This really should have been discussed way at the beginning of this book, but I haven't gotten around to it until now because, admittedly, plotting is one of my weaknesses. As a pantser (a writer who flies by the seat of her pants instead of planning everything out) I usually don't know where my story is going until I get there. Things evolve as I write. I get "feelings" as I go, and I follow my hunches as my characters develop.
The problem with this way of writing is it's very easy to get stuck, or write myself into the weeds. The story often feels disjointed, with things happening suddenly instead of building up to them. By planning out key points in the story, we keep ourselves on track.
But how? The reason I'm a panster instead of a plotter is because that's how my brain works. It's not wired to map out an entire story. What I've discovered is that it doesn't mean it's impossible. It just means we need to find the right method that works for us.
I think I may have found one that works for me. I just started a new story, and surprised myself by following the recommendations found in the "Dan Wells on Story Structure" video series. Thanks to that, I now have a rough outline of where my story will go. Whether the story is any good or not is another matter, but I have an outline! A direction for my story from beginning to end! And I'm excited about that.
If you're like me, maybe this video series will help you too. I'll include all of them below. (NOTE: For the first video, skip ahead to the 2-minute mark for the actual instruction to begin.)
Dan Wells on Story Structure, Part 1 of 5:
Dan Wells on Story Structure, Part 2 of 5:
Dan Wells on Story Structure, Part 3 of 5:
Dan Wells on Story Structure, Part 4 of 5:
Dan Wells on Story Structure, Part 5 of 5:
By skipping from the beginning to the end, and then to the middle, and then to the various pieces in between, it's easier to think about how the plot might develop. My brain was able to wrap itself around the planning process instead of rejecting it. Hopefully you'll have success with it too!
Good luck with your plotting, and don't forget to vote for this chapter!
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How to Write Stories People Will Love
Non-FictionIf you're a writer struggling to improve your craft, this book can help. It breaks down the basics of a good story and good writing. It'll also provide a few tips on how to stay motivated. There's no magical formula for instantly likable stories, bu...
