How to Plot Your Fiction Novel: Plotting 101

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

Episode 5

Struggling to plot your fiction novel? Whether you’re a dedicated plotter or prefer to write by the seat of your pants, understanding the fundamentals of plotting can elevate your storytelling. In this episode of The WriterSpark Podcast, bestselling author Libby Klein shares her invaluable plotting 101 tips. Join us as we explore the differences between plotting and pantsing, and discover how to find the method that works best for you. Libby also reveals her love for colorful stickie notes and her top three tips for crafting a compelling mystery.

Episode Highlights:

• Plotting vs. Pantsing: We dive into the age-old debate—plotting versus pantsing. Learn the pros and cons of each method, and how to determine which approach suits your writing style.
• Libby Klein’s Plotting Process: Get an inside look at Libby Klein’s personal plotting process, including her creative use of colorful stickie notes to map out her novels.
• Top 3 Tips for Writing a Mystery: Libby shares her top three tips for writing a mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
• Finding Your Process: Understand why there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to plotting and how you can develop a process that works for you.

Listener Challenge:

This week, take a page from Libby Klein’s book and try using colorful stickie notes to plot your next chapter or scene. Organize your ideas visually and see how it impacts your storytelling. Share your stickie note creations and plotting process on social media using the hashtag #WriterSparkPodcast.

Get Inspired:

Plotting doesn’t have to be a rigid or daunting task. Whether you’re mapping out your entire novel or just sketching the next few scenes, finding the right balance between structure and creativity is key. And remember, you're never locked into what you plot! The goal is to find a method that works for you and helps you stay on track with your writing.

Listen and Subscribe: Join us on this enlightening journey to rediscover your passion for writing by following us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you find our discussions helpful!

Connect with Us: Have questions or want to share your writing experiences? Join our Facebook group or comment below. I love hearing from my listeners!

Stay tuned for more episodes where we explore the nuances of creative writing and help you find your spark in the literary world. Happy writing!

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Resources

• Libby Klein’s Books: Explore Libby Klein’s mystery novels and learn more about her writing journey

• WriterSpark Online Courses: Learn more about our online courses! Enroll Now!
• Sign up for the WriterSpark newsletter: https://writersparkacademy.com/newslettersignup/
• WriterSpark Website: http://writersparkacademy.com
• Learn more about the host, Melissa Bourbon: http://melissabourbon.com
• Subscribe to WriterSpark on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnKN2ZVZwjoAOeHlBO-cRIw/videos
• Follow WriterSpark on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWriterSpark
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheWriterSpark
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/bookishly_cozy & http://instagram.com/writer_spark

Thank you for listening!

Listen and Subscribe: Join us on this enlightening journey to rediscover your passion for writing by following us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, or your favorite podcast platform. or wherever you listen. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you find our discussions helpful!

Connect with Us:

1. Join the WriterSpark Community: Connect with fellow writers, share your progress, and get exclusive content by joining our Facebook Group.
2. Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more writers like you.
3. Follow Us on Social Media: Stay updated with the latest episodes, writing tips, and more by following us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.

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