Author Paige Badgett
"How do you write your novels?" This is a popular question I am asked. And if the person asking is familiar with writing methods, they might also ask, "Are you a plotter or a pantser?
Plotters are known for creating detailed outlines and mapping out their stories in advance, while "pantsers" dive headfirst into the unknown, crafting narratives without a set plan (i.e. "flying by the seat of their pants"). Throughout my writing journey, I have discovered that both approaches are valuable and can inspire a vastly different creative experience.
The structured plotter’s perspective
Plotters thrive on the clarity that structure provides. They often craft outlines that can encompass everything from character development to key plot points. This structured approach helps them visualize the entire narrative, improving both focus and organization.
I took this approach with my second novel, publishing in Spring 2025. The idea of the story had been living in my mind for years, but each time I sat to write it, something felt off. I didn't have a solid picture in my mind of my female main character, so each time I began to write, I could not see a believable plot in front of me.
I had taken the "pantser" approach to my first novel, Against Every Expectation, but I quickly realized that with my second, I needed to "see" my characters, their arcs, and the full plot worked out in my mind before I could begin.
When I began, the only two scenes I could "see" were the first and the last. But the entire journey between the two was fuzzy. Detailed outlining helped me see that full picture, identify plot holes early, and allow me to eventually begin writing. Once I had the full outline, I wrote the book in 30 days.
The freedom of being a "pantser"
In stark contrast, pantsers revel in the spontaneity of writing. They often dive into their stories with no clear direction, letting creativity guide them. This approach can lead to surprising discoveries and twists that may not surface through the structured plotting method. For example, a novelist might start with a vague idea of a character's journey and find their story evolving unexpectedly. This organic process can be exhilarating, with themes unfolding in real-time, creating a dynamic writing experience.
Because I did not know what I would do with my first book (whether I would submit it to an agent or publisher, or even FINISH it), I had the full freedom of a pantser. I had no idea if the book would ever even be read by another living being, and so I simply followed by gut and my characters on a merry chase through the story.
However, the pantser method isn’t without challenges. I dealt with frequent bouts of writer's block, and my first drafts needed extensive revisions to achieve coherence. Without a roadmap, it can be easy to stray into tangents that dilute the main narrative thread, miss completing the arc of an important character, or dig a deep plot hole that you can't even see from your vantage point.
Writing tips
I imagine that the future of my writing will be a merging plotting and pantsing. A hybrid approach will allow me to harness the benefits of structured planning while still embracing flexibility and creativity.
Here are some tips to get you started on your writing journey:
Experiment with Both Approaches: Try drafting a story using an outline and then another one without. Reflect on what you enjoyed about each process.
Create a Flexible Outline: If you lean towards plotting, allow flexibility in your outline. Embrace deviations that feel right during the writing process.
Stay Open to Change: Remain adaptable. Your writing style may evolve, and I am finding that this is part of the growth as a writer.
Set Goals: Be clear about your writing objectives. Goals help keep you focused and motivated, guiding you through both structured and spontaneous stages. I really enjoy journaling during my writing process.
Your unique journey
The contrasting styles of plotting and pantsing both offer unique strengths and challenges. Regardless of whether you prefer meticulous outlining or spontaneous exploration, the most important thing is to choose what feels right for you. Embrace the process, be open to experimentation, and watch your writing flourish.
Happy writing!
