order for presenting your main points. Consider factors such as chronology, cause and effect, or importance.
• Provide supporting evidence: Identify the evidence, examples, or data that bolster each of your main points. This helps establish credibility and persuasiveness in your writing.

Here is an example of outlining main points for a nonfiction work:

Thesis Statement: Effective Time Management Strategies for Busy Professionals

Main Point 1: Setting Clear Goals and Priorities

– Subpoint: Identifying long-term and short-term goals

– Subpoint: Prioritizing tasks based on importance and urgency

Main Point 2: Developing Efficient Workflow Systems

– Subpoint: Organizing physical and digital files

– Subpoint: Utilizing productivity tools and apps

Main Point 3: Overcoming Procrastination and Distractions

– Subpoint: Recognizing common sources of procrastination

– Subpoint: Implementing techniques to improve focus and concentration

Main Point 4: Establishing Healthy Work-Life Balance

– Subpoint: Defining boundaries between work and personal life

– Subpoint: Incorporating self-care practices into daily routines

• Outline your supporting details

Once you have outlined your main points, you can further develop your outline by adding supporting details. These details enhance your main points, provide evidence or examples, and offer a comprehensive understanding of your topic.

Consider the following when outlining your supporting details:

• Identify relevant subtopics or sub-arguments: Break down each main point into subcategories or specific arguments. This helps structure your content and ensures comprehensive coverage.
• Include relevant evidence or examples: Provide supporting evidence, facts, statistics, or anecdotes that reinforce your main points and enhance the credibility of your work.
• Consider counterarguments or opposing viewpoints: Address potential objections or counterarguments to your main points. This showcases your ability to critically analyze different perspectives and strengthens your overall argument.

Here is an example of outlining supporting details for the nonfiction work mentioned earlier:

Main Point 1: Setting Clear Goals and Priorities

– Subpoint: Identifying long-term and short-term goals

   – Example: Setting career milestones and personal aspirations

– Subpoint: Prioritizing tasks based on importance and urgency

   – Example: Utilizing the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks

Main Point 2: Developing Efficient Workflow Systems

– Subpoint: Organizing physical and digital files

   – Example: Implementing file categorization and labeling systems

– Subpoint: Utilizing productivity tools and apps

   – Example: Exploring task management apps or project management software

Main Point 3: Overcoming Procrastination and Distractions

– Subpoint: Recognizing common sources of procrastination

   – Example: Identifying time-wasting habits or triggers

– Subpoint: Implementing techniques to improve focus and concentration

   – Example: Utilizing the Pomodoro Technique or implementing digital detox strategies

Main Point 4: Establishing Healthy Work-Life Balance

– Subpoint: Defining boundaries between work and personal life

   – Example: Setting dedicated work hours and creating designated relaxation spaces

– Subpoint: Incorporating self-care practices into daily routines

   – Example: Engaging in regular exercise, practicing mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies

• Review and refine your outline

Once you have completed your outline, take the time to review and refine it. Consider the following aspects during this process:

Logical flow and organization: Ensure that your outline follows a logical progression, with each section seamlessly leading to the next.

• Coherence and clarity: Check for coherence and clarity in your main points, supporting details, and transitions. Make sure your ideas are presented in a way that is easy for readers to understand.
• Relevance and conciseness: Eliminate any unnecessary or redundant information. Focus on conveying your key ideas in a concise and impactful manner.
• Engaging and compelling content: Evaluate your outline to ensure it captures the reader’s interest and maintains their engagement throughout the work.
• Accuracy and credibility: Verify that your supporting evidence and examples are accurate, credible, and properly cited.

Consider seeking feedback from trusted peers, writing groups, or subject matter experts to gain fresh perspectives and valuable insights on your outline.

Conclusion

Crafting an effective outline is a crucial step for nonfiction authors. It serves as a blueprint that guides your writing process, ensuring that your content is well-structured, coherent, and compelling. By following these steps and tips, you can create an outline that effectively communicates your ideas and resonates with your readers.

We hope you found this post informative and valuable. Stay tuned for the next installment of our Writing Basics for Authors series, where we will delve into the art of creating captivating introductions for your nonfiction work. Until then, happy writing!

If you’re looking to improve your writing skills, be sure to check out these podcast episodes on How to Find Your Niche and Stay Focused, How to Create A Magnetic Style to Reach Your Market, How to Develop a Message that Sells Well, Crafting Content That Sells, How to Nurture Relationships and Increase Sales Growth, and How to Harness the Power of Public Relations as an Author.

The other good news is that you don’t have to be alone on this book-writing journey. Dream That Big Publishing can help you in every stage of the writing and publishing process. Contact us today to find out more. We also host monthly events both in person and virtually, and we have a Facebook community to provide you with support when you get stuck. The resources are limitless with Dream That Big! 

About Dream That Big Publishing: 

At Dream That Big Publishing, we offer a variety of writing and publishing services that will help you every step of the way on your self-publishing journey. Sign up to work one-on-one with a writing coach, read our blog, and listen to our podcasts. We want to empower you to write the book you’ve always dreamed of sharing with the world. Join us for networking and empowerment events that are designed to help you prosper as an author and entrepreneur, aka “authorpreneur.” We also have publishing packages that offer everything you will need, from editing to formatting to marketing your book, so you don’t have to do it all yourself!

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References:

• Bell, J. S. (2014). Write Your Novel From the Middle: A New Approach for Plotters, Pantsers and Everyone in Between. Compendium Press.
• Kress, N. J. (2013). Dynamic Characters: How to Create Personalities That Keep Readers Captivated. Writer’s Digest Books.
• Maass, D. (2012). The Fire in Fiction: Passion, Purpose, and Techniques to Make Your Novel Great. Writer’s Digest Books.
• Snyder, B. (2005). Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need. Michael Wiese Productions.
• Rozelle, R. (2003). Plot & Structure: Techniques and Exercises for Crafting a Plot That Grips Readers from Start to Finish. Writer’s Digest Books.
• Bell, K. (2014). Structuring Your Novel: Essential Keys for Writing an Outstanding Story. PenForASword Publishing.
• Bell, J. (2019). The Three-Act Structure: An Introduction for Writers. The Write Practice. Retrieved from https://thewritepractice.com/three-act-structure/