With this template strategy and examples as your handy guidebook for how to plot out a novel, you can breathe life into your initial idea, transforming it into a robust and compelling narrative that can enchant readers. If your book idea does not fit into the template, we have given you fixing pointers with which you can work better. You can, however, always seek our assistance if you are having difficulty writing a book. Simply contact our writing services team.
Blog
- Blog
Structuring Your Novel: Plot Development and Outline Techniques
Hello, writing enthusiasts. A while back, we discussed how to start writing a book in the simplest possible way, and now, we’re going to break down our template and technique planning for how to plot out a novel or a fiction book for those needing clarification about this topic, the basics of planning a novel’s framework, which puts all the pieces perfectly in place so that the novel flows smoothly from the beginning to the end.
Ready? Let’s get started.
How To Come Up With A Plot for Your Story Step One Is to Prepare a Template
Start by crafting a story template. Preparing a story template is like creating a straightforward guide to transform the vivid images in your mind into words on a page. Start by noting down key components like this:
| Lead Character: | The one taking charge of the story. |
| Starting Point: | What’s normal at the beginning? |
| Desire: | What does your character want? |
| Conflict: | What messes up the normal situation? |
| Unfolding: | What happens next in your story? |
| Climax: | When do things get intense? |
| Wrap-up: | How do things get sorted out? |
Keep your answers short, 1-3 sentences each. Simplicity is key; don’t get caught up in details now.
Practical Example of a Novel’s Template
Perhaps you’re seeking a sample to grasp how your outline should shape up.
Let’s imagine you’re Mary Bronte with an intriguing idea about a mysterious man and a passionate but somewhat reserved woman. If you were outlining Jane Eyre, it might look like this:
| Lead Character: | Jane Eyre is a governess with a tumultuous past in Victorian England. |
| Starting Point: | Jane faces an uncertain future, dependent on her wealthy but cold aunt. |
| Desire: | Seeking independence and fulfillment, Jane aspires to rise above her societal limitations. |
| Conflict: | Jane lands a job at Thornfield Hall, the opulent estate owned by the brooding Mr. Rochester. |
| Unfolding: | Encounters with Mr. Rochester unveil his enigmatic nature, sparking a complex dynamic. Jane becomes entangled in a web of secrets, discovering the presence of another woman in the house. |
| Climax: | The revelation that Mr. Rochester is set to marry this mysterious woman shatters Jane’s hopes of a shared future. |
| Wrap-up: | Jane confronts the challenges head-on, refusing to compromise her principles. Ultimately, she discovers the truth about Mr. Rochester’s past and finds a path to true love despite the odds. |
See how simple it can be? This encapsulates the essence of Jane Eyre, providing a clear guide. If you’re unsure about the details, feel free to insert placeholders.
Picture it as constructing a tower without a girder that won’t hinder the structure. Your narrative foundation remains solid by having the essential elements and marking a “girder needs to go here” sign. Don’t worry about separating these into chapters just yet; that can come later when you’re ready to dive deeper into the details of your novel.
We are going to be just too basic, isn’t it? Yes, we agree, but it is what it is. Well, hang on; there is more to read, and we have some details you might need.
How To Plot Out a Novel: Three Acts Method
When creating a plot for a novel, there are several key elements to consider, and various templates and techniques can be used to structure your story.
One popular and straightforward approach is the three-act structure.
A straightforward template with actionable instructions. Simply reading it once will make room in your head for the recommendations, and your creativity will be increased for the next time you plan a novel or fiction book writing project.
Act 1: Opening Setup - Establishing the Foundation
Step 1 - Introduce your main character in their everyday life
This opening act offers readers a glimpse into the day-to-day chores of the main character, allowing them to connect with the central character on a personal level. Simultaneously, vividly paint the backdrop of the story by establishing the setting and presenting the normal routine. This phase sets the stage for the extraordinary events that will follow, grounding the narrative in a relatable reality.
Step 2 - Moving towards Inciting the Incident
Toss a pebble into the calm waters of normalcy with the inciting incident—an unexpected twist that propels your main character into conflict and opportunity. This disruption becomes the catalyst for change, setting the wheels of your narrative in motion.
Step 3 - Start Establishing the Goals
With the narrative gaining momentum, take the time to define your protagonist’s goals and motivations. What does your character aspire to achieve or resolve in the face of the inciting incident? This step provides a clear direction for your story and gives readers a vested interest in the protagonist’s journey.
Step 4 - Meet Key Characters
Introduce the supporting cast that will weave in and out of your protagonist’s journey. These characters are the threads that will enrich your story. As you disclose them, begin to peel back the layers, revealing character traits, flaws, and the dynamics at play. Each character should serve a purpose, contributing to the overall narrative in a unique and meaningful way.
By carefully placing these foundational elements while planning a book or fiction narrative novel, you lay the groundwork for a captivating narrative that will unfold seamlessly in your novel’s subsequent acts.
Act 2: Mid-Journey Conflicts and Challenges
Step 1 - Rising Action
As your book’s second act develops, throw the main character into a series of difficulties and roadblocks. As the strain and stakes increase gradually, the story takes on an energetic feel that draws readers in with a sense of urgency. The protagonist’s struggle to overcome these growing obstacles makes for an exciting and thrilling experience.
Step 1 - Rising Action
The story’s course is changed at this crucial point in the narrative. The protagonist’s perception of their difficulties is altered by an epiphany or turn of events. This pivotal moment gives the story fresh vitality, drawing readers in and causing the storyline to take unexpected turns.
Step 3 - Complications
With the midpoint catalyst in play, introduce additional layers of complexity. New obstacles and conflicts emerge, creating a rich tapestry of challenges for your characters. Setbacks and complications make attaining goals increasingly complex, forcing the protagonist to adapt and evolve.
Step 4 - Dark Moment
The dark moment is a critical phase where the protagonist faces their lowest point. All hope seems lost as they confront their deepest fears or flaws. This emotional nadir adds a layer of poignancy to the story, compellingly contrasting the earlier triumphs and challenges.
Skillfully crafted action, midpoints, complications, and dark moments while planning a novel will guide your readers through a rollercoaster of emotions and challenges, setting the stage for the climactic resolution in the final act of your novel.
Act 3: final Act - Culmination and Transformation
Step 1 - Climax
In the climactic pinnacle of your novel, the story reaches its zenith. This is the most intense and pivotal point, where the protagonist confronts the primary conflict head-on. Emotions run high, and the narrative tension peaks as the characters grapple with the ultimate challenge that has fueled the entire journey.
Step 2 - Resolution of Subplots
As the primary conflict unfolds, take the opportunity to tie up any remaining subplots or character arcs. This is the phase where loose ends are neatly woven together, providing closure for the various narrative threads introduced earlier in the novel.
Step 3 - Final Confrontation
The protagonist faces the ultimate challenge when confronting the primary antagonist or obstacle. This showdown is a culmination of the protagonist’s growth and the obstacles they’ve overcome. The final confrontation serves as the crucible in which the character’s transformation is fully realized.
Step 4 - Conclusion
Following the climactic peak, shift the focus to the aftermath. Explore the consequences of the protagonist’s actions and showcase the resolution of any remaining questions or conflicts. The conclusion allows readers to process the events unfolding and witness their lasting impact on the characters and their world.
Step 5 - Closing Scene
End your story with a closing scene that reflects the new normal or the changed world resulting from the protagonist’s journey. This final image leaves a lasting impression, inviting readers to contemplate the transformative power of the narrative.
Concluding that,
Remember that although this template offers an organized plotting method, you can experiment with different story structures that suit your artistic vision. The key is understanding your characters thoroughly and incorporating their journey into an engaging story arc.
What If Your Story Idea Doesn't Neatly Fit into The Traditional Template or Grid?
What if your attempt at the exercise leaves you staring at a blank canvas? You might have a fantastic concept buzzing in your mind, but it’s just that—a concept. How do you bridge the gap from a mere idea to the intricacies of plot points?
This task gets complicated when you’re attempting to navigate the waters of your first book. Even if you love the tone of your story and have created compelling characters, it might be difficult to figure out how to plot out a novel from these aspects into a coherent storyline.
The hurdles typically manifest in two forms:
1. Plot Understanding: You might not have a comprehensive grasp of your plot’s intricacies.
2. Insufficient Plot Material: There might not be enough substance in your plot to sustain the length of a full-fledged novel.
5 Simple Strategies to Overcome These Challenges
Let’s tackle these challenges with tailored solutions, recognizing that each problem requires a distinct approach.
Approach # 1: How to Plot Out a Novel
Begin by delving deeper into your plot. Ask yourself probing questions about the nuances of your story. What motivates your characters? What conflicts propel the narrative forward? Understanding the intricacies of your plot is the key to navigating this stage.
Approach # 2: How to Plan Out a Story
Consider your initial idea as a seed. Now, nurture it. Expand on character backgrounds, motivations, and conflicts. Envision potential twists and turns. Let the contours of your plot emerge organically as you explore the uncharted territories of your narrative landscape.
Approach # 3: How to Plot a Novel
f you find your plot lacking substance, it’s time to infuse it with depth. Consider introducing additional conflicts, unexpected turns, or subplots. Explore the layers beneath the surface of your initial idea, uncovering hidden dimensions that will captivate your readers.
Approach # 4: How to Come Up with a Plot
Think of your plot as a puzzle—experiment with rearranging the pieces until they form a captivating picture. Don’t be afraid to discard elements that don’t contribute to the overall cohesion. Your goal is to sculpt a plot that engages and sustains interest.
Approach # 5: Planning a Novel
As you navigate this process, remember that planning a novel is a dynamic journey. Embrace the evolution of your plot, allowing it to grow and transform. It’s the delicate art of balancing structure with creative exploration.
Want to learn more about overcoming obstacles and writer’s block when planning to write or how to plot out a novel? You must read this article.
Conclusion
We are an expert ghostwriting team that takes your imagination, adds a thing or two, and turns it into a successful book.