Writing a novel outline requires you approach the entire process with a mindset of discovery and flexibility. When you do this, you will end up with a road map of successful storytelling. You can also use a blank outline for this task. Road maps are meant to show you the surest and safest way to arrive at your destination. That said, let’s take a look at the following guide on writing a novel outline.
1. Craft your premise – This is the focal point of your story. Your premise should not be vague at all since it’s going to play a very important role throughout your writing. Thus, ensure it is tightly crafted.
2. Sketch scene ideas roughly – After you have your premise ready, you can now start sketching the ideas you have for your story. Create a comprehensive list of all the things you already have in mind about your story. Your primary goal at this point is to record and remember every idea you have had with regard to this story.
3. Interview your characters – Your story needs a cast of characters that can help it reach its utmost potential. As such, you will need to discover key details about them at the beginning of the story. In order for you to get the details, you will have to interview your characters (protagonist & antagonist) by working back to them moment in which they became engaged in your story.
4. Explore your settings – Don’t go for a setting just for the mere reason that you are familiar with it or because it sounds cool. Go for setting that rhyme with what you plan on writing.
5. Put the outline into action – You will be feeling eager and prepared to begin working on your initial draft by now. Start reviewing your outline every time you are working on your manuscript, and put it into action.
Sample Novel Outline Template
