Getting organised

In the numerous attempts I have made at writing a novel, I handicapped myself through lack of planning. I thought that my writing process would be like a journey into the unknown, that I would meet my characters on the way as the story unfolded. It seemed romantic but I just got lost. Rather than planning getting in the way, I now understand that my lack of it actually stifled my creativity. Or maybe it did. Anyway, this time round I intend to plan thoroughly.

In my search for a recommended planning approach I came across the ‘Snowflake’ method espoused by the physicist and the award-winning author Randy Ingermanson. I found this to be really helpful when planning my own approach to writing my novel. Although what follows seems clear cut, I imagine that in practice I will need to modify the details as I go along.

1. Decide on the idea (fortunately I already have one I believe in)
2. Ongoing: Collect ideas, pictures, feelings, research items, anything I think might have a bearing on what I am writing, I intend to be generous . Keep these very safe, keep them readily accessible, use appropriate software to help.
3. Decide on a working title (I know not everyone likes to do this but I do).
4. Write a one sentence summary (I appreciate the focus this brings).
5. Write a one paragraph summary.
6. Create summary sheets for the main characters. Use a blend of Scrivener's character sketch templates, those suggested by Randy Ingermanson, and my own.
7. Construct an outline of the the novel (consider using a mind-mapping software for this as well), reflecting the the final chapter structure (think of milestones in the story line).
8. Develop the content of the outline in as much detail as possible and desirable - add scenes.
9. Transfer the outline to Scrivener and get cracking on the first draft.

Looks easy on paper doesn't it ?!

Please   email me should you have a comment or query relating to this post.

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