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How to Create an Outline for a Blog (+ templates)

Nov 23, 2023

Let's talk about turning your blog from good to outstanding. All it takes is a simple, yet powerful tool: the blog outline. Consider it the secret weapon that cuts into the jumble of ideas and creating an organized, engaging route to your visitors.

In this guide I'll guide you through the steps to make an outline of your blog. It organizes your thoughts and makes your posts shine. What's more? You're not alone in this journey--I've got handly blog outline to help you out, just keep scrolling.

Skip ahead:

What is a blog outline?

An outline for your blog is the way to create a memorable piece of content. It's a simple yet essential document that describes the structure and angle of your article. Consider it the blueprint to clear and effective writing that keeps you on the right track and focused. A well-written outline usually includes the following key components:

  • The subject of your post: What's the main topic of your article?
  • Your perspective: What is your approach to this topic? What's your unique perspective?
  • Your structure What specific points will you cover in order to strengthen your position?

It is also possible to add working titles to the outline. Many writers like to finish their headlines once they have completed the article. This ensures that they have a title that perfectly captures the core of their post.

    Why you need an outline for your blog    

Writing a blog, as a personal outlet or in support of the brand itself, is all about making an impact. If your content is unclear or your messages aren't clearly defined the message you are trying to convey will be confused and readers will move on.

An outline is the place where it is useful. It's the tool that helps you organize your thoughts prior to you start typing, saving the time of rewriting endlessly and elevating the standard of your work.

  • Overcoming the blank page syndrome The blank page syndrome is something that every writer has experienced. the unwelcome blank page the moment when procrastination seems to be more tempting. But with a detailed outline, that blank page will be much less daunting.
  • In a meeting with your editor or your client: As someone who has relied on the detailed outline many times, I attest to their worth. They surpass what the content brief could provide by providing a better understanding of the article's direction, elements included or omitted along with the overall flow.

    When should you use an outline for your blog?    

Always. But here are some specific scenarios:

  • For long-form posts: Especially for writings of 1000 words or greater.
  • Complex topics: When your subject requires extensive research for precise coverage.
  • Writing tasks delegated: To ensure contributors understand the vision for the article.

Keep in mind that the aim is to improve your thought process and increase the effectiveness of your writing. But it's not a rigid rule. For example, personal essays or short news blurbs might not need an outline. Trust your judgment and find what works best for your writing style.

How to write a blog outline in 8 steps

Writing a blog outline doesn't have to be a challenge. Divide it into smaller steps in order to organize your thoughts and structuring your posts. We'll look at these steps:

    Choose your topic    

First things first: what do you want to write about? The choice of a subject is the basis of the blog's outline. Brainstorm ideas related to the area you're in, and focus on the burning issues which you'd like to solve. Jot down a few potential ideas and choose one that resonates with you as well as your target audience.

    Select the content format you want to use.    

How will your blog take? Will it be a how-to article, a guideline or opinion piece, an article on review or news article? The format often becomes apparent based on your topic. For example, a topic such as "how to create a blog" naturally leads to a"how-to" format. If the choice isn't clear, take a cue from the search results on Google with similar subjects. There's not a universal format--it's your call.

    Determine your angle    

Finding your unique angle is like finding a secret treasure that makes your work stand above the rest. The angle is the place where your subject intersects your unique perspective. It determines how you approach your subject. The angle you choose to use isn't only concerned with what you're talking about, it's about offering your readers an incentive to care.

In the case of speaking about a well-known tourist spot, angles like "The hidden trails of [Destination" or "The most popular local restaurants in [Destination" transcend the realm of facts and draw the reader into a story. This is about creating content that's engaging and memorable.

    Determine your format    

The right format to use to publish your blog will make a huge distinction. Each format can be tailored to particular types of content and preferences. Here are some powerful blog post formats and when to use the following formats:

  • How-to blogs: Ideal when providing instructions step-by-step.
  • List blog posts: Great for sharing a compilation of suggestions or other ideas.
  • What are posts: Perfect for quick explanations and definitions.
  • Case study blog posts: Use these for in-depth topics needing detailed analysis.
  • Survey posts: Good for presenting gathered data in a more limited manner.
  • X vs. the Y post: Suitable for comparing products or services.
  • Beginning's Guide blog posts: Excellent for introduction to technical concepts for newbies.

    Evaluate the SERPs    

Understanding the landscape of Search the Engines Results Page (SERPs) is crucial. Look at the top-ranking posts to gauge:

  • Readability What is the ease with which is it to take in the information?
  • Relevance What speed can they respond to the keyword-related query?
  • Search intent alignment  Does the title tags and meta descriptions align with the intent of a user's search?

Make use of the inverted pyramid technique to structure your blog post starting with the most general details and then becoming more precise. In addition, you can check the People Also Ask (PAA) boxes on Google for relevant questions to be addressing in your posts.

    Make sure you nail down the particular subpoints you'll make in each section    

After you've established your primary points now is the time to outline the information you'll discuss within each. Note a few bullet points for each section that are focused on proving your argument. Include elements like:

  • An explanation succinctly of your argument
  • Case studies and examples
  • Expert quotes from potential experts and Data references

This stage is also perfect for conducting research and reaching out for expert opinions or quotes.

    Create your introduction and concluding    

Your introduction should hook your reader and entice them to read the entire piece. Use the Problem-Agitate-Solve (PAS) formula for your intro:

  • The problem is: Identify a problem that your reader has to face.
  • Agitate Dive deeper into the problem, emphasizing the impact it has on society.
  • Provide a solution: Introduce your post as a potential solution.

For your conclusion write down how you'll conclude your points and leave the reader with a takeaway or call-to-action.

    Locate Your Data    

Once the framework for your blog post is in place and you're ready to reinforce the post with relevant details and data. Incorporating reliable information improves your Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) and guarantees that the content is able to stand up to scrutiny by readers.

    Understanding E-E-A-T    

E-E-A is a system Google employs to determine the quality and authenticity of a web page. Although not directly a ranking factor, it can influence the way content is displayed to readers. Incorporating your own data strengthens your argument and builds trust with both readers and search engines.

    Sourcing data    

The web is a plethora of information source, however there are many sites that are not accurate. You should focus your attention on reliable sites such as .gov, .org, .edu, and platforms like Statista. In your outline, make use of bullet points that include links to your sources to make it easy to reference.

    Doing research on your subject    

It is vital to conduct research when determining. Here are a few effective methods to collect data:

  • Google Search: The go-to method for the majority of bloggers.
  • Google Scholar: Perfect for finding academic articles and academic research.
  • National Institutes of Health: A reliable source of health-related information.
  • Real Books: Don't overlook the importance of data contained in physical books or e-books.
  • Competitor Analysis: Review similar subjects covered by bloggers for insights.
  • First-Hand Information: Direct quotes or verifications by industry professionals can greatly increase the credibility of your website and influence.

Incorporating these information and information incorporated into your outline ensures they're not forgotten and keeps the main point of your post.

What to avoid while developing an outline

Be aware that outlines should not be the stage for perfectionism. What you need to avoid:

  • Beware of grammar Don't get distracted by grammar in the outline stage.
  • Blending brand voice Save the branding voice integration for the actual writing stage.
  • Focusing on SEO Keywords: Avoid getting overwhelmed by SEO at this point.
  • Overthinking the details: An outline is about direction, not about the details.

The purpose of an outline is to help give your work a direction and prevent that daunting blinking cursor nightmare. Invest time in the finer specifics only after you're certain in the track your content is taking.

Templates for blog posts to save you time

It is likely that you have observed that a lot of blog posts use similar structures. The truth is, most blogs you visit have variations on a couple of key template designs. Therefore, you don't have to begin from scratch every time. Select a template that is compatible with your format, and off you begin! Here are four most commonly used templates:

    The list blog    

List posts, also called listicles can be described as exactly the same as they sound listicles: lists. They can include tips, tools, techniques, myths, mistakes--essentially, anything that works as a list. These posts are ideal for information that isn't too long and doesn't need a particular or specific.

Template for an example of an article on a list:

  • Title (H1) The title is attractive and a good indicator of the content
  • Introduction: Briefly introduce your topic as well as the importance of the list
  • List Item 1 (H2) description or discussion
  • List 2. (H2): Description or discussion
  • (Continue to add additional list items as needed [Continue to add additional items as required
  • Finalization: Close the loop and perhaps include a call-to action

    Step-by-step instructions    

An easy-to-follow guide is ideal to explain processes that have to follow in a particular arrangement. This format works wonders for 'how-to' content.

Example template for an easy-to-follow guide

  • Title (H1): Reflecting the procedure or work
  • Introduction: A brief overview of the topics that the guide will be covering
  • 1. (H2): Detailed explanation of the first step
  • Step 2 (H2) A detailed explanation of the 2nd step
  • Continue with further steps as necessary[Continue with additional steps as necessary
  • Conclusion The summary and the possible next steps or additional information

    The extended definition    

The expanded definitions explore the concept's meaning and explore the concept deeper. This type of format is most effective when understanding the concept is essential to follow your article.

A template example of an expanded definition of:

  • Description (H1) The focus is on the idea being defined
  • Introduction: A brief outline of the idea
  • Define (H2): A clear and simple definition
  • Expanded Explaination (H2) A more comprehensive discussion of the notion
  • real-world applications (H2): Examples of the concept in action
  • Conclusion: Recap, and possibly a broader perspective or additional information sources

  The guide for beginners  

A beginner's guide offers an in-depth introduction to an area that's specifically targeted for those new to the subject. This format is ideal when developing a resource for education instead of a practical guide.

Example template for a beginner's guide:

  • title (H1) It clearly indicates that it's a beginner's guide
  • Introduction: Set the tone for what newcomers are expected to learn
  • Fundamental Concepts (H2) outline of basic concepts or knowledge
  • Step-by-Step instructions (H2): If applicable, simple steps to start
  • Common Challenges and Solutions (H2) Discuss the potential obstacles to HTML0 and learn how to get around these obstacles
  • Further Resources (H2): Additional information or topics that are more advanced for ongoing education
  • Conclusion: Encourage readers to summarize the key learnings

Tips for writing from an outline

The process of writing from an outline can be a bit difficult at first, especially if it's new to you. However, don't be worried. Here are some tips to aid you in turning your outline into an engaging blog post.

    Do not begin with the introductory paragraph or at the end    

Contrary to what you might imagine, the introduction is not the conclusion of your writing process. As you write your piece, you'll find yourself filling spaces and come up with similes and metaphors are able to refine and develop. By crafting your intro later it is possible to weave all of these components together seamlessly and create a more coherent and engaging piece from start to finish.

    Follow your outline until you shouldn't    

An outline can be described as a reference, not a straitjacket. The purpose of an outline is to ensure that your content is relevant and focused on what matters to the people who read it. If you find yourself bored or confused, it's likely that your viewers are feeling the same. Don't hesitate to tweak your outline, rearrange sections, or even return to your sketch board in the event of a need. The goal is to ensure your content remains engaging and on point.

    Keep both your reader and you interested    

Your passion (or absence of enthusiasm) for the topic will shine through when you write. If you're not feeling engaged take a look at your own questions such as, "What fascinated me about the subject in the first place?" or "Is there some expert's viewpoint that rekindled my interest?" Finding what excites your interest in the topic can help keep your enthusiasm going and help ensure that your work captivates your readers right to the conclusion.

Wrapping it up

Keep in mind that the ideal blog post begins with an outline.

FAQs

    What's the point of having a blog outline?    

A blog outline helps you organize your thoughts, to ensure that your writing is consistent and interesting, as well as saving time, by stopping you from writing in a haphazard manner.

    Do you have any suggestions on brainstorming ideas to my blog's outline?    

Absolutely! Begin by identifying your reader's desires, researching current trends in your niche as well as asking any questions you think your audience might ask. Use tools like mind mapping to expand and integrate concepts.

    How do I make use of subheadings and bullet points effectively in my outline?    

Subheadings help break down your text into manageable sections, making it easier for readers to understand. Bullet points help list key ideas or steps in a clear, concise manner. Use them to structure your text and emphasize important facts.