The general written description covering the main points of a subject is called AN OUTLINE.
In essay writing, an outline provide the framework or the skeleton on which one can construct one's writing. An outline provides a kind of structure that make it possible for one to present ideas and thoughts that flow logically and which end up with strong conclusion. An outline helps one to keep one's focus in the right direction when writing and prevent one from veering off in different directions. An outline is usually made up of the topic and the subtopics of an essay arranged in an organized manner in such a way that the paragraphs formed form them will make sense and flow logically.
