You, like me, have probably learned about all about the different types of novel writing outlines. I have tried following all of them at one time or another.

While they’re all wonderful, I felt like Goldilocks with them all; none of them fit just right.

Here’s what I discovered after all the trial and error. Now, what I’m about to share with you works for me. I’m not saying it’s the right way or even that it’s the right way for you. However, if you’re looking for an alternative to the restriction of an outline, maybe you’ll like the way I write my novels.

My Novel Writing Method

After I’ve come up with the description of my story, have chosen character names, traits, and storylines, and I’m ready to begin writing the book, here’s what I do.

• For each chapter I’m about to begin, I grab a few index cards which I buy at the dollar store.
• On one card, I write a few sentences on what I want to happen in that chapter, making sure that there’s at least one reward, no matter how small. If you have a payoff for each chapter, your reader will keep turning the pages. No one wants to turn page after page without anything exciting happening, or without seeing your main characters want something and getting it. Now, that doesn’t mean to give away the story, it simply means that you need to give your reader some satisfaction in each and every chapter.
• On another card, I’ll have three or four bullet points and list in order, the main happenings of the chapter. Ex. Mary goes to see her grandfather. Grandfather reacts negatively. Mary is ready to storm out, knowing it was a mistake to come. Joe comes in who Mary thought was dead. See how there’s a bit of a payoff happening? Just before Mary leaves without accomplishing anything, someone she thought was dead appears, making the reader want to know more.

For every chapter in my book, this is my process. This way I can create and develop as I go along and always make sure there is rarely a dull moment.

Every four or five chapters, I get a few more index cards and reevaluate. I decide where the story needs to go by doing the process I’ve outlined in the above bulleted points. This way, I always know where the story is going, and it helps me to avoid that dreaded boring middle of the book which can happen.

I hope this gives you an easier way to prepare to write your book. Many people have told me they want to write but get caught up in the outline and don’t know when to start. I love this way because I don’t have to spend forever outlining, limiting my creativity throughout the book.

It gives me some structure but still affords me the freedom to create as I go.

Give it a try.

Happy Writing

Gina