2. Scope, Limitations, and Depth

2. Scope, Limitations, and Depth

The planning process also includes an analysis by the writer of how deeply he or she
wishes to examine the topic. At the same time, the writer must define the limitations of
the topic in order to avoid going too far afield and including irrelevant material. If the
writer has carefully recognized the purpose of the piece of writing and who the reader is,
then defining the depth and limitations of the topic is not difficult.
3. Drawing up the Tentative Outline
Once the writer knows the precise problem, the limits of the problem, and who the reader
is, the writer should draw up a tentative plan or outline.
The outline serves as a guide for research, thinking, and organizing. It permits the writer
to
 Check the logic of the plan
 Evaluate the relative proportion of each section
 Check the completeness of the coverage
 Determine if the order of development is correct
 Save time (it requires less time to change an outline than a finished presentation)