Creative tips and tricks

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

Nov 23, 2023

We'll discuss ways to turn your blog from being good to great. The process begins with a simple, yet powerful device: the blog outline. Think of it as the secret weapon that cuts through the clutter of ideas and creating an organized, engaging route to your visitors.

In this guide I'll show you the steps of creating an outline of your blog. It helps you organize your thoughts and make your blog content shine. You'll be surprised to learn that You're not alone in this journey--I've got handly blog outline templates to help you out, just keep reading.

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 straightforward but vital document that describes your angle and the format of your post. Think of it as the blueprint to clear and effective writing that keeps you on the right track and focused. An outline that is well-crafted typically contains the following essential elements:

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

It is also possible to add working titles in the outline. Certain writers would prefer to write their headlines following the completion of their article, making sure that they have a title that perfectly captures the main idea of their piece.

    What is the reason you require a blog outline    

Blogs, whether it's as a personal outlet or in support of the brand itself, is all about making an impact. If your writing is muddled or the points you're making are unclear, your message will get unclear, and the viewers will leave your site.

That's where an outline can help. It's the tool that helps you organize your thoughts prior to writing, preventing the time of rewriting endlessly and enhancing the standard of your work.

  • Overcoming the blank page syndrome Everyone has had to deal with the unwelcome blank page that moment of paralysis where procrastination seems to be more tempting. But with a detailed outline, the blank page will be much less daunting.
  • In a meeting with your editor or clients: As a person who's used detailed outlines many times, I 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, elements included or omitted, and the overall flow.

    What is the best time to use a blog outline?    

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

  • For long-form posts: Especially for articles around 1,000 words or more.
  • Complex subjects: When your topic requires a lot of research to ensure accurate coverage.
  • Writing tasks delegated: To ensure contributors understand the vision for the content.

The goal is to simplify your thinking process, and improve your writing efficiency. But it's not a rigid rule. For example, writing personal essays or news blurbs might not need an outline. Be sure to use your discretion and figure out which style is best for you. writing style.

How to write an outline of your blog in eight steps

Crafting a blog outline doesn't need to be difficult. Reduce it into steps that you can manage to help organize your thoughts and structuring your posts. Let's dive into these steps:

    Choose your topic    

The first thing to consider is what is your blog about? The choice of a subject is the base of your blog outline. Brainstorm ideas related to your area of expertise, with a focus on those 'burning issues' which you'd like to solve. Write down some possible topics and pick one that resonates with you and your audience.

    Choose the format of your content    

How is your blog going to take? Will it be a how-to guide, a listicle or opinion piece, a review, or a report? The structure is usually obvious according to the subject. A topic such as "how to create blogs" naturally lends itself to a how-to format. If it's not clear what to write about, take a cue from what's ranking on Google for related topics. There's not a universal style of presentation. It's up to you.

    Figure out your angle    

The process of identifying your distinctive angle can be like discovering a hidden jewel that will set your content above the rest. The angle is the place where your subject intersects your unique perspective. It determines the way you tackle 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 unknown trails in [Destination" or "The best local eateries in [Destination" are more than just facts. They invite the reader into a story. It's about making your content engaging and memorable.

    Determine your format    

Selecting the best format to publish your blog can make all the differences. Each format can be tailored to particular kinds of content and audience preferences. These are the most effective blog post formats and when you should use them:

  • How-to articles: Ideal when explaining processes step-by-step.
  • List blog posts: Great for creating a list of tips or ideas.
  • What is a post? Great for brief explanations or clarifications.
  • Case study posts: Use these for topics with a lot of detail that require an in-depth analysis.
  • Survey posts: Good for presenting gathered data in a way that is less thorough.
  • X vs. Posts Y: Suitable for comparing products or services.
  • Beginning's Guide blog posts: Excellent for introducing technical topics to newbies.

    Evaluate the SERPs    

The understanding of the search engine results pages (SERPs) is crucial. Look at the top-ranking articles to determine:

  • Readability: Is it easy is it to take in the information?
  • Relevance What speed do they answer the keyword-related question?
  • Alignment of search intent : Do title tags and meta descriptions correspond to the search intent of the user?

Use the inverted pyramid method to structure your blog post beginning with the broadest information and becoming more specific. 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, it's time to detail the topics you'll be covering within each. Write down a couple of bullet points for each section. Focus on supporting your argument. Include elements like:

  • An explanation succinctly the basis of your claim
  • Case studies, examples and other information
  • Potential expert quotes and data citations

This stage is also perfect for conducting research and seeking expert opinion or even quotes.

    Create your introduction and conclusion    

The introduction you write should grab your reader and entice readers to continue reading the piece. Use the Problem-Agitate-Solve (PAS) formula for your intro:

  • Problem: Identify a challenge your reader faces.
  • Agitate Deeper dive into the problem, emphasizing its impact.
  • Offer a solution: Your post should be presented as an option for a solution.

To conclude write down the way you'll wrap your ideas and then leave readers with a key takeaway or call-to-action.

    Find Your Data    

Once the framework for your blog post has been established, it's time to fortify your post by incorporating specific facts and figures. The inclusion of reliable data increases your Expertise and Authority and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) and makes sure that the content is able to stand up to scrutiny by readers.

    Understanding E-E-A-T    

E-E-A is a system Google utilizes to evaluate a page's quality and authenticity. While not a direct ranking factor, it can influence how content surfaces for readers. Integrating your own data into the content improves your arguments and increases trust with both readers and search engines.

    Sourcing data    

The internet provides a wealth of source of data, but there are many sites that are not accurate. It is important to concentrate on trusted websites like .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 access.

    Finding your subject    

The research process is essential to determine the best way to approach. Here are some effective ways to collect details:

  • Google Search: This is the most popular method used by many bloggers.
  • Google Scholar: Ideal for finding scholarly papers and research from academic institutions.
  • National Institutes of Health: A reliable source of health-related information.
  • Real Books: Don't overlook the significance of information contained in physical books or e-books.
  • Competitive Analysis: Review similar topics covered by other bloggers for insight.
  • First-Hand Information Direct quotes or verifications by industry professionals can greatly enhance your content's legitimacy and influence.

The inclusion of these details as well as the data incorporated in your outline will ensure they are not overlooked and helps maintain the focus of your article.

What you should avoid making an outline

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

  • Obsessing over grammar: Do not get caught up in grammar during the outline phase.
  • Infusing brand voice: Keep the branding voice integration to the writing stage itself.
  • Focusing on SEO keywords: Avoid getting overwhelmed by SEO in this moment.
  • Overthinking the details: An outline can be used to define direction but not the nitty-gritty.

The main purpose behind outline documents is to provide the project an enlightened path and avoid that blinking cursor nightmare. Invest time in the finer details only once you're confident that your work is on the right track. will be following.

Blog post templates to make it easier for you to write faster

You might have noticed that many blog posts follow similar structures. The truth is, most of the posts you read are variations of a few basic models. So, there's no need to create a new template each time. Select a template that is compatible with the format you prefer, and then off you begin! Here are four of the most popular templates:

    The list blog    

Listicles, also known as list posts can be described as exactly what they sound like they are: lists. They can include tips, tools, techniques, myths, mistakes--essentially, anything that works as a list. They are great to provide information that doesn't need a particular or specific.

Template for an example of an article on a list:

  • title (H1): Catchy and indicative of the content
  • Introduction: Briefly describe the topic and the value of the list
  • List Item 1 (H2) description or discussion
  • List 2 (H2): Description or discussion
  • [Continue using other list items if needed [Continue to add additional items as required
  • End: Recap and possibly include a call-to-action

    The step-by-step guide    

Step-by-step guides are great for describing processes that need to follow in a particular sequence. This type of format is ideal in 'how-to' information.

Example template for an easy-to-follow guide

  • title (H1): Reflecting the task or process
  • Introduction: An overview of the things that this guide will include
  • First step (H2) A detailed explanation of the initial step
  • Step 2. (H2): Detailed explanation of the second step
  • (Continue to follow additional steps if necessary[Continue with additional steps as necessary
  • Conclusion Overview and possible next steps, as well as additional sources

    The extended definition    

The expanded definitions explore the significance of concepts before exploring it in more depth. This style is ideal for understanding concepts that are key to following your post.

Example template for an expanded definition of:

  • Title (H1): Focused on the notion being defined
  • Introduction: Brief overview of the idea
  • Define (H2) An easy and succinct definition
  • Extended Explaination (H2) The discussion is broader of the notion
  • real-world applications (H2): Examples of the concept in use
  • Conclusion: Recap and maybe a larger perspective or additional information sources

  The beginner's guide  

A beginner's guide offers an in-depth introduction to an area that's specifically targeted for those who are new to the topic. Choose this format when you're making an educational tool as opposed to a guideline for action.

A template example to use for a beginner's guide:

  • Description (H1): Clearly indicating that it's a beginner's guide
  • Introduction: Create the scene for how beginners will be learning
  • Basic Concepts (H2): Outline of basic concepts or knowledge
  • Step-by-Step Instructions (H2) (H2): If appropriate basic steps to start
  • Most Common Challenges as well as Solutions (H2) The goal is to identify possible obstacles and ways to conquer these obstacles
  • Additional Resources (H2): Additional information or more complex topics to continue learning
  • Conclusion: Encourage readers and summarize key takeaways

Strategies for writing an outline

The process of writing from an outline can be a bit difficult at first, particularly if this is something new to you. But don't worry, here are a few tips that will help you transform your completed outline into a compelling blog article.

    You shouldn't begin with an introduction or in the final paragraph    

Contrary to what some imagine, the introduction should be at the end of your writing. As you write, you'll naturally fill the gaps, and construct similes and metaphors are able to refine and develop. By crafting your intro later you'll be able to incorporate all of these components together seamlessly, creating a more cohesive and engaging piece from beginning until the end.

    Stick to your outline until it's no longer necessary.    

An outline can be described as a reference, not a straitjacket. It's designed to keep your content relevant and focused on the things that matter to the people who read it. If you find yourself bored or confused, most likely your audience will feel similar. Be prepared to modify your outline, rearrange sections, or go back to the sketch board in the event of a need. It is important to ensure that your content is interesting and relevant.

    Keep both your reader and you interested    

Your passion (or absence of enthusiasm) for the topic is evident when you write. If you're feeling disengaged 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 curiosity?" Finding what excites your interest in the topic will help maintain your momentum and will ensure that your writing is captivating your readers right to the conclusion.

The wrapping up

The ideal blog post starts with a solid outline.

FAQs

    What is the reason I require a blog outline?    

A blog outline helps to organize your thoughts. It to ensure that your writing is consistent and engaging, and saves time, by stopping you from writing in a haphazard manner.

    Can you provide tips on brainstorming ideas to my blog's outline?    

Absolutely! Start by identifying your audience's preferences, analyzing recent trends in your area, and asking questions that the readers of your blog might be asking. Utilize tools such as mind mapping to broaden and integrate ideas.

    What can I do to use subheadings and bullet points efficiently within my outline?    

Subheadings help break down your text into digestible sections, making it easier for readers to understand. Bullet points can help you list important ideas or steps in a clear, concise manner. Utilize them to organize your content and highlight important information.