Are you planning to write a novel? If so, maybe you should consider preparing an outline first. Even if you’re already fully immersed in the process, an outline could still prove beneficial — especially if you’re starting to feel stuck or wondering where to take your characters next.
Here are five benefits of using an outline when writing fiction:
- Outlines provide an opportunity to think through and write out your plot. This will allow you to see holes in the plot; to think through any complicated plot lines; and to realize what will and will not work.
- Outlines help you keep track of locations, days, times, etc. so that your work is consistent and readers can follow along without confusion.
- Outlines help you avoid writer’s block, because you know where your characters are going and what’s supposed to happen in the book.
- Outlines help you develop authentic characters, because they give you a chance to think about who the character is and to stay true to what the character would or would not do.
- Outlines help you avoid unnecessary tangents and irrelevant subplots that do not contribute to character development or help push the story along.
One common misconception is that an outline will prevent the writer from being spontaneous. However, an outline can always be changed if you decide to take your story or the subplots in a different direction. The outline can be changed as often as necessary. And revising your outline will help you think through and receive all the other benefits listed above for your new story line(s).
Also, keep in mind that an outline can be created even if you’ve already started writing your novel. It will actually give you a great opportunity to review the key settings, characters and story lines you’ve already written and develop plot lines that are consistent as move your story forward to the intended conclusion.