Outlining

Reasons for: * Organize ideas before writing * Quick reference for when you’re writing * Creates a “roadmap”

Labels I. Roman Numerals = Main Sections A. Capital Letters = Main Ideas B. Main Idea 1. Numbers = Subpoints 2. Subpoint a. Small letters = minor subpoint b. minor subpoint Indent

Labels I. Roman Numerals = Main Sections A. Capital Letters = Main Ideas B. Main Idea 1. Numbers = Subpoints 2. Subpoint a. Small letters = minor subpoint b. minor subpoint Sentences going to a second line – stay with the line above.

Labels I. Roman Numerals = Main Sections A. Capital Letters = Main Ideas B. Main Idea 1. Numbers = Subpoints 2. Subpoint a. Small letters = minor subpoint b. minor subpoint

“Breaking Down” * you don’t have to break points down… but if you do… … You must get two subpoints … You can’t break something into one piece So, if you have a “1,” you must have a “2.”

“Breaking Down” - Subordination - a point covers less topic area than the one above it i.e. – “German Shepard” is subordinate to “dog” Topic: dog. German Shepard is more specific, covers less

“Breaking Down” - Coordination - subpoints under the same heading must contain a common theme. i.e. – dogs: German Shepards, Collies, Poodles, Cheesecake. This is not coordinated.

Sample I.Major Religions A. Definition B. Christian 1.Catholic 2.Protestant C. Islam 1. Shiite 2. Sunni D. Hindu Subordinate? Coordinated? Indented?