Gerardine Gail asked Alan Black:

When plotting your novels do you use a specific format-program-note cards- write it on the wall?

Alan Black I have become a complete pantser, writing from the seat of my pants. I have a start point, an approximate end point, and I know about how long it should take me to get to the end. Other than that, I don't plot.

For example, I am working on the sequel to my #1 best selling scifi novel METAL BOXES. I'm on chapter 11 or 12 and I don't even know where I am gong in the next paragraph.

I can determine the length of the book by imagining a sympathetic and likeable protagonist. Then I throw all of the crap at him/her that I can think of. The more trouble I can get them in, the longer it will take them to get out.

PS This also helps me stay away from the dreaded writer's block. I have to keep writing in order to figure out how to get my characters out of the trouble I got them in. It is sort of like using a cliff hanger on myself.

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