Starting with an outline can feel like an extra step, but for any writer—especially if you’re new to the process of crafting a creative nonfiction essay—an outline is like a roadmap that guides your creativity. Memoir is creative nonfiction, so creating an outline can be particularly useful in finding a balance between storytelling and factual events. Instead of locking you in, a good outline lets your ideas flow freely, keeping your work focused while still allowing room for inspiration.
Why Create an Outline?
As a beginning writer, you might think outlining limits creativity, but it’s actually the opposite. Creating an outline is like sketching an artwork. It gives your ideas a shape without filling in every detail. With a rough structure on the page, a writer can see where their ideas are headed and discover moments where creativity can shine. This is especially true in a creative nonfiction essay, where balancing facts with creative storytelling is essential.
How to Start Creating Your Outline
Start by jotting down the main idea or theme you want to explore in your creative nonfiction essay. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the goal here is to get a sense of direction. The initial steps of outlining are often messy because they involve brainstorming. Write down anything that comes to mind, even if it seems disconnected—you’ll refine it later.
Build the Creative Structure
Once you have a main idea, break it into parts or sections. For each section, add sub-points that represent key ideas or scenes. This structure helps you stay organized, but remember: it’s flexible. If you get an exciting new idea later on, you can always adjust the outline. This flexibility is the page a writer often returns to, fine-tuning it as the work progresses.
A Sample Outline Created for a Theme
“My Days in My First Job”
I. Introduction: First Day Impressions
- Describe first impressions of the office environment
- Meet new colleagues, feelings of excitement and nervousness
II. Learning the Ropes
- First tasks and early mistakes
- Mentorship and guidance from a senior colleague
- Moments of self-doubt and small victories
III. Building Confidence and Skills
- Challenges that led to growth
- Taking on more responsibility and gaining confidence
- Memorable projects or milestones
IV. Memorable Colleagues and Workplace Culture
- Funny or impactful stories about coworkers
- Company traditions, team-building activities, or office dynamics
- Lessons learned from the diversity of personalities
V. Reflections and Takeaways
- How the job shaped your career perspective
- Life lessons or skills gained that are valuable today
- Transitioning from the job and looking back on it now
Adding Creative Details
With the structure in place, now is the time to play. Think about elements you’d like to add—unique perspectives, unexpected turns, or little moments that bring your creative nonfiction essay or memoir to life. Add notes in your outline to remind yourself where these creative elements could fit. Use keywords, phrases, or sketches to trigger your imagination when you begin writing.
Reviewing and Adapting your Creation
Before you start drafting, take a moment to look at your outline as a whole. Ask yourself: does it feel balanced? Are there areas where creativity can really come through? Adjust it as needed, remembering that your outline is a tool, not a rule. Each page a writer drafts can bring new ideas, and your outline should evolve with your writing.
Starting with an outline doesn’t mean limiting your creativity. Instead, it gives you a foundation that allows your ideas to grow and transform, keeping you inspired and on track—especially when working on a creative nonfiction essay or memoir that needs both structure and creative expression.
