In expository writing, making an outline may prove helpful, but it is just as likely to prove inhibiting. While traditional textbooks advocate making a formal outline, recent studies, books, and articles question the value of formal outlining for all students. Alternatives to the formal outline include making only a rough plan or sketchy lists of points to be covered, writing first and then literally cutting up the material to organize it, and informally discussing a topic on tape and then listening, making notes, retaping, and so on until the material is ready to be written in final form. (JM)