Build your book outline, one chapter at a time.
Start from one of five nonfiction structures, then give every chapter a point, a story and a takeaway. Your outline saves in this browser as you type. Copy it, download it, or print it when you are done.
Outline builder
Saved in this browser only. No account.
Three checks before you start writing
Every chapter has a point you can say in one sentence
If the "point" box is empty or vague, the chapter is a topic, not an argument. Topics produce chapters that wander. Points produce chapters that land.
Every point serves the promise
Read your promise, then read each point. If a chapter would not help the reader get what you promised, cut it or save it for another book.
Every chapter has proof
A story, a client example, or a fact you can source. Chapters without proof read like opinion. Gather what you need in Stage 4: stories and research.
Common questions
Is the outline builder free?
Yes. There is no sign-up and no email gate. Your outline is saved in this browser as you type, so you can close the tab and come back. Nothing leaves your device unless you send the optional form.
Which structure should I choose?
Choose steps if you teach a method in order, problem then solution if readers first need to understand what is wrong, story-led if your own journey carries the lessons, principles if your ideas stand alone, and questions if you hear the same questions from clients every week. Stage 3 of the guide, how to outline a nonfiction book, compares them with sample tables of contents.
How many chapters should a nonfiction book have?
There is no fixed number. Enough chapters to keep your promise, each doing one job. If two chapters make the same point, merge them; if one chapter makes three points, split it. The builder shows total length as chapters times your target words per chapter so you can see the effect of each change.
What should go in each chapter of the outline?
Four things: a working title, the one point the chapter makes, the story or proof that makes the point believable, and the takeaway the reader can act on. If you cannot fill in the point, the chapter is not ready to write yet.
Can I use this outline to brief a ghostwriter or editor?
Yes. Download it or copy it into a document. A clear outline with a point and a story for each chapter is exactly what a writer, editor or coach needs to start working with you.
Want a second pair of eyes on your outline?
Send your details and someone from the Scribe team will get in touch to talk through your outline with you. If you built one here, it comes along with the form, so you do not have to explain it twice.
Rather pick a time yourself? Book a free 15-minute consult or call 512-325-0249.
Thank you. Your details are with the Scribe team.
Someone from Scribe will reach out by email. If you would rather not wait, pick a time for a free consult.