Outlines use an alternating series of numbers and letters to organize thoughts and represent ideas. The numbers and letters are indented appropriately as the ideas go from general to more specific. The most general ideas are divided by Roman numerals. Then, under each Roman numeral after an indentation, letters add more specific ideas that relate to that category. A series of numbers can follow the letters to add even more specific information.
Outlines help you organize your thesis and know exactly what you need to write. For instance, if you are required to write a five-paragraph essay, you can divide your outline into five sections, each defined by a Roman numeral. The first and last Roman numerals represent the introduction and conclusion, respectively. The center three Roman numerals identify the topic of each of your paragraphs. Then, for each section, you can include a letter that tells what information you will include in that paragraph. By the time you start to write your paper, you know exactly what goes where, and you will not be staring at a blank page or empty computer screen.
If your writing assignment is longer, an outline will help you see which ideas are important. As you complete your outline, you might find that you have too many ideas. The outline can help you easily see what you should include. Without an outline, many writers simply include everything they have researched; however, an outline puts information in a hierarchical order.
The best writing assignments start with good note-taking and research habits, both of which can be helped by making an outline. As you research, keep note cards handy, and write one piece of information on each card. Identify which source you are using by assigning each source a number and labeling each note card with the appropriate number. After you have compiled your notes, include them in your outline, with each note card or piece of information representing one letter or number on your outline. Your organized notes will help you as you create your outline.