top of page
  • Writer's pictureElaine Thompson

How to Create an Outline


Creating a book outline is an essential step in the book-writing process. It helps you organize your ideas and structure your book before you start writing.


Here are some steps to follow to create a book outline:


Determine Your Genre and Audience

Before you start creating your book outline, you need to determine your genre and audience. What type of book are you writing? Who is your target audience? Understanding your genre and audience will help you create an outline that is tailored to your readers' interests.


Determine Your Book's Structure

Once you have determined your genre and audience, you need to determine your book's structure. Will your book be divided into chapters or sections? What will be the main sections of your book? Determining your book's structure will help you organize your ideas and create a clear roadmap for your book.


Brainstorm Your Ideas

Now it's time to start brainstorming your ideas. Write down all of the ideas you have for your book, no matter how big or small. This will help you determine the main themes and topics of your book.


Organize Your Ideas

Once you have brainstormed your ideas, it's time to organize them into a logical order. Start by grouping similar ideas together and then arranging them in a way that makes sense. This will help you create a cohesive and structured outline.


Create an Outline Template

To create your book outline, you can use a template. There are many templates available online, or you can create your own. An outline template typically includes sections for the introduction, main sections or chapters, and the conclusion.


Fill in the Outline Template

Now it's time to fill in your outline template with the ideas you have organized. Start with the main sections or chapters and then fill in the details. Be sure to include any important information such as subheadings, examples, and supporting evidence.


Revise and Refine

Once you have created your book outline, take some time to revise and refine it. Review the outline to make sure it flows logically and that all of the necessary information is included. Make any necessary changes to ensure that your outline accurately reflects the structure and content of your book.


As we have discussed, creating a book outline is an important step in the book-writing process. By following these steps, you can create a structured and organized outline that will help you write your book more efficiently. Remember to determine your genre and audience, brainstorm your ideas, organize them, create an outline template, fill in the template, and revise and refine your outline. With a solid outline, you will be well on your way to writing a successful book.

bottom of page