útlínur

Útlínur is Icelandic for outlines or contours. The term denotes a skeletal framework that identifies the essential parts or shapes of something, without detailing the full content. It is used across fields to organize information, plan a project, or describe the external boundaries of objects.

The word derives from the verb útlína, to outline; the noun form útlínur is the plural. In practice, útlínur can refer to written outlines (such as the structure of an essay), as well as to visual outlines or contour lines in art, design, and maps.

In writing and education, outlines help prepare coherent texts by listing main points and subpoints in a logical order before drafting the full narrative. They can be formal, with headings and subheadings, or more informal bullet-point lists. In the arts, útlínur describe the visible edges of a figure or form, contributing to composition and proportion. In geography or cartography, outlines indicate the borders or outlines of geographic units.

Creating effective outlines involves clarifying purpose, identifying key ideas, organizing them hierarchically, and keeping the number of points manageable. Outlines are typically provisional and may be revised as understanding deepens.

See also: outline, planning, structuring.