Three outlines of the same short passage
Our editorial example describes an empty courtyard, neighbours planting flowers and the change in everyday activity afterwards. Its outline should preserve that progression without inventing repairs, competitions or other events.
| Format | Example |
|---|---|
| Simple headings | 1. The empty courtyard. 2. A shared project. 3. The courtyard's new life. |
| Question headings | 1. What was the courtyard like? 2. What did the neighbours do? 3. How did everyday activity change? |
| Detailed outline | 1. The former courtyard. 2. Planting flowers together. 3. Life afterwards: a) children's play; b) neighbours talking. |
These headings fit this particular brief. Another text will need its own sections and order.
How to identify the main points
Agree on the main headings before adding subpoints. A hierarchy is useful when a section contains distinct supporting ideas, not simply because a longer outline looks more complete.
- Read the whole passage and describe its subject and central point.
- Find changes in meaning. Paragraphs are useful clues, but several paragraphs can develop one idea.
- Give each part a short heading using a consistent style: names, questions or statements.
- Compare the outline with the source. Look for omissions, repetition, changed cause and effect, or added claims.
An article, a talk or an explanation for a child
Planning a new article begins with the purpose and the reader's questions. Outlining an existing text begins with the author's actual ideas. Tell Bonnie which task you mean so the two are not confused.
- For a talk, add supporting facts and transitions after agreeing on the main order.
- For an assignment, include its exact requirements and expected level of detail.
- For an explanation to a child, work through one point and invite them to suggest the next.
Bonnie is for adult users. A parent or teacher can prepare an explanation for a child in their own chat.