Whenever I write papers, long or short, I just sit down with ideas jumbling in my head and write. I have never been able to bring myself to create outlines. However, I was required to create an overview of a 15-page research paper, and I have found that breaking my ideas down into specific categories is very helpful. It also makes me think of new ideas that I may not have addressed otherwise. Even though I have just started considering my topic and have not gone in depth with it yet, my outline has provided me with clarity and a mission.
