I myself do very little actual physical outlining, though I do keep some computer files with character and place names and the like. Usually my plots and characters are in my head. I do my outlining in my head. Sometimes I’ll leave myself notes at the end of a chapter to remind me of what should next.

I think, from a reader’s standpoint, that can only inspire the confidence that reading your novel will assure them of a well thought out plot populated by real characters, not cardboard cut-outs.

I usually forge ahead without thinking specifically about what kind of character I want to concoct. This essay encourages me to investigate the interior workings of my protagonist.

In my first novel that is thankfully on its way to being traditionally published, I diod everything my osmosis. Since I have gotten a copy of Bell’s “Structure and Plot” and I plan to take a much more organized approach to writing my second novel.

Your article reinforces the idea that pre-planning is, if not necessary, extremely advantageous. Thanks for writing it when you did; it’ll prove timely help to me in my next effort.