Phrase Outline

A phrase outline takes parts of sentences and uses those phrases as instant reminders of what the point or subpoint means. Consider the following example:

  1. Many causes of sleep deprivation (CDC)
    1. Busy work and personal lives
      1. Students struggling with school and work
      2. New parents adjusting to baby schedule
      3. Shift work disrupting sleep
    2. Use of TV or computer late at night
    3. Use of caffeine and alcohol
    4. Medical conditions—insomnia and sleep apnea

The phrase outline is often preferred because it offers speakers a clear road map of their presentation with reminders of key points and phrases while also allowing speakers to deliver a speech rather than simply read it.