idea to outline

A surprising amount of people tell me that they wish they could write a story, or that they have ideas that would make a good book, but they could never do it. It seems as though those earliest steps in the formation of a story are the hardest for many. Today I thought I'd share a couple simple tips that really helped me a lot. Now, by no means do I consider myself to be anything great, or any kind of literary expert. I actually consider myself a rookie in the writing world. Heck, if I could some day be half as good a writer as those whose works I grew up reading, that would be amazing to me. But if I can pass on a few tips that helped me get past that first hump - the one from an idea to something a little more solid - who knows? Maybe it'll encourage an aspiring writer to take the leap he or she has been considering and start creating something.

The first thing I would recommend is to write down all those ideas in detail while they are fresh in mind. Don't let a great idea slip away!

Going along with this is a bit of organization. And really, I'm not one to be talking about such a thing in general, as klutzy, forgetful, and, well, disorganized as I tend to be. But the basic principle has helped me a lot, and it's as simple as keeping everything together in one place. A notebook is great, and so is a folder on your computer (preferably backed up externally). Keeping things compiled and within easy access of each other can make a world of difference.

Once you've gathered enough ideas, don't be afraid to start throwing them together into a rough outline or timeline. Some authors will warn against overusing an outline, and I agree - you don't want to tie yourself down to the point that you curb your own creativity or limit yourself. But a good outline can give you clear direction, and even motivation when you see things start to fit together. I always think of it as constructing a skeleton, which you'll add to, take from and rearrange until it's more solid, paving the way for a complete and strong body.

Lastly, don't be afraid to learn from other authors. Obviously, you never want to copy, but to try and emulate the skills of your favorite writers can really be something worth striving for. I also recommend reading books on writing, especially those written by authors you may already be familiar with. I'm planning on listing a few of my favorites in an upcoming blog.

So if you have a story idea, start putting your thoughts down on paper. And don't be discouraged if it seems to take a long time to form something. (I outlined for 2 years before beginning anything, and I've talked to others who have done so for far longer!) And even if it's just for you at first, don't stop creating!

<3 Clint