Do I need to outline my paper or just go straight to writing it?

Question

Outlining can seem like a waste of time, do I have to do it or just skip to the essay part?

Answer 1

If outlining seems like a waste of time, you're probably not doing it correctly.

View the one-minute video to find out why that's the case.

Answer 2

No matter the genre of the writing project which you are about to undertake, dedicating time to the composition of a well-thought-out, clear, concise outline will greatly improve the quality of your final draft.

An outline constructed before you begin the core writing process will help you to:

1. organize and refine your ideas;
2. avoid unconstructive repetition in thought, language, and grammatical expression;
3. perfect your voice, writing style, and artistic expression; and
4. minimize any negative stressors that might hinder you in the completion of your work.

Just as an architectural plan serves as a contractor's map or guide in the construction of a building, a compositional outline serves as a writer's map or guide in the drafting of a written work.

Answer 3

If writing a large paper (i.e. 3 or more pages) do NOT wait until the last minute to start writing. Always start with an outline. As a matter of fact, you should be mindful of your paper and topic long before you begin to even outline it. Grab a traditional pen and paper and write down all your thoughts about the topic or idea (this is called a brainstorm) and begin to form an outline based on your teacher's requirements. This is standard for all types of essays (research, narrative, persuasive, expository, etc.)