Brainstorming techniques for plotters

All writers are not created equal. While some are fond of jotting down the precise details of every given scene in their manuscripts, others are just as content to do only the most rudimentary plotting before diving headfirst into the act of writing.

For those writers who prefer to plan out the big picture ahead of time, these downloadable worksheets make the brainstorming aspect of story writing more manageable.

The perks of plotting

Plotters make the very act of planning out a story or novel a fine-tuned art. Starting with a structured base from which your story can grow, you can nip plot holes in the bud, keep characters in line, and make sure each scene flows flawlessly from one to the next.

Crafting an elaborate story plan doesn’t mean things won’t change as you sit down to write. But if having a regimented plan of attack helps to keep you on target, don’t be ashamed - embrace your inner architect.

Visual Learning

Worksheets, mindmaps and charts are a perfect fit for writers who learn better through visualization.

By jotting down your thoughts in a more graphically-inspired format, you can truly see how your story will unfold, and be more easily able to make sense of your plot and its characters.

From First Draft to Finished Novel: A Writer's Guide to Cohesive Story Building offers a series of downloadable PDF worksheets that offer instant structure for your story. With sections to outline your characters, setting and plot, they are a great jumping off point for writers who need a little direction.

This Story Organizer worksheet from Education Oasis provides a more visual layout and allows you to see how your characters, the action, and the conflict in your story are all intertwined.
 

The versatility of index cards

For writers who may feel boxed in by the rigid format of a predetermined worksheet, index cards are the next best thing.

Offering the same ‘big picture’ effect as a worksheet, but with the added ability to shift and move the cards about until you've got the right combination, index cards may be the best of both worlds for the graphically-inclined writer.

Author and screenwriter Alexandra Sokoloff has done a series of blog posts related to the art of writing, and offers her own take on using index cards to plot your story.

Many of these posts have been compiled into the Kindle workbook Screenwriting Tricks for Authors, which offer tips and examples of how writers can apply the techniques of film-writing to the craft of writing a book.

Best-laid plans

No matter how much you plan ahead, your story may change, shift or do a complete about-face. But for writers who prefer to plot their stories in advance, worksheets, charts and tables provide a solid foundation from which to build your finished manuscript.

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