8 Plotting Methods Every Writer Should Know, Part I

A Brief Overview of Plotting Methods

Okay, so you’ve got this brilliant idea in your head. Now what? How do you move forward into the bizarre realm of plotting?

Don’t worry, you’re in a safe place where many new and old writers/authors struggle to put pen to paper, unsure of how to proceed. In this article, I’ll show you four simple plotting methods to get you started.

Take your pick. Which one suits you best? Try one then try another and see which gets the juices flowing better. Remember, plotting isn’t always a science, but it never hurts to investigate different methods for a better outcome. Let’s face it, writing is hard — plotting is hard. So let’s try to make it a bit less painful for you, shall we?

Plotting Method 1: Seat of My Pants

Okay, so this may or may not be classified as a “method” per se. But so many successful authors do this, it’s worth noting. Think Stephen King, Nora Roberts, or Margret Atwood — yeah, that’s saying something. A “pantser” isn’t a personal fashion preference. No, it’s all about how they approach writing. Simply put, pantsers begin their story with no prep whatsoever, basically making it up as they go.

“I think there are two types of writers, the architects and the gardeners. The architects plan out everything ahead of time, and the gardeners dig a hole, drop in a seed and water it.”

George R.R. Martin, summarized

Overall, this is a purely personal preference. However, if ever you find yourself stuck, even when plotting with more detailed methods, this is a great way to help you find your story again or perhaps, remind you of why you started writing in the first place.

Plotting Method 2: The Synopsis

Yes, I said it. The dirty word for most writers: a synopsis. However, most writers find it more difficult to write a synopsis post-draft, usually required by agents or editors, etc. But the synopsis beforehand can actually be quite beneficial. It’s a very basic but proven method of plotting.

Overall, I enjoy this method simply because it allows for freedom and a creative outlet. At this point, you’re still using your emotional/creative brain instead of your logical side. Plus, if you decide to outline further, beginning with a synopsis still might be beneficial as it helps clarify your idea. I consider the synopsis a great jumping-off point for further outlining.

Plotting Method 3: Story Arc

This is a term you might recall from high school English class. No, I’m not grading you on it but yes, you can actually apply something from high school into your writing. Woohoo. Listening to your teacher was actually worth it.

Basically, a story arc breaks down your story in a bit more detail, hitting the key points/plot points essential for EVERY SINGLE STORY. That’s right, you need to have these whether you actually draw out a story arc or not. And for you pantsers out there, these plot points are necessary so don’t skip over them either.

****BONUS ALERT!!!!!!****

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Click HERE for your very own Fill-in-the-blank story arc, including term definitions and HUNGER GAMES example. Use it for your current story or the next or the next.

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Overall, the story arc does its best work in ensuring the writer doesn’t miss any key points — set up, inciting incident, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution. But this can feel stale to many writers and often leads to poor pacing. Also, the proper terminology associated with the story arc concept can confuse some. It’s not for everybody.

Plotting Method 4: The Three Act Structure

Ah, yes, the tried and true method of the three-act structure, dating back to Shakespeare and beyond. Wow! Can you be any more confident in a plotting method than this? Literally, most novels, plays, scripts, etc follow the three-act structure in some form or fashion. And sticking to what works doesn’t make you any less creative. Remember, the creativity comes from the story itself, from the fresh words you’ve discovered. The structure ensures the reader can enjoy that creativity through blessed clarity. So, please, don’t shy away from it. It works. You’ve enjoyed it as a reader so let your readers enjoy your work this way too.

This website does a great job going into more detail about the three-act structure plotting method. Check it out here.

Overall, this method is sure-fire as we country folk like to say. This is a great method especially for new writers as it really helps you develop your pacing and story elements. As you advance in your writing, you can begin to experiment more by pushing the boundaries of each act to fit your story.

Recap

So, in this article, we’ve discussed the four more simple forms of plotting.

1. Pantsing
2. Synopsis (better known as summary)
3. Story Arc
4. Three Act Structure

Please click HERE for Part II of our plotting method review where I discuss four, more advanced, plotting methods.

And remember, these are suggestions. Use whatever fits best for your story and your writing. If you merge a couple to form one mega plotting method that works, then by all means, do that! I personally have used different methods for different stories. So just because you choose one now, doesn’t mean you’re married to it.

Please comment below with any questions about these plotting methods. I’d be happy to help. Also, I’d love to hear which of these methods works best for you.

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DON’T FORGET YOUR FREE STORY ARC!

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