I have so many ideas for this column that deciding what to write first was no easy task. What knowledge could I share? What techniques should I describe? Where should I begin?
Initially, I considered diving into how one identifies their writing style, or the difference between active and passive voice. But those are deeper topics, and they need a foundation. So, I’ve chosen to begin where every story does: how to start your work.
Writers often approach story creation in one of two ways—structured or chaotic. Both begin with an idea: a fleeting thought, a vivid memory, or an experience that lingers. Whatever the spark, the path you take next is crucial. Do you dive straight into writing, or do you carefully map out every step of your story before you begin?
Let’s explore the strengths and challenges of each method—and the middle ground between them.
Structured Writing
Structured writing begins with planning. You lay down your thoughts in point form, gradually building sentences, scenes, and chapters. You define the arc before writing the narrative. This method allows you to see the story’s shape in advance, setting a clear direction.
For example, a chapter outline might look like this:
Chapter 1
John and Bethany are training for their first sparring match—they’re fighting convicts.
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John faces Bullworth
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Bullworth
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Tall, reddish skin, green eyes
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Heavyset, clean-shaven
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Loincloth, sandals
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Armed with short sword and dagger
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Experienced but not flawless
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John
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Lean, brown hair, blue eyes
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Loincloth, sandals
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Same weapons
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Trained fighter—disciplined and precise
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The fight begins…
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With this method, the writing process becomes an exercise in execution. The narrative simply follows the path you’ve already charted. For some, this structure is comforting and productive. For others—including myself—it can feel restrictive, like a burnt parchment (yes, even in this digital age).
Chaos
Chaos throws out the roadmap. You begin with a concept or emotion and start writing. There’s no outline, no chapter breakdown, no character sheets—just the spark and the page.
But even chaotic writing needs some form of tracking. As your story unfolds, notes become essential. You’ll want to remember names, timelines, backstory, and developments. These running notes aren’t planning tools—they’re reference points to keep your narrative coherent.
This method is all about freedom. It allows for spontaneity and exploration. However, without some form of organization, you risk losing threads or repeating yourself.
The Hybrid Method
My preferred approach lies somewhere in between.
The hybrid method blends structure with spontaneity. You start with general notes about the novel—character names, major themes, and key events. Before each writing session, you sketch a rough outline of the chapter ahead. But as the story grows, so does the outline. You update it as changes arise.
Here’s an outline excerpt from my upcoming book, The God Drive:
Chapter 1
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POV: Shalain
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Shalain and Jola on the observation deck
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Description of FTL: grey void
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They return to the cabin; intimate moment
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Post-intimacy: Shalain’s scars, memory gaps
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Shower and prepare for FTL exit
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Supplemental (3 years earlier – Sept. 2, 2332)
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POV: Sarah
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Interview with John about Shalain’s recovery
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Discussion about her dating Jim
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Humorous moment: John gifts Sarah dirty playing cards
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This growing outline lets me reference past developments while allowing new ideas to shape the story. I can add jokes, conflicts, or entire subplots on the fly. Nothing is off-limits.
Hybrid writing suits creative minds that resist being boxed in. It balances the discipline of structure with the flexibility of chaos.
Final Thoughts
No method is objectively better than another. Each writer must find what works for them. Try each approach and see what fits your creative rhythm. Whether you chart a course or plunge into the unknown, the most important thing is that you keep writing.