When writing a nonfiction book, an author can take a few different routes to get to the end.  But one route many writers like to avoid is outlining.  Many writers worry that an outline will restrict their creativity. However, every writer, especially those with busy schedules wanting to write a nonfiction book, can benefit from using an outline. An outline is a guide.  Today’s post, the second in a series on how to write your first nonfiction book with a busy schedule, offers seven easy outlining tips.  

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Tip #1 — Keep an open mind about using an outline

Outlines are like road maps. Ever wonder why? Much like a road map that you use on a road trip, you can get an idea of the fastest and surest route to reach your destination, but that doesn’t mean you have to take it. A road map doesn’t prevent you from finding exciting off-road adventures and scenic drives along the trip. Similarly, an outline is a guide, but you don’t have to take one route.  Outlining is an easy way to see the direction and flow of your book. To take advantage of the full power of outlining, you need to approach the process with a flexible mindset. 

 Tip #2 — Use mind mapping to uncover the key points your book will cover

When creating an outline, it is essential to move the ideas swirling around in your mind onto paper.  An easy way to do this is with mind mapping. A mind map allows you to write a central statement or main point in the paper’s center.  Next, list subtopics that relate to the main point.  To complete this exercise, you can use a notebook, portable whiteboard, or a large sheet of paper on the wall with Post-it Notes.  Since I like to keep my ideas in a digital format so I can write on the go, I use Mind Meister, a web-based mind mapping software that allows you to brainstorm in real-time   With easy-to-use templates, Meister helps you imagine the components of your book. Here’s an example from one of my boards.

Tip #3 — Start with an easy outline format

If outlines aren’t usually your thing, start with a basic outline.  Using the information from the mind mapping exercise, you can either use key points, phrases or create your book’s table of contents.   Each chapter’s title in the table of contents will serve as the key points in your basic outline.

Tip #4 — Use a key-point outline

If you aren’t ready to create your book’s table of contents, create a key-point outline.  In a key-point outline, you can list the key ideas of points you want to cover in your book.  A key-point outline is easy to make and does not require complete sentences.  

Tip #5 — Use a full-sentence outline

The structure of a full-sentence outline is similar to a key-point outline.  As you can imagine, a full-sentence outline requires more information than a key-point outline.  However, a full-sentence outline makes it easy for the nonfiction writer to transfer more information from the outline to the manuscript. 

Tip #6 — Pick the type of outline that works best for you

There isn’t one type of outline that will get you to the finish line faster.  Between the key-point outline and the full-sentence outline, one isn’t better than the other.  Find an easy outline that works best for your current writing project.  If you use the key-point outline to write your first nonfiction book (see also our article on narrative nonfiction), don’t be afraid to try the full-sentence outline for your second book.

Tip #7 — Make your outline a living document

Throughout the writing process, you may discover new and beautiful things about your book.  When you do, go back to your outline to made revisions or additions.  Since your outline supports your book’s writing process, don’t be afraid to make changes to it as you go along.  Outlines help you keep track of your book’s direction and focus. As a time-crutched writer, this is key in helping you use your time wisely.

Summary

Use an outline as a reference. At its best, an outline can help you flesh out your most promising ideas.  It doesn’t matter if you use a basic, key-point, or full-sentence outline.  Choose an easy format that best supports your writing project.  In addition to helping you pursue the proper structure for your book, outlines help you save time and prevents frustration.   For more information on writing your first nonfiction book, check out these ten steps to writing a nonfiction book.

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