Outlining
Method
- Listen and then write down points in an organized pattern, based on space indentation.
- Place major points farthest to the left and indent each more specific point to the right.
- Levels of importance will be indicated by distance away from major point.
- Indentation can be simple (no marking, just space relationships or more complex, by using Roman numerals, letters and/or decimals.
When to use
- When lecture is organized and sequential.
- There is enough time in lecture to think about and make organizational decisions.
Advantages
- Well-organized system, if done correctly.
- Reduces need to edit.
- Easy to turn main points into questions.
Disadvantages
- Requires more thought in class for accurate organization.
- May not show relationships by sequence when needed.
- Doesn’t lend to itself to variety of review and question applications.
- VERY difficult if lecturer speaks fast.