Guide to Blog Post Outlining: The Only Resource You’ll Need (Plus Free Template)
Are you still an outdated blogger who doesn’t create outlines for blog posts? Even worse—do you have a list of half-cooked posts that started with great zeal but were abandoned due to a lack of ideas? If you’ve experienced writer’s block or found yourself jumping between tabs like a distracted monkey, you’re not alone.
I’ve been there.
A couple of years ago, I used to write blog posts without an outline. I would jot down sporadic thoughts, only to end up with posts that were disoriented and messy. Later, I realized that researching, outlining, and writing are distinct cognitive processes. Mixing them disrupts your ability to reach the ideal “flow” state while writing.
The sooner you understand the importance of outlines, the better it will be for your content marketing efforts. Since adopting blog outlining, I’ve refined my process using various tools and frameworks. Today, I’ll share the exact system I use to create effective outlines for my blogs.
Why Outlining is Important
- Saves Time: Planning your blog post upfront means less time spent figuring out what to write as you go.
- Keeps You Organized: Outlining helps you structure your thoughts so your ideas make sense to readers.
- Improves Quality: A well-outlined post is more engaging and easier to read, keeping your audience hooked.
- Helps Avoid Writer’s Block: With a clear plan, you won’t get stuck wondering what to say next.
Step-by-Step Guide to Outlining a Blog Post
1. Start with Your Goal
Define the purpose of your blog post. Are you trying to educate, entertain, or persuade? Here’s a helpful template to craft your goal:
Our content helps [target audience] to [achieve something] by [doing something].
For example:
Our content helps overweight individuals lose at least 20 lbs by following the Paleo Diet.
Your goal will serve as the backbone of your blog post.
2. Research Thoroughly
In this step, gather data, keywords, and questions related to your topic. Tools like Google, SEMrush, and Quora are great for finding relevant questions and competitor insights. Focus on:
- Keywords with low competition and high relevance.
- Commonly asked questions about your topic.
- Audience problems and intents.
3. Analyze Competitors
Review the top-ranking pages for your chosen topic. Analyze their structure, word count, headings, and gaps in their content. Note down:
- Ideal word count for your post.
- Topics they’ve covered well.
- Areas where you can provide unique insights.
4. Choose a Clear Topic
Select one main idea for your blog post. A focused topic is easier to write about and more impactful.
5. Craft a Catchy Title
Your title should grab attention and give readers a reason to click. Make it clear, specific, and intriguing.
6. Create the Outline
Now it’s time to organize your research into a logical structure. Use a tool like Dynalist or Workflowy to create a bullet-point outline. Here’s a suggested format:
Introduction:
- Hook: [Grab the reader’s attention.]
- Briefly introduce the topic.
- State the purpose of the post.
Main Points:
- Break your content into 2-4 key sections.
- Include subpoints, examples, and supporting details under each.
Conclusion:
- Recap the main points.
- Add a final thought or insight.
- Include a clear call-to-action (CTA).
7. Assign Word Counts
Assign word counts to each section to ensure balance. This step is especially useful when outsourcing content to writers.
8. Optimize for Flow
Reorder sections for a logical and engaging flow. Ensure every section transitions smoothly into the next. Remove any irrelevant points.
Free Blog Post Outline Template
Title: [Write your catchy title here]
Introduction:
- Hook: [Grab attention.]
- Briefly introduce the topic.
- State the purpose of the post.
Main Point 1:
- Subpoint 1
- Subpoint 2
- Example or supporting detail
Main Point 2:
- Subpoint 1
- Subpoint 2
- Example or supporting detail
Main Point 3 (Optional):
- Subpoint 1
- Subpoint 2
- Example or supporting detail
Conclusion:
- Recap the main points.
- Add a final thought or insight.
- Call-to-action: [What do you want the reader to do next?]
Final Tips for Effective Outlining
- Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate your outline. It’s a tool to help you, not stress you out.
- Be Flexible: Adjust your outline as needed while you write.
- Review Before Writing: Take a few minutes to ensure your outline is clear and complete.
Outlining may seem like an extra step, but it saves time and effort in the long run. It ensures your blog post is organized, engaging, and of the highest quality. Whether you’re writing for yourself or outsourcing, a strong outline is essential.
