Explain the importance of headings. How does it relate to outlines?

Answer 1

Headings are signposts informing readers about what text is ahead. Headings take their positions from their relative importance in a complete outline. For example, in a Roman numeral outline, "I" is a first-level heading, "A" is a second-level heading, and "1" is a third-level heading:
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I. First-Level Heading

A. Second-Level Heading

B. Second-Level Heading

1. Third-Level Heading

2. Third-Level Heading

II. First-Level Heading

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Two important points about the use of headings also relate to outlines:

a. Because second-level headings are subdivisions of first-level headings, you should have at least two subdivisions (A and B). Otherwise, the first-level heading cannot be divided-something divides into at least two parts, or it is not divisible. Thus, in an outline, you must have a "B" subsection if you have an "A" subsection following a Roman numeral, or you should have no subsections. The same logic applies to the use of third-level headings following second-level headings.

b. All headings of the same level must be treated consistently. Consistent elements include the physical position on the page, appearance (type style, underline), and grammatical construction. For instance, if Point A is worded as a noun phrase, Point B should be worded in the same manner. Or if Point I is a complete sentence, Points II and III should also be worded as sentences.

Always identify the format specified by the documentation style you are using and follow it consistently. Develop fourth- and fifth-level headings simply by using boldface, underline, and varying fonts. In short reports, however, organization rarely goes beyond third-level headings; thoughtful organization can limit excessive heading levels in formal reports.