Writing a Novel: Should You Outline First?

The age-old question that splits the novel writing community right down the middle. Should you meticulously plan every chapter, scene, and character arc before you write word one? Or should you dive in headfirst and let the story unfold naturally as you go?

Here’s the thing: there’s no single right answer. Some bestselling authors swear by detailed outlines, while others wouldn’t dream of plotting beyond a vague idea. The real question isn’t which approach is “correct”: it’s which approach work...