5 Ways To Plot

Introduction to Plotting

When it comes to writing a story, whether it’s a novel, a screenplay, or even a short story, one of the most critical elements is the plot. The plot is the sequence of events that make up the narrative, and it’s what keeps readers engaged and interested in the story. However, plotting can be a daunting task, especially for new writers. In this article, we’ll explore five ways to plot a story, helping you to create a compelling narrative that will captivate your audience.

1. The Pantser Method

The first method is known as the “pantser” approach, which involves writing by the seat of your pants. This means that you start writing with a basic idea of the story, but you don’t have a detailed outline or plan. Instead, you let the story unfold as you write, allowing the characters and plot to develop organically. This approach can be liberating, as it allows you to explore different ideas and directions without being constrained by a rigid outline. However, it can also be challenging, as you may encounter plot holes or inconsistencies that need to be addressed.

2. The Outliner Method

In contrast to the pantser approach, the outliner method involves creating a detailed outline of the story before you start writing. This can include character profiles, plot twists, and a step-by-step breakdown of the narrative. This approach can be helpful, as it allows you to visualize the story and ensure that everything fits together logically. However, it can also be restrictive, as you may feel tied to the outline and reluctant to make changes as you write.

3. The Snowflake Method

The snowflake method is a more structured approach to plotting, which involves breaking down the story into smaller and smaller pieces. You start with a one-sentence summary of the story, and then expand it into a paragraph, and then into a one-page summary, and so on. This approach can be helpful, as it allows you to build the story from the ground up and ensure that everything is cohesive and well-structured.

4. The Mind Mapping Method

The mind mapping method involves creating a visual map of the story, using circles, arrows, and keywords to represent different characters, plot points, and themes. This approach can be helpful, as it allows you to see the story as a whole and identify connections and relationships between different elements. You can use different colors, symbols, and images to represent different aspects of the story, making it a fun and creative way to plot.

5. The Scene List Method

The scene list method involves breaking down the story into individual scenes, and then listing them out in order. This can include descriptions of the setting, characters, and events that take place in each scene, as well as any notable dialogue or plot twists. This approach can be helpful, as it allows you to see the story as a series of building blocks, and to ensure that each scene contributes to the overall narrative.

📝 Note: Regardless of the method you choose, the key to successful plotting is to be flexible and open to change. Don't be afraid to try new things and make adjustments as you go along – it's all part of the writing process.

In terms of the benefits and drawbacks of each method, here are some key points to consider: * The pantser approach can be liberating, but it can also be chaotic and unpredictable. * The outliner approach can be helpful, but it can also be restrictive and limiting. * The snowflake method can be useful, but it can also be time-consuming and tedious. * The mind mapping method can be fun and creative, but it can also be confusing and overwhelming. * The scene list method can be helpful, but it can also be dry and uninspiring.

To illustrate the different methods, here is a table summarizing the key characteristics of each approach:

Method	Description	Benefits	Drawbacks
Pantser	Writing by the seat of your pants	Liberating, allows for exploration and discovery	Chaotic, unpredictable, may result in plot holes
Outliner	Creating a detailed outline before writing	Helpful, ensures logical flow and consistency	Restrictive, may limit creativity and flexibility
Snowflake	Breaking down the story into smaller pieces	Useful, allows for building the story from the ground up	Time-consuming, may be tedious and overwhelming
Mind Mapping	Creating a visual map of the story	Fun and creative, allows for seeing connections and relationships	Confusing, may be overwhelming and difficult to follow
Scene List	Breaking down the story into individual scenes	Helpful, allows for seeing the story as a series of building blocks	Dry and uninspiring, may not allow for creativity and flexibility

In conclusion, plotting is a crucial aspect of writing a story, and there are many different approaches to choose from. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each method, you can select the approach that works best for you and your writing style. Remember to be flexible and open to change, and don’t be afraid to try new things and make adjustments as you go along. With practice and patience, you can develop a plotting method that helps you to create a compelling narrative that will captivate your audience.