Brandon Sanderson's 9 Step Outlining Method

Summary

In this video, the speaker outlines Brandon Sanderson's nine-step process for crafting a compelling story, using his book 'Skyward' as a visual example. The steps include creating an overview, exploring the setting and worldbuilding, developing characters (main, secondary, and minor), and identifying plot types. The process then moves on to determining an ideal ending, connecting various plotlines, and finally, writing the story by integrating these elements into a cohesive narrative. The speaker emphasizes flexibility in the outlining process while maintaining a solid structure to guide the writing journey.

Takeaways

• 😀 Step 1: Start by creating a brief, single-paragraph overview of your story to set the tone and get the general concept onto paper.
• 😀 Step 2: Explore your story's setting in detail, including world-building, magic systems, technology, cultures, and other significant elements.
• 😀 📚 The setting section should include not only physical details but also cultural and technological aspects that support the story's plot.
• 😀 🔑 Include a 'secret' section for any major twists or mysteries in your world-building that may not be immediately revealed in the plot.
• 😀 👥 Character development is key: break it down into three categories: main characters, secondary characters, and minor characters, each with different levels of detail.
• 😀 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Main characters should have two to five paragraphs dedicated to understanding who they are, their flaws, and their character arcs.
• 😀 📜 Secondary characters should have two to three paragraphs, while minor characters can be described in one to two paragraphs.
• 😀 🧩 Step 6: Identify the different plot archetypes (e.g., A plot, B plot, etc.) that will drive your story, keeping each plot cohesive and connected.
• 😀 🎯 Step 7: Early on, define how you want your story to end, ensuring it’s a satisfying conclusion that will resonate with readers.
• 😀 ✍️ Step 8: Create bullet points for each plot type, focusing on the beginning and ending, then connect them to build a continuous and engaging narrative.
• 😀 📝 Step 9: When writing the actual story, use the bullet points from each plot to guide you, merging them into a cohesive final narrative while maintaining flexibility for creativity.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the first step in Sanderson's nine-step outlining process?

The first step is to create an overview of the story, which is a brief, single-paragraph summary that sets the tone and captures the general concept of the plot. It serves as the tip of the iceberg, providing a high-level view before diving deeper into the details.

How does the setting section contribute to Sanderson's outlining process?

The setting section is crucial for worldbuilding, covering elements such as geography, cultures, technology, magic systems, and any unique features of the story's world. It's designed to provide a reference and foundation, even if some details don't appear directly in the novel.

What should writers consider when outlining characters in the Sanderson method?

In Sanderson's method, characters are outlined in three stages: main characters, secondary characters, and minor characters. The focus is on understanding their flaws, arcs, motivations, and what makes them compelling. Main characters receive in-depth treatment, while secondary and minor characters are addressed with less detail.

Why is it important to determine plot archetypes early in the outlining process?

Identifying plot archetypes early helps define the main and subplots of the story. It allows the writer to study and draw inspiration from similar stories, ensuring that different plotlines work together cohesively and contribute to the overall narrative.

What does Sanderson mean by 'disconnected plots'?

Disconnected plots refer to the individual storylines that emerge from the plot archetypes identified earlier. These plots are outlined separately with their beginning and ending points, and additional bullet points are added to form a continuous and interesting sequence of events.

How does Sanderson combine multiple plotlines into a cohesive narrative?

Sanderson combines multiple plotlines by outlining each one separately and then merging the bullet points from each plot into chapters. This allows for flexibility in writing, ensuring each plotline is addressed while maintaining a smooth flow throughout the narrative.

What role does setting play in a Sanderson-style outline?

Setting plays a foundational role, influencing both the worldbuilding elements and the broader context of the story. It includes details about the environment, societies, technologies, and other aspects that will impact the characters and plot, shaping the world in which the story takes place.

How does Sanderson handle character development in his outlines?

In Sanderson's outlines, character development is mapped out in detail. Each main character is analyzed for their flaws, motivations, and character arc. Secondary and minor characters are also given attention, though with less detail, focusing on their roles in the story.

What is the benefit of finding the ideal ending early in the outlining process?

By determining the ideal ending early, the writer can make sure that the narrative builds toward a satisfying and meaningful conclusion. This clarity helps in shaping the plot, character progressions, and overall structure, ensuring that the ending feels earned and impactful.

What advice does Sanderson offer regarding outlining and writing?

Sanderson advises that outlining is not a separate process from writing but an integral part of it. He emphasizes flexibility, allowing writers to adjust the details of each chapter while keeping the overall structure intact. His method balances preparation and creative freedom, offering a structured approach without stifling inspiration.