Are you planning on writing a novel? Then you would know how much of an arduous task it is. Many writers are stymied by numerous blockades that hamper their way of writing a flawless story. Let’s just say that the plot construction is one of the major setbacks they have to write about every time. However, if you have already decided to embark on this journey of writing a novel, you need to follow some significant steps. We hope that the following tips will help you map out an appropriate plotline for your next masterpiece.
Whether you are planning on self-publishing your first novel or even working on the first draft of your next novel, the do’s and don’ts given below will guide you in mapping out the story of your upcoming novel while enhancing your writing skills. Mapping out your novel involves a step-by-step guide. It is a multi-step process with different approaches and schools of thought. The following steps will help all types of writers with different experiences.
1. Create ideas
The first and the most important step in mapping out a novel is to come up with creative ideas for the story. Whether you want to brainstorm, free write, or work with writing prompts, you need to pick up whatever approach best suits you. Remember to choose wisely at this core stage, as the essence of the entire novel rests on the foundation of an incredible plot generation. Next up, do not forget to go for a strong premise as it forms the basis for an extraordinary plot.
2. A Coaxing Premise
Try beginning with an enticing baseline for your plot that lures the reader in. However, at the same time, it should also be as simple as it can be, allowing the readers not to get entangled with the twists and turns in the beginning. Once you successfully grab the reader’s attention, it’s time for you to move on to the basic story. One of the most commendable techniques to develop a catchy premise is the snowflake method. Here, you start with the story’s basic theme that moves forward, creating every other aspect of the story along with the characters landing on the bigger picture.
3. A Clear Conflict
The next step for you would be to create a clear conflict in the story as it moves forward. This will act as an anchor for your plot, giving it a strong narrative. For instance, Harry Potter is a series of seven books that revolve around a central conflict between the protagonist, Harry Potter, and Lord Voldemort, the villain.
4. Develop Subplots
Once you’ve got your hands on the basic storyline or your main plot, it is time for you to create subplots to make it more stimulating. You can make your subplots character-specific with a separate backstory waiting to be unfolded. In this way, you can seamlessly weave your subplots into the main story.
5. Make Connections
Make sure that all aspects of your story are connected, and your characters are consistent with your plot and subplots. Remember to create a rational progression in your story where one scene and character elicits the next one.\
6. Refine the Edges
This step refers to tying up loose ends and filling in the plot holes in your story. This calls for editing your outline, which is something a writer should keep doing throughout their writing process.
Learning how to map out a novel refers to developing an understanding of the most significant elements of an astounding plot. Hope that this step-by-step guide will help you engage your readers right from the first chapter.