Getting ready to tackle NaNoWriMo?
Today’s prep task will help you create a clear roadmap for your novel. While some writers prefer to wing it, having a chapter outline can be incredibly helpful when you’re aiming to write 50,000 words in 30 days.
Think of it as your novel’s GPS – it’ll help you stay on track when writer’s block hits or when you’re not sure what comes next. We’ll walk you through creating a flexible chapter outline that gives you enough structure to write confidently while leaving room for creativity and unexpected plot twists.
Before diving into the how-to, let’s quickly cover why a chapter outline is worth your time:
Before diving into the details, let’s get organized. Creating a chapter outline doesn’t have to be complicated – you just need the right tools and a basic framework. Here’s everything you need to set yourself up for outlining success.
Before you start outlining, have these ready:
Start with a simple format for each chapter entry:
Now that you have your materials ready, let’s break down outline creation into manageable chunks. We’ll start with the big picture and gradually fill in the details, making sure your story has a strong backbone all the way through.
First, identify your story’s major moments:
Place these tentatively within your chapter structure. They’ll serve as anchors for the rest of your outline.
Work through each chapter, writing 1-2 sentences that capture:
Example of a chapter summary:
“Chapter 3: Sarah discovers the mysterious letter in her grandmother’s attic and realizes her family’s connection to the local legends. Her relationship with Mike becomes strained as she decides to keep the discovery secret.”
Review your outline for:
Even experienced writers can fall into outlining traps that make the writing process harder later. Here are the most common pitfalls we see during NaNoWriMo prep – and how to steer clear of them.
Leave room for:
Each chapter should advance either:
Writing a novel is like juggling multiple storylines, characters, and plot points. These practical strategies will help you keep all those elements in balance while making your outline work harder for you. Here’s how to take your chapter outline from good to great.
Ensure each chapter has:
Consider using colors to track:
An outline is only useful if it actually helps you write. Here’s how to turn your chapter outline into a practical tool that will keep you on track during the intense writing month ahead.
Remember that during NaNoWriMo:
Once your chapter outline is complete:
A chapter-by-chapter outline is one of the most valuable tools you can have for NaNoWriMo success. It provides structure while maintaining flexibility, helps you stay on track during the challenging month ahead, and gives you confidence that your story has a solid foundation. Remember, this outline is a living document – feel free to modify it as your story evolves during November.
So, this November, take the leap and join the thousands of writers worldwide who will be pouring their hearts onto the page. Your novel is waiting to be written, and there’s no better time to start than now. Sign up at nanowrimo.org, stock up on your favorite writing snacks and beverages, and get ready to embark on a wild, wonderful, coffee-fueled adventure.
Stay tuned for more articles from FWO Publishing to help you prepare for NaNoWriMo. We’ll be sharing tips on plotting, character development, staying motivated and more. Subscribe to our newsletter or visit our blog to make sure you don’t miss these valuable resources. Until then, happy brainstorming, and we’ll see you on November 1st!
Stories are meant to be shared!