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Formal Outline Presentation Text Version |
Format your outline using Roman numerals for the first heading level. Alternate using letters and numbers for subheading levels or subtopics.
When creating an outline, never include a “1” without a “2” or an “a” without a “b.” For example, on outline heading level 1, only use a Roman numeral I if you use Roman numeral II. Likewise, on outline heading level 2, only use an A if you use a subheading B. The same is true for outline heading level 3 and 4, only list a subheading 1. if you list a subheading 2. and only use an a. if you list a subheading b.
Divide your first heading level into two or more parts. For Example, the heading, “My most eventful year” is divided into the following three parts: “Sixteenth birthday,” “Grand Canyon Hike” and “First high school dance.”
If you use a noun for your first heading, each heading that follows must also be a noun. Likewise, if you use a verb for the first heading, use a verb for subsequent headings. In the first example, both Future and educational are nouns. In the 2nd example, both choose and complete are verbs.
Be sure that the information in your headings and subheadings refer back to your topic. For example, “Bachelor’s degree in education” and “G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher” both refer back to “Educational Requirements.”
Headings should be general and subheadings should be more specific. In this example, “My most eventful year” and “My most challenging year” are both very general. “Sixteenth birthday” and “Grand Canyon hike” are more specific events that further describe “My most eventful year” while “Closest friends attended” and “Nice gifts” are even more specific details that illustrate the “Sixteenth birthday.”
Creating an outline can make writing the essay or term paper much easier. Remember the following tips:
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