Question via Twitter:
@plotwhisperer So what’s the best way to plot as you write for those of us who are pantsers but need to meet deadlines? 🙂 @JillKentAuthor Jillian Kent
Answer via Blogger:
Your query is a bit like hearing two non-harmonious sounds clash together — Plot and Pansters.
1) Every story, whether written by a plotter or a pantser, must fulfill basic needs demanded by a reader — something must happen (dramatic action plot) to someone (character emotional plot) in a meaningful way (thematic plot) = PLOT — the noun. Thus, whether you plan it out ahead of time or write to discover as you go, your ultimate goal is to fulfill these basic requirement.
My first suggestion requires discipline so I am reluctant to use it. Somewhere along the line in history, discipline went from having at its core disciple to being a form of punishment. “You will be disciplined for breaking the rules.”
So instead, why not apply the word ritualto what I suggest. Create for yourself a sacred ritual.
One time a day, everyday, preferably at the same time and place every session, write.
Another time of day, everyday, preferably at the same time and place every session study plot.
If you’re a pantser, you’ll like balk at lots of what you read both for how the information is presented and for the information itself. Lots of it will feel confusing and jarring, counter-intuitive.
Search for doors you’re drawn to open when it comes to the new plot ideas. Explore the concepts. Look for them in your favorite books. Determine what authors you admire do to create in you admiration for their writing. The more you understand basic plot and structure based on the Universal Story, the more inclined you may become to plot — the verb.
I wrote The Plot Whisperer book for women just like you, Jillian. Lots of my very best friends and family are right-brain, big picture creative, female pantser. Women who fly by the seat of their pants as they are constantly attempting to bring to material form the whimsy their imaginations whisper. I wrote the book for them and for you…
For more support about plot:
and visit:
Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook(we hope you “like” it)
Plot Whisperer on Twitter
Hi Martha,
I'm writing book 3 that must be turned into editor by April 1st. Just turned in book 2 so I'm really trying to figure out how this pantser can plot quickly to write a more solid novel that won't need so many revisions that I miss my deadline. I've got the book. I like the way you have it set up. Any other words of wisdom?
amamzing post! i am so thankful to you! quite informative and interesting as well… appreciate your efforts!
Hi Jillian,
I incorrectly assumed your deadline was nanowrimo imposed.
Are the three books connected? If so, how?
Let me know and then stay tuned. I have help…
Thanks term paper writing services,
You always say such nice things!
Me a year up to two weeks ago? – full of ideas but overwhelmed with making a coherent story. Me one week ago? – devouring Martha's book. Me this morning? – all those ideas and a few more marry the Plot structure in Martha's book, and – finally finally it is clear to me what and where the elements need to go. Side benefit – sense of block is replaced by flow of words to page. Thank you Martha.
Hi Christine,
I LOVE reading your comments! Thank you.
I wish you would cut and paste your words into an Amazon review for the Plot Whisperer book…
Just a thought and desire.
Thanks again.
martha
aka
plot whisperer
Great advice! I came here via Brenda Drake's post about you. 🙂
Great idea. Amazon done! It will appear as soon as Amazon okays it.Thanks for suggesting it.
And if there's another place or time you'd like to use my words of thanks, please don't hesitate to email me with what you'd like to use, and I will return with my consent.
Many thanks to the person who made this post, this was very informative for me. Please continue this awesome work
Hi Sharon,
I just now thanked Brenda for mentioning me and The Plot Whisperer book in her post.
Thank you, Sharon, for letting me know.
Glad you stopped by!
You're welcome here anytime…
Thanks, Christine!
I know people have differing options about the value of reviews, but I always read them and appreciate the opportunity to consider other readers' opinions in making up my own mind…
I am deeply appreciative that you took the time and trouble…
Thank you!!
Thanks for commenting, writing career…