Writer’s find the style of creating a story that suits them the best. The two main methods are known as “Plotter” and “Pantser.” Of course, your style might turn out to be some combination of both

A Plotter is someone who sets out in great detail what they are about to write. They work out the story, chapter by chapter, and know what is going to happen, from beginning all the way through to the end. They set down everything they can think of about their characters, whether or not they may ever use all of this information. For example, who are their parents, what do they like or dislike, school, work, their friends. Maybe even what is favorite flavor of ice cream. Some authors will create charts along their office walls that cover chapters and scenes in great plot detail.

I’m a Pantser. Basically, this means I write by the seat of my pants. I may start my novel knowing how it begins, or ends, and nothing else. My details I have down when I begin are often sketchy. I’ll create the characters backstory as I go along. This means I have to make a lot of notes as I write, so can I remember these details. I may sketch out an idea.

For example, for the novel I’m currently writing I’ve listed a number of phrases or words in chapter order to remind me of what I was thinking for a plot. Something simple like: Goes to the store, Takes a boat ride, Gets lost in the forest. That’s a lot of planning for me.

In another example, when writing a Housetrap Chronicles novella, I often start to write with just the title and nothing more. Examples would Housetrap, Hounds of Basalt Ville, Murder on the Disoriented Express.

One thing I have learned as a Pantser is to make lots of notes as I create!

There is no hard and fast rule on a preferred method for writing fiction. Follow the style that works the best for you.