The Thousand Solutions Blog

How do I create an Outline for a Blog (and templates)

Nov 23, 2023

Let's discuss how to transform your blog from average to outstanding. The process begins with a simple, yet powerful device: the blog outline. Imagine it as the secret weapon that cuts through the clutter of ideas and creating a clear, engaging path for your readers.

In this tutorial, I'll walk you through how to create an outline of your blog. It helps you organize your thoughts and make your blog content shine. What's more? You're not alone in this adventure. I've got blog outline for you here. just keep going.

Skip ahead:

What's an outline?

The blog outline can be your way to create a memorable article. It's an easy but essential document that describes the structure and angle of your post. Imagine it as the blueprint to clear and precise writing that will keep you focused and on track. A well-crafted outline typically includes the following key components:

  • Your subject: What's the principal topic of your blog post?
  • Your angle: How are you approaching this issue? What's your unique perspective?
  • Your structure: What points will you cover to support your angle?

It is also possible to add work titles in the outline. Certain writers would prefer to write their headlines following the completion of their article, making sure that their title is aptly capturing the essence of their article.

    What is the reason you require a blog outline    

Blogs, whether it's as a personal outlet or on behalf of an organization it's all about creating an impact. If the writing you write is unclear or your points aren't clear, your message will get confused and readers will move on.

This is where outline software comes in. It's the tool to help you organize your thoughts prior to you begin typing. It will save you from endless rewriting and elevating the level of work you produce.

  • How to overcome the syndrome of blank pages: Every writer has faced the dreaded blank page, the moment when procrastination suddenly seems more appealing. With a clear outline, that blank page is much more manageable.
  • Aligning with your editor or client: As someone who has relied on the detailed outline countless times, I can attest to their worth. They are more than a content brief can offer and provide a more clear picture of the overall direction for your piece and the elements that are included or not along with the overall flow.

    What is the best time to use an outline for your blog?    

Simply put, you must always. But here are some specific examples:

  • For long-form posts: Especially for articles around 1,000 words or more.
  • Complex topics: When your subject requires extensive research for precise coverage.
  • Assignment of writing duties: To ensure that the contributors are aware of the purpose behind the content.

Remember, the goal is to simplify your thinking process, and improve the efficiency of your writing. It's not an absolute rule. Examples include writing personal essays or news blurbs might not need an outline. Trust your judgment and find which style is best for you. writing style.

How to create a blog outline in 8 steps

The process of creating a blog outline does not need to be difficult. Reduce it into manageable steps to better organize your thoughts and structuring your posts. We'll look at these steps:

    Select your subject    

First things first: what do you want to write about? Choosing a topic is the base of your blog's outline. Brainstorm ideas related to the area you're in, and focus on issues that you're keen to tackle. Jot down a few potential ideas and choose one that you feel resonates with and your audience.

    Select your content format    

What form do you envision your blog taking? Will it be a how-to guide, a listicle, an opinion piece, an article on review or report? It is often clear what the format will be depending on the topic. For example, a topic like "how to start blogs" naturally lends itself to a format that is based on a step-by-step. If it's not clear what to write about, take a cue from the search results on Google for related topics. Keep in mind that there's no universal format--it's your call.

    Determine your angle    

Finding your unique angle can be like discovering a hidden gem that sets your content above the rest. The angle is the place where your subject intersects your unique perspective. It determines how you think about your topic. The angle you choose to use isn't only the content you're putting out, but giving your readers a reason to care.

For example, if you're speaking about a well-known tourist spot such as "The undiscovered trails of [Destination" or "The best local eateries in [Destination" go beyond just facts--they invite the reader into an experience. It's about making your content engaging and memorable.

    Determine your format    

The right format to use for your blog article will make a huge distinction. Every format is tailored to certain types of content and preferences. Here are some powerful blog post formats and when to utilize these formats:

  • How-to articles: Ideal when explaining steps step-by-step.
  • List posts: Great for posting a collection of tips or ideas.
  • What are posts: Ideal for short explanations or clarifications.
  • Case study blog posts: Use these for in-depth topics needing detailed analysis.
  • Posts from surveys: Good for providing collected data in a way that is less thorough.
  • X vs. the Y post: Suitable for comparison of products or services.
  • Beginning's Guide blog posts: Excellent for teaching newcomers about technical subjects.

    Examine the SERPs    

Understanding the landscape of Search the Engines Results Page (SERPs) is crucial. Check out the highest-ranked posts to gauge:

  • Readability What is the ease with which is the content to digest?
  • Relevance What speed can they respond to the keyword-related query?
  • Search intent alignment : Do titles and meta descriptions align with the intent of a user's search?

Use the inverted pyramid method for structuring your post, starting with the most general information and becoming more specific. Also, look through the People Also Ask (PAA) boxes on Google for relevant questions to answer in your post.

    Make sure you nail down the particular subpoints to be made in each section    

With your main points set, it's time to detail the information you'll discuss within each. Note a few bullet points in each section, focusing on supporting your argument. Use elements like

  • Brief explanation of your argument
  • Case studies and examples
  • Possible expert quotations and Data citations

The stage is great for research or seeking expert opinion or quotes.

    Create your introduction and conclusion    

Your intro should entice readers, entice them to read the entire piece. Use the Problem-Agitate-Solve (PAS) formula for your intro:

  • State the problem: Identify a problem that your reader has to face.
  • Agitate Explore the problem, emphasizing its impact.
  • Give a solution Present your article as an option for a solution.

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

    Find Your Data    

After the structure of your post has been established and you're ready to reinforce the post with relevant facts and figures. Integrating credible data enhances your Expertise, Authority and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) and makes sure that your posts are able to withstand scrutiny from readers.

    Understanding E-E-A-T    

The E-E A-T framework is one that Google uses to assess a page's quality and authenticity. While not a direct ranking factor, it influences how the content appears to users. The inclusion of your own information can strengthen your argument and increase trust with both readers and search engines.

    Sourcing data    

The internet provides a wealth of source of data, but not all of it is trustworthy. You should focus your attention on reputable sites like .gov, .org, .edu as well as platforms such as Statista. When drafting your outline, include bullet points and hyperlinks to the sources you've used to make it easy to reference.

    Finding your subject    

The research process is essential to determine the best way to approach. Here are a few effective methods to collect data:

  • Google Search: Google Search is the preferred method of the majority of bloggers.
  • Google Scholar: Ideal for finding scholarly articles and academic research.
  • National Institutes of Health: A reliable source for health-related information.
  • Real Books: Don't overlook the value of information found in books that are physical or electronic.
  • Competitor Analysis: Review similar subjects covered by bloggers for insights.
  • First-Hand Information Direct confirmations or quotes from industry experts can significantly improve the legitimacy of your web page and influence.

The inclusion of these details and information incorporated in your outline will ensure they're not forgotten and keeps the main point of your blog.

What should you avoid when developing an outline

Be aware that outlines should not be the stage for perfectionism. Here's what you should stay clear of:

  • Grammar: Avoid getting involved in grammar at the outlining stage.
  • Integrating brand voice The branding voice integration to the writing stage itself.
  • Concentrating on SEO keywords: Avoid getting bogged down with SEO at this point.
  • The details are too important to be overthought: An outline is all about direction, not about the details.

The purpose of an outline is to give the project an enlightened plan and stop that blinking cursor situation. Spend time on the finer details only once you're confident of the direction your project will be following.

Blog post templates to save you time

There is a chance the majority of blog posts have the same structure. In reality, the majority blogs you visit are variations of a few basic templates. There's no reason to start from scratch each time. Choose a template that fits your format, and off you go! Below are the four most commonly used templates:

    The list of posts    

List posts, also called listicles, are exactly the same as they sound listicles: lists. They can include tips, tools, techniques, myths, mistakes--essentially, anything that works as a list. These articles are perfect for information that isn't too long and does not require an order.

Template for an example of a list post:

  • Title (H1) The title is attractive and indicative of the list of content
  • Introduction: Briefly introduce your topic as well as the importance of the list
  • List 1 (H2): Description or discussion
  • List 2 (H2): Description or discussion
  • (Continue to add the list of items that are added as required [Continue with additional list items as needed
  • Conclusion: Wrap up and perhaps include a call-to action

    The step-bystep instruction    

A step-by-step guide is perfect for describing processes that need to follow in a particular arrangement. This style is great to create 'how-to' material.

Example template for an easy-to-follow guide

  • Description (H1): Reflecting the task or process
  • Introduction: An overview of the topics that the guide will be covering
  • 1. (H2) The detailed description of the initial step
  • Step 2. (H2): Detailed explanation of the second step
  • [Continue with additional steps as needed[Continue with additional steps as necessary
  • Conclusion The summary and the possible next steps or additional resources

    The expanded definition    

Expanded definitions delve into the concept's meaning and then explore it in more depth. This style is ideal when understanding the concept is crucial to understanding your message.

Template example for an expanded definition

  • Description (H1) The focus is on the idea being defined
  • Introduction: A brief outline of the idea
  • definition (H2) Definition that is clear and simple definition
  • Extrapolated Explanation (H2) A more comprehensive discussion of the notion
  • real-world applications (H2) Exemples of the concept in use
  • Conclusion: Recap and perhaps a wider perspective, or more sources

  The beginner's guide  

An introduction to the subject provides comprehensive information on the subject that is specifically designed for people new to the subject. This format is ideal when making an educational tool rather than an actionable guide.

Template example for a beginner's guide:

  • Title (H1): Clearly indicating that it's a beginner's guide
  • Introduction: Create the scene for how beginners will learn
  • Essential Concepts (H2): Outline of basic concepts or knowledge
  • Step-by-Step Instructions (H2): If applicable easy steps to start
  • The most common Challenges as well as Solutions (H2) The goal is to identify potential hurdles and how to overcome them
  • Further Resources (H2) More information or advanced topics for continued learning
  • Conclusion: Encourage readers to summarize the key learnings

Tips for writing from an outline

An outline of your writing might be a bit difficult at first, particularly if this is a new concept to you. However, don't be worried. Here are some tips to assist you in turning your outline into a compelling blog article.

    You shouldn't begin by introducing the paragraph, or the conclusion    

Contrary to what you think, the introduction is not the conclusion of your writing process. As you write, you'll naturally fill spaces and come up with similes and metaphors you can refine and expand. By crafting your intro later it is possible to weave all of these components together seamlessly, creating a more cohesive and captivating piece from beginning to end.

    Stay with your outline until it's no longer necessary.    

An outline serves as a guide, not a straitjacket. It's meant to help keep your content current and focused on what is important to the people who read it. If you're feeling frustrated or lost, the chances are your readers will feel similar. Don't hesitate to tweak your outline, rearrange sections, or even go back to the drawing board if necessary. It is important to ensure your content remains engaging and on point.

    Maintain yourself and your readers interested    

Your enthusiasm (or absence of enthusiasm) regarding the topic can be seen in your writing. If you're feeling disengaged, ask yourself questions like, "What fascinated me about this subject originally?" or "Is there any expert's opinion that has rekindled my interest?" Finding what excites you about this topic helps keep you on track and help ensure that your work captivates readers until the final.

Wrapping it up

The ideal blog post starts with a clear outline.

FAQs

    What's the point of having a blog outline?    

A blog outline helps you plan your ideas, to ensure that your writing is consistent and entertaining, while also saving time and effort by avoiding endless writing.

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

Absolutely! Begin by identifying your reader's interests, exploring current trends in your niche, and asking questions that the readers of your blog might be asking. Make use of tools such as mind maps to help expand and connect concepts.

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

Subheadings break your content into digestible sections, making it simpler for your readers to understand. Bullet points can help you list important ideas or steps in a concise, clear manner. Use them to structure your text and emphasize important information.