Struggling to Organize Your Thoughts on Paper? This Outline (Inspired by Journalism) Can Help.
Have you ever sat down to write a story/letter/essay/reflection and feel like you’re meandering through the page? Do you start with one intention and end up somewhere else?
You’re probably missing a nut graph or core thesis that guides your writing. If you’re disciplined about outlining, you may discover that you actually have two stories to tell. Or you’ll notice that you have more to say about your original idea. While clarifying your thoughts can feel painful at first, it will pay off in the long run with a more streamlined writing and editing process, clearer thoughts, and an end result that your readers will understand and enjoy.
The Outline
So you’re ready to write, have an idea in mind or a story to tell, but aren’t sure where to start? Some people prefer to write freely, then organize later, others like to start with an outline. I tend to start writing and see where it leads; then I return to the top and rearrange my paragraphs until they flow together. Here’s the structure I use to organize my own personal essays, reflections, and articles for companies.
PART 1: Lede
This term comes from the newspaper world and means opening sentence or article. It’s intentionally spelled that way to avoid confusion with “lead,” the material used in printing presses. Ledes can take many forms, two common ones are a summary lede or anecdotal lede.
Summary lede: This is a more traditional, newspaper-style start to an article. It’s logical and factual and attempts to give readers a really good sense of what they’re reading and why. Imagine your laziest reader who won’t read past your first two paragraphs. Cram as much important information into as few words as possible here. Read this Washington Post article and notice how much information the writer included in the very first paragraph.
Anecdotal lede: Throw your reader directly into the story or action with a few lines that illustrate a scene. You can use dialogue, describe a setting, or let them in on the narrator’s inner thoughts. Check out this Bon Appetit article, this one from The Atlantic or this one in The Washington Post and notice how the author throws us right into a personal story.
“Readers want to feel smart. Help them grasp your intention early on with a clear and concise nut graph that guides them to the rest of your story.”
PART 2: Nut Graph
This is the compass or central “nut” of your story. It’s the thesis, the main point, and the “so what?” Most importantly, it answers the question, “Why should this story exist?” Nut graphs should be succinct, thoughtful, and clear. They should also draw the reader in. Their intention is to give the reader a clear sense of what’s coming so that they can make an informed decision about whether to keep reading. Readers want to feel smart. Help them grasp your intention early on with a clear and concise nut graph that guides them to the rest of your story.
PART 3: Subheaders & Body Paragraphs
Subheaders are optional, but recommended. They allow a reader to skim for content, and also organize your thoughts into clear, divided sections that guide the reader. You should aim for three or more subheaders within your story, fewer and they feel a bit forced. Give them creative titles, or tell it like it is (that’s what I’m doing here). Either way, ensure that their titles hint at what they contain, your reader will thank you.
PART 4: Closing Paragraph
Use this as a chance to mirror your lede and nut graph, answer any unresolved questions, or add to the main points made in subheads. If you don’t feel that you need a closing, skip it. Avoid rewriting your main points in that final paragraph (the way we were taught in school for the SATs…). Instead, try to find something organic that adds to your story.
PART 5: The Kicker
This is that final line or paragraph that leaves readers thinking. It can take the form of a question, a scene that echoes your anecdotal lede, or a closing thought that leaves room for more. Your kicker may emerge as you write and edit. When I interview, I often look out for quotes that can form kickers. Sometimes an interview subject says something compelling or surprising that I just know will wrap the piece nicely and provide a subtle twist.
Here’s the thing about outlines: They’re your starting point. Refer to this outline to start your own story, then get creative and don’t be afraid to write outside of the lines. The best stories add their own twist and don’t fit perfectly into a box!
More Sources of Creative Inspiration
People often ask me how I write when I’m not “in the mood” or “feeling creative.” My answer: I outline and then write a really terrible rough draft. I’m easy on myself and avoid judging or rewriting my work. I simply get everything down on paper and then try again tomorrow.
If outlining and free writing still doesn’t unlock any creativity, try reading something you love. “Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott is one of my personal favorite books on writing. “Several Short Sentences About Writing” by Verlyn Klinkenborg is a good one, too.
Need more support getting your story down on paper?
Sign up for my Strategy, Structure, and Accountability session for writing projects. Don’t have the time or interest in writing yourself? I also offer full-service writing support for individuals and businesses. Reach out and we can codesign a project to achieve your goals! Becca@wattersoncreative.com
