How to Outline While Still Writing by the Seat of Your Pants

Writer Spark: Business, Creativity, and the Craft of Writing

Episode 3

Do you find yourself torn between detailed plotting and the freedom of writing by the seat of your pants? You're not alone! In this episode of The WriterSpark Podcast, we explore how these two seemingly opposing methods can actally complement each other. Join us for an insightful conversation with bestselling mystery and suspense author Daryl Wood Gerber as we delve into the art of combining outlining and pantsing to create a flexible, yet structured approach to writing.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Spectrum: Discover where you fall on the spectrum between plotting and pantsing, and how embracing a hybrid approach can enhance your writing process.
• The Role of Outlining in Pantsing: Learn how a loose outline can serve as a roadmap, providing direction without stifling creativity or spontaneity.
• Finding the Balance: Explore practical strategies for outlining while still allowing room for discovery and inspiration as you write.
• Real-World Examples: Hear from Daryl Wood Gerber about her own experiences with blending plotting and pantsing, and how this approach has contributed to her success as a bestselling author.
• Actionable Tips: Gain tips on how to create a flexible outline that leaves space for those unexpected twists and turns that make writing so exciting.

Episode Resources:

• WriterSpark Online Course: Take your writing to the next level with our course, "Hybrid Writing Techniques: Blending Plotting and Pantsing for Success," now available with an exclusive discount for podcast listeners. Enroll Now.

Listener Challenge: This week, try creating a basic outline for your current project while leaving plenty of room for creative freedom. Experiment with how this balance impacts your writing flow. Share your experience on social media using the hashtag #WriterSparkPodcast.

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Thank you for tuning in! Keep sparking your creativity and igniting your passion for writing. Happy writing!

Y'all, there are some great podcasts for writers out there. Check them out to continue learning:

Essential Guide to Writing a Novel with James Thayer

Fiction Writing Made Easy Podcast with Savannah Gilbo

Master Fiction Writing with Stuart Wakefield

Writing Fiction 101 with A. N. Writer

Fiction Author Business School with Liesel K. Hill

The Shit No One Tells You About Writing with Bianca Marais, Carly Watters and CeCe Lyra