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30 Perfect Presentation Outline Templates (+Examples)

A presentation outline template gives you an overview of what encompasses an entire presentation. Based on the outline, you can start dealing with one slide at a time and then into the nitty-gritty of it. You may consider as a roadmap that leads to a successful final presentation and impress the attendees .

• 1 Presentation Outline Templates
• 2 What is the outline of a presentation?
• 3 Presentation Outline Examples
• 4 How do you write an outline for a presentation?
• 5 PowerPoint Outline Examples

Presentation Outline Templates

What is the outline of a presentation.

You can make a presentation outline template using just a sheet of paper or a word processing software of your choice. For instance, if you intend to make a PowerPoint presentation, it would be best to create the whole thing from your computer itself.

Using presentation outline examples and templates can make it easier for you to come up with a standout presentation. Moreover, the template helps you organize your ideas in a logical way. This method ensures that you will include all of the most important details of your presentation.

The template allows you to collect all of the information needed to communicate with your target audience throughout your presentation. You can use headers, bullet points, footers, and even graphics that you need in your presentation. The outline helps you create and put together the perfect message that you want to deliver.

Since you will use the presentation outline template as your guide when presenting, it is therefore important to organize the points logically. For instance, the outline must begin with an introduction where you will invite your audience to your presentation.

Here, you will highlight what your presentation involves. The introduction plays a crucial role in your presentation since this is where you grab your audience’s attention from the start. You might feel stressed at the start but just try to remain calm. Making an amazing first impression isn’t as difficult as you may think.

After your introduction, you will come to the substance of your presentation – and you can find this in the body. This section consists of your main points followed by their own sub-points.

After the body comes the conclusion where you will give a summary of your whole presentation. If you’re making a sales pitch, have to conclude with a CTA. Another great way to conclude your presentation is with an entertaining anecdote or a powerful quote.

Presentation Outline Examples

How do you write an outline for a presentation.

In analogy, you can compare your presentation outline template to a roadmap you will use as a guide to move your audience from where they are at the start of your presentation to where you want them to be by the end of it. Here are some points to consider when composing your own PowerPoint outline example:

• Determine your goal When writing an outline for your presentation, the first thing you have to decide on is your goal. You should be specific with your goals and make sure these are highly achievable in the situation and timeframe you have. For instance, when making an oral presentation example, make sure you have enough time to discuss all of the points in your outline.
• Analyze your audience This determines the starting point of your presentation. Consider all of the aspects of your audience to help you determine where you should begin with your message. For instance, when making a sales presentation outline, you may want to present your audience with a problem that you know they all have. Then you can present the solution in the form of the products or services you offer.
• Plan the content of your presentation As soon as you have formulated your goal and analyzed your audience, you are now prepared to plan the content of your presentation. You can think about having 3 levels in your presentation outline template: The highest levels consist of the topics that you want to discuss – usually about 3 to 5 topics Break each of these topics into the points you want to make Decide on the supporting information you will use to prove or support each point.
• Ask for feedback and opinions To deliver an impactful presentation, it is important to ask for other people’s feedback and opinions. These people could be a mentor or somebody who gives a lot of presentations. These persons may help you make important changes that you might have overlooked. In the absence of this kind of help to criticize your outline, you may rehearse your presentation on your own then record yourself. Then send the recording to someone through email for their feedback and comments.
• Include visual elements Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to incorporate visual elements in your outline as they help greatly in improving your overall presentation. By nature, people understand visual content more than they do words. Besides, even a simple illustration or diagram can potentially summarize a significant amount of written text. It pays to use graphs, images, diagrams, and the like in your outline. To make it more effective, use a clear and standard font that’s easy to read for the text. Also, make sure that everyone can read the size of the text that you choose.
• Think about the most important information Usually, in presentations, you cannot accommodate all of the details. As such, it becomes vital to include only special information that you can easily forget like as names, locations, and dates. You should maintain a clear statement of what your presentation is all about. Remember that your thesis statement serves as a guide on what to include in your presentation. In addition, this also prevents you from straying away from your main topic. Also, you must keep your outline clear but simple.
• Consider creating an alphanumeric outline Consider the use of alphanumeric characters to organize your outline better. For instance, you can use capital letters for the main points and small letters for sub-points. Make sure to itemize each level of your outline. You can use Arabic numbers, Roman numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters, and so on.
• Follow a clear and logical structure There should be a logical sequence in the order of points or events in your outline. This enables your audience to easily understand your message without getting confused. For instance, when you’re creating a narrative – this should begin with an introduction, a body of content, and a conclusion. You will have an easier time with your presentation if your outline has a clear and logical structure.

PowerPoint Outline Examples

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Free Printable Presentation Outline Templates [Word, PDF]

Unveiling a brilliant idea or sharing knowledge effectively hinges on the structure and clarity of your presentation. An integral part of this process is crafting a well-organized presentation outline , a roadmap guiding your audience from introduction to conclusion.

This article will delve into the art of designing a persuasive, engaging presentation outline , providing you with tools and techniques to ensure your audience remains engaged, understands your key points, and takes away the intended message. Whether you’re an industry professional preparing for a corporate meet , a student gearing up for a thesis defense, or a novice speaker looking to make an impact, understanding how to create a compelling presentation outline is a skill that pays dividends.

Table of Contents

What is a Presentation Outline?

A presentation outline is a structured framework that organizes the main points and sub-points of your presentation, akin to a roadmap guiding the journey of your speech or presentation. This crucial tool sets the course for your narrative flow, ensuring your content is logically organized, relevant, and easily understood by your audience.

It helps you stay on track, minimizing the risk of veering off-topic, and provides your audience with a clear, coherent message. In essence, a presentation outline serves as the backbone of your presentation, lending structure to your thoughts and ideas while making it easier for you to deliver your message and for your audience to absorb it.

Presentation Outline Templates

Presentation outline templates serve as a comprehensive guide to help plan and organize a presentation effectively. They play a crucial role in structuring information in a logical sequence, enabling the presenter to deliver a compelling and coherent narrative.

These templates come in various formats, but most generally comprise of a header, main points, sub-points, and a conclusion. The header typically states the presentation topic and purpose, giving a snapshot of what to expect. Main points , marked by Roman numerals or bullet points, highlight the essential themes or ideas. Sub-points provide further details, elaborations, or examples related to the main points. The conclusion summarises the entire presentation and restates the main ideas or findings.

Depending on the complexity of the presentation , these templates can be expanded to accommodate more layers. They can feature as many sub-points as necessary, each nested under the relevant main point. Some templates also include space for references, footnotes, or annotations to help the presenter remember additional details, relevant anecdotes, or statistical data .

What are the key benefits of creating a detailed presentation outline?

Creating a detailed presentation outline offers several substantial benefits that enhance not only the presenter’s experience but also the audience’s reception of the material.

Structure and Flow

A presentation outline ensures that your thoughts and arguments are arranged logically. This structure aids in maintaining a natural and coherent flow, keeping your audience engaged and improving their understanding of your content . It helps prevent you from jumping haphazardly between topics, which can confuse or lose your audience.

Clear Message

By clearly defining your main points and sub-points, an outline ensures that your core message is explicit and unambiguous. It guides you in developing and presenting your ideas systematically to avoid misinterpretation.

Preparation and Practice

A well-defined outline serves as a guide during your preparation and rehearsal stages. It helps you familiarize yourself with the content, sequence, and timing of your presentation, boosting your confidence and effectiveness.

Time Management

Outlines assist in effectively managing and allotting time to each segment of your presentation, ensuring you cover all points adequately within the given timeframe. They allow you to allocate more time to complex topics and keep the presentation on schedule.

Reduced Anxiety

Knowing you have a well-organized outline can significantly reduce presenter anxiety. It acts as a safety net, preventing you from forgetting important points, ensuring smooth transitions, and boosting your confidence.

Audience Engagement

Outlines help in designing interactive elements in your presentation, like Q&A segments or activities, at appropriate intervals. These can make your presentation more engaging and encourage audience participation.

Flexibility

An outline also offers flexibility. If a particular section sparks interest and requires more time, you can quickly adjust by reducing less critical segments. It’s easier to make such adjustments when you have an overview of your entire presentation .

Effective Recap and Summary

Finally, an outline simplifies creating a recap or summary towards the end of your presentation. You can quickly glance at your outlined points to ensure you’ve covered everything and to remind your audience about the key takeaways.

How to create a presentation outline

Creating a well-structured presentation outline involves a series of steps that ensures your content is presented in a logical and engaging way. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create an effective presentation outline:

Step 1: Understand Your Audience

Begin by identifying and understanding your audience. What is their knowledge level on the topic? What are their interests? What are they hoping to learn from your presentation? This step allows you to tailor your content to meet the needs and expectations of your audience.

Step 2: Define Your Purpose

Every presentation has a purpose, whether it’s to inform, persuade, or entertain. Clearly define what you aim to achieve by the end of your presentation. This purpose will guide the content of your presentation.

Step 3: Identify Your Main Points

Identify the key points that will form the backbone of your presentation. These are the primary pieces of information or arguments that support your purpose.

Step 4: Expand on Your Main Points with Sub-points

For each main point, identify sub-points or supporting details. These could include examples, statistics, case studies, or anecdotes that give more depth and meaning to your main points.

Step 5: Organize Your Points

Arrange your main points and sub-points in a logical sequence. This could be chronological, based on importance, or in a problem-solution format. The structure will depend on your content and purpose.

Step 6: Develop Your Introduction

Plan an engaging introduction that grabs your audience’s attention and sets the tone for your presentation. Your introduction should also briefly outline the purpose and content of your presentation.

Step 7: Plan Transitions

Think about how you will move smoothly from one point to the next. Effective transitions keep your audience engaged and help them follow your train of thought.

Step 8: Prepare Your Conclusion

Your conclusion should summarize your main points and reinforce your purpose. This is also a good place to include a call-to-action, if applicable.

Step 9: Include Interactive Elements

Depending on your presentation setting, consider adding interactive elements such as Q&A sections, polls, or activities. These can increase engagement and facilitate learning.

Step 10: Practice and Refine

Once you have created your outline, practice your presentation. This will give you an opportunity to refine your outline and make sure your content flows logically and smoothly. It also helps you identify any areas where you might need to clarify or expand on your points.

Example of a presentation outline

Title: The Impacts of Climate Change

I. Introduction

A. Attention Grabber: Share a startling statistic about climate change. B. Briefly introduce the topic of Climate Change. C. Thesis Statement : “Climate change impacts the planet in three significant ways: environmental degradation, effects on human health, and economic consequences.” D. Briefly outline what will be covered in the presentation.

II. Environmental Impact of Climate Change

A. Main Point: Rising global temperatures 1. Explanation of the greenhouse effect. 2. Data on global temperature rise. 3. Impact on polar ice caps and sea levels.

B. Main Point: Loss of Biodiversity 1. Discuss how climate change affects different ecosystems. 2. Provide examples of endangered species due to climate change. 3. Explain the long-term implications of reduced biodiversity.

Transition: Discuss how these environmental changes lead to human health effects.

III. Human Health Impact of Climate Change

A. Main Point: Spread of diseases 1. Explanation of how changing climates can expand disease vectors. 2. Discuss examples, such as increased incidence of Malaria.

B. Main Point: Food and Water Security 1. Discuss how climate change affects crop yields and water supply. 2. Describe the health implications of food and water insecurity.

Transition: Discuss how these health and environmental issues then lead to economic consequences.

IV. Economic Impact of Climate Change

A. Main Point: Damage to Infrastructure 1. Discuss how climate events like flooding and wildfires can cause infrastructure damage. 2. Share data on the costs of such damages.

B. Main Point: Increased Healthcare Costs 1. Discuss the financial implications of increased disease spread and health issues due to climate change. 2. Share data on projected healthcare costs due to climate change.

Transition: Summarize the main points and move to the conclusion.

V. Conclusion

A. Recap Main Points: Summarize the environmental, health, and economic impacts of climate change. B. Restate the Thesis: “As we’ve seen, climate change drastically impacts our planet in a multitude of ways.” C. Call to Action: Encourage audience to take individual actions against climate change. D. Closing Statement: End with a hopeful message for the future if actions are taken now.

VI. Q&A Session

Remember, this is just one way to structure a presentation outline. The specific details and order may vary depending on the nature of your topic and the purpose of your presentation.

Is there a specific format to follow when creating a presentation outline?

Presentation outlines often follow the traditional structure of an introduction, body, and conclusion. Within the body, points are typically structured from most to least important, or in a logical sequence that makes sense for the topic. Some people prefer bullet points, while others may use a more narrative structure. The format can be flexible as long as it aids in understanding and organizing your content.

How detailed should my presentation outline be?

The level of detail in your outline depends on your needs. Some presenters prefer a high-level outline that includes only the main points, while others might need a more detailed outline with sub-points and notes. A good rule of thumb is to include enough detail that you feel prepared, but not so much that the outline becomes difficult to navigate during your presentation.

Can a presentation outline be used for all types of presentations?

Yes, an outline can be used for any type of presentation. Whether you’re giving a business presentation, an academic lecture, a workshop, or a speech, an outline can help you organize your thoughts and deliver a well-structured presentation.

How can a presentation outline aid in time management during the presentation?

An outline can help you allocate time to each point or section of your presentation. By roughly estimating how long you’ll spend on each part, you can ensure you cover everything you need to within the time you have.

What’s the difference between a presentation outline and a script?

An outline provides the structure and key points of your presentation, while a script is a word-for-word write-up of what you plan to say. An outline offers more flexibility as it allows you to adapt your speech to the audience’s reactions and time constraints, while a script might make your delivery seem rehearsed or rigid.

What is the difference between a topic outline and a sentence outline?

A topic outline consists of short phrases and focuses on the main points of your presentation, while a sentence outline uses full sentences to express the details of each point. A topic outline is generally more flexible and easier to modify, while a sentence outline provides more detail and can serve as a script if necessary.

Should a presentation outline include references or sources?

Yes, it can be helpful to include references or sources in your outline, especially if you’re presenting complex data, statistics, or information that isn’t widely known. Including these in your outline will ensure you remember to credit your sources during your presentation and provide the audience with accurate information.

What is a speaking outline and how does it differ from a preparation outline?

A preparation outline is a detailed outline used to organize all the information in your speech. It includes the title, specific purpose, central idea, introduction, main points, subpoints, transitions, and conclusion. A speaking outline, on the other hand, is a brief outline that serves as a reminder of what you need to say and in what order. It’s used while delivering the speech.

Should a presentation outline include visual aids?

While the outline itself might not include visual aids, it’s often helpful to note down where you intend to use them. This can ensure that your visual aids are well integrated with your speech and serve to enhance the points you’re making.

How can I use my presentation outline effectively during my presentation?

You can use your outline as a roadmap to guide you through your presentation. It can remind you of the points you need to cover and the order in which to cover them. However, it’s important not to read directly from your outline. Instead, use it as a guide while still connecting directly with your audience.

Should I share my presentation outline with my audience?

In some cases, it might be helpful to provide your audience with a copy of your outline. This can help them follow along with your presentation, take notes, and remember key points. However, this depends on the context of your presentation and the preferences of your audience.

What should I do if I’m going over my allotted time during the presentation?

If you find that you’re running over time during your presentation, your outline can help you quickly identify points that can be shortened or skipped. However, it’s important to practice your presentation beforehand to ensure it fits within the allotted time.

Can the presentation outline help in reducing public speaking anxiety?

Yes, having a well-prepared outline can certainly help reduce public speaking anxiety. It serves as a safety net that you can refer to if you lose your train of thought, ensuring that you can always get back on track.

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December 4, 2023

How to create a presentation outline (with examples)

Four methods to create a presentation outline and example outlines for inspiration

Co-founder, CEO

Like it or not, if you work in an office environment or go to school, you'll probably have to make a presentation at some point. But creating a great presentation can be challenging, especially when you're short on time or suffering from writers' block.

Luckily, there are lots of ways to get a head start on your presentation outline, and in this article we'll walk through four options for creating a presentation outline and show you several examples of great presentation outlines.

Why should I write a presentation outline?

An outline helps you organize your ideas in a clear and logical way . Instead of getting bogged down on details like formatting or word choice, an outline presents the overarching story of your presentation with just a few main points. This helps to make sure you have a cohesive narrative before you dive in to the nitty gritty work of wordsmithing individual bullet points or selecting the perfect slide theme.

If this sounds like a lot of work, it often is! But spending time writing a great outline will save you time and effort down the road because it will be easier to organize your work and create each slide when you understand how it fits in to the broader presentation.

Here are four ways you can get a start on creating your next presentation outline.

Method 1: Create your outline from scratch

Creating an outline from scratch may sound intimidating if you have never written a presentation outline before, but this is the most straightforward way to get started.

Start by jotting down the three main points you want to make in your presentation. Once you have your main ideas in order, write down a few supporting details and examples for each point.

Then, add an introduction (find an interesting image, quote, or question to help grab the audience's audience) and a conclusion (decide on the best way to summarize the takeaways from your presentation) to the outline, and you are ready to go.

This method is great for those who prefer to have complete control over their presentation and want to create a custom outline that works best for their needs.

Method 2: Create a presentation outline using an AI presentation maker

If you're short on time or looking for a quick way to get a first draft of a presentation outline that you can then refine, using an AI presentation maker is a great option.

Plus AI lets you type a short prompt like "Create a presentation that provides an overview of the Norwegian oil industry," and it will automatically generate an outline of a presentation for you. After Plus creates the outline, you can change the titles of slides, rearrange slides, and remove any pieces of the outline that are not necessary.

From there, once your outline is created, you can click the "Generate presentation" button, choose a template, and let the AI create the first draft of your entire presentation.

This method is a good option for those who want to create a polished presentation without getting stuck with a blank piece of paper. Instead, it frees you up to take a first draft presentation and customize it for your needs.

Method 3: Create a presentation outline using ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an AI chatbot that can help with a wide variety of tasks - everything from acting as a therapist, to sharing recipes, to helping you come up with presentation ideas and creating content for a presentation .

To have ChatGPT help you generate a presentation, you can take two different approaches:

• Use a custom GPT that has been trained to help people create presentations or
• Ask the general ChatGPT interface to "Create a presentation outline for me on the topic of [XYZ]."

Both approaches will yield similar results, but a custom GPT like Plus AI presentation maker will be more fine-tuned to helping people create presentations. It will also provide additional functionality like providing a visual preview of the slides and feedback on how to improve your presentation.

Method 4: Create a presentation outline using a template

Last but not least, using a template is a good way to speed up the process of creating a new presentation outline. Similar to using an AI presentation maker, a template can give you a first draft of an outline that is easier to edit and refine than starting from scratch.

Presentation templates often come pre-designed with example text and images, so all you have to do is fill in your own content. For example, this TED Talk presentation template provides some instructions on how to create an outline for a TED Talk-style slide deck.

The secret to using this method is to find the closest template to the type of presentation you want to create. You should use detailed search terms to and look across multiple sites and resources to find one that matches the content and style that you would like.

Once you have your template, start by reviewing the overall outline or structure and tweak it to meet your needs. Then, you can fill in the specific content (e.g., text and images) with your materials to make it your own to quickly make a beautiful presentation.

Presentation outline examples

Basic presentation outline example.

Let's take a look at a presentation outline and accompanying notes for a persuasive presentation on encouraging people to meditate every day:

I. Introduction

• Hook - find a striking image and tell a story
• Thesis statement - everyone should meditate for 10 min per day

II. Main point 1 - Meditation is one of the easiest ways to improve your health

• Physical health
• Mental health

III. Main point 2 - Meditation is backed up by thousands of years of practice and research

• One anecdote from antiquity
• One anecdote from recent research

IV. Main point 3 - You can get started with meditation today

• Basic technique
• Tips for newcomers

V. Conclusion

• Summarize key points
• Call to action

As you can see, this is a relatively lightweight plan for the presentation, but it provides an easy-to-understand framework that we can fill in with slides.

There are rough notes on specific content for the different points in the presentation, but we don't need to write out everything in fine detail, just the broad strokes.

Pitch deck outline example

Now let's review an outline for a pitch deck that someone might use to present their startup idea to prospective investors. This is for a startup that uses autonomous food trucks to deliver meals to people's homes and workplaces.

I. Problem statement - "Food delivery sucks, and here's why"

• Hook - pictures of typical food delivery headaches (e.g., late/no show, bad selection, etc)

II. Value prop - "FoodDrive revolutionizes the food delivery model"

• Compare value chain of FoodDrive to traditional restaurant and delivery service
• Show how $50 order gets allocated to different people

III. The product - "Customers love our trucks"

• Picture of food truck and menu
• Customer quotes and reviews

IV. Why now? - "Our self-driving technology is ready for prime-time"

V. Business model - "Each truck can generate $2-3M of revenue per year with a 60% gross margin"

• Show high-level financial forecasts on unit basis

VI. Competitive landscape - "FoodDrive's closest competitors don't come close"

• Comparison table with delivery services, in-house delivery, eating out-of-home, etc.

VII. Go to market strategy - "We've tested FoodDrive in 2 markets so far. Here's how we win in new markets"

• Overview of social media strategy
• Case study on new market launch

VIII. Team - "Our team has experience in autonomous vehicles, food delivery, and quick service restaurants"

IX. Traction - "We generate $5M of revenue per year with our 2 trucks, and we can ramp up new trucks immediately"

• Show revenue growth chart with focus on time to ramp new trucks to productivity

X. Fundraising goal - "We are raising $50M to expand FoodDrive to 10 more markets"

• Highlight key milestones we aim to reach with additional funding

Even though a pitch deck is a specialized type of presentation that often requires specific content, it's helpful to start with an outline to build out the 'story' behind the content. That way, you have a cohesive story rather than a set of disparate slides.

How can I create a presentation from an outline?

Once you have your presentation outline written, it's time to start writing your slides. Since you already know the main points you are trying to make in your presentation, the main decisions here are

• What type of visual style you want to follow
• How many slides you want in your presentation
• How you will present or share the slides

To get a head start on creating a first draft of your presentation, you could enter your outline into an AI presentation maker.

This will provide a first draft of the slides so that you can focus on making sure they tell a cohesive story or tweaking individual slides to leave a memorable impression.

Other tips and tricks for great presentations

Here are some resources to help you create great presentations:

• Make slides look good - Here are six tips for making visually appealing slides.
• Number of slides - Here is a calculator that can help you calculate how many slides you need for a presentation depending on how long you need to present.
• Unique presentation ideas - Here are 250 ideas for presentation topics that will help you create a great presentation.

Creating a presentation outline can be one of the most time-consuming parts of the creative process for making a new slide deck. Luckily, there are many tools and templates that can help you kickstart this process.

With these four methods, you can choose the one that works best for your needs and get started on your presentation outline today.

And once you have your outline, make sure to try out a tool like Plus AI presentation maker to quickly get your slides as well!

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How to Write an Effective Presentation Outline

Written by: Unenabasi Ekeruke

Creating a presentation can be nerve-wracking, especially when you're staring at a blank slate.

You’ve probably got tons of ideas bouncing around, but turning them into a slick, impressive presentation is proving a hard nut to crack.

News flash: You’re not alone.

About 80% of presentations fail to deliver their objectives due to poorly organized information, a lack of preparation and scruffy slide decks.

So, how do you avoid this disaster? It all boils down to having a solid presentation outline. Think of it as a roadmap that helps you organize and share your ideas in a clear and logical way.

With the right presentation outline, you can stay on track, keep your audience hooked and ultimately convey your message with clarity and impact.

So whether you're pitching to investors, partners or clients or preparing a presentation for a conference, this article has everything you need to know about writing an effective presentation outline.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

What is the outline of a presentation, why is a presentation outline important, how to write a presentation outline, how to execute your presentation outline with visme.

• A presentation outline will help you organize your thoughts to communicate with your audience clearly and easily. It clarifies the presenter’s primary ideas and organizes the flow of your presentation.
• A presentation outline consists of critical components that are logically arranged for coherence. Utilize best practices, including formatting, audience analysis and visual cues, to deliver the message with impact.
• Use interactive elements from Visme, such as hotspots, polls, animations and links, to add interactivity to your presentation outline.
• Create a presentation outline by signing up for Visme's extensive online presentation tool without dealing with complicated tool setup or program installation issues.

A presentation outline refers to the barebones version of a talk or a speech that summarizes the main points and takes the general direction of the pitch. It allows presenters to structure the flow of information in a manner that is easy to understand.

Without an outline, your presentation can be a nightmare. You could end up shuffling slides around indefinitely and appearing confused. To avoid this situation, the outline clearly lists out everything you want your presentation to achieve.

Before creating your outline, consider the goal of your presentation, who will listen to it, and what interests them. This will help you organize your content to keep them engaged.

Here’s an excellent example of a presentation with an outline.

An outline for presentation is a valuable tool that can assist you in several ways:

• You can ensure that your thoughts flow smoothly and that important points are highlighted and not overlooked.
• Creating an outline for a presentation can help you generate ideas for your presentation and give you a clear notion of what to focus on.
• A presentation outline acts as a foundation for your speaking notes, allowing you to rehearse and prepare effectively.
• It helps you stay more confident because of your polished presentation.

Now that we know why we need to make a presentation outline, let’s dive deeper into how you can write a presentation outline.

1. Decide the Purpose of the Presentation

Decide on the goal of your presentation before you start writing any notes. It serves as a base for the remainder of your outline. Your presentation may have one of the following six objectives: to inform, convince, motivate, inspire action or entertain.

A business, for instance, might use presentations for various reasons. A sales presentation outline would try to convince potential customers to buy a product, while a training presentation might educate staff members on new techniques.

Once you determine this, answer the following questions to specify the purpose.

• What is the main message you want to convey to your audience?
• What problem are you trying to solve and how can your presentation help?
• What is the desired outcome of your presentation and how will you measure its success?
• What key takeaways do you want your audience to remember after your presentation?
• What challenges or objections may your audience have and how can you address them in your presentation?

Upon answering them, write your purpose and summarize it into one or two sentences, then put that on your first slide.

2. Prepare a Structure

Making an excellent presentation starts with a great outline. But the structure is what amplifies the impact of your delivery.

An eye-catching introduction, a body and a conclusion emphasizing your primary ideas are the three essential components of a successful speech .

Here’s what you should include while creating the structure of your presentation .

• An introduction

3. Flesh out Your Outline

Now that you know what to include in the structure, let’s break it down step by step about how to write the outline.

Gather Ideas

When brainstorming, consider the most important things you want to discuss. These could be key points, stories to share, or facts and numbers you want to tell your audience. Write them all down, even if they initially seem a bit random.

Organize your ideas and determine the main message

Armed with a bucket list of ideas, you must later organize and group them. Look for patterns, connections and relationships between your ideas.

Find the most important idea—the main thing you want to tell your audience. Make sure it's clear, short and something they'll find interesting. Recheck your ideas and remove anything that doesn't match your main message or the people you're talking to.

Create a Skeleton Outline

Now that you’ve gathered ideas, it's time to build the framework for your presentation.

Introduction

Begin by introducing your topic and explaining why it's essential. Think of it as the curtain-raiser that gets your audience's attention. Also, clearly state the main point you'll discuss—your "thesis" or purpose for the presentation.

Create a skeleton outline of your presentation by breaking down this main message into smaller parts. Use bullet points or headings to organize these bits of information.

Think of the main points as the big chapters and the subpoints as the smaller sections within those chapters.

To make your presentation flow smoothly, add transitions between your points. These can be simple phrases like "Let's move on to the next point" or "Now, let's build on what we've just discussed." And when you're nearing the end, use a transition like "In conclusion."

Once you have your skeleton outline, add supporting evidence to each point. It could include statistics, case studies, quotes, images, or videos. Make sure whatever you add fits well and backs up your main message.

As you reach the end of the presentation, tie everything together with a solid conclusion. Start by recapping the main points you covered throughout your presentation. It helps reinforce what you've shared and ensure your message sticks.

Next, emphasize the key takeaways—those crucial nuggets of wisdom you want your audience to remember long after the presentation.

Now, consider including a call to action. It is where you invite your audience to do something based on what they've learned. It could be as simple as asking them to share their thoughts, sign up for more information or even take a specific action related to your topic.

If you're feeling creative, create a unique call to action that inspires your audience to engage further.

For instance, if you’re presenting a project presentation to a group of people, you might seek to win their support for your idea or get them involved in its execution. Your audience should know what they get from taking action.

If you need help generating ideas for your presentation, Visme AI writer can help. You can enhance your outline content with fresh angles, Call to Action (CTAs), examples and data points.

Remind the audience of your central point and express gratitude for their attention in the conclusion if the presentation doesn't require a call to action.

As your presentation winds down, open the floor to questions or discussion. It encourages interaction and lets your audience clarify any doubts they may have.

Lastly, list the sources you used in your presentation and acknowledge any individuals or organizations that contributed to your research or material development. It adds credibility and respect to your work.

Read our guide to learn more about how to close a presentation with style . Also, watch this video to learn how to create CTAs that make your audience do your bidding.

4. Add Visual Content

Consider adding visual content, as it has a higher recall rate than text based or video content. It can add meaning to your message, increase interest and invite the viewer to click and consume your content.

Here’s an example of a presentation outline with a colorful image that makes the slide pop.

Visuals can be anything from infographics, videos, photos, GIFs or memes, screenshots or illustrations. However, if you’re including statistics and research findings in your presentation outline slide, consider creating a visual representation of that data.

Visme’s data visualization tools make this easy. They take your data and turn it into beautiful and comprehensive visuals.

Whether you want to create bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, area charts, histograms, or donut charts, Visme has a wide range of options.

Remember that you don’t need to include all of these visuals while creating the outline. Just mention where and on which slide you’d place the visual elements. It’ll help you organize your ideas as you dive into the body of the presentation.

5. Pay Attention to Color and Design

You must pay attention to the colors, design, layout and style to capture the audience's attention and interest. It must look consistent to give a neat look and feel.

When creating an outline, finalize what color combination and typography you'll use throughout your creative presentation .

Below are the tips you should consider when deciding on it Use color moderately

Everyone enjoys color; that is obvious. Nevertheless, using too many colors might result in chaotic, unattractive presentations.

Your audience's understanding and reaction to your presentation may depend on your color scheme. For instance, choosing dark and subdued colors when discussing a serious subject may be effective. Bright and bold colors may be preferable if your theme is engaging or imaginative.

You don't want the colors in your design to appear intimidating or overpowering to your audience since every color has both good and bad connotations. Hence, understanding marketing color psychology becomes essential.

Watch this video to learn more about color psychology and how to use it in your upcoming presentation design.

Make use of clear and consistent typography

Optimizing your typography can impact how people interpret your message. Therefore, ensure your presentation slide looks well-organized and polished and conveys the intended information.

Here's how you can accomplish that:

• Use fonts that reflect your brand's essence.
• Throughout your presentation, maintain consistency in your text styles. We advise you to use up to three typefaces.
• Avoid using intricate fonts and small, difficult-to-read text. Use readable fonts like Arial, Times News Roman and Calibri for tiny and large screens.
• For titles and at least the body content, use a font size of 34–36.

When putting out your presentation outline, using a tool like Visme can significantly improve your ability to create visually appealing and polished presentations quickly.

The templates from Visme are professionally designed to help you save hours and effort.

Hear what one of our customers has to say about our designs:

Web Designer & Digital Marketing Specialist

Let’s get started on how you can make a presentation outline.

1. Log in to Visme & Choose a Template

Log in or Sign up free to Visme and then click the "Create New" button.

Select "Presentations" from the "Project" menu to browse through Visme's collection of presentation templates. Use a blank or pre-designed template to start from scratch with your presentation design.

Visme offers 500+ presentation templates split into 20+ topic categories, including pitch decks, interactive, business and more. So even if you have no prior knowledge of presentation design, you will likely find an excellent template to use as a starting point.

2. Find the Right Visuals and Design Assets

After you select the template, decide what visuals you will use in the presentation outline. The visuals you select will significantly impact the presentation's overall appearance and feel

Visme gives you access to thousands of high-quality, royalty-free photos and design assets To find your preferred image, browse and select using a particular keyword.

And still, if you don’t find the perfect image for your design needs, you can use Visme's AI image generator to generate professional-quality photos, graphics, art, drawings and paintings.

You simply need to input an accurate prompt that describes what you want. The wizard will automatically generate and present multiple options for you. Additionally, you may use the Visme AI image photo editor to transform your photos into a masterpiece.

3. Choose Legible fonts

Selecting the right brand fonts for your presentation outline holds the same importance as choosing your brand colors .

If the chosen typefaces are of high quality, i.e., easy to read, it can positively impact the audience's understanding of the presentation's context.

But a font that’s too small or hard to read can lead to waning interest and the oversight of essential information. To overcome this situation, we recommend you check out the list of 20 best fonts for presentations for your upcoming one!

Remember to limit the fonts you use to three: one for the title, one for the subheaders and one for the body of your text.

When creating a presentation outline, use your brand fonts to ensure the presentation better reflects your brand voice. This helps maintain consistency and uniformity.

You can easily create and save your branding elements with the brand kit. Or use paste your website URL into Visme's brand wizard to automatically extract your brand assets (fonts, color and logo).

Moreover, to ensure that your key brand information is accurate across all slides while doing the outline, simply create new dynamic fields or edit existing ones. You can assign values and your data will update in real time, speeding up your editing process.

4. Make your Presentation Interactive

One of the most challenging tasks for a presenter is keeping their audience intrigued and engaged. Adding interactivity to your presentation can help attract and hold your audience's attention throughout the presentation.

The best part is that it doesn’t have to be a tough task. If you’re looking to create an immersive experience for your audience and increase engagement, Visme offers interactivity and animation features such as hotspots, hover effects and clickable menus.

You don't need to do everything while making your presentation outline; just remember where to place interactive elements to create an engaging experience for your audience.

5. Revise the Outline Flow

Once you have finished creating the outline, review your slides again to ensure each section flows into the next without disruption. This step is crucial for creating a smooth presentation overview and maintaining audience engagement.

Additionally, if you want to inform viewers about a new idea between portions, use visual cues. For instance, use an eye-catching design element or an inverted color scheme for every transitional slide.

Employee feedback across the company is often needed while creating a presentation outline. The marketing team may want to highlight your growing customer base, while the finance team may add some income and spending numbers.

After the review, feel free to eliminate any redundant or unnecessary information.

You can collaborate with your team and improve your project with Visme’s collaboration tools . Collaborators can access the document and pin, circle, annotate, highlight, add comments and more. This way, you can see your team members' feedback and resolve the comments in real-time.

6. Share It With the Team

We understand the frustration of investing hours of hard work into crafting a presentation only to have it rejected by our superiors or boss.

Sharing and showcasing your work can be beneficial for getting feedback on your presentation outline. You can easily share and publish your presentation online using Visme. It opens the door for simple access and review by enabling you to distribute it quickly using a generated URL or simply embed it on your website.

Watch this video to learn how to collaborate using Visme.

Presentation Outline FAQs

Q. what are the 5 steps to outlining a presentation.

Creating well-structured presentation outlines is essential for successful presentations. Here are the 5 steps:

• Define Your Presentation Goal: What do you want your audience to learn or do after your presentation?
• Brainstorm Ideas: Generate a list of main points and supporting ideas related to your goal.
• Organize Your Thoughts: Arrange your ideas in a logical flow, considering what information builds upon the previous.
• Create a Clear Structure: Craft a compelling introduction, a well-organized body with your main points, and a concise conclusion that reinforces your message.
• Refine and Polish: Review and revise your outline to ensure clarity, conciseness and a smooth transition between sections.

Q. What Are the Three Basic Parts of a Presentation Outline?

A presentation outline typically consists of three main parts:

• Introduction: Hook your audience, introduce your topic, establish your credibility and clearly state your main message or thesis.
• Body: This is the heart of your presentation, where you present your main points and supporting evidence. Use clear transitions between points and maintain a logical flow to keep your audience engaged.
• Conclusion: Briefly summarize your key points, repeat your main message for reinforcement and end with a strong call to action or a memorable takeaway for your audience.

Q. What is a Presentation Script Outline?

A presentation script outline is a detailed, word-for-word plan for your presentation. It includes everything you'll say, from opening to closing remarks. This outline helps ensure you deliver your message smoothly and stay on track, especially if you feel nervous or working on complex information.

Q. What Is the Difference Between a Presentation Outline and a Speaking Outline?

A presentation outline is your presentation's comprehensive blueprint, covering all the main points and supporting details. A speaking outline, or speaker note, is a shorter version used as a reference while presenting. It typically includes key phrases, cues and transitions to guide you through your talk.

Level Up Your Presentations with Visme

As we have explored the ins and outs of making a presentation outline, it's clear that this process goes beyond just putting bullet points in order.

By organizing each part of your outline, arranging sub-points and adding visuals, you're crafting an immersive experience for your audience. This experience grabs attention, helps them understand and keeps them engaged.

With Visme, you can create an impressive presentation outline with an intuitive editor and advanced features. Additionally, if you want your audience to watch your presentation at their convenience, you can use Visme's presentation recording software .

Visme offers a wide selection of templates to take your presentation outline to the next level. There are millions of pixel-perfect graphics, icons and design elements to make your presentation come to life.

Sign-up today and make your presentation shine.

Create beautiful and engaging presentations with Visme

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About the Author

Unenabasi is a content expert with many years of experience in digital marketing, business development, and strategy. He loves to help brands tell stories that drive engagement, growth, and competitive advantage. He’s adept at creating compelling content on lifestyle, marketing, business, e-commerce, and technology. When he’s not taking the content world by storm, Unenabasi enjoys playing or watching soccer.

Presentation Outline Example and Template

How to create a presentation Outline

A presentation outline is a roadmap to a more successful business pitch — a general plan that summarizes what you want to say to prospective customers, clients or investors. It lets you organize your thoughts, group ideas into main points and present your material logically. But what should you include in your slides?

We've compiled 11 tips for more effective pitch prep.

If you came here looking for presentation templates , here's an a couople of examples from of our most popular ones. If not, just carry on.

Browse our PRESENTATION TEMPLATES

What is a presentation outline.

An outline for a presentation is a helpful tool that organizes the main points and flow of the presentation. It acts as a guide for the presenter, outlining the order in which information will be presented and the main ideas that will be covered. A good outline should include headings and subheadings that outline the main topics and supporting details, ensuring a clear and logical arrangement of information. Creating a presentation outline helps the presenter stay organized and focused, and makes it easier for the audience to follow the content and understand the main concepts of the presentation.

11 tips to create more effective presentations

1. decide on a goal.

Before you brainstorm, and before you scribble down any notes, come up with a goal for your presentation. What do you want your pitch deck to say to your audience? What message do you want to convey? What do you want it to achieve?

Perhaps you want your pitch to raise seed funds. Maybe you want to introduce a new product or service to customers. Whatever the reason for creating your pitch, decide on a specific, measurable goal. This will guide the rest of your preparation.

2. Create a Structure for Your Presentation

Every good presentation includes an introduction, main body, and conclusion. These three components form the "skeleton" of your presentation — the bare bones of your pitch. You don't need to think about all the small details at this stage — you can flesh out your presentation slides at a later date.

Your introduction is probably the most important part of your pitch. After all, you only have seven seconds to make a good first impression, according to research. Use your intro to introduce your brand, greet your audience and give a taster of what's to come.

The body of your presentation includes your main ideas and any supporting ideas. Use it to feature testimonials, financials and fundraising info, traction and milestones, and, of course, your marketing plan.

Finally, your conclusion summarizes all your points in a few slides. This should leave your audience wanting more.

3. Think About Visual Content

Visual content is an essential ingredient. The human brain processes visuals 60,000 times faster than regular text, so including images in your pitch is a great idea. Don't forget about videos, either. Consumers are 64 percent more likely to purchase a product after watching an online video, making visual content a good choice if you want to generate leads and boost sign-ups.

The most successful pitch decks incorporate striking visuals. Others have fancy fonts and graphics. All of this visual content demands attention from your audience and creates a cool aesthetic that will help you outrank your rivals.

At this early stage of pitch deck preparation, you don't have to finalize the images you are going to include in your pitch. However, we think it's a good idea to point out where you are going to use images in your presentation. This way, you can organize your ideas and make sure everything flows properly.

4. Understand What Makes a Good Presentation — and a Bad One

No two presentations are the same. The most successful pitch decks, however, certainly have a lot in common. When creating your outline, discover what makes a brilliant pitch. The University of Hawaii says great presentations rarely cover more than five points. The University of Cambridge in England says there should be four key points in every 45-minute presentation.

Here at Slidebean, we think one idea per slide, good design, lots of images, and quotes all make presentations so much more interesting. We're not fans of the 'thank you' slide, though — the one that recognizes your audience for sitting through your presentation. It's completely unnecessary.

5. Include a Call-to-Action

A call-to-action is much better than a 'thank you' slide. This encourages your audience to take action after your presentation. When creating your outline, think of a short, snappy call-to-action that prompts a response. A call-to-action is your final chance to engage with your audience during your presentation. You might want to encourage people to sign up to your mailing list, for example. Alternatively, you can include a link to your website so people can download a trial version of your product.

"No matter what form your CTA takes, the most important aspect is the copy," says growth marketing expert Sujan Patel and Voila Norbert co-founder, writing for Forbes magazine . "You’re telling the visitor what you want them to do, so it needs to be persuasive. Remember, your audience is looking for an answer or a solution to a problem. Connect with them by telling them exactly what they’re going to get if they take action."

6. Identify a Solution to a Problem

Every day, more than 30 million presentations are created on PowerPoint alone. Then there are the hundreds of thousands of pitches designed in Keynote, Prezi, and Slidebean. With so many presentations out there, how do you inspire people to invest in your services? One way to create a successful pitch is to identify a solution to a problem that your audience might have.

Slidebean recently reviewed some of the best presentation examples from successful startups. Most of them provide solutions to common problems early on in their respective pitches. Customer messaging platform Intercom, for example, says analytics, customer base browsing, and customer research is the answer for businesses who find it hard to engage with customers. They include these solutions near the beginning of their pitch deck.

If you want to have a more successful presentation, think about solving problems in your niche when creating your outline.

7. Use Quotes, Testimonials and Statistics

Quotes from senior management help you convey abstract ideas and make your presentation more engaging. You should obtain any quotes you want to use in your presentation during the planning stage. Testimonials from customers and clients also prove popular. Research shows that positive reviews influence purchasing decisions and increase trust.

Finally, statistics add some depth to your presentation. Industry facts and figures back up any claims you make and increase engagement. Discover relevant statistics when creating your outline. You don't need to include any actual quotes, testimonials or statistics yet. Just jot down where you want to place them in your presentation.

8. Think About Color and Design

The way you present information in your pitch is just as important as the information itself. Now is the time to start thinking about the font/s you want to use or the color of your slides. Research shows that red conveys passion and excitement and catches the attention of your audience. White, on the other hand, conveys simplicity and purity.

Slidebean has a range of color palettes that transform the look of your slides. You can choose up to three color sets and play around with different text, backgrounds, and highlights.

9. Plan the Order of Your Slides

Think of your presentation outline template as a very rough first draft. Decide on what types of slides you want to use, and decide on a final running order. You might feature quotes early on in your presentation, for example, and leave testimonials until the end. Don't forget to include a slide with your contact details — website, phone number, address, etc. — and your brand values.

Your presentation outline should be a group effort, too. Ask your colleagues for input.

10. Identify Key Takeaways From Your Presentation

Your outline should include enough information so you can visualize what your final presentation will look like. Once you have finished your outline, read it back and identify the key takeaways from the document. Is the structure of your presentation clear, for example? Does it convey your brand message? Will it engage your audience?

Every slide in your presentation should achieve the goal you created at the beginning of your outline. If something isn't working, make changes. You might want to switch slides around or remove unnecessary information, for example.

11. Use a Presentation Template

Once you have completed your outline, it's time to start putting everything together. Yes, you could create a PowerPoint pitch deck from scratch, but this is often time-consuming and complicated. Instead, use a template, which provides you with all the presentation slides you need.

Here at Slidebean, we have presentation templates for business of all sizes, including startups and scaleups. You can create a professional pitch deck in just a few minutes by following the on-screen prompts. Everything's included — bullet points, graphics, headers, footers, and more. Take the time to plan your pitch to produce a powerful sales document that helps you communicate with your audience.

Once you have created your presentation outline template, sign up to Slidebean and design a pitch that provides you with a huge return on your investment.

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This guide breaks down the structure and elements of an effective pitch deck, including essential sections like the Intro, Product, Market, and Ask. With tips and examples, you’ll discover how to tell your company’s story, highlight key metrics, and present a strong value proposition. Whether you’re preparing for investor meetings or demo day presentations, this article provides the insights needed to make your pitch deck a success.

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How To Make an Effective Presentation Outline

Edraw content team, do you want to make presentation outline.

EdrawMind helps move ideas forward, faster and better. Learn from this complete guide to know how to make a perfect Presentation Outline. Just try it free now!

1. What is a Presentation Outline?

A presentation outline presents a comprehensive idea of what you plan to share with the audience. It is a synopsis of a talk, pitch, or subject matter under discussion. It serves as a guide for writing a paper, publishing a study, or building a presentation and enables you to structure your information in a way that is easy to understand. Making a presentation outline is similar to having all the necessary pieces in place before building a house. It may appear counter-productive to spend time and resources sorting things in the form of an outline. However, outlining saves time and gives clarity on a particular topic.

2. Why Should You Create a Presentation Outline?

A presentation outline assists you in preparing for your pitch or speech. It provides a clear path to take your audience from where it is to where you want it to be. It plays an important role in positively shaping people's perspectives about your planning and execution skills. There are several other advantages associated with creating a presentation outline which includes:

• It helps in brainstorming your presentation and saves time by giving a clear idea of what you need to focus on.
• It helps structure ideas so that they appear in a logical order.
• It enables you to determine the main points you need to keep in your presentation.
• You can categorize ideas into groups and create separate slides for each group for further clarity.
• It helps you rehearse your presentation while going over the important points.
• It provides a visual aid to help people understand your topic in a better way.

3. How to Create a Presentation Outline?

The following steps will help you create a presentation outline:

1 Considering the Purpose of Presentation

Determination of your presentation goal is fundamental to creating an outline. To find the purpose, you need to think about what you want from your audience. Finding this out will enable you to build your whole presentation. There are six purposes your presentation possibly have:

• Entertaining
• Inspiring to act

Considering the purpose will help you build an impressive presentation. The following few questions will enable you to figure this out:

• What do I want people to take away or understand from my presentation?
• How will my talk help those attending the presentation?
• What do I want people to do after the presentation is over?

Answers to these questions will help you create a summary of your presentation and will serve as a fine starting point.

2 Creating Structure

Creating a structure implies considering where different points belong in your discussion and where to use the supporting material. There are three main components of a presentation:

• Introduction

Structuring your points and arguments in these parts will enable you to transition from one part of the presentation to another without creating any trouble.

3 Using an Attention Grabber

Thinking about how you want to open your topic is an integral part of planning a presentation. If you want your audience to get engaged with what you are talking about, you can ask an interesting question, share a related story or quote something entertaining. It sets the tone for the rest of your discussion.

4 Considering Visual Content

You can add images, videos, or other visual content to your presentation to convey what you want to. It helps you to communicate emotions, excitement, passion, and experiences effectively. You can also focus on using different fonts and colors to make your presentation more interactive and interesting.

5 Including a Call to Action

A creative call to action will inspire your audience to take appropriate action. It will show what you want your audience to do after the presentation. Let your audience know what it will get from performing the required action.

4. How to Make a Presentation Outline?

You can make a presentation outline in the following two ways:

With PowerPoint and Word

1 creating an outline in word.

• Open Word document.
• Select View > Outline. This will automatically generate an outline and open the Outlining tools.
• If there are headings in your document, you will witness those headings organized by level (from H1 to H9). If there are no headings in the document, the outline will appear as a bullet list. You can assign or edit headings, and heading levels. You can also set up the structure of your document.
• Select a bullet item.
• Select a heading Level 1 for slide titles, Level 2 for bullet points on that slide from the Outline Level box.
• When the work is done, select Outline View to edit your document.
• Select Save to save your document, name your file, and then select Save once more.
• Select Close to close the document.

2 Importing a Word Outline into PowerPoint

• Open PowerPoint and select Home > New Slide.
• Select Slides from Outline.
• In the Insert Outline dialog box, find and select your Word outline. Select Insert.

With EdrawMind

5. Presentation Outline Template

This presentation outline template describes three components of the outline: The introduction, the main body, and the conclusion. The introductory part opens the topic with an attention grabber and summarises the importance of the topic and its relevance of the topic to the audience. It also includes learning objectives that points out what the audience is going to learn from this presentation. The main body part constitutes the main idea of the topic. This idea is substantiated by supporting material. The concluding part constitutes a summary of the topic discussed and what the audience learned from it. It reviews the main points and calls the audience to take appropriate action.

6. Key Tips for Creating a More Effective Presentation

Here are some important points to consider to create an effective presentation:

• Know Your Audience. Get to know your audience by researching ahead of time so that you can make your presentation relatable.
• Add Quotes, Testimonials, or Data. Adding additional information to your presentation can help you engage your audience better.
• Visualize Your Ideas. The way you present your ideas is fundamental to the success of those ideas. EdrawMind helps you to create and present your ideas most effectively and efficiently.
• Identify Key Takeaways from Your Presentation. It will enable you to recall, review, and reassert what you want to communicate with your audience.
• Gather Feedback. Gathering honest feedback will help you make further improvements and adjustments to your presentation to make it more effective.

7. Key Takeaways

A presentation outline is a tool to communicate your ideas precisely. It helps you brainstorm and plan your presentation in a logical flow. Moreover, it helps to grab the attention of your audience by providing it with a visual depiction of what you are going to talk. If you want to create an impressive and creative presentation outline, EdrawMind will help you in this regard. It has a variety of functions and tools which enable you to create a dynamic outline suited to your topic. It enables you to brainstorm and present your ideas most effectively by using different diagrams, charts, graphs, clipart, etc. EdrawMind provides the best solution to your presentation problems.

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Outline Templates provide a structured framework for organizing and presenting ideas, ensuring a coherent flow of information. They serve as blueprints for various tasks, from academic essays to business presentations, assisting users in constructing a logical and methodically arranged piece of work. We recognize the diverse needs of our audience, which is why we’ve catered to almost all purposes by offering Outline Templates in a plethora of formats, including Word, PDF, and Google Docs.

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Outline Templates serve as structured guides designed to streamline the process of ideation and presentation, ensuring clarity and coherence in written or spoken pieces. Their purpose resonates across various domains, from academic endeavors to business projects, whenever there's a need for an organized, systematic approach to convey information or ideas. All the Outline Templates provided here have been crafted after thorough research, consultations with esteemed professionals in relevant fields, and by expert template designers. The Outline Templates available on our platform are fully editable and ready for immediate use.

What is the main advantage of using an Outline Template?

Utilizing an Outline Template can streamline your brainstorming process and ensure that your work, whether academic, professional, or creative, follows a logical and coherent structure. It acts as a blueprint to help you structure your ideas, ensuring that you cover all necessary points and maintain a clear flow throughout.

Are these templates suitable for both professional and personal use?

Absolutely! Our Outline Templates cater to a wide range of purposes. Whether you’re crafting a business plan, writing an essay, or planning a personal project, you’ll find a template that matches your requirements.

How customizable are the Outline Templates?

Each template is fully editable, allowing you to adapt its content according to your specific needs. Whether you’re using Word, PDF, or Google Docs, you can easily add, remove, or modify sections to tailor the outline to your project.

I'm new to outlining. Do you have any tips or guidance on how to start?

Certainly! Begin by understanding the main objective of your project or document. Once you’ve defined this, use the Outline Template to jot down key points or headings. From there, expand on each point, adding sub-points or details as necessary. Remember, the outline serves as a skeleton, helping you organize your thoughts. You can always refine and reorder points as you progress.

Can I use these outline templates for group projects or collaborations?

Yes, especially if you’re using the Google Docs format. It enables multiple users to access, edit, and comment in real-time, making collaborative efforts seamless and efficient.

Are there any best practices for making the most of these outline templates?

Certainly! Here are a few suggestions:

• Stay Consistent: Ensure you maintain a uniform style throughout the document for headings, sub-headings, and points.
• Refine as You Go: An outline is dynamic. As you delve deeper into your project, revisit and adjust the template accordingly.
• Use Visuals: If applicable, integrate diagrams or charts to make your outline more engaging and understandable.
• Seek Feedback: Especially for significant projects, getting a second pair of eyes can help you spot gaps or areas of improvement.

Do you offer any niche-specific templates, like for scientific research or screenplay writing?

We’ve aimed to provide a diverse range of templates to cater to various needs. While you’ll find many general-purpose templates, we also have specialized ones that cater to specific fields or genres. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, let us know, and we might be able to assist further!

How often do you update or add to your outline collection?

We continuously strive to keep our outline template collection relevant and comprehensive. While we don’t have a fixed schedule, we regularly consult professionals and gather feedback to enhance and expand our template offerings.

I have suggestions for improvement or a template request. How can I reach out?

We value user feedback immensely. If you have suggestions, recommendations, or specific template requests, please reach out to our support team through the contact section on our platform. We’re always eager to hear from our community!

We value your contribution.

Outline Templates

Presentation Outline Template – 19+ Formats for PPT, Word & PDF

Presentation is one of the important things in speeches, public audience and congregation. It helps one to be straight to the point when making a speech or talking because any minute spent means a lot in communication. Presentation makes one gain confidence to be bold when presenting something from first point to the last and thus at the end everyone will applaud for the well-planned speech. This is possible with the downloadable, editable, and printable presentation outline template. If one is used to making presentation every now and then it makes sense not to buy a template but rather get the free and creative informal or formal outline format .

How the presentation outline should look like

• Introduction: This is the head of your presentation and it means a lot. First it is where you salute the delegates or people present. You need to observe the protocol from the seniors all down to the juniors and comrades. It is also at this point where you inform the audience of the things you will talk about. Introducing them and thus making them prepare for it.
• Body part: This is the main part that talk collectively and broadly about your supporting points. It captures the audience mind and attention as you try to explain, support and make them know what they are not aware of. From point to point you break it into other subtopics to help those noting down and for a good arrangement. After a very organized outline you will then move to the other sub heading doing the same till you finalize on the points.
• Conclusion: This is the other best part that summarizes the whole presentation talking on the key things and helping to point them down. At the end you will thank the audience and wish them the very best in deciding. How you summarize also gives the audience the sense of what you have been talking about. Thank the involved parties in seeing the presentation a success. It counts.

Here are some samples, Formats and Examples to Help you.

Presentation Outline Template for Word and Google Docs

Presentation Outline Template for Word

Presentation Outline Template for PowerPoint

Oral Presentation Outline Template

Presentation Speech Outline Template

Persuasive Preparation Outline for Word

Sales Presentation Outline Template

Sales Presentation Outline Example

Informative Presentation Outline for PDF

Presentation Outline Template for PPT

Oral Presentation Outline Format

Oral Presentation Outline Template for PDF

Sample Presentation Outline

Presentation Outline Example for PDF

Business Presentation Outline Example

Business Presentation Outline Template

Basic Outline Format (Plus Guide)

How to Create Presentation Outline (PowerPoint Slide)

Ultimate Business Presentation Outline Template (Plus Guide)

Tips for preparing your presentation outline

• Maintain the theme of the discussion of presentation you are to perform, thus having a blank outline template that communicates your ideas even through the design layout.
• Customize the template you have downloaded by editing the parts that you may want them to feature in your presentation.
• keep the points in the of the presentation outline brief. This helps make the presentation easier and excite and understandable making the communication clear.

Here is the best part. To get the best presentation outline template with the best outlook design you will have to spend nothing. All of the templates are very simple, completely free of charge and more so easy to use. All you need it to do is choose the best presentation outline template for your topic theme, download it, edit to your preference, then print or present it. You may also like to see speech outline templates .

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Free Project Outline Templates

By Kate Eby | November 10, 2021

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Choose from a selection of the ultimate project outline templates designed for business projects and academic research. 

On this page, you’ll find a mix of document and presentation templates, including a one-page project outline and a sample project outline template with example text, as well as a format template for a research project outline .

Business Project Outline Template

Download Business Project Outline Template

Microsoft Excel | Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF | Google Docs

Construct a detailed outline for any business project. This template provides example headings for each outline section, along with bullet points and tables for listing subtasks. Add a brief executive summary describing the project, followed by the reasons for doing it and add broader context in the background section. Describe the scope of work and list project objectives, constraints, and assumptions. Identify members of the project team, including key stakeholders. In the timeline section, list important milestones, projected dates, and the contact person for each item. Under resource requirements, create a basic budget with estimated costs for the tools, equipment, and labor your project requires.

Simple Project Outline Template

Download Simple Project Outline Template

Microsoft Word | Google Docs | Adobe PDF

Create a basic project outline with this one-page, blank document template. Write your project summary, list key deliverables, and define metrics for measuring success. Break down your project timeline into phases and milestones. Identify roles and responsibilities for stakeholders and team members. This template’s simple layout helps ensure that your project outline remains succinct and focuses on key details. The outline should provide a high-level view of how your project will play out.

Project Outline Presentation Template

Download Project Outline Presentation Template

Microsoft PowerPoint  | Google Slides

Turn your project outline into a presentation using this preformatted slide deck. Each slide covers an essential element of the outline, from the project overview and goals to deliverables and scheduled milestones. The template breaks up the information into digestible pieces and adds visual interest to keep viewers engaged. Enter your text on each slide, and edit the headings or slide formatting to create a customized template.

Sample Project Outline Template

Download Sample Project Outline Template

Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF

This project outline example gives you an idea of how a template might look after you fill it out. The template is fully customizable, and you can replace all sample text with your original content. Each section in the outline expands as you add text, allowing you to create a longer document. Insert the details you want to track in the project timeline, such as specific due dates or milestones. Use bullet points to accentuate important points and increase readability.

Design Project Outline Template

Download Design Project Outline Template

Microsoft Excel | Microsoft Word  | Adobe PDF

Similar to a design brief , this template covers primary elements of a design project. However, the project outline is less comprehensive, providing a higher-level overview of the design project’s purpose and process. Use this template for in-house planning or in the initial stages of client communication. Include a project description , list of objectives, problem statement, and design concept and style. Add a projected time frame and deliverable dates, meetings, and other events. Itemize costs to estimate budget needs.

Research Project Proposal Outline

Download Research Project Proposal Outline Template

Microsoft Word  |  Google Docs

This template provides a basic outline for a science, academic, or other research project proposal. Fill out each portion of the outline, using the numbered headings as a guide. Discuss the research problem, the rationale for the project, and the significance of the study. Cite sources for literature review topics, and describe your hypothesis and research methodology. Use the template like a worksheet to help you organize your project proposal.

For business project proposals, see our roundup of the top project proposal templates , including proposals for specific products and services.

Research Project Outline Sample Format

Download Sample Research Project Outline Format

Microsoft Word | Google Docs

Use this template to create an outline for an academic research paper or a capstone project. The template provides a sample format with numbered headings and sub-items. For example, the introduction features subsections for a problem statement, research review, study significance, and thesis statement. If you are conducting original research as part of the project, list your research methods for a further level of organization. The outline offers example headings and subheadings to guide you through the process of developing your outline. Edit the text to suit your project type and requirements.

What Is a Project Outline Template?

A project outline template breaks down the parts of a project into its essential elements. The outline provides a glimpse into the project background, objectives, deliverables, and scheduling. It does not offer the depth or detail of a project plan . 

For more project planning tools, download free project overview templates .

Easily Create and Share Project Outlines in Smartsheet

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Create a PowerPoint presentation from an outline

If you've already jotted down an outline of your presentation in Word and now need a quick way to add it to your slides, you can import a Word outline into PowerPoint.

Create an outline in Word

Select View > Outline . This automatically generates an outline and opens the Outlining tools:

If your document has headings (any heading levels from H1-H9), you’ll see those headings organized by level.

If your document doesn’t have headings and subheadings yet, the outline will appear as a bulleted list with a separate bullet for each paragraph or body text. To assign or edit headings, heading levels, and set up your document structure:

Select a bulleted item. Or press the Ctrl key to select several lines. 

In the Outline Level box, select a heading Level 1 for slide titles, Level 2 for bullet points on that slide.

When finished or to edit your document, select Close Outline View .

If you need help creating an outline, see Create an outline in Word .

Save an outline in Word

To save your document, select Save , name your file, and then select Save once more. Select Close to close your document.

Note:  Your Word document must be closed to insert it into a PowerPoint presentation.

Import a Word outline into PowerPoint

Open PowerPoint and select New Slide >  Slides from Outline .

In the Insert Outline dialog box, find and select your Word outline and select Insert .

Note:  If your Word document contains no Heading 1 or Heading 2 styles, PowerPoint will create a slide for each paragraph in your content.

Guidelines for importing an outline

PowerPoint can import an outline in .docx, .rtf, or .txt format.

If your outline is a Word document     Apply a heading format to any text you want to include in a slide. For example, if you apply the Normal style to a block of text, Word won't send that text to PowerPoint.

If your outline is a .txt file     Use indentation to indicate heading levels. Any unindented lines of text will become titles of new slides.

For PowerPoint to successfully convert your outline to slides, you must follow these guidelines:

If your outline is a Word document:

Apply a heading format to any text you want to include in a slide. For example, if you apply the Normal style to a block of text, Word won't send that text to PowerPoint

Save the Word document as an .rtf file. In PowerPoint for macOS, you can only import Word documents that are saved in Rich Text Format. Click File > Save As , and in the File Format box, select Rich Text Format (.rft) ).

If your outline is a .txt file: Use indents to indicate heading levels. Remember that any un indented lines of text will become titles of new slides.

Insert outline text into a PowerPoint presentation

In a new PowerPoint presentation file, click the first slide. Or, in an existing presentation file, click the slide that you want the outline to appear after.

On the Home tab, click the arrow next to New Slide , and then click Outline .

Locate the outline file (.rtf or .txt) that you want to insert, and then double-click it or click Insert .

New slides are inserted in the presentation based on the text in the outline file you selected. You are now ready to edit the slides and the presentation as you see fit.

Creating a presentation from an outline isn't support in PowerPoint for the web. It requires a desktop version of PowerPoint.

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Presentation Outline

The thought of giving a presentation in front of other people is enough to make your hands sweat and knees shake. Being tasked to do a project presentation can cause a person to overthink and worry about things. What happens if you forget what to say next? What happens if you end up giving a poor performance? Erase all these negative thoughts by preparing a presentation outline.

10+ Presentation Outline Examples

1. research presentation generic outline.

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What Is a Presentation Outline?

A presentation outline is a document that will list the organized flow of a presentation. You can use this outline as a guide or as a note in planning for your presentation. In addition, you can also use this in case you forget something when presenting in front of the audience.

How to Construct an Organized Presentation Outline

Both students and business professionals would have to give a class or sales presentation more than once in their lives. If you have given one, you surely have realized the importance of preparing an outline before your presentation. To learn how to create a reliable one,  continue reading this article and learn presentation outline writing tips .

1. Choose a Software

In reporting, it is always better to use creative visual aids such as a PowerPoint presentation. Generating visuals can help in capturing the attention and increasing the clarity of the topic you are presenting. There are plenty of presentation tools and software you can choose from in generating your business presentation or academic report , but you should go for the one you’re most familiar with and comfortable using.

2. Compose an Introduction

Before composing your introduction, it is advisable to conduct your audience analysis and write your presentation agenda . Undergoing these steps will help you determine whether your audience already has prior knowledge about the topic you are about to present and will give an idea of where to start. After this, you can proceed with coming up with a brief introduction speech.

3. Structure Your Presentation

Split your topic into separate slides. In deciding the order of your slides, make sure the sequence makes sense. After organizing your content, create your outline following the order in your visual slides. Label each slide in your presentation outline with the necessary things you should include in your discussion. Setting how long you should discuss each concept would also be helpful. You can use a blank outline template, process flow chart , or roadmap to make it easier to review.

4. Devise Your Conclusion

Your presentation would be incomplete unless you wrap everything up. In devising the conclusion to your project outline , you don’t have to go through everything in detail again. You should summarize and reiterate only the main points of your presentation. You should ensure to meet the objectives that you set beforehand. Don’t forget to note to let your audience ask if they have any questions regarding your discussion.

What do you mean by the 10,20, 30 rule?

The 10 20 30 rule means that an oral presentation should have a maximum of ten slides and not last more than twenty minutes. The thirty in 10 20 30 stands for the rule of not using fonts smaller than thirty. Assuming that an adult’s attention span lasts for 15-30 minutes, this rule is widespread in the business world.

What are the elements of a presentation?

There are components a speaker should consider to make his or her presentation effective. The first one is to establish a connection with your audience. Don’t look at your slides too much. It is necessary to maintain eye contact. Also, you should choose a design that’s not too distracting. Lastly, try considering using diagrams and charts that would better present data and ideas.

What are the necessary skills of a presenter?

A good presenter should be confident and should also know how to command the room. Being good at using gestures and facial expressions are also necessary characteristics of a presenter. Aside from that, they should also be enthusiastic, good at delivering their presentation speech , and they should also have a vast knowledge about what they are discussing.

Aside from your nervousness, other factors can also affect your presentation. Despite that, a good outline can combat them all. You know, you can never be too prepared. If your presentation outline is reliable enough, you can be more ambitious of your end goal and aim to deliver a presentation that would leave them in awe of your presentation skills.

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Proposal Outlining: A Guide for Getting Started

Have you ever felt the sting of presenting a project proposal only to watch it fall flat? Despite pouring your heart and soul into it, all you get back are crickets and cleared throats. The reality is that crafting a proposal that captivates and convinces isn't a matter of effort alone—it's about strategy. And that strategy starts with a well-structured outline.

In this article, we'll unlock the secrets of an effective proposal outline and explore the elements that make a proposal not just good but remarkable. This first step will help you to align your ideas with your client's needs.

Key takeaways

• A good proposal outline can help you organize your ideas and the key points you need to make to persuade your prospect.
• Each part of the proposal outline should serve a specific purpose
• You might want to share your proposal outline with a peer or even your prospect to ensure it covers all of the critical information your proposal will need

What is a proposal outline?

A proposal outline is a framework that organizes your ideas and pitches into a coherent structure, ensuring every crucial element of your proposal is considered and clearly presented. It’s the backbone of your proposal, guiding you from the introduction to the conclusion, ensuring a logical flow and that no key points are missed.

A well-crafted proposal outline consists of several parts, each serving a specific purpose:

• Introduction : Sets the stage, introduces the problem or need, and captures interest.
• Problem Statement : Clearly defines the issue that your proposal aims to solve.
• Solution Overview : Outlines your proposed solution and its benefits.
• Deliverables and Timelines : Specifies what will be delivered and when .
• Cost Estimate : Provides a clear and detailed breakdown of costs associated with the proposal.
• Conclusion : Summarizes the proposal, reinforcing the value and feasibility of your solution.

By using a proposal outline, you ensure your proposal is not only complete but also tailored to directly address the needs and concerns of your clients. There is also a good selection of proposal software (and even proposal templates ) to help you futher speed up and scale the process here. In fact, we might know a few people ourselves…

Importance of outlining

Why spend extra time on a proposal outline? Well, outlining isn't just about organizing your thoughts—it's about setting a strategic foundation for your proposal. Here’s why it’s absolutely crucial:

• Enhances clarity and focus : An outline keeps your proposal focused on the client’s needs and your solution. It prevents you from veering off-topic and ensures every part of the proposal pushes toward the end goal—securing approval.
• Saves time in the long run : It might seem like extra work at the start, but having a clear outline actually speeds up the writing process. You know exactly what to write about in each section, cutting down on revisions and rewrites.
• Improves persuasiveness : A structured proposal is a persuasive proposal. With all points logically flowing from one to the next, your argument builds momentum- and with it, a compelling case to your client.
• Facilitates collaboration : When working in a team, an outline acts as a shared plan. Everyone knows their part, reducing overlap and ensuring all necessary points are covered.
• Makes a professional impression : A well-organized proposal reflects professionalism and attention to detail. It shows potential clients that you are thorough and capable, boosting their confidence in your abilities.

In short, an outline isn’t just a planning tool—it’s a critical element that elevates the quality and effectiveness of your proposal. By taking the time to outline, you're paving the way for a smoother, more impactful presentation that aligns perfectly with your client's expectations.

Key elements of a detailed project proposal outline

Crafting a project proposal is like telling a story where you're the hero who can solve the client's problem. To tell this story effectively, you need several key elements, communicating your understanding, plan, and commitment to the project's success. These elements are:

• Introduction

Kick off your proposal by grabbing attention. Introduce the problem and hint at the solution, making sure to connect emotionally (and logically) with your potential client.

• Problem statement

Dive deep into the problem. Demonstrate your understanding of the client's needs and challenges. Show empathy and expertise, making it clear why this issue needs resolution.

• Solution overview

This is where you shine. Outline your proposed solution and the unique benefits it offers. Be clear and concise , using simple terms that convey value and feasibility.

• Objectives and goals

Define what success looks like. Detail the objectives your solution aims to achieve, aligning them closely with the client’s requirements.

• Methodology and approach

Explain how you plan to achieve the outlined objectives. This section should reassure the client of your method's effectiveness and your team's capability.

• Deliverables

Specify what you will deliver, including tangible products, reports, and results. This sets clear expectations and helps avoid scope creep.

Map out the project timeline. Include key milestones and deadlines to demonstrate your project management skills and realistic approach.

• Cost estimate

Provide a detailed breakdown of the project cost. Transparency here builds trust and helps the client understand the value they are getting.

Wrap up with a strong conclusion that reiterates the benefits of your proposal. Encourage the client to take action, and make it easy for them to say Yes.

By including these elements, your proposal will not only be comprehensive but also tailored to clearly communicate how you are the best choice for the project.

How to create the perfect proposal outline (then fill it in)

Creating the perfect proposal outline is like preparing a recipe that’s tailored to taste—it needs the right ingredients, a pinch of creativity, and a good understanding of who's going to enjoy it! Here’s a simple, effective way to put it all together:

Step 1: Understand the client’s needs

Begin by thoroughly researching your client’s industry, challenges, and specific needs. The more you know, the better you can tailor your proposal to speak directly to them. Dive into their company reports, read relevant industry news, and analyze their competitors. This groundwork enables you to address their unique pain points with precision.

Step 2: Define the project scope

Clearly define what the proposal will cover and- importantly- what it won’t. Setting these boundaries early prevents misunderstandings and keeps your proposal laser-focused.

Step 3: Gather your data

Collect all the necessary information, data, and resources that will support your solution. This could include case studies, testimonials, or relevant statistics that reinforce your points. Solid data not only backs up your claims but also builds credibility, showing that your solution is grounded in proven results and sound research.

Step 4: Draft the structure

Using the key elements outlined above, start drafting your proposal. Arrange the sections in a logical order that tells a compelling story, from problem to solution. Each section should naturally lead into the next, creating a seamless narrative that keeps the reader engaged and makes your argument compelling.

Step 5: Write the details

Fill in each section with detailed information. Ensure your writing is clear, persuasive, and directly addresses how you will solve the client’s problem. Use active language, avoid jargon, and be specific about the benefits of your solution. Remember, the goal here is to make it easy for the client to understand and see the value in your proposal.

Step 6: Review and refine

Step back and review your proposal as a whole. Does it flow logically? Is it persuasive? Ask a colleague to proofread it for clarity and coherence. A fresh set of eyes can catch errors you might have missed and provide valuable feedback to improve the overall quality of the proposal.

Step 7: Customize your presentation

Tailor the final document to the client’s preferences. Consider their company culture and the decision-maker’s personal style when finalizing the format and tone. Customization shows you’ve taken the time to understand their business and care about their unique context, making your proposal stand out from more generic submissions.

Step 8: Include a Call To Action

End with a clear, compelling call to action. What do you want the client to do next? Make it easy for them to take the next step, whether it’s scheduling a meeting, signing a contract, or simply getting in touch. A strong CTA helps to turn interest into action, guiding the client towards a positive decision.

By following these steps, you’ll create a proposal outline that not only meets the client’s needs but also highlights your capabilities and understanding of their challenges.

6 Top tips for outlining proposals

Here are some top tips to ensure your proposal outlines set you up for success:

Tip 1: Start with a strong hook

Capture your reader's attention from the outset. Use a compelling fact, question, or statement that speaks directly to the reader's interests or pain points.

Tip 2: Keep the client central

Always tailor your proposal outline with the client in mind. Every section should reflect an understanding of their needs, goals, and preferences.

Tip 3: Use clear, concise language

Avoid jargon and complex language. Your proposal should be easy to understand, making the client feel confident about what you’re offering. Simple language helps to ensure your message is clear.

Tip 4: Visualize the flow

Before writing detailed content, visualize how each section flows into the next. A logical, intuitive flow keeps the reader engaged and makes your arguments more persuasive.

Tip 5: Highlight key benefits

While detailing the features of your solution is important, focusing on the benefits for the client can be even more persuasive. Make it clear how your proposal will solve their problems or improve their situation.

Tip 6: Be realistic and honest

Set realistic expectations about what you can deliver and when. Honesty builds trust and reduces the chance of client dissatisfaction down the line.

By implementing these tips, your outlines will lay the foundations for a proposal that is hard to resist.

SaaS Proposal Template

Propel your business forward with our SaaS Proposal Template – present a persuasive case for adopting your solution to prospects.

Final thoughts

We've delved into the nitty-gritty of creating a persuasive proposal outline, focusing on clarity , structure , and a client-centered approach. Your proposal's true power lies in how effectively it addresses your client's needs and highlights your unique solution.

But why stop there? With Qwilr's innovative tools and templates , you can transform your outlines into visually stunning, interactive documents that captivate and convince. If you’re ready to gain a competitive edge and make your proposals irresistible, check out what Qwilr can do for you.

About the author

Marissa Taffer | Founder & President of M. Taffer Consulting

Marissa Taffer is the Founder & President of M. Taffer Consulting. She brings over 15 years of sales and marketing experience across various industries to a broad range of clients.

Frequently asked questions

What's the ideal length for a proposal.

The length of your proposal should be determined by the complexity of the project and the client’s requirements. Generally, aim for clarity and concision.

How much detail should I include about costs?

Provide a detailed breakdown of costs, including all relevant expenses. Transparency here is crucial—clients appreciate knowing exactly what they are paying for and why.

Can I reuse parts of an old proposal for a new client?

While you can reuse generic sections like your company overview, always tailor the proposal to each client’s specific needs and circumstances to show that you’ve crafted a solution just for them. Proposal automation software can help speed up the more generic aspects.

What if the client asks for changes to the proposal?

Be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments. This flexibility can often strengthen the client relationship and lead to a more successful partnership.

How often should I follow up after submitting a proposal?

Follow up within a week of submission to show your enthusiasm and commitment. If you haven’t received a response, a gentle reminder every few weeks can keep your proposal top of mind.

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Outline Templates

44+ outline templates in word.

One of the most effective ways of starting your write-up or word document is through an outline. Creating a simple outline allows you to organize your thoughts and ideas and can eventually guide you in accomplishing your write-up. They serve as a skeletal framework for you to build your ideas.

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Standard Proposal Outline Template

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Blank Outlines

Free blank essay outline template.

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Course Outlines

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Why Do Outlines Matter?

• Allows you to make logical and systematic connections. You will observe in the research outline template that headings and subheadings are used to direct the attention of readers and at the same time to guide the flow of information. By using outlines, you can create concept maps to make the flow of ideas logical and relevant to the main topic.
• Foregrounds the relationship of terms and concepts. In writing an essay outlines allow you to make relevant connections to substantiate the concepts that you introduce. Without using an outline, your ideas will become fragmented and distinct from one another.
• Allows you to create an organized structure of ideas. Outlines are very useful in terms of making meeting agendas and sample programs . As you may observe in the meeting word outline , they provided you with key terms and sections for you to fill in so that the conduct of the meeting will be guided accordingly.

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Common Kinds of Outline Templates

• Business Outline Templates – In the Small Business world, writing a substantial and formal portable document is very important. If you’re tasked to write a business case, business plans , or even business reports , then our templates are ideal for you. The templates provide you with a basic structure with sample contents. For employment purposes, you can also use a sample resume outline template to ensure that you provide logical and updated content in your resume. The content outline truly varies depending on what document you’re working on.
• Course Outline Templates – These templates are widely used by teachers, instructors, and students. Teachers specifically, can use this to structure the simple program or course that they will be teaching for a certain school year. Aside from its academic applications, you can also use course outlines in writing training plans . According to research, a comprehensive training plan is a result of an extensive and well-research training course.
• Essay Outline Template – In writing essays, outlines will help you structure your essay. Essays must be strategically written rather than carelessly writing your ideas without thinking about the element of coherence. We have templates that apply to narrative essays, argumentative essays, and many more.
• Marketing Outline Templates – In writing your marketing campaigns, sample plans and strategies, outlines can help you build your ideas such as your headings and subheadings. By coming up with an outline, you can ensure that every detail of your marketing plan captures the critical aspects of your company or undertaking.

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Major Types of Outlines

• Decimal Outlines – This type of outline uses decimal notations to represent the hierarchy and sample order of ideas.
• Full Sentence Outlines – In writing an idea or heading in your outline, full sentences are used. If you’re dealing with fields that deal with technical terminologies and subject matters, you can make use of this format such as in the case of the proposal outline template.
• Topic Outlines – These outlines are mostly used and incorporated in research studies printable program outline templates. In contrast to full sentence outlines that uses full sentences, these one make use of phrases or words.
• Alphanumeric Outlines – An alphanumeric outline is frequently used among write-ups. They use Roman numerals, Arabic sample letters , and the like in highlighting the relationship and order of ideas.

Report Outlines

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Training Outlines

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What Are Some Strategies to Come Up with Effective Outlines?

• Apply Parallelisms. Consistency is very important in using an outline. You should use the same sample word outline format and writing technique in writing your paper. This is done to make your write-up readable and comprehensible. Repeating clauses and word structures can help boost the coherence of your composition.
• Make Use of Divisions. To make it more convenient on your reader’s end, you should divide the heading into different subsections. For instance, dissertation simple word outline, the main headings and broken down into smaller sections so that it is easy to follow through.
• Harmonize Your Sections. In using a printable word outline, the contents that you’ll be adding to the sections must convey a single idea but deal with different aspects.

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