Written on November 9th, 2009 at 01:11 am by Darren Rowse
Do you Write Outlines for Your Blog Posts?
Do you plan your posts or do you just write them free flow as they come?
This is a question that one of our members at ProBlogger.com (Mark Dykeman) started off a conversation with in the last week.
Mark talked in the thread about how he does both (sometimes he uses bullet points for his main points and then writes on each point while other times it just comes) – but I thought it’d be an interesting question to open up to everyone.
What’s your approach?
My own approach is mixed and sometimes starts with one approach and ends up as the other but in general the way I work depends upon the type of post:
Pillar Content – in most cases if I’m setting out to write what I refer to as ‘pillar content’ (or a big post that is on a central theme of my blog) I generally like to have some kind of plan before I start. Like Mark I’ll usually start out with a list of points that I want to cover that I’ve brainstormed (and perhaps a quick note or two on each). Then I work systematically through the points one by one and write a paragraph or two on each.
Other Posts – other posts that are not quite as structure in their form tend to be written in a more freely written way. For example if news breaks on something relevant to my niche I will generally bounce off a press release or another blogger with a few of my own thoughts. If the post is like this one and is more of a ‘reader question’ type posts I again will usually write it without a formal outline.
I should say that often my posts are a bit of both. Sometimes I’ll be halfway through writing a free flow/non outline post and I’ll suddenly be hit with inspiration for about 5 other things that I’ll want to say in the post. I generally stop writing at this point and capture the points that I want to cover and in doing so write a bit of an outline for the rest of the post before coming back to where I was.
Other times I might be writing a post that I’ve got an outline for and the post will evolve in a direction that makes a lot of the points I’ve outlined irrelevant and I’ll scrap them (or at least put them aside for a future post).
What about you?
Are you someone who plans posts in detail? Or do you write best when you’re writing in a more freely flowing style?
118 Responses to “Do you Write Outlines for Your Blog Posts?” - Add Yours
Dominique
November 9th, 2009 1:11 am
I normally write in a more free flowing manner dependent on inspiration. If I am attempting a series I normally do drafts with the titles and points for each post.
Kevin (strongandfit.net)
November 9th, 2009 1:12 am
I really haven’t thought about this much. Sometimes I have a skeletal outline that I use to keep thinking about the article until I write it. Other times I just write.
Kelvin Servigon
November 9th, 2009 1:12 am
Most of my posts in my blog were written in “free-flow” way. I love this way because it gives me the freedom on what to write, and my blog is a personal blog after all. It’s something like, “anything goes”.
David Zemens
November 9th, 2009 1:13 am
I don’t write outlines per se for my posts.
I do, however, jot down notes and ideas in a draft of the post and when I return to it I have a rough idea, from the notes, about how I should proceed with my writing.
I suspect that more that bloggers who have greater success than I do probably plan their outlines in great detail. I will be interested in hearing what others have to say.
Michael Stearns
November 9th, 2009 1:24 am
My tenth grade English teacher, Mr. Maloney, would rise from his grave and strike me down if I did not develop some sort of outline before writing a post.
My posts tend to be short, but I always create a brief outline with a focused conclusion so I know where I’m heading. When I start going on tangents and coming up with other ideas I put those in my list of future posts.
I keep the outline as brief as possible as I want have a balance between something that has structure, but also flows from the gut.
jan geronimo
November 9th, 2009 1:26 am
It’s useful to have an outline. It’s a little scary leaving anything to chance. But the way I do about it is a little less structured than an outline. Mark is right about using bullet points. Sometimes I have the salient points numbered so I’d never forget to touch on each of them.
You’re right, however, that some posts lend itself well to spontaneity. Makes it more compelling and conversational. Perhaps a little rant falls into this category.
Shannon OD
November 9th, 2009 1:26 am
I generally do not use outlines for a regular post – I write a travel blog so I just choose a starting point for the story and build from there. Now though, as I start to write service-y posts I find one helpful sometimes :-) Generally though, I’m a fly by the seat of my pants blogger.
BLOGitse
November 9th, 2009 1:31 am
Both.
If I need information I plan more (should plan even more).
I use a lot of my photographs as the main message
OR
I create a posting via my images because there’s too much information/to read on most of the blogs.
Less is more.
headstuffing
November 9th, 2009 1:33 am
Think a post out in advance? Hmmm.
Since my posts are simply stories – and not a list of things that will make you a better person – advance your career – or inspire you to a higher level of blogging income – I like most other commenters above – simply use the free-flow method as well. Quite often I will start off with a story about my Aunt Myrtle in North Upscaleville – only to find out at the end that the real story that comes out only mentions the fact the old broad is rich. And then I clean up all the parts that no longer fit and reorganize the structure to give the best reading experience.
I use no bullets in my planning. But I always have something that just has to get out.
I would love to be someone that teach others all my great wisdoms and move them to a state of greater financial bliss – but at the moment – I just hope I can make you laugh – and maybe if I’m lucky I might make you think to.
But I do enjoy your posts very much! Very helpful indeed, yet I am still waiting for a google ad check to appear in my mailbox :).
Sudeep
November 9th, 2009 1:38 am
Well it is a good question , But to be frank some of my post are completely immediate written as thought flow so would be my speed on the keyboard .Yes some times I would make sure I chalk some of the points and then start writing some details .
Does that makes difference .. to frank no .. you write planed or unplaned .I have never seen any difference with the crowd reading it .As long it a good material that what readers wants nothing else .
Helmi Asyraf @ Huzzer Magazine
November 9th, 2009 1:51 am
For me, pillar contents definitely play crucial role to attract huge traffics to our site. It is because with great content, it will help to bring our blog and its contents to the place which can be hardly reached through social sites.
And for the other posts, instead of just fill in the gap of our blog, it can help us to keep our visitors as long as possible within our site. Therefore, the bounce rate will be lower and page views will increase.
This will definitely help us in monetizing our blog if you plan to do so in future.
Cheers!
Allen Maddox
November 9th, 2009 1:51 am
Being new to all this I haven’t thought about an outline. Perhaps I should try it to see it helps organize my thoughts. Sometimes I find myself rambling and have to start over.
Dana @ Online Knowledge
November 9th, 2009 1:53 am
I usually let flow as idea come which allow me to create article fast. I just type, type, and type without any hesitation and then i will edit it after all idea already type.
Sara Elizabeth Bonds @ The OmniCouple
November 9th, 2009 1:54 am
I personally write both ways. I plan a lot of blog entires in good ol’ notepads, and they are very thought out and structured. Others I write in the moment, and they are much more free form. I do tend to write more planned posts, though. I have a pretty organized OCD type personality.
Young
November 9th, 2009 1:54 am
That depends. Sometimes I figure out a structure, and then fill the outline with stuff, sometimes I just write the full post from the beginning.
Sheila Mae
November 9th, 2009 1:57 am
I’m just exactly like that! I never thought I would hear that verbalized, but you, Darren, have given me ideas…and the confidence that it really is alright to branch off in unchartered territory. Oh, My Columbus!
Rob Mangiafico
November 9th, 2009 2:01 am
For pillar posts, I use the WordPress plugin Peter’s Post Notes to make some notes and an outline right in the post itself. It works great as I can write in the main post area while referencing the side notes. No scrolling or jumping from one app. to the other. :)
Rob – LexiConn
Corey Freeman
November 9th, 2009 2:03 am
I personally do mental or “mini” outlines that usually look something like this:
How Does Writing Affect Blogging?
I. Communication & Message
II. Personality & Trust
III. Persuasion & Making Money Online
These fit on index cards or rather large sheets of paper and can be easily expanded upon when I’m working on the post. My A.P. English teacher taught us how to mini outline and I just thought it was a really awesome technique.
Andy
November 9th, 2009 2:07 am
I would say generally about 90% of posts I make are planned and only occasionally does a post basically write itself in one free flowing sitting. What tends to happen is sentences/ paragraphs will come to me and I jot them down before building a list of other points I want to include. Then once I have all the points I structure them, either grouping items or separating them so I have all the sections planned before writing the first draft.
I use to purely work on the free flowing approach but then once I started revisiting those posts a few months later I realised that they weren’t as structured as they could be and often missing things because I hadn’t planned them.
Sheila Mae
November 9th, 2009 2:08 am
Oh. One last thing. I personally, as the reader for now, would like to read something that has been well thought out, such as a well-rehearsed play, movie, etc. Most unpracticed art is not, well, art. Or quality. But, some like sheer sinful, impromptu, untrained humanness, (as in the case of an unrehearsed movie, play or a first draft of a screenplay…usually not good). Oh, don’t hate me! As you asked I thought a reader’s perspective may be relevant. Thank you comrades.! I mean no harm!!!
lunaKm
November 9th, 2009 2:12 am
I tend to make notes in the draft as well as the main points I want to make, which tend to become subheaders of the post. I notice that when I do this bit of drafting my post is longer than I expected it to. When I freewrite- which I do as well, the post needs more editing and isn’t as long.
Jeffabram
November 9th, 2009 2:12 am
I tend to write more flow of thought but need to do more outlining. It tends to keep it more succinct and flowing toward one point. Sometimes try to make to many thougts in one post but forget that the tighter and shorter I make a post the more I have for more frequent posts.
Ben Lumley
November 9th, 2009 2:15 am
I’m a free flow free form dump it out of your brain and on to the page kinda guy. Generally I have thought or see something inspirational and then write about it.
At the very most I’ll note down a few bullet points somewhere like on a piece of paper to make sure I cover all of the areas that I want to take about. Usually that’s something I only really do for longer posts.
Andre Arnett
November 9th, 2009 2:28 am
A very interesting question you pose. I am from the free flowing side as I tend to come up with topics from reading or just thinking about something. I can see how planning a subject out might make it a bit easier. I will have to think about it and see what comes out.
Ian M Rountree
November 9th, 2009 2:30 am
Mark’s spoken on his blog about an “Idea Injection” formula he’s used – having given it a shot, it’s fairly good. For certain topics. Restricting your writing to a formula can get frustrating after a while, a single approach is not helpful for creativity. I’ve found it useful to build a few approaches based on mood. Outlines, train of thought. Make a video post once in a while. Like exposing yourself to other topics outside your field, exposing yourself to other process can be enlightening as you grow as a writer – which is part of what blogging is about, after all.
Jackie Lee
November 9th, 2009 2:31 am
I find a lot of my blog post ideas come to me in my sleep or just before I’m going to sleep. I make sure I write down the basic points i want to cover so I don’t forget them. :) With a list of points in hand I just free flow from there.
I also end up with a different kind of pillar content and that’s where I expound on a theory or idea related to my topic. Those I do freestyle, but I have to go back and make sure they make sense at the end, since ideas pop up and I can easily get off topic on those. I think spirit comes through when I’m writing because there are times I go back and read something and I don’t remember writing it at all. Usually it’s pretty good so I just go with it.
Miss Marian
November 9th, 2009 2:35 am
That depends. But usually I don’t do outlines in my posts. I also don’t have drafts.I wrote whatever that comes in my mind and then publish.
Eat Smart Age Smart
November 9th, 2009 2:35 am
Good on you Mark for starting this conversation!!!
I plan out about 90% of all my posts because most are pillar articles and take time to write and research.
That said there is a 10% that is quite free flowing and depends on current news/events in my niche.
I will turn around and write something quickly and put it on the site.
I think you do need to have that element of “free-flowingness” or else you miss out on current news that shapes your niche and those topics are of interest to your readers.
This is a great conversation!
Krizia
Ms. Freeman
November 9th, 2009 2:42 am
Everyday I sit down to write I never know what I am going to write about. I simply open Word, close my eyes and write about the first thing that comes to mind. I gear the topic and shape it to fit within the context of my blog.
I don’t want to lose the free spirit nature of my blog.
Kosmo @ The Casual Observer
November 9th, 2009 2:48 am
It depends on the length. If it’s 500-700 words, I’m not likely to outline it. On the other hand, if it’s pushing 2000 words, I’m much more likely to use an outline.
Dean
November 9th, 2009 2:50 am
I normally do mental outlines, but that’s about it. I do think there would be some value to using this more disciplined approach, since I very often do write “Pillar Posts.” I do end up spending more time editing/tweaking than I do writing. However, since the purpose of my blog is to show off good (and clean) writing, I try to be a little more formal and buttoned up. With my fun blogs, I don’t go to all that trouble.
Work blog http://koifishcommunications.com/blog.
Fun blog http://pdxcyclingonline.com
Laurinda
November 9th, 2009 2:53 am
Since becoming a blogger/writer I find that I’m always pondering something I want to write. I keep a notebook & digital voice recorder with me at all times. I will make notes. I outline it in my mind and then write. I want to get to the place where I’m much more structured.
Jeffry Pilcher
November 9th, 2009 3:50 am
Another “Writing Clinic” post??? Is this how it’s going to be?
Every 2-3 out of 5 posts is going to be about the act of writing? “Type of Posts,” “Beating Writer’s Block,” “Outlines,” etc.???
Darren, I’ll assume you have data showing that people dig these writing-related articles, but I don’t. It’s remedial. You should start a separate blog titled “Blog Writer.”
Oh, and to answer the question in the headline: “no.”
Jeff
November 9th, 2009 4:13 am
I don’t have the patiences to write a post long enough for an outline, I sometimes have a general ideal how its going to flow, but usually its pretty free form.
Jarie Bolander
November 9th, 2009 4:21 am
I use two methods: A Theme Statement and a Jot Outline. These are described in more detail on this post http://www.thebloggersbulletin.org/2009/10/07/themes-and-jot-outlines/
The Theme sets the tone for the piece and the Jot Outline gets the structure down quick. I find that helps me tremendously with getting productive and starting productive.
Ben Lumley
November 9th, 2009 4:32 am
Re: Jeffry Pilcher
Isn’t the whole point of ProBlogger that it’s a blog about blogging and how to do it well?
If that’s the case then surely “remedial” posts about writing posts and the like are actually integral to Problogger
Oleg Mokhov
November 9th, 2009 4:58 am
Hey Darren,
Creativity flourishes when there are limitations. When you only have a few elements to work with, you create faster and come up with more inventive stuff. My most effective writing method is organized free flowing.
When I get an article idea, I quickly jot down all the points for what I’d want to say. Then I come back, throw in all the points, and write out the article in a free flowing manner. I have a writing template I use, so the free flowing writing is within those confines.
In other words, organized free flowing writing.
Best,
Oleg
Jeffrey Tang
November 9th, 2009 5:12 am
I’ve tried outlining my posts before, but I always wound up ditching the outline once I really started getting into the writing. For me, outlining is a prime example of good advice that just doesn’t work for me.
What I’ve started doing instead is just writing down a few catchy sentences, phrases, or ideas that I use as pivot points for the rest of the post, if that makes sense. Kind of like an outline, but much less restrictive and artificial, in my mind.
Robby G
November 9th, 2009 5:12 am
I right as things come into my mind. But if there’s something specific I’d like to prove in a post I just create a central idea and focus my writing around that. No outlines though, shit I don’t even write outlines for my university essays so surely enough I don’t do it for my blog. I find outlines to get boring and allowing my mind to just work things out as I type away it makes the post more exciting.
Thanh Lu
November 9th, 2009 5:17 am
I think it’s all situational. For example, if it’s information or how to pieces, then it’s better if it’s structured, but if it’s an editorial or a comment piece, than it could be freewriting to engage the reader into the person experience.
Sometimes when I feel a pulse of inspiration, I just have to write about it, save it and elaborate on it into a final piece later…think and ink it! Otherwise, the thought may be lost forever, and you never get that experience back to write about your new ideas or thoughts from that experience.
A couple of things I do: (1) I keep a list of blog topics that I’m very interested in, but that I don’t have enough resources or knowledge of it yet, or isn’t working on at the moment (2) I post questions about what I’m curious about and get a conversation going, and then write a blog about what I’ve learned, the insights I received from others, and kind of summarize everything.
Tyler Staley
November 9th, 2009 5:22 am
I usually think hard about what I am going to write. I make it all in my head then make quick bullet points of the main points, so I can build up on them in the post.
Sometimes though, I just get into the mode and can’t stop to write it all down, so I just type away.
Mark Wolfinger
November 9th, 2009 5:32 am
Free flowing works best for me.
Even with complex xposts hat include details lessons on using options conservatively, I just stand, write and finish.
When finished, I edit and possibly alter the sequence.
Amy - parkcitygirl
November 9th, 2009 5:39 am
I do a bit of both as well. A lot of times it depends on the quilt I’m featuring or the pictures I have taken.
Brett McKay
November 9th, 2009 5:52 am
I outline. I found it makes it easier to write. I’ll organize the big points first by outlining the header titles. After that, I’ll outline the subpoints I’m going to discuss under each heading. After that, it’s just a matter of filling in the details with a few sentences.
Phil Simon
November 9th, 2009 6:03 am
I don’t feel the need to outline on blog posts; my books are a completely different ballgame. 500 or so words really isn’t enough for me to justify an outline and I strive to make only three of four main points during my typical post.
Harry
November 9th, 2009 6:08 am
Like you, my writing is a mixture of both.
Short posts tended to be more stream of consciousness. Longer posts are more structured. I don’t feel a writer should be locked into any one routine as I believe it can stifle creativity.
For brevity, bullets can be a blogger’s best friend. Headline it. Expand it. Move to the next point. We must keep in mind that our readers are probably following hundreds of blogs, so we must make it easier for them to gather actionable information.
Dave Doolin
November 9th, 2009 7:32 am
Depends on the material. Sometimes I start with a numbered or bulleted list, and build from there. Sometimes I’ll lay in the headers and fill them out later. Sometimes I just let the words flow and fix it later.
Generally though, the more accurate an article has to be, the structure I impose on it before and during writing.
Lady HotchKiss
November 9th, 2009 8:03 am
Nope. I have a central idea and a few other things I want to say. I write the blog and edit once. After writing NUMEROUS papers in college and grad school; I can do the organization for short writings in my head. Makes for more fluid writing for me and (hopefully for my readers).
Jersey Artist
November 9th, 2009 8:06 am
I only blog when I have something to report and then make a mental outline of the high points before just letting it flow.
Armen Shirvanian
November 9th, 2009 8:13 am
Hey.
Shout out to Mark Dykeman from the PB.com forums – I have seen you around.
I don’t tend to write an outline. I have done it rarely, but I tend to only write in a fast pace from start to finish. An outline, or some points I want to bring up in the article, would help, but I don’t tend to do it.
I did sort of have an outline for the last video I did of what I wanted to talk about, so that is close.
Thanks for the discussion.
Asif
November 9th, 2009 8:44 am
I also use list posts on my blog, they are easy to track etc.
But, It really doesn’t matter at all.
Your Posts has to be good and enjoyable. No Matter they are being written by Steve Pavlina or Seth Godin
Vicki Willingham
November 9th, 2009 9:15 am
This is interesting to read – I have a new bog but have a few articles written. I’m a good essay writer and tend to use similar techniques to write blog posts. I have evernote on my mac to which I add subjects when they come to me, then when I am writing one I make an outline of the topic first, jot down research, filter what I do/don’t want to use etc then tidy it up and write it down.
Ralph
November 9th, 2009 12:21 pm
With me it depends. I think my posts would probably be better with a structure before hand but I generally have one point per post and it isn’t too hard to keep that straight. When I have more complex issues to cover, I break up the posts.
Shawanda
November 9th, 2009 12:27 pm
Occasionally, I’ll draft a blog post by hand before writing it on my blog. This is hardly an outline, but I type way faster than I can write by hand. I feel like my brain can take its time and come up with more entertaining and informative content. Even after all that, the handwritten version of a blog post looks almost nothing like the final product.
computer zubehör
November 9th, 2009 2:08 pm
How does forwarding all of my tweets to my FB fanpage work with your suggestion of a few weeks ago that only about 10% of one’s tweets should be self-promotional? Does this mean that it’s ok to put a tweet about something else I want to share (like a new article about the space program, one of my other interests) on my Fan Page?
Justin
November 9th, 2009 2:29 pm
One essential skill that every blogger needs to learn is the ability to hit the “Publish” button without hesitation. The beauty of a blog is that it is constantly updating and almost flows from the primal consciousness. Every blogger needs to learn how to balance the quality of posts with the naturalness of posts. I personally quickly formulate an idea or a “thesis” in my head, and then simply allow my thoughts to rush through my fingers as I type.
Thanks,
Justin
http://TheWebExperiment.com/
Siraj
November 9th, 2009 2:30 pm
As I write about technology, VoIP and other information technology related post, I prefer to note my points first then write the whole article, and finally edit and edit and edit. Even sometimes after I publish the post. But I like free flow. I take notes of points not to miss any and to make it easier for the readers, as most of my readers are non-technical.
jennifer @ Negotiation Board
November 9th, 2009 2:52 pm
I usually include a list important points in my posts, so I start there. I then built the rest of my content upon these supporting points.
TheTrotsky
November 9th, 2009 3:03 pm
I find drawing a mind map a really good way to think out my blog posts prior to sitting down to write them. I used to use a writing journal where I’d pen bullet points of articles but recently I invested in a smartphone and wanted to try and go paperless…
I found that while making bullet lists on my phone was possible it seemed “not quite right” as I could have taken paper-based notes much quicker. Then I stumbled upon a mind mapping tool for Android (I’m sure there are plenty for all other smartphones too) and I knew that this was what I was looking for!
Now I can interlink all my ideas for posts quickly in a mind map while on the go and then later convert them into posts.
Top Blogging Tips
November 9th, 2009 4:27 pm
Creating “pillar content” definitely plays a big role on attracting loyal readers, having a proper plan on writing makes you at ease on writing good content
Shaun
November 9th, 2009 5:06 pm
Funny you should ask that because I was just thinking about this myself. I have been outlining roughly what I want to say on each page, but I was contemplating just starting write and figure out where it gets me.
The next time I just have an “aha” moment I am going to start writing without it and see what happens, kind of like an experiment.
Andrew @ webuildyourblog.com
November 9th, 2009 5:45 pm
Both ways for me. I write free flow if I’m sharing an experince of a particular tactic or method and organised, planned if I am writing a theory type.
Andrew
Clown College
November 9th, 2009 6:55 pm
it depend on my moods, but usuallay i post longer articles on the weekend :)
Fiona Fell
November 9th, 2009 8:39 pm
I tend to free flow my writing.
It only comes in bursts, so I have to get it out while it is coming.
I hack it to pieces later to ensure it makes sense to the other folks who will reading it. (And to cut out the fluff)
Anand Srinivasan
November 9th, 2009 8:42 pm
I hope you did not prepare an outline for this post, Darren ;)
Hear Mum Roar
November 9th, 2009 10:04 pm
Hmmmm… yes… and no. It really does depend on the type of post and topic it’s about. If I’m having a chat with readers about what is going on in my life, that’s very laid back and unplanned.
I’m currently doing a three-part series (third part tomorrow, to give an idea). Because each part focuses on a different aspect, yes, there is a need to plan and outline it. Also, because I needed to gather up certain resources and photograph examples, this required me to have a plan of sorts. I needed to know what I planned to write about, so I could plan for the photos, if that makes sense!
I must admit, whilst I do plan my topics a week ahead (and occassionally throw in an unplanned one into the mix), I do feel that I want to focus more on how I feel it is important to structure my posts/articles. I am conscious to an extent now, and planning it somewhat, but it’s an area I want to grow in.
Mark Dykeman
November 9th, 2009 11:01 pm
Darren: thanks for pointing out my conversation thread in the Problogger.com forums. There’s no doubt that this method (using an outline) works for some writers; others will find it restrictive.
I believe that outlining may be better for “how to” posts, which is what a lot of blog posts wind up being due to the teaching/coaching nature of many blogs. At the same time, I firmly believe it’s still possible to find golden material by “just writing” and seeing what develops. As with anything, results will vary depending on what you wish to achieve.
Good conversation, everyone!
Ryan
November 9th, 2009 11:34 pm
Usually I’m freely flowing. Occasionally I’ll write an outline. I receive an idea and start to write immediately. If I feel the urge to think in detail I’ll list topics and work from there. It’s all predicated by my intuition.
Lead Generation
November 9th, 2009 11:43 pm
That’s a good effort you have put on the network through your blog. I suspect that more that bloggers who have greater success than I do probably plan their outlines in great detail. I will be interested in hearing what others have to say. I appriciate your work.
Fruitfulvine2
November 10th, 2009 12:05 am
I generally use a more free flowing style and find that ideas for other posts I have in draft sometimes come to my mind. At that time I write down those ideas in point from for further elaboration when I go to work on the posts in draft.
Yoli
November 10th, 2009 12:25 am
I do a bit of both type of posts in my blog. However it also depends on my mood, at times !
the fashionable traveler
November 10th, 2009 12:38 am
Thanks, for the post. It’s really made me think about my process. I usually come up with an outline in my head, and then sit down and write free-flow. The tip about listing your bullet points and writing around that is helpful
Alex Crabtree
November 10th, 2009 12:41 am
Every once in a great while, I’ll attempt an outline. What generally happens is my post seems flat to me because I have already worked it out. The shark has been jumped and I’m bored with it before I actually write it.
I’m a free flowing kinda guy myself.
Thanks for the post.
work at home
November 10th, 2009 12:42 am
When I get something new and great information within my blog niche, then I study about it, is it helpful for my reader or not. If fine then I try to write the article by putting my own view.
Barbsawyers
November 10th, 2009 12:46 am
I use an outlines for writing longer, more complex pieces but not usually for blog posts. However, I do think before I start to write, usually covering
1. a brief summary of the point I want to make
2. what readers will be interested in
3. how to best approach my subject, i.e. tips, how-to-steps, logical argument, emotional story.
The time spent thinking is always made up through easier, faster writingand the ability to write freely without getting lost.
It’s looking at a map before you head out.
Arthur Kay
November 10th, 2009 1:22 am
Generally speaking, I’ll sit down to write a post in its entirety, save it as a draft, and review it a day or so later before posting it. It’s worth mentioning that many of my posts aren’t longer than 500 words, so the topics don’t really require much planning.
That being said, the handful of posts I’ve written which involve multi-part posts (e.g. tutorials) do require creating an outline. I find that longer posts benefit from outline planning – so the type of post dictates how much planning I put into it.
Matthew
November 10th, 2009 1:45 am
I use this free program called Stickies (http://www.zhornsoftware.co.uk/stickies/), basically you can make bullet lists…check lists or simply have virtual stickies around your desktop which I find very useful to jot down any quick idea that comes to me before I forget it =).
Jim
November 10th, 2009 2:01 am
It depends on what the subject is, but most of the time I do my writing in free flow style, since a lot of it is more ‘current events’ than informational.
However when I write an informational post, it usually has a basic outline and is part of a bigger picture which is documented ahead of time.
Tomas Stonkus
November 10th, 2009 2:14 am
Hey Darren:
I do what works for me the best: variety.
Sometimes I free flow; sometimes I have to make some sort of plan. Yet, I rarely go into a detailed plan.
Most of the ideas that I have in my head are not crystallized yet. They are all jumbled up. So I have to get them out of there first to actually realize what I want to actually say.
Sometimes, I find myself coming to different conclusions that I thought after writing an article.
After I get all of the thoughts out of my head, I then try to get them all together in some sort of organized fashion by grouping similar ideas together.
Most of the time it depends.
Best,
Tomas
Aleksandra
November 10th, 2009 2:29 am
I do both. Sometimes I’m totally in the zone and it just flows…other times, I need to put things down first and organize my thoughts before I start writing anything. But for new people I think it’s imperative to start with an outline.
Dean Saliba
November 10th, 2009 2:38 am
I hardly ever plan what I’m going to write about. I prefer to let my fingers do the thinking.
Jens P. Berget
November 10th, 2009 2:39 am
I never write outlines for my blog posts. I usually start writing, then stop. Go back and read what I’ve written, do some editing, more writing. Stop and then go back again. It all depends on how long the blog post is, and the topic of the blog post.
I’ve thought about outlining my blog posts for a while, but I have always ended up not doing it :-)
Gabe | freebloghelp.com
November 10th, 2009 3:38 am
I use an outline for some of my more lengthy, powerful posts. However, for most of my posts under 1000 words, the outline is in my head.
That said, I really wish some bloggers used an outline, their posts are all over the place. Then again, not sure if an outline would help; seems like they’re simply poor writers.
Jessica Nunemaker
November 10th, 2009 3:51 am
If someone were to see my rough drafts…they wouldn’t know whether to praise me for my seeming brilliance or lock me in the loony bin.
I tend to switch around when one idea creates another. Lots of windows open and plenty of new docs.
That’s just how I roll. ;)
Devon Countryman
November 10th, 2009 3:54 am
My posts are connected to what ever I have been doing that day. The only planning I do is in my head. Maybe thats why I ramble on.
Pat Steer (Gaelen)
November 10th, 2009 4:06 am
I tend to outline what I want to write about this month, or within the next two weeks – mainly just post titles. I may then bullet-point some things I want to cover in an individual post…or not, depending on how straight-forward my post title is. For instance, on a resources post, I may want to be sure to cover X,Y,Z and I’ll bullet-point those things if I’m not going to write the post within a day or two. I’ve also bulleted sites I want to include as links under a projected post’s title. But mainly, the outline is my editorial calendar, and I write according to flow with just a few words to remind me about the direction I had in mind when I got the post idea.
Mike Doyle
November 10th, 2009 4:51 am
I tend to take the pillar approach, too. I lightly outline the main points and them let myself fill them in as I go along. I have ADHD, so this helps a lot. A light outline of key points I want to cover makes sure I don’t forget them–and it also helps me structure my thoughts. Not outlining every single thought or paragraph, on the other hand, helps me use the creativity that flows from having an ADHD-racing brain.
Tyson J. Hayes
November 10th, 2009 5:30 am
I use an outline, come up with a couple of points and then expand from there. I use to write free flow but would find my work would just be lacking in where I wanted it to be, when I started using an outline my posts would get finished and I could move on to editing and cleaning it up so the gibberish started making sense.
elizof
November 10th, 2009 5:31 am
I write a weekly blog and outlines definitely work for me as I do quite a bit of brainstorming for my blog posts and find that it helps me organize my thoughts into complete, coherent ideas.
Since I use photographs, quotes, links, and sometimes videos in my posts, I collect my materials in a MS Word document and draft the rest of my content from there.
Once I upload my content onto Wordpress, I do more writing, editing, and changes until I post it. I do go back to make corrections, updates or anything else, as needed, and this is why blogging is awesome. You can go back and make needed changes/updates; something I didn’t think about until I took Darren’s 31 Days workshop…
I can’t thank you enough Darren as that course opened my newbie eyes to so much about blogging and I am still accelerating around that learning curve — still so much to learn!
I suppose my approach has a lot to do with my academic training as I do truly enjoy researching my topics to find relevant, related information to add to my blog… I love beautiful art and photography and must admit this is one of the most satisfying things I search for when I write every blog post.
Even something as simple as writing my Antonio Gaudi or my Gratitude posts was a combination of getting my data/photos from news reports/reviews, Wikipedia, friends, personal experience, Sanskrit references and more. Writing them was so freeing and I have since had requests from others to use them in presentations.
With my interviews, I send my questions and communicate back and forth with the interviewees. I note down any comments they share that will help me produce an edited version of their final copy that stays true to their voice and vision.
This might surprise you or not, but for every post on my blog, I have a completed copy without the quotes, photos or videos because I want to make sure the paragraphs are not disjointed; that they flow in a connected way – one to the other.
I love my approach as it works for me and my rhythm. I admire your approach because it works for you… Like music, a blog can be written in many different ways and appeal to many different audiences; there isn’t a wrong or right way to blog just myriad ways of being heard.
My notes/outlines/brainstroms are roadmaps to my blog and each piece is a precious part of the finished product.
Cheers,
Eliz
Corinne Edwards
November 10th, 2009 6:31 am
I write posts in kind of a crazy way.
Get my best ideas in the morning while I having some coffee and reading the Chicago Tribune.
So I write all my ideas on the edges of the newspaper randomly.
Then I go into my office with all my notes and put them in a word file and rearrange and add and edit.
That’s my way of “outlining!”
Robin Cannon
November 10th, 2009 7:25 am
I think I’m definitely in the group that writes freeform. I do plan out post topics in advance – I have a list of 50-60 posts that I still have to write. But most of the time I’ll choose one of those posts and sit down and simply write it.
I find that if I’m overly planned I spend too much time going back and correcting my article *while* I’m writing it. That seems to result in the final result being too stilted. I get far better results when I let myself write and then go back and edit things on completion.
Paramendra Bhagat
November 10th, 2009 8:44 am
I do both, but I should do outlines more often, I think.
Bra Queen
November 10th, 2009 10:43 am
I LOVE writing free flowing! I love the fire a get in a belly and I write like a mad woman.
I also write structural pieces as well to ensure I cover everything I need it to.
It’s good to mix it up a bit!
Gina Loree Marks
November 10th, 2009 11:39 am
I have to say, and I was thinking maybe I was doing this ALL wrong, but my best posts, or at least the ones I like the best and feel the most comfortable promoting, are the ones that are spontaneous. There are a number that I would work on.. outline, research, whatever, and more often then not, they take forever, and sometimes never even make it to published.
Onepot @ onepot.wordpress.com
November 10th, 2009 12:12 pm
I never outline. I do keep a bullet-point list of topics, but that’s it. I love the element of surprise in free-style writing… occasionally, a post takes a totally different direction from what I had originally intended, and it’s delightful.
K J SHENOY
November 10th, 2009 3:06 pm
I generally have multiple posts in pipeline at any given time. I keep working on each idea when I find time. I post when one of those outlines develop fully. Cheers.
Eric C
November 10th, 2009 3:19 pm
I usually write a “zero” draft, then if it is long and unweildy I write an outline and rewrite it.
Carla @ Green and Chic
November 10th, 2009 5:23 pm
When I write, I pretty much flow. Occasionally I do write an outline (and I should do that more often), but I write pretty free-style for now.
Mike Skel
November 10th, 2009 7:15 pm
I always outline my posts.
I have not done any or experienced any free flowing post yet. And I am really wondering, how people can write any article or post free flowing way, except may be a short story ?
Or am I understanding the ‘free flow’ style of writing in wrong way ?
Fredrik
November 11th, 2009 1:58 am
No, I don’t write outlines..
Galvahaha
November 11th, 2009 2:44 am
Think a post out in advance? Hmmm.
Since my posts are simply stories – and not a list of things that will make you a better person – advance your career – or inspire you to a higher level of blogging income – I like most other commenters above – simply use the free-flow method as well. Quite often I will start off with a story about my Aunt Myrtle in North Upscaleville – only to find out at the end that the real story that comes out only mentions the fact the old broad is rich. And then I clean up all the parts that no longer fit and reorganize the structure to give the best reading experience.
I use no bullets in my planning. But I always have something that just has to get out.
I would love to be someone that teach others all my great wisdoms and move them to a state of greater financial bliss – but at the moment – I just hope I can make you laugh – and maybe if I’m lucky I might make you think to.
But I do enjoy your posts very much! Very helpful indeed, yet I am still waiting for a google ad check to appear in my mailbox :).
Lose Belly Fat Fast
November 11th, 2009 4:07 am
I know it shouldn’t be like this, but I tend to write posts on the whim of the moment. If I remember something that helped me lose weight, or a particular piece of knowledge that I think will be valuable to my readers, I fire up my text editor and I publish it right-away.
I’ve been getting good feedback, though: some readers have told me that they can tell the passion that I put in my posts, and, to me, that’s the best compliment ever!
Cathy
November 11th, 2009 8:46 am
I would say I am free flowing, It depends on the day, if I see an article or some other form and READ it will give ideas of my own.
I do however come across some good information and at times like to share.
All depends. Thanks
Robin @HeartofWisdom
November 11th, 2009 10:01 am
I start with a title and bullet list in a draft to document the idea. When I feel inspired or passionate about the topic I write the post.
I have several titles with bullet lists waiting for me now– no writers block- I have too many ideas and not enough time.
Usually the title gets changed and the bullet lists sometimes turns into a paragraph for each point. I know I need to “let go of more words” I’m working on it.
Great topic.
Jon Peltier
November 11th, 2009 1:12 pm
The majority of my blog posts are step-by-step tutorials, teaching people to do useful things in Microsoft Excel.
I don’t usually make an outline, but I still follow a logical and linear process. I follow the featured protocol on my computer, taking screen shots as I go. I upload the images, and put them into a new post. Then I fill between the images with descriptive text. If I’ve omitted a step, I go back and take another screen shot.
Susie McCray
November 11th, 2009 4:06 pm
Deciding whether to use an outline or not, in my opinion, really depends on what I’m talking about. When it is some really good information that I think will be helpful, I’d rather plan what I want to write. But if it is just me wanting to share how I feel about something, I write freely.
The Blog Is Mine dot Com
November 11th, 2009 8:30 pm
Sometimes I figure out a structure, and then fill the outline with stuff, sometimes I just write the full post from the beginning.
Rupesh
November 11th, 2009 8:31 pm
First I surf web and try to get the knowledge. Then I write free flow articles. I edit my article once before publish. Thanks for starting this topic.
Danielle Douglas
November 12th, 2009 3:49 am
I tend to write my blog entries in a Word document where it is a free flowing process. Then, I review and make the necessary edits before I copy, paste, and add the finishing touches i.e. pictures and links in Wordpress.
Prasanga
November 12th, 2009 7:05 am
It is easy to let the words flow, but I have chose to review clickbank products and that need some research before writing the review. I think it is more fun to write free flow content, but this is tough because there got to be atleast 400 words. It is quite hard to come up with that amount words with a free flow writing. If there is some research done then it is easy to come up with 400 words. great post thanks for sharing.
hokya
November 12th, 2009 2:59 pm
i usually visit other blogs, then make an outline post (about what effective post is) on my local connection (offline)
but, i still write my post originally, not plagiarizing them… :-)
Jacob @ Safe and Dry Blog
November 13th, 2009 2:00 am
Outlines and brainstorming are key to any writing…period.
Content for sites, blogs, or term papers…it’s important to have a path and have a solid collection of defendable points. Otherwise you can get off topic easily and end up talking about smurfs when you really need to be discussing the topic that you’re being paid to present.
Website Promotion Blog
November 13th, 2009 10:38 pm
I also try to structure and outline a long post on a more general topic. It gives my readers clearer understanding of the content and a better vision into the overall subject I write about.
Quick news and SEO tips among other website promotion tips published at my blog follow a different plan. They’re flowing as the heart of the matter needs to be swiftly pointed out and put forward.
Jason Ulsrud
November 14th, 2009 6:27 am
I’m fairly new to the blogging world and have never classified myself as a writer. Mostly I write based on what strikes me as something that needs to be said.
I don’t put a great deal of forthought into what I write. However, I will review it 3 or 4 times and change grammatical errors. So if you find errors in this comment, it’s because I’m typing on my iPhone.
Flek
November 15th, 2009 2:10 am
I do agree with Gina. Though I make some outlines before making a post, the most successful posts were those which has been made without any outlines. Till the day the good posts ( at least I believe so) are the ones that are spontaneous.
scheng1
November 15th, 2009 4:27 pm
I dont do outline. After all, I can edit the post anytime. I dont want to treat blogging as essay exam or college coursework.
Janis Lyn Johnson
November 17th, 2009 9:23 am
I write a weekly 700-word Hope and Inspiration blog column, much like the format of a newspaper. I don’t make outlines. I create a first draft in stream-of-consciousness form–just to get everything down before I forget. Then I go back in and edit as many times as needed to make the essay as clear and concise as possible.
This is when I make weak sentences stronger, take out all adverbs, etc. I do all of this off-line, then paste it into my blog.
To check out my column, “What It’s Like For Me: Coming To Terms With Humanness”, go to http://www.JanisLynJohnson.com.
Spencer Fry
November 27th, 2009 10:10 am
Without a doubt I always outline my articles. I don’t spend a lot of time doing so, but I want to get a sense of the structure I’m going to present.
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