When starting a novel, is it good to create an outline of ideas or just to write the ideas into the story and hash it out later?

On July 13, 2018 By florencewitkopIn Romance Writing, Short Story, The Craft of Writing, The Writing Life, Writing Fiction

Either way works fine. It’s a personality thing.

Are you the type who jumps into everything you do feet first? Or the type who researches everything before making a move?

Which type you are tells you which way you should approach the craft of writing a story.

Personally, I started out by jumping in feet first but, over time, decided that I put less time and effort into a story if I research and outline first. So I made myself slow down and learn how to do just that.

I’ve never regretted changing methods, but what worked for me might not work for others. So do what feels right for you.

3 thoughts on “When starting a novel, is it good to create an outline of ideas or just to write the ideas into the story and hash it out later?”

Frank Frisson

I’m a strong believer in write-what-know. Whatever I write, I first put down what I know then do research afterwards. Works for me.

July 13, 2018 at 2:04 pm Reply
1. florencewitkop
  
  Exactly, and don’t let anyone tell you to do a single thing differently than what you are already doing!
  
  July 13, 2018 at 5:06 pm Reply
  1. florencewitkop
    
    And actually, now that I think about it, your way is a very good way indeed. You get the writing done and you do research, but only for what needs researching. No upfront research for things that never end up in the story.
    
    July 13, 2018 at 5:07 pm