Reverse Outlining: The Underused Tool

I don’t remember when I first learned to outline, but it must have been early because it feels as second nature as multiplication and division. I do know that I was well into my professional career before I learned the writerly magic that is reverse outlining.

In the context of editing and revision, the reverse outline is a process in which you develop an outline of the main points of an early draft of a document. The resulting reverse outline helps you better see the established flow of information and the logic (or lack thereof) used to organize it. This outline format lends itself to experimenting with rearranging, removing, or adding points.

So, now you’re wondering if the reverse outline can replace the initial outline in your writing process. I’m a no on that one. The initial outline is key to organizing your thoughts and planning your document. The reverse outline helps you see what actually made it onto the page. It also helps you identify and evaluate what I like to call “exit ramps” in your writing (e.g. did you go on an unnecessary tangent or remember a key piece of information that may be better located elsewhere).  

Reverse outlining has become a key tool in all my writing ventures from fiction to technical writing to grant writing. As an example, when writing a problem statement for a grant, I’m trying to squeeze in every bit of information possible. Once the section draft is done, I read through and outline the main point in each paragraph. I prefer to outline on a separate, blank document. Something about removing the outline from the text makes it easier for me to assess the points, order, and flow. I use the outline as a place to experiment with re-ordering, increasing clarity, and making the section more efficient—thereby saving precious words or space. I can also evaluate the individual points made, identify anything missing, and cut anything weaker or redundant.

For more information on reverse outlining check out these pages from The Writing Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Purdue Owl.