The Collected Works of D. Alex Rhue

For many writers, the debate between pantsing (writing by the seat of your pants) and outlining is deeply personal. Both approaches have their merits, but after four years of working on my “FTL” project, I decided it was time for a change. Here’s why I stopped pantsing and started outlining my fiction works.

The Struggle with Pantsing

My journey with “FTL” began with excitement and a burst of creativity. I embraced the freedom of pantsing, allowing the story to unfold as I wrote progressively. However, this freedom came with significant challenges. 

Despite my initial enthusiasm, I found myself trapped in a cycle of rewriting. I rewrote the first 15 chapters four or five times, each iteration trying to capture the elusive plot that seemed so clear in my head but constantly slipped away. This repetitive process was frustrating and disheartening, especially when I realized that, after four years, I had only published the first chapter.

One of the biggest issues with pantsing was the loss of plot points. Writing sessions were often stretched apart due to various commitments, and during these gaps, key plot details that once seemed vivid faded from memory. The story that flowed effortlessly at one moment became a tangled web of disjointed scenes and lost threads.

The Turning Point

The turning point came when I decided to test outlining with a stalled work called “John Thorn.” This project had been collecting dust for nearly ten years after I lost sight of its plot. I saw this as an opportunity to experiment with outlining without the pressure of potentially failing on a project I was deeply invested in.

For “John Thorn,” I adopted a combination of outlining techniques to construct a balanced narrative with the right mix of rising and falling action. This structured approach provided a clear roadmap for the story, and to my surprise, it reignited my passion for the project. I could see the entire narrative arc laid out before me, and writing became less about finding the plot and more about bringing it to life.

The Benefits of Outlining

Since making the switch to outlining, I’ve experienced several significant benefits:

1. Increased Productivity: Outlining has dramatically increased my writing speed. With a clear plan in place, I spend less time figuring out what comes next and more time developing the story.

2. Consistency: My chapters are more consistent and cohesive. I no longer worry about losing track of plot points or character arcs. The outline serves as a constant reference that keeps me on track.

3. Quality: The quality of my writing has improved. Knowing where the story is headed, I can foreshadow events, build tension, and develop characters more effectively. Each chapter contributes meaningfully to the overall narrative.

Advice for Fellow Writers

If you’re considering making the switch from pantsing to outlining, here are a few tips based on my experience:

1. Experiment with a Stalled Project: Try outlining a project where you feel okay with failing. This approach allows you to experiment without the pressure of high stakes. For me, using “John Thorn” as a test case was invaluable.

2. Find Your Method: There are many outlining techniques, from the classic three-act structure to more detailed scene-by-scene outlines. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for you. I found that a combination of approaches helped me build a narrative with balanced pacing.

3. Stay Flexible: Outlining doesn’t require rigid adhesion to a plan. Use it as a guide, but allow room for creativity and unexpected developments. Some of the best ideas can come from deviating slightly from the outline.

4. Relieve Writer’s Block: Outlining can help overcome writer’s block. It provides clarity and direction, which can be especially helpful when you’re stuck. Sometimes, outlining a new idea can also breathe life into a stalled project, giving you two for the price of one.

Switching from pantsing to outlining was a transformative decision for me. It not only helped me regain control of my stories but also renewed my love for writing. If you find yourself struggling with pantsing, I encourage you to give outlining a try. It might just may be the key to unlocking your full potential as a writer.