An outline allows you to create a map for your book. The outline can consist of groups of subjects, chapters, topics and subtopics, etc. In other words, the outline lets you make a list showing which item will be discussed where.

You may want to divide chapters by individuals, generations, eras, or events. How you arrange the book is up to you, but the easiest family histories to read follow a chronological format. For an example, let's take a look at this outline:

Subject/Title: Descendants of Hiram Benner of Dennysville, Maine

I. Introduction/Preface/Forward

II. 1st Generation: Hiram Benner & Jenny Boynton
    A. Vital Stats
              1. Hiram
              2. Jenny
    B. List of Children
    C. Biographical Details
    D. Photos
    E. Miscellaneous Items (such as obituaries, plat maps, census records, etc.).
    F. Footnotes/Notes/Sources

III. 2nd Generation: Each Child of Hiram & Jenny
    A. Vital Stats
              1. Child
              2. Spouse
    B. List of Children
    C. Biographical Details
    D. Photos
    E. Miscellaneous Items (such as obituaries, plat maps, census records, etc.).
    F. Footnotes/Notes/Sources

IV. Appendix One--Possibly connected Benners

V. Appendix Two--Unsourced information received from Benner researchers

VI. Bibliography

VII. Online Resources & Researchers

VIII. Index

...and so on.