How to Expand an Outline Into a Novel

Writing a novel is a tough endeavor. Some writers like to simply start at chapter one and let the writing take them where it may. Others like to work from an outline. If you're doing the latter, you'll need to learn how to expand an outline into a novel. Here are some ways you can turn that simple outline into a full-length novel.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Start with a detailed outline. The more details, the easier it will be to expand. Summarize each section of the novel as much as you can in the outline. Have major plot points, story arcs and fleshed-out characters worked out in the outline.
2. Separate the outline into a beginning, middle and end. Write a short summary of each section, no more than a few sentences for each section.
3. Break down each section into chapters. Start with a sentence or two to describe the events to unfold in each chapter. Then gradually expand these descriptions (go from two sentences to four, four to six, six to eight and so on).
4. Flesh out each chapter with the most important action, dialogue and descriptions. Reference any character history you might have written. Keep to the story arc and plot line.
5. Go back over the chapters and fill in less important details once you have added all the major elements. Expand on the descriptions and even add to dialogue, if needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Set a goal for each chapter to be a certain word length, such as 1,500 to 3,000 words.
• Realize that expanding an outline into a novel is hard work. The outline is simply a foundation for the novel; there's still plenty of writing to do.
• Go back over the novel repeatedly to make sure the chapters are working together and that the story line is not jumbled or out of sequence.
• Don't stifle your writing by trying to stick too closely to an outline. In most cases, the plot will change as you write. Allow these changes to happen and see where the story goes.
• Don't expand just for the sake of expanding. Don't pad the story just so you can expand the outline into a novel. If the outline doesn't work as a novel, move on to something new.
• Don't force yourself to work from an outline if you find this method too restrictive. Not all writers use outlines.