How to Outline

Authoring a novel is exciting, but let’s face it, few writing projects are more challenging.

The key to a successful novel often lies in the preparation – and that starts with creating a well-structured outline.

Let’s explore how to craft an outline that will serve as the blueprint for your novel and a clear roadmap to guide you as you write.

Define Your Genre and Audience
Before you begin outlining your novel, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your target audience and the genre you’re writing in. Different genres have specific conventions and reader expectations. Knowing your audience and genre will help you tailor your outline to meet those expectations.

Start with a Hook
Every great novel begins with a compelling hook that captures the reader’s attention from the very beginning. Consider how you want to grab your readers’ interest and introduce the core conflict or theme of your story in your outline’s opening.

Create a Character Sheet
Your characters are the heart and soul of your novel. Develop detailed character profiles for your main characters, including their names, backgrounds, and motivations. Understanding your characters inside and out will make it easier to plot their arcs throughout the story.

And yes, tabletop roleplaying game sheets make handy and effective references for keeping track of your characters.

Sketch the Plot
Begin by outlining your book’s major plot points. Start with the inciting incident – the event that sets your story in motion – then list the key events and turning points that will drive the narrative forward. Consider using a three-act structure as a guideline, but don’t be afraid to adapt it to suit your story’s unique needs.

As frequent readers know, I’m quite fond of Seven-point Plot Structure.

Subplots and Secondary Characters
In addition to the main plot, incorporate subplots and secondary characters that add depth and complexity to your story. These added layers, if interwoven with the main plot properly, help keep readers engaged.

Author Dan Wells gives some great examples of how to do this in the videos above. In short, what you want to do is make multiple characters’ inflection points coincide, but make them different points. For example, one character’s pinch should be another’s twist, etc.

Setting and World-Building
Describe the settings and world building elements necessary for your story. Whether your novel is set in a real-world location or a fictional universe, create a clear picture of the environments, rules, and cultures that exist within your story’s world.

Always remember: Clarity >>>>>>> cleverness!

Build Tension and Conflict
An unputdownable novel thrives on tension and conflict. Ensure that your outline includes moments of rising tension and obstacles that challenge your characters. This will keep readers turning pages to see how conflicts are resolved. Make sure to interweave characters’ inciting incidents, turns, pinches, resolutions, etc.

Plan Your Ending
Know where your story is heading. Outline the climax, resolution, and any loose ends that need tying up. Your ending should provide a satisfying conclusion to your readers while addressing the story’s central conflicts.

“But what if I’m a pantser?” That’s fine. Since you’ll be outlining after finishing the first draft to guide your second, you’ll already know the ending and how everyone got there. Proceed as normal.

Consider Themes and Symbolism
Think about the themes and symbols you want to explore in your novel. Integrate them seamlessly throughout the narrative to invite surprising yet inevitable “Aha!” moments.

Pro tip: Stained glass windows don’t have subtitles. (h/t Dean Koontz.)

Flexibility is Key
While an outline provides structure, don’t be afraid to deviate from it if your story takes unexpected turns. Sometimes, the best ideas come to you during the writing process. Be open to adapting your outline as needed.

Whether you’re an architect or a pantser, creating a solid outline is an essential step in the novel-writing process. It’s your guiding light, keeping you on track and helping you maintain focus as you bring your story to life.

Remember that your outline is a tool to support your creativity, not a rigid framework. With a solid blueprint in hand, you’re well-equipped to start building your book with confidence.

Of course, not even the best outline can impart full objectivity about your work. That’s where I can help. For a pro editor who can work with you to bring readers your best possible story, get in touch now.

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