The old pantsters v. plotters dilemma usually ends with the writer doing what he/she is most comfortable doing. Yet even a pantster like me comes to a place in a novel draft where it’s useful to plot a little.
Writing Tip for Today: Whether you plot or write by the seat of your pants (like me), by two-thirds of the way into a story, it can be useful to stand back and view the shape of your story.
- Make a Scene List. Start by writing a brief description of every scene in the story. You can use notecards, sticky notes, computer software or a cheap notebook to record the gist of what happens in each scene. Some writers get fancy and color code the different arcs: story, character, antagonist, subplot. Others use one color for scenes already written and a different color for scenes which need to be written. Whatever you do, be sure it makes sense to you.
- Stand Back. Objectivity is the hardest to gain while you are in the middle of drafting your novel. It’s almost like you cannot see the forest when you’re in the trees. By laying out the entire story and standing back, you tend to see the story as a whole. Then you can address different areas of concern: Where do the subplots arise and then submerge? Are there scenes which seem too similar in terms of forward movement of the story? Are there gaps in the plot (plot holes)? Places where you will need to “plant” info or foreshadow vital information? It’s much easier to determine these things when you can see the forest.
- Make a Revision Plan. When your story is mapped out, you’ll more easily see where the central story question is dealt with, where subplots may intrude or take over and places that sag or need to be tightened. By using your “storyboard,” you can make a plan for revision. I like to enter notes in highlighter yellow in the manuscript where the actual fix will be located. That way I don’t forget what needs to be done. In the end, your story’s shape should feature rising action, a protagonist with a goal, worthy obstacles and a satisfying climax scene.
