Ode to Outlining

[shanasilver]

I'm probably more meticulous in my outlining methods than most people. It takes me longer to outline a book than it does to write the first draft. I always find it interesting to hear other writers' methods. We all start and end at the same point, but the routes we take from blank page to final draft are all different. I'm curious to know your

Comments

[beedeecee]

i have always been a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer, but with the novel i started most recently, i think i may need to do some outlining. the idea is there and i've written a couple of chapters, but there's so much going on in my head that i always feel so overwhelmed every time i sit down to write.

it's definitely interesting to see other writers' methods and many more people outline than i would have thought.

[shanasilver]

Since I started outlining, writing my first draft has been...easier. I'm not scared of the blank page anymore like I used to be. And even though outlines begin with blank pages, it just seems easier. There's less pressure to get it right the first time. It's not daunting to revise a quick paragraph summary or delete it, instead of deleting a scene you spent a long time polishing. The outlines also make me feel more confident about the first draft. I know there's a full story there, one I'll be able to finish

[arya_darcy]

Thanks for sharing this! I've been considering outlining, and this gives me a little push. Can't wait for part two!

[shanasilver]

Let me know how it goes!