Writers and outlining

Some writers outline, some don't. I used to be in the no-outline camp, until I realized that an effective outline helps you to write MORE and saves writing multiple drafts.

Tip: When you outline makes all the difference. On small projects (like an article or series of articles, or a Web sales page), I freewrite, then create a working outline. On longer projects, I create a working outline, then write a couple of chapters, and then do an extended outline which is similar to a first draft. The benefit of the extended outline is that it gives me a grasp of the project as a whole -- it shows me where the finish line is.

If you've given up on outlines, try them again, and try them at various times in a project -- you may find that they're a useful tool.

BTW, if you're a Mac user, and you're not using OmniOutliner -- download it immediately. (I have no connection with the company.) OmniOutliner is the outliner for people who hate outlining.

Technorati Tags: writing