Outlining for Panster's

[Vaz]

Came across this on the awesome Reddit writing forum. The original poster is a panster type writer who struggles to finish his ideas (like me, and imagine a few others.) They came across this outlining method which worked so I thought I would share.

Look forward to having a crack at it myself

How I learned to outline with plot structure and broke out of a multi-year writing slump • r/writing

 

[tinkerdan]

It's interesting that this is less about outlining than it is about respecting the three act structure.

 

[Wruter]

"Panster's" sounds like something you'd order in a pub. "A pint of Panster's please."

 

[tinkerdan]

Whether Pantser or Outliner I think there could easily be a problem when there is not understanding of the three act structure.

However I think a large number of writers in both types have absorbed this and use it in some subconscious level from what they have read and those that struggle the most with it are likely those who read less.

When taking up writing authors need to read as much as is available in the subject or genre in which they write. In reading they are not just taking in interesting stories, they are learning many things including structure.

 

[Phyrebrat]

I hate the term ' pantser'. Discovery is so more noble

pH

 

[Steve Harrison]

Whether Pantser or Outliner I think there could easily be a problem when there is not understanding of the three act structure.

However I think a large number of writers in both types have absorbed this and use it in some subconscious level from what they have read and those that struggle the most with it are likely those who read less.

When taking up writing authors need to read as much as is available in the subject or genre in which they write. In reading they are not just taking in interesting stories, they are learning many things including structure.

I absolutely agree. I don't outline - except in my head - and all the structural and many other aspects of writing - after years of practise, experience and frustration - are delegated to my subconscious, while I relax and work the keyboard.

 

[Luiglin]

Cheers for the link @Vaz.

After 45k words I've unfortunately lost my pants and at present feel like I'm writing commando.

 

[Wiglaf]

After 45k words I've unfortunately lost my pants and at present feel like I'm writing commando.

Actually, writing commando has its advantages; you don't have to worry about ink smudges on your clothes.

 

[Luiglin]

Actually, writing commando has its advantages; you don't have to worry about ink smudges on your clothes.

Good point, although for me I use a laptop which raises the potential for burns in inappropriate places.

 

[Cathbad]

Good point, although for me I use a laptop which raises the potential for burns in inappropriate places.

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