Outlining

Outlining Example

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.