8 Plotting Methods Every Writer Should Know, Part II
A Brief Overview of Plotting Methods
Assuming you’ve read my previous post about the first four, more simple, plotting methods, let’s dive right into the final four plotting methods which some consider more advanced.
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And please remember, these are all subjective to the writer. Try the ones you like, ignore the ones you don’t. Find what works best for you. And, in case you forgot, I created a nice little freebie which ties into the Story Arc (or Story Mountain) Plotting method. Download yours HERE!
ONWARD!
Plotting Method 5: Skeletal Outline
This may be considered the least of the outlines in the sense that it doesn’t develop all of the details upfront but more or less uses the outline as a general guide. I find the name “Skeletal” quite perfect. If you compare it to your body, the skeleton is extremely important but isn’t all you’re made up of. It helps to use a visual when understanding different plotting methods or at least it does for me.
Pros
- Creates sequence for your story
- Ensures pacing including hitting key points like the climax
- Still quite simple though detailed enough so you won’t get lost
- Easily adjustable
Cons
- Slow pacing still could be an issue between points
- Not suitable for every story because of its sequential nature
- Too much structure makes some people squeamish
- Academic feeling
Overall, I like the skeletal outline because it gives you a very basic outline of your story with the proper sequence. But it also includes key points for each section. For example, in the “Set-up” or “Exposition” portion, you can add several key points to hit instead of just naming one. This is very helpful. You’d be surprised how easy it is as a writer to get off track. As an unforeseen plus, carrying around a small notebook or iPhone note with your simple outline is fairly easy. You can glance at it anytime you feel the strike of creativity.
Plotting Method 6: Flashlight Outline
As I’ve learned about plotting methods over the years as both an English teacher and writer, this name was a first. I like it though because, once again, we use an image to help us understand the concept. Just as a flashlight illuminates sections of a scene so does the flashlight outline.
This website shows a great example to help you better understand the flashlight outline.
Pros
- Written in more paragraph form
- Broken down by chapter instead of plot point
- As much or little detail as you need
- Simple format
Cons
- Takes more time
- Must be mindful of keeping plot points since they aren’t specifically referenced in outline
- Time consuming
This method has lots of pluses for many writers. I think the highlight is how it manages to create a detailed enough outline for the writer to know where he is going while using a less formal structure. Many people are thrown off by outline structures, but if you go by chapter as this method does, it’s not quite so daunting and feels less like your English teacher assigned it
Plotting Method 7: Snowflake
With my first novel, I personally used this method. As a beginner, Randy Ingermanson really helped me go from idea to plot to novel. He developed this entire method and even has a software program you can use to get you started. His blog (found here) also discusses all of the many concepts associated with this highly detailed method of plotting. I also recommend his book WRITING FICTION FOR DUMMIES.
Pros
- Lots of details so you’re story is pretty much written by the time you’re ready to put pen to paper
- Character development included so helps to keep plot character driven (a high demand esp. in YA)
- Software available
- Builds story from ground up — great for beginners and advanced writers alike
Cons
- Takes so much time
- All about brainstorming so less writing upfront
- While details help most, some writers may get bogged down by them or lose creativity
- Can lose interest in story if you don’t get to writing sooner
This method was so helpful as I fleshed out my very first novel. It took my story from a basic idea to a fully developed world with deep characters and an engaging plot. It does take lots of time upfront and some writers are too eager to actually write to appreciate the in-depth creational brainstorming associated with this program. This really ends up being about personal preference. Overall, I’d recommend it as a great developer to any story idea.
Plotting Method 8: Scene Lists
Many famous authors discuss the importance of proper scenes. One of my favorite books PLOT AND STRUCTURE by James Scott Bell discusses the importance of your plot all the way down to the microscopic scenes. Randy Ingermanson also talks about it in the Snowflake Method. It’s really quite simple but very effective.
Here’s a free image below to use if you so choose. At the very least, write down the structure of the scene and sequel for future use.
Pros
- So much detail
- Ensures quality of each scene
- Maximum pacing
- Basically writes the story for you
- Highly recommended by top authors and writing professionals
Cons
- So much detail (yes, that’s listed twice)
- Still doesn’t hit on key plot points
- Tons of time upfront
So with this method, I personally find it most useful as an add-on to whatever plotting method I decide to use. If your stuck or feel like your pacing has slowed, this method helps create that proper flow for each individual scene in your novel. While its a ton of work, when it comes to writing afterwards, it’s basically a breeze.
Here’s another great blog by K.M. Weiland to explain it further.
Recap
So, as promised, we discussed the last four, more advanced forms of plotting.
- Skeletal Outline
- Flashlight Outline
- Snowflake
- Scene Lists
Thank you so much for sticking around for all those fun little explanations. I hope you find it helpful as you begin plotting your own novel.
Please comment below with the method you want to try first or love the best. And if you’re looking for more simple plotting methods, please click HERE!
Happy Plotting!
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