Planning out your novel

So this post is hitting a little late, but fret not, (winks) I have such a surprise for you all!

I have been battling this head cold for the past week and it’s one that has about knocked me on my ass, so when I woke up this morning, the blog post completely slipped my cold-medicine-drugged mind.  Leave it to a few of you not to let me forget altogether though!  (laughs)

Last week we talked about research and the importance of making sure it’s completed for your novel.  Research is a key part in the development of said piece and following behind that is your outline.

How do you go about planning your novel?  Are you a “fly by the seat” type of writer?  Do you like to plan each chapter out, list details that need to be included every step of the way?  Or are you more of one that jots down a few things and takes it from there?  You know, a mixture of both?

Different styles are used all the time and depending on the type of book you’re writing, the type of writer you are, and the time you have to dedicate to the manuscript, any of these styles will work. 

Within my crime and paranormal series, I outline my pieces.  I have to; there are just way too many details in order for me not to do it this way.  I find that with an outline as well, I don’t run into hang ups on what scene needs to come next.  It’s already there, listed out as a guide to draw me along. 

Each writer will do things differently and it’s up to you, as the creator of your new world and characters, to find that balance for what you need and how you want to get it accomplished.  There are no set rules for how a writer develops and puts their work together. Writers are considered artists, and within the art, or craft as some may call it, there is the need for creativity, originality, and most importantly…drive.

What’s the best way you get your novel ready?