How to Write a Novel Outline

Congratulations on the momentous decision to start writing a novel! I hope your brain is brimming with plot ideas and character arcs. The start of a new writing project should feel exhilarating! Take a moment, a breath, and lean in to that excitement. Writing a novel is an adventure—some parts will feel like a fun vacation, while others may find you meandering and lost. While there’s no one right way to write a novel, as all writers have a unique process that evolves with experience, there are ways to make the novel writing process easier on yourself. Just as adventures are often smoother with a bit of advanced planning, writing a novel may prove less daunting if you take the time to draft a novel outline before you begin writing.
 
Starting a novel by opening a blank document and staring at a blinking cursor can feel like attempting to hike the Pacific Crest Trail without a map and while wearing flip-flops. When I wrote my first novel, that’s exactly what I did. I didn’t have an outline, just a head full of ideas and the (naïve) hope that everything would somehow fall into place. It took a year to finish my first draft, which isn’t bad. However, my draft was a mess, which made revising it even more grueling. Without an outline to guide me, I faced plot points that didn’t align, character inconsistencies that unraveled across 300 pages, and a story that needed multiple revisions to make sense. Revision was a long, arduous process–one that made me wish I’d planned things out from the start.
 
When it was time to tackle my next novel, I knew I had to do things differently. I began by writing fifty discovery draft pages, allowing the story to unfold naturally and my characters to come alive on their own terms. Then, I created a broad overview of the major plot points and central conflict, followed by a detailed chapter-by-chapter outline. The difference was transformative. With a guiding structure in place, my writing felt more purposeful, and I avoided many of the pitfalls that had plagued my first book.
 
In this article, I’ll take you through various methods of novel outlining, from traditional approaches to more flexible techniques. We’ll explore how you can create a framework that works for your unique writing process. Whether you prefer meticulous planning or a looser structure that still leaves room for discovery, you’ll learn how an outline can provide direction, help maintain consistent character arcs, and ensure your plot develops cohesively. My goal is to offer you tools to write with greater confidence, momentum and clarity—all while keeping your creativity intact.

The Merits of Novel Outlining: How Outlining Can Improve Your Writing Process

For a long time, I resisted the idea of outlining a novel. I believed in letting my stories emerge naturally, and I feared that too much planning would strangle the creativity out of my writing process. But after struggling through the chaotic mess of revisions on my first novel, I knew there had to be a better way. As much as I tried to deny it, there is wisdom in having a plan. (If you listen closely, you may hear me laughing at myself. Still.) As I started researching various ways to plan a novel, I realized, outlining isn’t about stifling creativity; it’s about setting up guardrails that keep your story from veering off course. Here are some reasons why outlining can make all the difference:
 

• Clarity and Direction – Writing a novel is exhilarating, but it’s also an undertaking. Novels are long, and writing one typically takes months or even years. So, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of your own story. An outline acts as a compass, keeping you on track even when the journey gets confusing. Instead of constantly trying to think up what happens next or how to weave your subplots together on the fly, an outline provides you with a guide to follow. This clarity and direction will not only save time, it also frees up your mental space, allowing you to focus on the actual writing rather than stressing over plot holes.
• Time and Efficiency – Think of outlining as a long-term investment. It may take extra time up front, but it pays off in dividends in the long run. Without an outline, you might spend weeks or months writing scenes that eventually get scrapped because they don’t fit your narrative. Without an outline, you’ll have to kill a lot of darlings during revisions. When you plan ahead, you’ll reduce the risk of major structural issues that require countless rewrites.
• Plot and Character Development – One of the biggest challenges I faced while revising my first novel was maintaining consistent character development and a cohesive plot. Characters who started out well intended and interesting, inexplicably, lost their drive and direction by the midpoint. Major plot twists that felt brilliant in the moment fizzled out because I hadn’t laid the groundwork. An outline helps you avoid these pitfalls by giving broad scope view of your story. You can map out character arcs, ensure each plot point builds on the last, and create a narrative that flows smoothly from beginning to end.
• Creative Sparks Still Fly – Release any fears that outlining has to be rigid or prescriptive. For my second novel, I developed a method that kept me excited about what I was writing, while also helping me to write with intention. My novel outlining method still allowed me the freedom to make changes as inspiration struck. This process is not meant to be limiting; the goal is to assist you in being successful. It’s about finding what works for you—what keeps you motivated and inspired to keep writing. Getting to write “The End” is never assured when you begin a draft. A novel outline may be the help you need.

The Plotter vs. Pantser Debate

 If you’ve spent time around other fiction writers, you’ve probably heard the terms “plotter” and “pantser.” Plotters are writers who plan everything out before starting Chapter One, while pantsers “fly by the seat of their pants,” and prefer to discover the story as they go. Fear not, you don’t have to choose one over the other. The reality is many writers, myself included, find themselves somewhere in between—a hybrid approach that balances planning and discovery. Understanding where you fall on this spectrum can help you choose an outlining method that fuels your creativity rather than extinguishing it.

Traditional Approaches to Outlining

 When it comes to outlining a novel, there are many tried and true methods to choose from. Writers are as unique as their stories, and the best outline for you depends on your creative process and the type of story you’re telling. If you’ve never written a novel outline before, starting one may seem almost as daunting as writing the novel itself. Don’t be intimidated! The key is to be open, flexible, and willing to play around until you discover what supports your writing process the most.
 
For some writers, a highly detailed novel blueprint is their map to success, while others prefer a loose, malleable framework. If you’re unsure which type of outline will work best for you, that’s perfectly okay. Experiment with different methods until you find a fit that feels right for you and the book you’re trying to write. What worked for one project might not suit your next, and that’s why it’s helpful to explore a variety of techniques.
 
Here are some examples of popular novel outlining methods:

The Traditional Novel Outline

 The traditional novel outline is a detailed, often scene-by-scene or chapter-by-chapter breakdown of your entire novel. This method is a great fit for writers who thrive on detailed structure and want a clear map of where their story is headed from beginning to end. When I outlined my second novel, I created a chapter-by-chapter guide that included key plot points, character motivations, and how each scene moved the story forward. My outline also included a summary of how my novel would end. I felt more confident as I wrote my first draft, because I knew where my story was headed.
 
Pros: The traditional outline provides a comprehensive guide to your novel, reducing the likelihood of plot holes, character inconsistencies, and meandering scenes. It can also keep you motivated, because you’ve already planned what comes next.
 
Cons: The traditional outline may feel restrictive to writers who like to discover story organically. Hardcore pantsers are particularly against this model. Also, if you have perfectionist tendencies, be cautious and kind to yourself. If you stray too far from the outline, you might feel like you’re failing or need to start over. (You don’t!)
 
Test drive this method: Take one chapter of your novel and create a detailed scene-by-scene outline. Focus on what happens, why it matters, and how it moves the plot forward.

The Three-Act Structure

 The Three-Act Structure is a classic outlining approach often used in screenwriting. It divides your story into three main sections: Setup, Confrontation, and Resolution. Act One (Setup) introduces the main characters and central conflict, Act Two (Confrontation) raises the stakes and intensifies the struggles of your characters, and Act Three (Resolution) reveals the climax and resolution of your story. This method is widely used for a reason—it mirrors the natural arc of storytelling and keeps readers engaged.
 
Pros: The Three-Act Structure provides a strong framework that ensures your story has a satisfying plot arc. This method is easy to adapt to almost any genre.
 
Cons: This novel outline may feel formulaic if followed too rigidly. Writers who like to break traditional conventions may feel constrained.
 
Test drive this method: Sketch out your novel’s three acts on a piece of paper. Label key turning points, like the inciting incident, midpoint, and climax. Then, add a sentence or two about what happens in each section.

The Beat Sheet

 The Beat Sheet is another outlining method inspired by screenwriting. It breaks down your story into key “beats” or moments that drive the narrative forward. This method is great for writers who like a blend of structure and flexibility. Each beat represents a pivotal moment—from the inciting incident to the climax and resolution—allowing you to set the rhythm and pacing of your story.
 
Pros: The Beat Sheet outline keeps your story focused and well-paced. It’s an efficient way to outline without planning every single detail prior to writing your draft.
 
Cons: Because you’ll need to fill in specifics as you draft, The Beat Sheet outline may feel too lacking in structure for writers who need more details to write effectively.
 
Test drive this method: Draft a list of your novel’s major beats, from the opening image to the closing scene. Write one or two sentences for each beat, outlining what happens and how it affects your protagonist and/or antagonist.

The Snowflake Method

 The Snowflake Method, originally developed by Randy Ingermanson, is a step-by-step approach that builds your story from a simple idea to a complex, multi-layered novel outline. You start with a one-sentence summary of your novel, then expand that into a paragraph, then into a page, and so on, gradually adding detail to your characters and plot. This method is great for writers who need to build up their ideas in a structured but manageable way.
 
Pros: The Snowflake Method can help you develop a deep understanding of your story’s structure and themes. This expanding method is useful for writers who feel overwhelmed by the prospect of planning an entire novel all at once.
 
Cons: The gradual buildup of The Snowflake Method may feel tedious for writers who prefer to dive into the action of their stories.
 
Test drive this method: Write a one-sentence summary of your novel’s core idea. Then expand it into a one-paragraph synopsis, and next one-page. As you continue developing the story, add details about your protagonist, main conflict, and major plot points.

The Mind Map

 If you’re a visual person, mind mapping might be your ideal outlining method. Instead of a linear novel outline, The Mind Map creates a web of interconnected ideas. You start with a central concept—like your protagonist or central theme—and branch out to related characters, subplots, and conflicts. This method allows you to see the big picture and explore relationships between different elements of your story.
 
Pros: The Mind Map is great for brainstorming and seeing the overall structure of your novel. It’s flexible and easy to adapt as your story evolves.
 
Cons: The Mind Map can become overwhelming or disorganized if not managed carefully. It’s less structured, which may make it harder to translate into a novel draft. I’d suggest beginning with a mind map as a brainstorming technique, and then creating a more linear outline before you begin writing your draft.
 
Test drive this method: Choose one central element of your story, like your protagonist, antagonist or central conflict, and create a mind map. Draw branches to related subplots, characters, and key moments. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect; this is a brainstorming exercise.

Alternative Approaches to the Novel Outline

 If the more traditional approaches of novel outlining aren’t working for you or your story, here are some alternate approaches to outlining for you to consider:

Focus on Emotional Arcs

• Instead of only outlining plot points, create a novel outline that tracks the emotional journey of your protagonist. Identify key emotional shifts, moments of vulnerability, and how each character’s internal growth drives the story forward.
• Create an emotional resonance map by listing the emotional goal for each scene (e.g., fear, hope, relief) and outline how that emotion affects the character’s decisions and the plot’s direction.

 
Nonlinear Outlining

• Rather than starting from the beginning, try outlining out of order. First, outline your favorite or most pivotal scenes, then work on connecting them. These scenes can act as anchors, and you outline around them to maintain tension and momentum throughout the story. This method can spark creativity and give you a clearer picture of what excites you most about the story. (Hint: What excites you most to write will often excite your readers, too!)
• Try puzzle piece outlining by writing key scenes or moments on index cards or Post-it notes and arrange them in different orders to see how the narrative flows best. This method is great for unconventional narratives or those with multiple timelines.
• Outline in reverse by writing your story’s ending and then work backward to the beginning. This approach can help ensure all plot points build toward a satisfying conclusion and can reveal gaps or inconsistencies. Some writers find it extremely helpful to start at the end, and move their characters back to the beginning.

 
Outlining for Multiple POVs

• Try POV color coding by assigning a color to each point-of-view character and outline their scenes using those colors. This can help you balance multiple narratives and ensure each character gets the appropriate amount of attention.
• Create a detailed timeline that shows where and how different POV characters’ narratives overlap or intersect. This method is especially useful for complex, multi-character stories. 

Choosing the right outlining method is about knowing what works for you as a writer and best serves the novel you’d like to write. Maybe you thrive on the structure of a traditional outline, or perhaps the freedom of a mind map sparks your best ideas. Remember, your novel outline is a helpful tool, not a set of strict rules. It can evolve as your characters surprise you or as your plot takes unexpected turns.

How to Outline a Novel: A Step-by-Step Guide

 Creating a novel outline for the first time may seem intimidating, but I’m here to help break the process down into manageable steps. 

• Step 1: Brainstorming – Let your imagination run wild. This is the exploratory phase where you jot down all of the story ideas floating around in your head. Try freewriting about your characters or major plot points. Don’t think about organizing anything yet—this is about capturing the raw material that will eventually shape your story. When I brainstorm, I give myself permission to explore without pressure or expectations. Anything goes; write everything down.
• Step 2: Identifying Core Story Elements – Once you’ve gathered your ideas, start identifying the core elements of your novel, including the main plot, subplots, main characters, setting and any overarching themes. Ask yourself questions like, “What is my protagonist’s goal?” and “What is the central conflict?” Knowing these elements will give your outline a solid foundation.
• Step 3: Choosing an Outlining Method – Now that your story is starting to take form choose an outlining method that works for you. Pick the approach that you believe is best suited to your story. Remember, you can always mix and match methods to create your own hybrid outline.
• Step 4: Drafting Your Novel Outline – It’s time to draft your outline! How detailed you get is up to you, but try to include enough information to keep you on track while leaving room for experimentation and surprises. Remember, your outline is not a binding contract, and it’s likely to change as you draft your novel.
• Step 5: Revising the Outline – Just like your novel, your outline may need revisions. As your characters and plot develop, feel free to revise sections of your outline. As you draft your novel, your story will evolve and your outline should reflect that. Refreshing and refining your outline can also reignite your enthusiasm for the story and help you overcome creative blocks. 

Additional Resources for Outlining a Novel

Exploring various approaches to novel outlining can significantly enhance your writing process. I have favorite methods that I return to, but I also experiment with new methods whenever I begin a new project. I’m always discovering and testing new ways to make writing easier and more enjoyable experience. While I’ve provided you with overviews of various outlining techniques to get you started, here are some recommended resources to expand your knowledge of novel outlining:
 
Craft Books:

• Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody – A popular and practical guide based on the popular screenwriting method, adapted specifically for novelists.
• The Snowflake Method by Randy Ingermanson – A detailed explanation of the Snowflake Method written by the originator.
• Story Engineering by Larry Brooks – This book that delves into the structure of storytelling, and offers a comprehensive approach to novel outlining.
• The Anatomy of Story by John Truby – A craft book that explores story structure and character development.
• Story Genius by Lisa Cron – A personal favorite! This unique craft book emphasizes the psychological and emotional underpinnings of storytelling to help writers outline with a focus on character-driven plots.
• The Plot Whisperer by Martha Alderson – A transformative text that provides techniques for crafting a compelling plot while also understanding your character’s emotional journey.
• The Story Template by Amy Deardon – Another structured approach to outlining, complete with templates to help organize your story elements.

 Writing / Novel Outline Software:

• Scrivener – Writing software that allows you to organize your notes, research, and outline all in one place.
• Plottr – A visual outlining tool that lets you map out your story and character arcs.
• Dabble – All-in-one novel writing program where you can create plan and outline your novel.

 Podcasts on Outlining a Novel:

• The Creative Penn Podcast: In the episode titled “Outlining Your Novel and Filling the Creative Well with K.M. Weiland,” host Joanna Penn discusses the benefits of outlining with author K.M. Weiland, providing practical advice for writers.
• The Authorpreneur Podcast: This series offers a comprehensive look at outlining, including episodes like “From Idea to Outline: How to Outline a Novel,” where the host shares a step-by-step guide to developing a novel outline.
• Writing a Novel Podcast: Hosted by Matt Gemmell, this podcast features an episode on “Outlining,” discussing various methods and their applications in the writing process.
• The Merry Writer Podcast: In the episode “What Are Some Novel Outlining Methods? Ep. 154,” the hosts explore different outlining techniques, helping writers find the approach that suits them best.

 Outlining a novel is as much about discovering what works best for you as it is about structuring your story. Whether you’re a meticulous plotter, a carefree pantser, or somewhere in between, there’s an outlining method that will support your creative needs. The goal is to find a process that makes your writing experience more enjoyable and purposeful.
 
As you write, your story will likely surprise you, and that’s part of the magic of storytelling. Be flexible and willing to adapt your outline as your characters evolve and your plot develops. It’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned—some of the best story moments happen when you follow your instincts. (But that doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from an outline!)
 
If you’re new to outlining, start by playing around with different techniques, experiment with exercises, and see what sparks your imagination. Give yourself permission to revise your outline whenever you need to.
 
Trust your instincts, enjoy the writing adventure, and remember: no matter how you choose to outline, the most important thing is that you keep writing. The story you’re meant to tell is waiting; you just have to start writing!

Write a Novel Outline at Writers.com

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