Hello everyone,
There are two major stories in my mind that I've been trying to write, and recently I decided to put those stories together. My problem however is that I can't seem to wrap my mind around the idea of creating an outline(or plotting in general), I know if I don't I wind up with pages, and pages of characters rambling in an unknown universe. I'm able to create my characters, and scenes but I pull up a blank when I think about: "okay well what's the overall point ?" How do you guys stick to the overarching plot/ know what it is and go about planning it ?
Thanks!
Adrian Sroka what a great answer! I am going to do all of these things right now, and get my plot sorted once and for all! Thank you :)
I have no idea what type of novel that you are writing. But here are some things to consider when planning a novel.
1. Genre of the novel.
2. Theme of novel. What is the novel about? In what time, place is it set?
3. One main plot, one main outcome.
4. Keep the plot as simple and as straight forward as you can make it.
5. No more than 5 or 6 rounded characters is best, including the protagonist. Individualise and characterise each rounded character. What defines each character from each other?
6. What are the protagonist’s ambitions? What does he /she hope to achieve by the end of the novel?
7. Make a list of thirty chapter working titles.
8. Steam in Medias Res at the beginning of chapter one.
9. Makes sure chapters’ link with preceding and following chapters.
10. Make sure there is drama/conflict in each chapter.
11. Make sure that each chapter ends with a cliff-hanger, hook, dramatic landmark.
12. Ending – No loose ends. Make sure that all the important issues are resolved by the end of the novel.
I hope that helps.
Good luck.
I have a manuscript for Sale. Can any writer help me out. Email [email protected]