Writing the plot outline: One approach

Write the goal you want to accomplish: Or rather, the goal you want your protagonist to reach by the end of the story. I do this by giving my protagonist a problem to solve. If you have more than one protagonist, say, heroine and hero, this could be that they want the same thing, or they want something opposite from what the other wants.

2cd: Write a quick list of incidents that occur in your story and where they happen. You know, the big things that stick out like a sore thumb. The exciting ones. But don’t allow yourself to get wrapped up in the details just yet, that will come later.

3rd: Now make another list about what might happen in-between the incidents. For every incident ‘scene’ ‘an engagement of action or dialogue’, you need a moment to reflect, to breath and lick wounds or laugh, and make a decision of what to do next. Remember, keep these lists brief. Wiggle room is like letting in the sunshine or moon glow—inspiration may strike.

4th: You’re ready to begin the rough draft.