Why are outlines so essential?

Question

In my writing class, huge emphasis was placed on outlining the entire plot. Yet as I write it, things change dramatically, and I end up not following the outline. Is it bad to just go with the flow?

Answer 1

Going with the flow while writing is definitely good and can allow for a more natural flow, but having outlines can help to keep writing focused and sequential. I would not recommend using the same type of outline for creative writing as for a book report, but both can be benefited by having some form of outline.

In formal writings, like reports, having a detailed outline is almost like having a cheat-sheet for writing because it allows for all of your ideas to be organized in the way they will be written. If an outline is detailed enough it can even act similar to performing a copy-and-paste for your essay, with some minor proofreading and tweaking, of course.

In creative writing, I would recommend a less detailed outline if you want ideas to develop as you are writing because it will allow for the work to have a foundation and direction without restricting creativity and alternative pathways.

To give an example, I am personally working on a creative piece and made an outline for the story to plan out my thinking. Admittedly, the outline has been reviewed and refined a few times as new ideas come about, but I can say with certainty it has helped me greatly in writing.

At the same time, I have had numerous essays and reports I've written based on detailed outlines, a few of which translated almost directly to the finished essay and saved me much time and stress.