Plotter vs. Pantser: Which Writing Style Suits You?
If you’re a new writer diving into the exciting world of storytelling, you’ve likely encountered the terms “plotter” and “pantser.” These two approaches to writing have sparked countless debates among authors. Which one is better? Which one should you choose? The answer lies in your personality, preferences, and creative process. Let’s explore what it means to be a plotter or a pantser, and help you discover the style that suits you best.
What Is a Plotter?
A plotter is someone who meticulously plans their story before they begin writing. Think of plotters as architects. Before building, they design blueprints to map out every detail. Plotters typically:
Create detailed outlines of their story’s plot, including key events, character arcs, and worldbuilding elements.
Write character profiles to understand their characters’ motivations and backgrounds.
Know how the story begins, unfolds, and ends before they write the first word.
For plotters, preparation is key. They often feel more confident diving into the writing process because they’ve already mapped the journey. J.K. Rowling, for example, is famously known for her detailed planning of the Harry Potter series.
Pros of Plotting:
Direction: You always know where your story is heading, reducing the risk of writer’s block.
Consistency: Planning ensures cohesive storylines and well-rounded character development.
Efficiency: Outlines can make the writing process faster since you’ve already done much of the heavy lifting.
Cons of Plotting:
Rigidity: Over-planning might stifle creativity and make it hard to adapt to new ideas.
Overwhelm: The planning stage can feel daunting, especially for beginners.
What Is a Pantser?
A pantser, on the other hand, is someone who writes "by the seat of their pants." They prefer to dive into the story without a detailed plan, letting the narrative unfold as they go. Pantsers are like explorers charting unknown territory. They often:
Begin writing with only a vague idea of the plot or characters.
Discover the story organically, allowing it to evolve naturally.
Embrace surprises and twists that arise during the writing process.
Famous pantsers include Stephen King, who advocates for letting the story develop without over-planning.
Pros of Pantsing:
Flexibility: You can follow your creative instincts and adapt the story as new ideas emerge.
Excitement: Writing becomes an adventure, filled with unexpected discoveries.
Freedom: There’s no pressure to stick to a rigid plan.
Cons of Pantsing:
Risk of Getting Stuck: Without a roadmap, it’s easier to lose direction or hit a wall.
Inconsistencies: Without planning, you might face plot holes or underdeveloped characters.
Time-Consuming Revisions: Pantsing often requires extensive editing to refine the story.
How to Determine Your Style
Now that you know what it means to be a plotter or a pantser, how do you figure out which approach works for you? Here are a few tips:
1. Reflect on Your Personality
Are you a planner in other areas of life, like organizing events or creating to-do lists? You might enjoy plotting.
Do you thrive on spontaneity and discovery? Pantsing might feel more natural.
2. Experiment with Both Styles
Try writing a short story or a scene using each approach. Outline one piece in detail before you begin, and write another without any planning. Compare the experiences. Which felt more enjoyable? Which resulted in a stronger draft?
3. Consider Your Story
Some stories lend themselves better to one approach. For instance:
Complex plots with intricate timelines or multiple points of view may benefit from plotting.
Character-driven or exploratory stories might thrive with a pantser approach.
The Hybrid Approach: Plantser
If neither style feels like a perfect fit, consider embracing the best of both worlds as a “plantser.” A plantser blends the structure of plotting with the spontaneity of pantsing. You might:
Outline major plot points but leave room for improvisation.
Sketch character backstories without fully fleshing out every detail.
Plan the beginning and end while allowing the middle to evolve naturally.
This approach offers structure while keeping the creative process dynamic and flexible.
Tips for Plotters
If you decide plotting is your jam, here are some tips to help you get started:
Start Small: Don’t overwhelm yourself by planning every single detail. Focus on major milestones.
Use Tools: Tools like Scrivener, Plottr, or even a simple notebook can help you organize your ideas.
Stay Open: Even with a detailed plan, be willing to adapt if inspiration strikes.
Tips for Pantsers
For those who prefer to wing it, these tips can help you navigate the process:
Set Goals: Even if you’re improvising, having a rough goal for each writing session can keep you focused.
Embrace Messiness: Your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect. Let your creativity flow without judgment.
Track Ideas: Keep a notebook handy to jot down ideas or themes you want to revisit.
Common Myths About Plotting and Pantsing
Let’s bust a few misconceptions:
Myth 1: Plotters Can’t Be Creative
Plotting doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity. It’s a way to channel your imagination into a cohesive structure.
Myth 2: Pantsers Are Always Disorganized
Pantsers may not outline, but they often have a strong sense of their story’s heart and themes.
Myth 3: You Must Pick One Style
Writing is not one-size-fits-all. Your style might evolve depending on the project or your growth as a writer.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of writing is that there’s no right or wrong way to approach it. Whether you’re a meticulous plotter, a free-spirited pantser, or a flexible plantser, what matters most is finding a process that sparks joy and helps you tell the stories only you can create.
So, which writing style suits you? Experiment, explore, and embrace the journey. After all, every writer’s path is as unique as the stories they tell.