The quick and easy way to understand outline meaning and how to make an outline
It’s lockdown again in our state and my children are getting back into homeschooling.
Certainly coronavirus restrictions mean there is a lot to juggle between work and family.
Indeed, sometimes I don’t know where to start!
Similarly planning a life-story project can feel overwhelming.
You have a whole life to sit down and record, which can be daunting.
But just like surviving any hectic season of life, you need a plan.
So today I’m going to show you the power of creating a story outline.
Related article – How to start writing: The ultimate guide about planning to write life stories
Know your priorities with a story outline
The beauty of having a story outline or chapter structure is it is a clear overview of what to write about.
In short, it helps define and prioritise top memories.
So just like having a to-do list, a good outline will make sure you don’t forget the big stuff.
Most importantly, this means your writing has purpose and direction.
Related article – Memory recall: How to fast track remembering childhood memories + long-term memory retrieval
Related article – Music and memories: 3 song memory tricks to use while dancing up a storm!
Topics to record
Inspiration is another top reason to prepare a story outline.
Indeed, you always have something to write about with a solid outline.
This is because the hard work of identifying important topics is done.
Certainly there is no wondering what is worthy or interesting to write about next.
Simply take a look at the list of key memories and start writing!
Related article – How to beat memoir writer’s block in 8 simple steps
A story outline is an insurance policy
Enthusiasm and motivation are high at the start of a life-story project.
However, over time this can fade. For instance, due to failing health or other life issues.
But if you use a story outline you have a real advantage.
This is because you write about key memories first and are not distracted by other stories.
Therefore you have a document with substance and relevance to future readers.
In short, a story outline is like an insurance policy in case your plans are derailed.
Related article – How to make a timeline: What is a timeline + timeline example (plus free printable!)
How to make a story outline
Making a story outline will turbo boost your writing.
And I can help you do this with my free Structure Success training.
During the video, I go over a number of exercises to help brainstorm and organise your key memories into a rough chapter outline.
So sign up here to get cracking on the life story you have always wanted to write.
Final say
Beginning a life story is certainly a creative and thought-provoking exercise.
But we need a basic roadmap to keep it on track.
Indeed a story outline helps us: identify priorities, have topics to write about and insures key memories are recorded first.
Furthermore, making an outline is easy with my free Structure Success video training.
So sign up and start creating stories that have power for ourselves and others in the future.
Happy writing!
Your say
How did you find the free story outline training? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email or leave a reply in the comments section at the end of this article.
Get in touch
Have you hit a roadblock planning, creating, polishing or finishing your life story? Let me know here so I can help!
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First published February 7, 2019: This article has been updated and improved.