presentation outline template google docs

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Outline Template in Google Docs

Unleash your visionary potential with ease using our Vision Outline Template on Google Docs! Elevate your strategy, business, and projects with customizable templates from Template.net. Get creative today!

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Whether you're writing an essay, conceptualizing a project, or drafting a research paper, you would need an outline plan and organize your thoughts properly. We have blank, simple, and with sample outline templates to help you. These files are ready-made and easy to use for your convenience. Get an outline template only in template.net PRO. Visit our website and uncover an array of collections of templates that await you. Hurry now and never miss the chance to own exceptional templates that will always reach all your template needs. We offer 100% customizable, professionally made, beautifully designed, easily editable, high-quality, and printable outline templates. Open them in the free web-based application Google Docs where documents and spreadsheets can be created, edited, and stored online. Instant download and can be saved on your PC or mobile device. What are you waiting for? Never miss the chance to own exceptional templates. Join any of our subscription plans and enjoy great deals. 

What Is an Outline Template?

Many can use an outline to present the main points or topics of a given topic. An outline will help arrange the ideas in an essay, research paper, or project report . With an outline template, you can present relationships in a hierarchical structure. 

How to Make an Outline Template in Google Documents

You can make an outline from a piece of paper using a pen, but that will take you longer to finish. You don't have to worry about the format, spacing, spelling, grammar, indentions, and fonts if you use a word processing software in making your outline template. There are several numbers of word processing desktop software that are accessible and easy to use. However, one of its kind is Google Docs. Though developed as a web-based application, Google Docs is also available in offline mode. You decide if it's demeriting or not that Google Docs can only be accessed if you have a Google account. Who isn't a Google account owner up to these days? Probably, no one. Thus, Google Docs is very accessible. Here are the guidelines that we made in making a simple outline. Make sure to stick to our list and create that best outline for you. 

1. Learn What Kind of Outline You Will Need

There are a few numbers of documents that can't be complete without an outline, and that includes essays, research papers, short stories, report outlines, and more. Though you will only need an outline if the task requires, making an outline will make your project more organized. It is important to know what type of document you will be making an outline for so you won't have a hard time trying to figure when to start. 

2. Make Rough Draft of the Outline 

Now for the next move which is making a draft for the sample outline . You have to pay more attention to making a draft because this will be the backbone of your outline. The draft is like a plan which your outline will depend on. Begin the outline draft with a title. Then, divide the major ideas and number or bullet them. When you divide the smaller ideas into sections, you can also use bullets, letters, or numbers to arrange them. Remember, when you use numbers for the main ideas, don't repeat using numbers for the smaller ideas. You can use letters for it. 

3. Go to Google Doc and Start a New Document 

To access Google Docs online, log in to your Google account, and proceed to the application. You will see a blank white page where you will work on the outline. Make sure to start a new document too. 

4. Download an Outline Template 

Use a template in making the outline. There are several sources you can find online. Make sure to download a printable outline template from a reliable source. Having a template will give you a head start. Take advantage of the suggestive content which you can edit however ever you want. Select a template that will work best for your outline. Because there are quite a lot of templates that you can get on the internet. 

5. Start Working on Your Outline; Make Everything Correct 

Once the template is on hand, start filling it in. Refer back to the draft you made in number two. When the outline is complete, make a run through. Finish off the outline by proofreading the outline. 

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39 Free Google Slides Templates For Your Next Presentation

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By Iveta Pavlova

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6 years ago

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Update June 2022: We added more free templates for Google Slides. Scroll down to check them out.

Google Slides have been gaining popularity more and more in the last few years as an alternative to PowerPoint . The cloud-based software used for presentations comes with plenty of opportunities and convenient features for modern users saving them time and effort in their busy day-to-day schedules.

To help you save even more time preparing your presentation, we browsed the web to gather 39 eye-catchy free Google Slides templates that you can use as a base for your own presentation.

Before we move on, let’s see why some people use Google Slide templates instead of PowerPoint templates. Here are the advantages of Google Slide templates :

• Fully free to use.
• You get automatic saves while you create your presentation which means no loss of data.
• You also have access to history and all changes made by team members. This allows you to restore previous versions if needed.
• Multiple users can work on one presentation simultaneously and all the edits appear instantly. You can also chat with your team members while you work.
• Google Slide templates are saved on cloud storage which allows for easy access from any desktop and mobile device. This also means no set up needed before presenting.*
• Google Slides are also adapted for Chromecast, Google Meet, and AirPlay.
• You can easily convert PowerPoint presentations into Google Slides . You can also edit PowerPoint templates but you need to install  Office Editing for Docs, Sheets & Slides if you haven’t already.
• It’s easy to insert links, videos, YouTube videos, and images.
• Includes a gallery of pre-made templates for various purposes.
• You can install 3rd party Add-ons to Slides to add additional features and speed up your work.

* You can also use Google Slides offline by following our guide , this way you can edit and present your project without an internet connection.

With all of these features in mind, it’s no wonder that Google Slides is rapidly becoming a preferred software for presenting ideas and strategies . Now, if you decide that it’s high time you give this software a shot, we give you a collection of 39 free templates for Google Slides  that may come in quite handy for different occasions and presentations. Enjoy!

1. Volos Free Presentation Template 

– Elegant and classy business design – 23 Slides with handy layouts – Compatible with Google Slides, Powerpoint, Keynote

2. Free Template with Conceptual Outline Illustrations

– Associations: business planning, teamwork, marketing strategy; – Free to download; – 25 Slides for presenting different concepts; – 16:9 Aspect ratio which can be changed in Google Slides; – A nice violet theme and attractive conceptual outline illustrations; – Includes over 80 icons, a world map, and more; – Download for Google Slides or PowerPoint.

3. 20 Free Infographic Templates for Google Slides

Bundle of slide templates with over 500 premade infographics. The bundle includes 20 free infographic slides, which you can import into your Google Slides presentation. You will find a wide range of styles and slide themes, such as timelines, comparisons, steps, options, etc. – 20 Free Templates (539 total infographics) – Editable in Google Slides, PowerPoint, Keynote, Adobe CC – Well-structured and organized files

4. Presentation Template in Pastel Color Scheme

– Associations: tranquillity, feminine, childhood; – Free to download; – 25 Slides in different pastel colors and presentation concepts; – 16:9 Aspect ratio that can be modified in Google Slides; – Comes with more than 80 icons, a world map, etc; – Available for Google Slides or PowerPoint.

5. Classy Minimal Google Slides Theme

– An ultramodern minimalist design – 12 Tasteful free slides with handy layouts – Compatible with Google Slides, Powerpoint, Keynote

6. Free Bright Yellow Google Slides Template

– Download it for free; – Easy to change the color from yellow to your brand color; – 25 Slides for different content types; – 16:9 Ratio which can be turned into 4:3 in Google Slides; – Comes with more than 80 icons, a world map, and more; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

Google Slides Tip:

Experts recommend up to six words per slide is enough to gain the attention and get the audience to listen to what you have to say.

7. Free Black & White Google Slides Theme 

– Fully free to download; – Minimalist theme suitable for any kind of projects; – 25 Slides adapted for various content types; – 16:9 Ratio with the option to turn into 4:3 in Google Slides; – In the package you’ll find 80 icons, a world map, and more; – Use Google Slides or PowerPoint, it’s up to you.

8. Free Artsy Google Slide Theme

– Free to download and use; – Watercolor backgrounds and brush stroke effects; – 25 Slides purposed for different content; – 16:9 Ratio which can be adapted for 4:3 in Google Slides; – You’ll receive 80 icons, a world map, etc; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

9. Geometric Colorful Google Slides Template with Circles

– Fully free to download; – Bright design with colors and circles; – 25 Slides that can be used for various content; – 16:9 Ratio with the option to be turned into 4:3; – Comes with 80 icons, a world map, and more; – Compatible with both Google Slides and PowerPoint.

10. Free Business Google Slides Template

– Free dark blue theme perfect for business presentations; – 25 Slides adaptable for all kinds of content; – 16:9 Ratio that can be changed to 4:3; – Contains over 80 icons and a world map; – Use in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

11. Free Stylish Google Slides Presentation Template

– Soft colorful gradient theme for modern presentations; – 25 Slides for various types of content; – 16:9 Aspect ratio that can be altered to 4:3; – The package includes over 80 icons and a world map; – Use in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

12. Blue & Orange Clean Free Google Slides Template

– Flat design in contrasting blue and orange shades; – 25 Slides suitable for different content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio that can be turned into 4:3; – The template includes more than 80 icons and a world map; – Get it for Google Slides or PowerPoint.

13. Free Google Slides Template with Color Gradients

– Free presentation design with 6 gradient themes; – 25 Slides useful for different content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio which can be modified into 4:3; – The presentation includes over 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

14. Open Book Free Google Slides Template

– A realistic design with an open book on wooden background; – 25 Slides that can be used for different content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio which can be changed to 4:3; – The template comes with over 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

15. Lively Green Google Slides Presentation Template

– A vibrant green design with geometric icons; – The color can easily be changed to another of your choice; – 25 Slides purposed for different content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio that can be changed to 4:3 according to your preferences; – The presentation comes with over 80 icons and a world map; – Use the design in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

16. Neon Theme Free Google Slides Template

– Super trendy neon gradients on a dark background; – Geometric shapes and semi-transparent elements; – 25 Slides that can be used for various content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio with the option to be changed to 4:3 in Google Slides; – The template comes loaded with over 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

17. Free Minimalist Multi-Color Google Slides Template

– Clean and professional design changing colors on each slide; – 25 Slides in different colors and different content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio which can be turned into 4:3 in Google Slides; – The template comes with more than 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

18. Rainbow Google Slides Presentation Template

– A simple presentation template with a different color on each slide; – 25 Slides adaptable for different content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio changeable to 4:3 in Google Slides; – A collection of 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

19. Red Color Free Google Slides Presentation Design

– Fully free to download the template that can be adapted to your brand color; – 25 Slides suitable for different types of content; – 16:9 Aspect ratio which can be changed to 4:3 if needed; – Comes with a pack of over 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

20. Free Google Slides Template in Fresh Colors

– Modern geometric shapes which create a dynamic and fresh design; – 25 Slides that can be used for various content; – 16:9 Widescreen ratio that can be turned into 4:3; – Contains over 80 icons, a world map, and more; – You can use the template in Google Slides and PowerPoint.

21. Square Blocks Free Google Slides Template Design

– Square tiles with conceptual photos that can be changed according to your taste; – 25 Slides for various content types and graphics; – 16:9 Widescreen aspect ratio with the option to be changed to 4:3; – The template contains more than 80 icons, a world map, and more; – Use it in Google Slides and PowerPoint according to your preference.

22. Flat Blue Free Template with Icon Pattern

– Soft blue on icon patterned background which conveys safety and tranquillity; – 25 Slides that can be adapted for various types of content; – 16:9 Widescreen aspect ratio which can be turned into 4:3 if necessary; – The package includes over 80 handy icons, a world map, and more; – Use it in Google Slides or PowerPoint according to your needs.

23. Yellow Free Google Slides Template Design

– An attention-grabbing template fully free to download; – 25 Slides to help you present different types of content; – 16:9 Widescreen aspect ratio (change to 4:3 if preferred); – The download file comes with 80 useful icons, a world map, and more; – Use the template in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

24. Free Business Google Slides Template Presentation

– A free-to-download classy template suitable for business presentations; – 25 Slides for various data and graphics; – 16:9 Aspect ratio (switch to 4:3 if necessary); – The template includes over 80 useful icons and a world map; – You can use the free template in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

25. Blackboard Free Template for Google Slides

– A fun design of an old school blackboard and writing with chalk; – 25 Slides suitable for presenting various data; – 16:9 Screen layout that can be changed to 4:3; – The design comes with over 80 useful icons and a world map; – Free to download for Google Slides or PowerPoint.

26. Free Technology Google Slides Template with Hexagons

– A modern design with geometric shapes and trendy colorful gradients; – 25 Slides that will help you present different types of content; – 16:9 Screen layout which can be adjusted as 4:3; – The template contains more than 80 handy icons and a world map; – Available for Google Slides or PowerPoint.

27. Colorful Free Google Slides Template With Circles

– A cheerful design with bright circles on a white background; – 25 Slides that come completely for free; – 16:9 Widescreen ratio that can be turned into 4:3; – The design includes over 80 useful icons and a world map; – You can use the free template in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

28. Feminine Pink Google Slides Template

– A feminine design with soft colors and pleasant patterns; – 25 Slides that can be used for different content and graphics; – 16:9 Aspect ratio is easy to be turned into 4:3; – The template comes with more than 80 nice icons and a world map; – Use it in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

29. Elegant Minimalist Google Slides Presentation Template

– A professionally looking free template with diamond shapes and a minimalist color scheme; – 25 Slides that can be adapted for various content types; – 16:9 Aspect ratio that can easily be changed to 4:3; – The template is available with over 80 icons and a world map; – You can use the free template in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

Fun fact about Google Slides:

Did you know that the people behind the Google Slides development are actually ex-Microsoft employees? It means Google Slides has a Microsoft DNA.

30. Dark Free Google Slides Template Design

– An elegant and free to use the black and white template with an accent color; – 39 Slides applicable for all kinds of content; – 16:9 Widescreen aspect ratio; – Vector-shaped graphics, editable without loss of quality; – You can use the free template in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

31. Modern Free Google Slides Business Template

– Fully free to download template with a grey overlay and a flat design; – 28 Slides that can be used for all kinds of written and graphic content; – 16:9 Widescreen layout; – Vector-shaped graphics, editable without loss of quality; – You can use the template in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

32. Stylish Free Google Slides Presentation Template

– A free template in grey and muted blue suitable for corporate presentations; – 34 Slides purposed for various textual and graphic content; – 16:9 Widescreen aspect ratio; – Vector-based shapes and icons; – Use it in Google Slides or PowerPoint.

33. 10 Modern Free Templates for Google Slides

– 10 Free Google Slides Themes in different styles – Purposes: business planning, startup projects, marketing, analysis, etc. – Styles: cartoon, hand-drawn, modern, corporate, pastel, etc. – 16:9 Aspect ratio – Total of 78 impressive slides for different purposes – Fully Editable – Compatible with Google Slides and Powerpoint

34. Free Template for Google Slides Presentation Pole

– A modern design with flat cartoon characters – 17 Attractive slides with diverse layouts – A collection of editable icons – Compatible with Google Slides and Powerpoint

35. Nash Free Multipurpose Template for Google Slides

– Stylish minimalist design with flat and outline geometric elements – A multifunctional design that can easily fit into different themes – 18 attractive slides with diverse layouts – Compatible with Google Slides and Powerpoint

36. Multipurpose Free Presentation Template with Bright Yellow

– Fresh and eye-catching multipurpose design – 25 slides with diverse layouts for your needs – Compatible with Google Slides and Powerpoint

37. Modern Minimal Free Google Slides Template

– Impressive minimalist design – 10 Modern slides with great layouts – Compatible with Google Slides and versions for Powerpoint and Keynote

38. Investor Free Google Slides Template

– A professional design in a fresh green – 16 Useful slides with easy-to-edit content – Compatible with Google Slides, Powerpoint, Keynote

39. Nature-Inspired Free Green Google Slides Template

– Associations: growth, freshness, creativity; – Negative space elements in the design; – Available for free download; – 25 Slides for different presentation concepts; – 16:9 Widescreen ratio that can be changed to 4:3 in Google Slides; – Contains more than 80 icons, a world map, etc; – Get this template for Google Slides or PowerPoint.

While riding the Google Slides wave, why don’t you check out these related articles, as well:

• 56 Impressive free presentation backgrounds for outstanding presentations
• 20 Google Slides tutorials to help you master the popular tool
• How to convert your PowerPoint presentation into Google Slides
• How to add audio to Google Slides and make your presentation awesome

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Iveta Pavlova

Iveta is a passionate writer at GraphicMama who has been writing for the brand ever since the blog was launched. She keeps her focus on inspiring people and giving insight on topics like graphic design, illustrations, education, business, marketing, and more.

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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 Create an Outline in Google Docs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating an outline in Google Docs is a straightforward process that involves using the built-in tools to organize your ideas. After reading this quick overview, you’ll have a basic understanding of how to accomplish this task. With just a few clicks, you can turn your jumbled thoughts into a structured format that will make your document clearer and easier to follow.

Step by Step Tutorial: Creating an Outline in Google Docs

Before diving into the steps, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. An outline is a great way to organize your thoughts and plan your document. It breaks down the main points into smaller sub-points, making it easier to write and navigate your document.

Step 1: Open a Google Doc

Start by opening a new Google Doc or one you’re already working on.

Opening a new Google Doc is as simple as going to docs.google.com and clicking on the blank document option. If you’re working on an existing document, just open it from your Google Drive.

Step 2: Use Headings for Main Points

Type your main points and format them using the heading styles.

Google Docs has built-in heading styles that you can apply to your text. These styles help create a hierarchy in your document, which is essential for an outline. You can find these styles in the toolbar at the top of your document.

Step 3: Add Sub-points Under Each Heading

Under each main point, add your sub-points and format them using the ‘Normal text’ style.

Sub-points are the details that support your main points. You can indent these points to make them subordinate to the main headings. This clear visual distinction makes your outline easier to follow.

Step 4: Use the ‘Document Outline’ Feature

Navigate to ‘View’ in the top menu and click on ‘Show document outline’ to see your outline on the left side of the page.

The ‘Document Outline’ feature in Google Docs automatically creates an outline based on the headings you’ve used in your document. This tool helps you quickly navigate through your document, especially if it’s long.

After completing these steps, you’ll have a well-organized outline that will guide you through the writing process. Your ideas will be clearly laid out, making it easier to expand on each point as you write.

Tips for Creating an Outline in Google Docs

• Use consistent heading styles to maintain a clear structure.
• Keep your main points broad and your sub-points specific.
• Don’t be afraid to rearrange your points as your ideas develop.
• Use bullet points or numbered lists for additional organization.
• Utilize the ‘Document Outline’ feature to quickly navigate your document.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my outline doesn’t show up in the ‘document outline’.

Make sure you’ve used the heading styles correctly. The ‘Document Outline’ relies on these to create the outline.

If your outline isn’t appearing, double-check that you’ve applied the heading styles to your main points. Sometimes, simply bolding the text won’t register in the ‘Document Outline’.

Can I share my outline with others for collaboration?

Absolutely! Google Docs is built for collaboration.

Just like any other Google Doc, you can share your document with others and work on the outline together in real-time. This is perfect for group projects or when you need feedback on your ideas.

Is there a limit to how many sub-points I can have?

No, there’s no limit, but for clarity, it’s best to keep it simple.

While Google Docs doesn’t restrict how many sub-points you can have, remember that the goal of an outline is to organize your thoughts. Too many sub-points can make your outline overly complicated.

Can I customize the look of my outline?

Yes, Google Docs allows for a lot of customization.

You can change the font, size, color, and more of your headings and sub-points. This can help differentiate sections or simply make your outline more visually appealing.

How do I know if my outline is effective?

An effective outline clearly conveys the structure of your document.

If you can glance at your outline and understand the flow of your document, then it’s doing its job. A good test is to see if someone else can understand your document’s structure just by looking at the outline.

• Open a Google Doc.
• Use headings for main points.
• Add sub-points under each heading.
• Use the ‘Document Outline’ feature.

Mastering the art of creating an outline in Google Docs can transform your writing process. An outline is more than just a way to organize your thoughts; it’s the backbone of a well-structured document. It guides you and your readers through the narrative you’re building, ensuring each point is carefully positioned and supported by relevant details.

An outline isn’t set in stone; it’s a dynamic tool that changes as your ideas evolve. The beauty of Google Docs is the flexibility it offers. You can tweak your outline, rearrange points, and add new ideas with ease. Collaborating with others, receiving feedback, and refining your outline becomes a seamless part of the writing journey.

Remember, the clarity of your outline reflects the clarity of your thoughts. A well-crafted outline is the first step towards a compelling and persuasive document. Whether you’re writing an essay, a research paper, or a business proposal, starting with an outline in Google Docs sets you up for success.

So, the next time you’re staring at a blank page, not sure where to begin, start with an outline. It will light the path forward, one point at a time, leading you to a finished piece that’s coherent, impactful, and a pleasure to read.

Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.

After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.

His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.

Read his full bio here.

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Research Paper Outline

Research paper outline presentation, free google slides theme and powerpoint template.

Are you feeling lost in the sea of research papers? Let us introduce you to your new best friend: the template for a research paper outline. With its simple and elegant style design, it will guide you towards the perfect research paper. No more aimlessly wandering through your thoughts, it has everything you need to organize and plan your research. Its minimalist vibe might give off a calm and cool exterior, but don't be fooled, it's packed with all the necessary components to make sure your research paper is top-notch.

Features of this template

• 100% editable and easy to modify
• 5 different slides to impress your audience
• Contains easy-to-edit graphics such as graphs, maps, tables, timelines and mockups
• Includes 500+ icons and Flaticon’s extension for customizing your slides
• Designed to be used in Google Slides and Microsoft PowerPoint
• 4:3 standard format for screens
• Includes information about fonts, colors, and credits of the resources used

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How To Use Google Docs Outline: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Google Doc outline tool allows readers to easily navigate lengthy documents by organizing a document’s main points into one centralized location. Using a Google Doc outline also provides writers with the opportunity to see the “big picture” of a document, which makes organizing the contents of a dense paper a breeze.

Create an outline for a Google Doc (desktop)

Create an outline for a google doc (mobile), use an outline to organize a google doc, use an outline to navigate a google doc.

Follow these simple steps to create a new outline:

Adding headings

1. Open your Google Doc, and break your document into sections by pressing the “Enter” button on your keyboard.

If you haven’t already, break your documents into sections logically. Place your cursor after the last sentence of a paragraph and press the “Enter” button to isolate this section from other paragraphs. Source: All screenshots are taken by the author.

2. Name each section of your document with a brief, yet appropriate heading.

Give each section an appropriate name. This is called a section header. Remember these headers will make up the bulk of the outline.

3. Since this heading is in normal text (which will not display on the outline), you must apply a header style to add it to the outline. Use your cursor to highlight the heading.

Highlight the heading you would like to format.

4. While the heading is highlighted, navigate to the menu bar, and click the down caret next to “Normal text”.

Select the down caret next to the “Normal text” to reveal heading style options.

5. Select the heading style that you would like to apply to this heading from the drop-down menu.

Select the appropriate heading style from the drop-down menu.

6. Repeat steps two through five for each heading to assign heading styles throughout your document.

Opening the outline panel

The outline for a Google Doc will appear on the left side of the screen when opened. This way, both writers and reviewers can easily view and jump to each section of the document.

1. On the top menu, click “View.”

On the top menu bar, select “View”.

2. Select “Show document outline” from the drop-down menu. Your outline will appear along the left side of the screen.

Select “Show document outline” from the drop-down menu.

Creating an outline for a Google Doc on a mobile device is similar to creating an outline on a desktop. However, the visual layout is slightly different. Follow these quick steps to learn how to make an outline in Google Docs on an Android or iOS mobile app.

1. Open your Google Doc in the Google Docs app on your mobile device.

2. Select the pencil icon to open Edit Mode.

3. Triple tap the text you want to add to the outline as a heading.

Triple tap the text to select it.

4. Tap the “Format” button at the top of the screen.

Tap the “Format” button (that looks like an A with a line under it) to open text formatting options.

5. Tap “Style.”

Tap “Style” to reveal heading style options.

6. Choose a style of heading to apply then click the back arrow to save.

Select the heading of your choice, then click the back arrow to save.

Open the outline panel

While still in the Google Docs app on your mobile device, take the following steps to open your outline panel:

1. Tap the three dots to open the “More” options menu.

Tap the three dots in the upper right corner of the screen to open the “More” options menu.

2. Select “Document outline” from the “More” options menu. The outline for this document will appear on the bottom of the screen.

From the menu on the left side of the screen, tap “Document outline” to open the outline.

Close the outline

If you no longer wish to access the outline, simply tap the “X” button on the outline pane. Once the “X” button is tapped, you will no longer see the outline.

Tap the “X” button on the document outline window to close the outline.

The Google Docs outline feature helps writers manage the organization of their document by allowing them to easily remove headers and toggle their outline view. Follow these instructions to make organizing your document easier on a desktop or mobile device.

Remove outline headers

A cluttered outline will only confuse the readers of the document. Make your outline more scannable by removing unnecessary headers. Follow these steps to remove outline headers: (Note: For mobile devices, skip directly to step two.)

1. Navigate to the Google Doc outline, and hover your cursor over the heading you wish to remove. An “X” will appear next to the heading.

Hover your cursor over a heading on the outline to reveal the “X.” Here we are using a desktop to show you how to remove a header from the outline.

2. Click or tap the “X” to remove the header from the outline.

Toggle the outline view

To open and close a Google Doc outline with ease, follow these helpful tips:

Minimize it. On the left side of the screen, select the left arrow next to “Outline.” Here, the outline icon will still be visible.

To minimize the outline, click the left facing arrow on the Google Doc outline.

Completely close it. On the menu bar, click “View,” then unselect “Show document outline.”

Reopen it. On the menu bar, click “View,” then select “Show document outline.”

Select “View” from the top menu bar, and click “Show document outline” to show the full outline.

Have you ever wasted valuable work time searching for information in an employee handbook or resource guide? Instead of sifting through pages and pages of information, follow these simple steps to use the Google Docs outline feature, which will guide readers through lengthy documents.

1. Select “View” then “Show document outline” to open your Google Doc outline on a desktop. On a mobile device, click the “More” icon then “Show document outline.”

2. Next, simply click or tap a header on the outline of the document. Once the header is clicked, your Google Doc will scroll to the exact location of the chosen header in your document.

Streamline your digital documentation processes

With the outline feature of Google Docs, you can create comprehensive, yet simple-to-navigate documents (such as company policies, employee handbooks, orientation materials, and training materials), and streamline the way your organization writes and reviews digital documentation. To further modernize your organization’s digital documentation processes, check out this list of the top remote work software solutions .

The steps to using an outline on Google Docs were researched in November 2021, and the screenshots reflect the app layout on an iPhone and desktop computer. Applications and layouts are liable to change; see Google Doc Help Center for additional information.

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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The Smartsheet platform makes it easy to plan, capture, manage, and report on work from anywhere, helping your team be more effective and get more done. Report on key metrics and get real-time visibility into work as it happens with roll-up reports, dashboards, and automated workflows built to keep your team connected and informed. 

When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

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View document outlines, rulers, & non-printing characters

You can structure your Google Doc with the “document outline” feature. The outline detects and lists headings from your text to help organize your document. In the outline, you can also add a summary for your document. You can also show or hide rulers and non-printing characters to help format your document.

Work with a document outline

• Open a document in Google Docs .

Google Docs will automatically add headings to the outline, but you can also add them manually.

• Select text for an outline heading.
• At the top, click Normal text .
• Click a heading style. The heading will be added to the outline.

Note : Subtitles will not appear in the outline.

Learn how to re-add a removed heading to your document outline.

• On the document outline, point to the heading you want to remove.

Re-add a heading to an outline

• Select the removed heading text.
• Right-click on the selection.
• Click Add to document outline .
• Click the heading you want to go to in the document. You’ll move to that place in the document.

You can no longer find your document summaries in Google Docs’ left panel. To find the summaries of documents you have access to, open the documents in Drive.

• On Google Drive, select the document you want to open.

• Users can add, edit or delete the summary from here.

Show or hide rulers

You can use horizontal and vertical rulers to help you align text, graphics, or tables in your document.  The rulers will automatically show when you open a document. To hide the rulers:

• At the top of the document, click View .
• Click Show ruler .

Tip : To show the ruler again, click Show ruler .

Show or hide non-printing characters

You can use non-printing characters to see how your document is formatted. Non-printing characters appear in blue and will show you where your document has:

• Paragraph breaks
• Line breaks
• Section breaks
• Page breaks
• Column breaks

To show non-printing characters:

• Click Show non-printing characters .

Tip : To hide the characters, click Show non-printing characters again.

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How-To Geek

How to create templates in google docs.

Create reusable templates in Google Docs for files you find yourself recreating on a regular basis with this workaround.

If you find yourself creating the same outline of a document over and over again, you can save yourself an immense amount of time with a template. Here's how to create custom-made templates in Google Docs.

Although Google Docs does offer a wide range of templates to choose from for free accounts, they don't cater to everyone's needs. To create a custom template you can reuse multiple times, you'll have to use this little workaround to generate them.

Fire up your browser, head to your Google Docs homepage , and open a blank document, previously made document, or one of Google's pre-made templates.

Now that you've got the bones to your document set for your template, rename the file to something that has the word "Template" in it. Click the filename, rename it to include "Template," and then press the "Enter" key when you finish.

Next, click on the folder icon next to the filename and click the "New Folder" icon to create a new folder for Google Docs templates.

Give the new folder a name and click the checkmark to create it.

After you create the folder, click "Move Here" to save the template into your Google Docs template folder.

This folder can now be the new home for any and all templates you create in the future. This is also a great way to keep everything in your Google Drive neatly organized and easy to find for all members of your team.

Related: How to Organize Your Google Drive

When you want to make a copy of your template, you can access them directly from Google Drive. Head on over to Drive , look for the folder you just made for templates, and double-click on it.

Because this is a template file that you'll be using multiple times, you should make a copy of the file before entering any information into the file. Right-click on the template and select "Make a Copy" to duplicate the template file.

The copy of the template saves into the current folder with the prefix "Copy Of." From here, you can double-click on the copy to open it, rename it, or move it to another folder altogether.

If you open the document or if someone sends you a template file, click File > Make a Copy to duplicate the template to your Drive.

Name the file, choose a location for it in your Drive, and then click "OK" to save the document template.

That's all there is to it. If you want to share your template with others, you can create a "Make a Copy" link and send it in an email or share the file directly with a shareable link .

Related: How to Share "Make a Copy" Links to Your Google Files

If you have a paid G Suite account , you're able to save custom templates in your account's  custom template gallery for all of your team members in your organization to use. With the method used above, free accounts can take advantage of sharing custom templates without any additional expenses.