Tuesday’s Training: Outlining/Brainstorming

 

 

I never thought I’d be one for outlining, but I am in a way and have been for years since I figure out the big shifts, those pivotal moments, before I sit down to write a new novel or novella. I don’t know all the beats, but I know the big ones, and still there are things that happen in the course of composition that surprise me, which is wonderful.

You don’t have to outline, just like you don’t have to wing it all. You can mix it up. Try both. Find what works for you.

 

What are the benefits of a loose outline?

1.   By knowing the pivotal moments, setting them down on paper before beginning and thinking about those major scenes, gives us confidence. And confidence is essential when tackling a 90,000 word book that you’re just making up as you go…

2. You’re not writing a bunch of useless scenes that aren’t part of the actual story…

3. You save time since there won’t be as much to cut later during edits…

4.  By knowing the big moments in your characters’ story you’re laying a strong foundation, and you need a solid foundation before you build the walls, and finally, the ceiling…

5. When you have a plan everything contributes to the focus of the novel, not the rabbit trails…

6. It helps you get a clear picture, and write clearer from the outset…

The major purpose of a loose outline is to keep focused on the story. That’s it. Do what works for you, just don’t be afraid to try it because you think it will choke your creativity. It won’t. You’re still asking what-if this, what-if that? Only doing it to a greater degree, through most of the story. You get those pivotal moments, those really important scenes, and you get to build bridges in the air between them.