A white paper typically starts with a big picture and leads readers to the proposed solution. Make the headings clear and specific so that busy readers can scan the white paper effectively. The following are general guidelines on organizing a white paper.

Introduction / Summary

It is a good idea to provide a summary at the beginning of the paper in order to have busy readers quickly grasp the main point.

Background / Problems

A white paper needs to provide readers with general background information of a particular issue in order to help them make their decision based on the understanding of facts. Show them enough evidence that you are an expert on the subject. Point out problems from your readers' perspective. Make sure that you do not digress from the main subject; do not pose problems for which you cannot provide solutions.

Solution

After explaining the background and problems, propose your solution.

Advertisement

If you write a white paper for a commercial purpose, mention your products/services last to ensure that your readers read the whole paper. If you advertise before convincing your readers of the truths of your argument, they are more likely to be turned off.

Conclusion

Write a conclusion in order to wrap up the white paper and enhance your readers' understanding.

Works Cited

Put the works cited at the end of your white paper. Do not forget to put the information of hyperlinked sources for the reader who prints out your white paper.

Other Tips: Visuals and Examples

Visuals and examples deepen the reader's understanding and make the white paper more appealing and persuasive. Because many white papers are published online and thus read on screen, it is important that the visuals are appealing to the reader who browses the Internet. Graphics (charts, graphs, diagrams, and tables) increase readability, if used properly. Also consider using case studies and examples in addition to theoretical concepts and models.

Learn More from Reading Other White Papers

White papers abound online. Because the white paper is a genre, you can find examples and look for commonalities in them in order to understand the genre conventions more fully. Learn the strengths and weaknesses of those white papers to help improve your own writing.