Hey everyone,
I know it’s been a hot minute since I did one of these Wednesday updates but here I am!
I wanted to talk about a new planning process I’m trying. Some who have been following me for a while know I’m in between a planner and a pantser. I don’t really outline but I can’t completely go off the top of my head. Not anymore, anyway. If I were still in high school, in math class, I’d probably write the next LOTR epic. But, things have changed in my head as I’ve gotten older.
I’ve been having a hard time nailing down the details of this 3rd book. I know the direction I want it to go. I know it’s set around Halloween. I’m using a different POV character. I know there is a witch trial element to it. But, beyond that, I haven’t been able to get past the first few chapters. At least not with a regular bullet point outline.
So, what I’m working on is something called “Tell Drafts.” I write out the story in almost all Tell. “Marissa went to class. She talked to her teacher. She made faces at the bully.” Then, once it’s all written out, the next draft will be fleshed out with a bit more “Show.” I’ll expand on the detail of the setting. A bit more backstory. A flashback here or there. And, each draft will be more and more expanded with detail until it’s where I want it to be.
Will it work? Who knows? Has it helped? I’m only 4 chapters in. Time will tell. I’ve been working on it since yesterday afternoon, though. And, it’s the most progress I’ve made in weeks. I don’t think it’ll be done this week like I want it to so I may have to rearrange my deadlines and tasks for next week.
My other task for today is to finish editing the video going up Monday about my favorite childhood books. I had so much fun with that one and it brought back so many memories. Shouldn’t take too long to edit and schedule to go up Monday.
I’ll let you know next week how well this new method is going. Wish me luck!