These web pages describe how to write an outline, and how to use an outline, especially when writing a formal report.  But first, what is an outline, and how does it help?

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What is an outline?

An outline is a blueprint for your final document.  It presents the content of your report in brief, organizing your topics and supporting details in the order you intend to discuss them.

Poor organization is by far the most common writing problem that we encounter at the Engineering Writing Centre.  An outline is all about organization.  If  you are afraid organization means Roman numerals and capital letters, don't panic!  Even without such structures, the outline is a useful tool [1].

How does an outline help?

It helps you
...by exposing the gaps in your logic and organization early, while you still have time to fill them.

It helps your professor or supervisor
...by demonstrating

• that you understand the assignment,
• that you have clearly focused the topic,
• that your content is thorough and well-organized,

and, of course,
• that you were thinking about the paper before the deadline.

If your outline gets trashed, don't despair: better the outline than the final draft.

• How to Write an Outline
• How to Use Your Outline to Create the Final Draft

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