So that the group can look for strengths and weaknesses in the ideas
The presidential election of 1876 led to the end of Reconstruction. Samuel Tilden outpolled Rutherford Hayes to win the popular vote. Tilden had 184 electoral votes to Hayes' 165 and 20 votes were uncounted. These 20 electoral votes were in dispute: in Florida, Louisiana, and South Carolina. Each party reported its candidate had won the state, while in Oregon one elector was declared illegal and replaced. The 20 disputed electoral votes were eventually awarded to Hayes after a bitter legal and political battle. This gave Hayes the victory.
Students and orators find that using an outline assists their presentations and keeps them on track. While speaking, students and orators may stray from their main ideas. An outline in lieu of note cards helps the presenter achieve his goals in a timely manner and promotes a more efficient and informative presentation.