Writing Tips: Outlining/Plotting Vs Discovery Writing/Pantsing

Summary

In episode 646 of the Creative Pen Podcast, author Joanna Penn discusses different writing approaches for crafting novels. She explores outlining or plotting, which provides structure and efficiency, and Discovery writing or 'pantsing', which allows for organic story development. Penn shares her personal journey as a Discovery writer with a touch of plotting, offering insights into her process and the benefits and challenges of each method. The episode is a valuable resource for writers seeking to understand and refine their own writing practices.

Takeaways

• 😀 Joanna Penn, a thriller author and creative entrepreneur, hosts the Creative Pen Podcast, which offers interviews, inspiration, and information on writing, publishing, and marketing for authors.
• 📚 In episode 646, Joanna shares two chapters from her audiobook 'How to Write a Novel: From Idea to Book', discussing outlining or plotting and discovery writing, also known as 'pantsing' or writing into the dark.
• 📈 Outlining is presented as an efficient method for structuring a novel to maximize emotional impact, allowing writers to create a framework that compels readers to keep reading.
• 🎯 The benefits of outlining include faster first-draft writing, more intricate plots, deeper characters, less rewriting, and faster production time.
• 🚧 Difficulties with outlining can include getting lost in the process, procrastination through preparation, and a fear of writing that might prevent authors from finishing their books.
• 💡 Joanna suggests that if outlining isn't enjoyable, discovery writing might be a better fit, as it allows for more creative freedom and the excitement of not knowing what will happen next in the story.
• 📝 Discovery writing involves writing what comes to mind and figuring out the story as you go, which can lead to organic character and plot development.
• 🤔 The challenges of discovery writing include the risk of writing oneself into a corner, the need to discard scenes or characters, and facing the blank page regularly.
• 👩‍💻 Joanna's personal writing process involves a mix of discovery writing with a touch of plotting, using placeholders and researching as she writes to help shape the story.
• 🔍 She emphasizes the importance of finding a writing process that works for each individual, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach to novel writing.
• 📖 The full audiobook, as well as other formats of 'How to Write a Novel', can be found on Joanna's store and various online platforms, providing a comprehensive guide for authors.

Q & A

What is the main topic of episode 646 of the Creative Pen Podcast?

The main topic of episode 646 is discussing two different approaches to writing a novel: outlining or plotting, and Discovery writing (also known as pantsing or writing into the dark).

Who is the host of the Creative Pen Podcast?

The host of the Creative Pen Podcast is Joanna Penn, a thriller author and creative entrepreneur.

What are the benefits of outlining or plotting as mentioned in the podcast?

Outlining or plotting allows writers to create a framework that compels the audience to keep reading, can result in more intricate plots and twists, deeper characters, less time rewriting, and faster production time. It's also beneficial for co-writing and when working with agents or publishers.

What are the difficulties associated with outlining or plotting according to Joanna Penn?

Some writers get lost in outlining and never actually write the book, some find it boring and never finish, and others may become obsessed with the technicalities and decide writing is too hard, thus giving up.

How does Joanna Penn describe her own writing process?

Joanna Penn describes her writing process as Discovery writing with a touch of plotting. She does not outline in detail and finds that her creative brain works best when not constrained by a strict outline.

What is the term 'Discovery writing' and why does Joanna Penn prefer it over 'pantsing'?

Discovery writing refers to the approach where the writer writes what comes into their head and works out the story along the way. Joanna Penn prefers this term over 'pantsing' because 'pants' in British English means underwear, and she finds the term 'pantsing' inappropriate.

What are the benefits of Discovery writing as discussed in the podcast?

Discovery writing is fun and exciting because it allows the writer to experience the story's development as it unfolds, which can also make the final product interesting for the reader. It also allows for moments of synchronicity and relies on the writer's innate story sense.

What are the potential difficulties of Discovery writing mentioned in the podcast?

Discovery writing can lead to writers getting stuck, writing themselves into corners, discarding words, scenes, characters, and plot points later, and facing the blank page regularly as they might not always know what to write next.

What advice does Joanna Penn give for dealing with the blank page during Discovery writing?

Joanna Penn advises reframing the blank page as a promise of unlimited possibility rather than a fear of the unknown, and trusting the creative voice to guide the writing process.

How does Joanna Penn structure her first draft when Discovery writing?

Joanna Penn does not write in order. She writes whatever scene comes to mind that day or whatever is suggested as the next scene based on what she has already written, and she uses tools like Scrivener to reorder scenes as the plot emerges.

What resources does Joanna Penn recommend for writers who want to learn more about writing a novel?

Joanna Penn recommends her audiobook, ebook, print editions, and workbook titled 'How to Write a Novel' available on her store at creativepenbooks.com, as well as other usual online stores and audiobook platforms.