How to Write a Novel Snowflake
Pioneered by Advanced Fiction Writing e-zine publisher and self-proclaimed "mad professor of fiction writing" Randy Ingermanson, the snowflake method is a simple ten-step process for novel planning. Simple to learn and easy to use, the snowflake method is ideal for novel writers of all experience levels. While not all writers outline, the effectiveness of the snowflake method is widely respected for its effectiveness as a visual writing and planning tool.
Instructions
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1
Summarize the entire novel in one simple sentence. This sentence represents the big picture and carries the story throughout the writing and selling process. The more simple the better. Don't refer to characters by name at this stage.
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2
Expand the summary sentence to a summary paragraph. The summary paragraph should include the beginning, the story set-up, the principal problem and the ending. This paragraph should be approximately five sentences and can be used for the book proposal at a later date.
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3
Design your characters. This step sets up the character storyline and should include all pertinent character information—including, but not limited to, name, one-sentence storyline, conflicts, goals, motivations and a one-paragraph storyline summary.
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4
Expand each sentence from the summary paragraph into a full paragraph of its own. This helps to widen the story's scope and familiarize the author with the depth of the novel. Randy Ingermanson suggests that each paragraph should end in conflict with the exception of the last paragraph.
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5
Write a one-page description for each major character and a half-page description for each secondary character telling the story from each character's point of view. This helps the author see the story from multiple points of view and expresses character-driven plot.
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6
Turn your one-page synopsis into a four- or five-page synopsis, taking the character-driven synopses into account. Use this step to make strategic decisions about the novel's direction.
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7
Expand your character descriptions and synopses into a chart outlining your character's depth. Express everything about the character in these charts and get to know your character completely.
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8
Make a spreadsheet listing each scene in sequence. This sequential scene outline will help structure the novel and determine what you will write when you sit down to actually start the first draft. Include scene detail.
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9
Write an expanded version of each scene. Each scene should get its own narrative paragraph. Write this part in the word processor, or with pen and paper, not on the spreadsheet.
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10
Write the first draft. Use the outlines, character synopsis and charts, and detailed scene spreadsheet to bring your story to life.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep each step separate.
Revise each step as many times as necessary.
Write and submit your novel proposal for sale after Step 7, if desired.
References
- Photo Credit Blue Ice Snowflake image by Solar Neon Graphix from Fotolia.com
