How to Create a Blog Outline (and templates)

Let's discuss how to transform your blog from being good to fantastic. All it takes is an easy, but powerful tool: the blog outline. Imagine it as your key weapon to cut through the clutter of ideas and creating a clear, engaging path to your visitors.

In this guide I'll guide you through the steps of creating an outline of your blog. It organizes your thoughts and makes your content shine. And guess what? You're not alone in this quest. I've got blog outline for you here. continue scrolling.

Skip ahead:

•    What's a blog outline?
•    How do you write a blog outline in eight steps
•    What you should avoid developing an outline
•    Blog post templates to save you time
•    Strategies for writing an outline
•    It's wrapped up
•    FAQs

What's a blog outline?

An outline for your blog is the way to create a memorable blog post. It's an easy but essential document that defines the structure and angle of your article. Imagine it as your guideline for clean and effective writing that keeps you focused and on track. An outline that is well-crafted typically contains the following essential elements:

• The subject of your post: What's the main topic of your article?
• What's your perspective? What are your thoughts on this topic? What's your unique perspective?
• Your structure What particular areas will you be covering to support your angle?

It is also possible to add the working title in your outline. Many writers like to finish their headlines following the completion of the post, ensuring their title is aptly capturing the main idea of their piece.

    The reason why you should have an outline for your blog    

Writing a blog, for personal expression or for the brand itself, is all about making an impression. If the writing you write is unclear or the points you're making are unclear, your message will get confused and readers will move on.

That's where an outline can help. This tool will help you organize your thoughts prior to you begin typing. It will save your time from endless revisions and enhancing the quality of your work.

• Overcoming the blank page syndrome: Every writer has faced the unwelcome blank page this moment of utter numbness where procrastination suddenly seems more appealing. However, with a thorough outline, that blank page will be much less daunting.
• Coordinating with your editor and your client: As someone who has relied on the detailed outline countless times, I can confirm their importance. They go beyond what the content brief could provide by providing a better understanding of the direction that your article is heading, elements included or omitted along with the overall flow.

    How often should you utilize a blog outline?    

In short, always. However, here are some particular examples:

• for long-form articles: Especially for articles around 1,000 words or greater.
• Complex subjects: When your subject requires extensive research for exact coverage.
• Writing tasks delegated: To ensure contributors understand the vision for the content.

The goal is to simplify your thinking process and increase your writing efficiency. However, it's not a strict rule. As an example, personal essays or short news blurbs may not require an outline. Use your judgement and determine which style is best for you. writing style.

How to create a blog outline in 8 steps

The process of creating a blog outline does not need to be difficult. Break it down into smaller steps in order to organize your ideas and structuring your blog's content. We'll look at these steps:

    Choose your topic    

The first thing to consider is what is your blog about? Selecting a topic will be the base of your blog outline. Think of ideas that are relevant to the area you're in, and focus on the burning issues which you'd like to solve. Write down some possible ideas and choose one that resonates with you and the people you're trying to reach.

    Choose the format of your content    

What shape is your blog going to take? Will it be a how-to article, a guideline or opinion piece, reviews, or even a news article? The structure is usually obvious based on your topic. A topic like "how to create a blog" naturally lends itself to a format that is based on a step-by-step. If you're not sure what format to choose, take a cue by what's ranked on Google for related topics. There's not a universal design. You can choose your own.

    Find your angle    

Discovering your own unique perspective is like uncovering a hidden jewel that will set your content apart. The angle is the place where your subject intersects the unique viewpoint of yours, forming how you approach your subject. It's not just concerned with what you're talking about, it's about providing your readers with a reason to take notice.

In the case of talking about a tourist attraction that is popular angle like "The hidden trails of [Destination]" or "The best local eateries in [Destination]" are more than just facts. They make the reader feel part of a story. The goal is to make your information click-worthy and memorable.

    Determine your format    

Choosing the right format for your blog article could make a big distinction. Each format caters to specific kinds of content and audience preferences. These are the most effective format for blog posts and the best times you should use them:

• How-to articles: Ideal when explaining steps step-by-step.
• List blog posts: Great for sharing a compilation of ideas or tips.
• What is a post? Perfect for quick explanations and definitions.
• Case study blog posts: Use these for topics with a lot of detail that require an in-depth analysis.
• Posts from surveys: Good for present data gathered in a less comprehensive manner.
• the X and. Y posts: Suitable for comparison of products or services.
• Introduction to HTML0 posts: Excellent for teaching newcomers about technical subjects.

    Evaluate the SERPs    

Understanding the landscape of Search engine results pages (SERPs) is vital. Check out the highest-ranked blogs to assess:

• Readability: How easy is it to take in the information?
• Relevance In how fast will they be able to answer the related keyword question?
• Search intent alignment  Are meta description tags and title tags align with the intent of a user's search?

Make use of the inverted pyramid technique to structure your blog post starting with the most general details and then becoming more precise. Also, look through the People Also Ask (PAA) boxes on Google for pertinent questions you could answer in your post.

    Mark the precise subpoints to be made in each section    

Once you have your major points laid out now is the time to outline the topics you'll be covering within each. Write down a couple of bullet points in each section that are focused on proving your arguments. Include elements like:

• An explanation succinctly the basis of your claim
• Examples and case studies
• Possible expert quotations and Data citations

This stage is ideal for research purposes and seeking expert opinion or even quotes.

    Write out your introduction and concluding    

Your intro should entice readers, entice them to read the entire piece. Use the Problem-Agitate-Solve (PAS) formula for your intro:

• The problem is: Identify a problem that your reader has to face.
• Agitate Explore the issue, highlighting its impact.
• Give a solution Your post should be presented as a possible solution.

For your conclusion, outline 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 and you're ready to reinforce your post by incorporating specific facts and figures. Integrating credible data enhances your Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) and makes sure that your content withstands reader scrutiny.

    Understanding E-E-A-T    

The E-E A-T framework is one that Google employs to determine the quality and authenticity of a web page. Although not directly a ranking element, it does influence how the content appears to users. The inclusion of your own information strengthens your argument and builds credibility with readers and search engines.

    Sourcing data    

The web is a plethora of source of data, but not all of it is trustworthy. You should focus your attention on reliable sites such as .gov, .org, .edu, and platforms like Statista. When drafting your outline, include bullet points with hyperlinks to your sources to facilitate reference.

    Researching your topic    

The research process is essential to determine the best way to approach. Here are a few effective methods to get details:

• Google Search: The go-to method for most bloggers.
• Google Scholar: The ideal way to find scholarly publications as well as academic research.
• National Institutes of Health: A reliable source for health-related information.
• Real books: Don't overlook the significance of information contained within physical books and e-books.
• Analyzing Competitors: Review similar themes covered by other bloggers for insight.
• First-Hand Information Straight confirmations or quotes by industry professionals can greatly improve the legitimacy of your web page and impact.

The inclusion of these details as well as the data incorporated in your outline will ensure they're not forgotten and also helps keep the attention of your blog.

What should you avoid when making an outline

Remember, outlines are not an opportunity to practice perfectionism. This is what you must be wary of:

• Grammar: Avoid getting caught up in grammar during the outlining section.
• Blending brand voice Keep the brand voice integration for the writing stage itself.
• Focusing on SEO keywords: Avoid getting bogged down with SEO at this point.
• Thinking too much about the finer details: An outline can be used to define direction but not the nitty-gritty.

The primary purpose of an outline is to give your work a path and avoid that blinking cursor scenario. Spend time on the finer particulars once you're sure of the direction your project follows.

Templates for blog posts to make it easier for you to write faster

You might have noticed the majority of blog posts have the same structure. In reality, the majority blogs you visit are variations of a few important templates. So, there's no need to create a new template each time. Pick a template that suits your format, and off you go! Below are the four most commonly used templates:

    The list blog    

List posts, or listicles They are precisely what they sound like listicles: lists. They can include tips, tools, techniques, myths, mistakes--essentially, anything that works as a list. They are great for information that isn't too long and doesn't require a specific arrangement.

Template for an example of an article on a list:

• title (H1) The title is attractive and indicative of the contents
• Introduction: Briefly introduce the subject and explain the significance of the list
• List Item 1 (H2): Description or discussion
• List 2 (H2) The description is used in conjunction with the discussion
• (Continue to add additional list items as needed]
• Finalization: Close the loop and possibly include a call-to-action

    The step-bystep instruction    

A step-by-step guide is perfect to explain processes that have to be followed in a specific arrangement. This type of format is ideal for 'how-to' content.

Example template for an easy-to-follow guide

• title (H1): Reflecting the process or task
• Introduction: An overview of what the guide will be covering
• 1. (H2) A detailed explanation of the initial step
• Step 2. (H2) A detailed explanation of the second step
• (Continue to follow additional steps as needed]
• Conclusion The summary and the possible future steps, or other resources

    The broad definition    

In-depth definitions go deeper into the significance of concepts and then explore it in more depth. This style is ideal for understanding concepts that are key to following your post.

A template example of an expanded definition

• Title (H1) The focus is on the idea being established
• Introduction: Short overview of the concept
• definition (H2): A clear and succinct definition
• Extended Explanation (H2): Broader discussion of the concept
• Application Real World (H2) examples of the concept in action
• Final: Review and perhaps a wider perspective, or other sources

  The guide for beginners  

The beginner's guide provides comprehensive information on the subject that is specifically designed for people new to the subject. Choose this format when you're creating an educational resource as opposed to a guideline for action.

Template example for an introduction to HTML0:

• Description (H1): Clearly indicating that it's a beginner's guide
• Introduction: Set the stage for what beginners are expected to learn
• Essential Concepts (H2) outline of the fundamental concepts or abilities
• Step-by-Step instructions (H2): If applicable basic steps to start
• The most common Challenges and Solutions (H2) The goal is to identify the potential obstacles to HTML0 and learn how to get around these obstacles
• Additional Resources (H2) More information or topics that are more advanced for ongoing education
• Final: Inspire readers and summarize key takeaways

Writing tips from an outline

Writing from an outline might 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 assist you in turning your outline into a compelling blog content.

    Don't start with the introductory paragraph or in the final paragraph    

Contrary to what you think, the introduction should come toward the end of your writing. When you write it is natural to fill spaces and come up with metaphors or similes that can be refined and expanded. When you write your introduction later you'll be able to incorporate the elements together, creating a more cohesive and captivating piece from beginning until the end.

    Stick to the outline of your document until you can't.    

An outline serves as a guide, not a straitjacket. It's designed to help keep your content current and focused on the things that matter to your audience. If you find yourself overwhelmed or disoriented, it's likely that your viewers are feeling similar. Do not be afraid to alter the outline of your article, reorganize sections or go back to the sketch board in the event of a need. Your goal is to ensure your content remains relevant and up-to-date.

    Make sure you keep yourself and your readers interested    

The enthusiasm you have (or the lack of it) about the subject will shine through in your writing. If you're feeling disengaged take a look at your own questions such as, "What fascinated me about this subject originally?" or "Is there some expert's viewpoint that rekindled my fascination?" Finding what excites your interest in the topic helps keep you on track and ensure your writing captivates readers until the conclusion.

It's wrapped up

The ideal blog post begins with an outline.

FAQs

    Why do I need a blog outline?    

An outline of your blog can help you organize your thoughts, makes sure your blog posts are coherent and interesting, as well as saving time and effort by avoiding endless writing.

    Could you give me some tips on brainstorming ideas to my blog outline?    

Absolutely! Start by identifying your audience's interests, exploring recent trends in your area as well as asking any questions you think your audience might ask. Utilize tools such as mind mapping to broaden and integrate ideas.

    How can I use subheadings and bullet points effectively within the outline?    

Subheadings break your content into manageable sections, making it simpler for your readers to follow. Bullet points are helpful in presenting key ideas or steps in a concise, clear manner. Use them to structure your text and emphasize important information.