Whether you're a 'pantser,' someone who likes to write as they go with a minimal timeline, or a detail-oriented writer who wants everything organized before they begin, this blog is for you.
What is the best way to write an outline? Here are a few suggestions...
- Define your genre and audience.
- Determine your theme and settings.
- Come up with memorable characters.
- Create and structure a plot.
- Choose which outline structure you'd prefer and write your heart out.
1. Pick and genre and know your audience. Whether you're writing about dragons attacking a castle or your grandma Betty's life story, selecting your genre is important. With dozens of genres and sub-genres, it's helpful to pinpoint which one(s) are not only for your writing style but for marketing as well. Here is a list of sub-genres to help. The Ultimate List of Book Genres by Reedsy. 
2. What's your theme? Can you tell me about your book in only a few sentences? What's the main idea you are trying to convey, and what places do you want your readers to be transported to? It may seem basic, but taking the time to solidify your theme can save you heartache in the end. How to Find the Right Theme for Your Book by Zorba Books.
3. Select and build your characters. Who are your characters? Have you named them, written down their qualities and attributes, the good and the bad? Can you close your eyes and describe them or picture them in your mind? If not, take the time to do so. The more information you have on them, the better. Write down as many details as possible. How to Create Memorable Characters: A Practical Guide by Self-Growth Journey.
4. Create a plot line.
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- Act Structure (works best for fiction)
- Act 1-Build your story, start with the inciting incident.
- Act 11-The ups and down of the middle. Think messy, you are building the climax and conflicts.
- Act 111- Resolution to problem, things come together.
- Zoom Out approach (Best for non-fiction)
- Act I-show or set up your problem.
- Dive deeper into the story.
- Come to conclusion.
- Act Structure (works best for fiction)
5. Outline each chapter. Now that you know your genre, theme, characters, and basic structure mapped out, it's time to get into the overall flow. Zoom into each chapter one-by-one and creating a summary of what you want to happen. Get as detailed as you'd like here. Review your summaries to see if it flows. Keep in mind that a book might come across as monotone if nothing happens in the middle. Have mini conflicts and resolutions along the way. Characters should develop as you go. Did they go and change throughout the story? Why and how? Mix things up, show us their flaws and gifts, make the reader either root for or feel frustrated with a character; they are just as important as the plot.
Here are some links to have to set up your chapters.
How to Outline a Chapter Templates and Techniques
Chapter Outlines: How to Plan Each Section of your Book
What is your favorite part in the writing process? Let us know in the comments below.
Happy writing!
