Digital vs. Paper Plotting…

There are countless arguments for and against digital navigation. Some insist it's the way of the future; others claim you're relying on gadgets that could fail you at the worst possible moment. It's more accurate than the out-dated paper charts you'll find on the average boat, but spreading out a paper chart allows you to see the big picture, rather than having to zoom and scroll around on a tiny backlit screen. This topic creates some lively and often heated discussions both dockside and online, with proponents for each approach taking strong stands on their preferred methods of navigation. Myself, I'm a fan of redundancy; I feel both approaches have merit and I've chosen to embrace the new while still holding on to the old, proven ways.

The same holds true when it comes to writing. Many reviewers have used the term 'densely plotted' to describe my work. I alternate between two point-of-view characters who frequently don't know what the other is up to, and I also need to keep tabs on a cast of other players, both good and bad, with actions that will ripple outward. I know there are various computer programs designed for plotting; I've given them a try, but ultimately I found the monitor was too confining. I want to focus on every detail but I also need to see the big picture, to see how the whole thing would play out without clicking and scrolling around. When it comes to actually writing, you won't see me trading my laptop for a manual typewriter any time soon, but to plot my writing's course I've found the old tools still work best for me.

Enter my paper chart, otherwise known as the 'Board of Mayhem'. Technically it's several 12" x 18" pieces of cardboard, masking-taped together accordion-style and divided into key events throughout the story. It may look like chaos, but by the different Post-its I'm able to build the structure of the story, following my characters as they interact, and I can track all my clues and red herrings, as well as make note of changes that affect upcoming and past chapters. Color-coding makes it simple to see what's going on at each point in time and spot potential problems, allowing me to navigate around plot holes and keep the story from running aground.

So, what works for the rest of you? What is your preferred method of plotting?

Share on Facebook