The Great Debate: Plotting vs Pantsing

Writers often face a crucial choice when starting a new story: should they plan every detail ahead or write by the seat of their pants? This decision shapes the entire writing process and can influence the quality and flow of the final work. The debate between plotting and pantsing has divided authors for decades, with passionate advocates on both sides. Understanding these two approaches helps writers find the best method for their style and project.

A writer’s workspace showing notes and laptop, illustrating the contrast between planning and spontaneous writing

What Plotting Means in Writing

Plotting refers to the practice of outlining a story before writing the full draft. Plotters create a roadmap that guides them through the narrative, often including character arcs, key events, and chapter breakdowns. This method appeals to writers who prefer structure and clarity.

Benefits of Plotting

• Clear direction: Plotting provides a detailed blueprint, reducing uncertainty during writing.

• Efficient pacing: Knowing the story’s beats helps maintain momentum and avoid dead ends.

• Easier revisions: With a plan, writers can spot plot holes or inconsistencies early.

• Confidence boost: Having a roadmap can reduce anxiety about what comes next.

  
  

Examples of Plotting Techniques

• The Snowflake Method: Starting with a simple sentence and expanding it into a full outline.

• Beat Sheets: Listing major plot points in order to track story progression.

• Mind Mapping: Visualizing connections between characters and events.

  
  

Many bestselling authors use plotting to keep their stories tight. For instance, J.K. Rowling famously planned the Harry Potter series extensively, mapping out character arcs and major plot twists before writing.

What Pantsing Means in Writing

Pantsing is the opposite approach: writing without a detailed plan, letting the story unfold naturally. The term comes from the phrase “flying by the seat of your pants.” Pantsers enjoy the freedom to explore ideas spontaneously and discover the story as they write.

Benefits of Pantsing

• Creative freedom: Writers can follow inspiration wherever it leads.

• Organic storytelling: Characters and plots develop naturally, often leading to surprising twists.

• Less pressure: No need to stick to a rigid plan can reduce stress.

• Engaging process: The discovery aspect keeps writing exciting.

  
  

Authors like Stephen King embrace pantsing, often starting with a character or situation and letting the story evolve without a strict outline.

Challenges of Each Approach

Both plotting and pantsing come with challenges that writers should consider.

Plotting Challenges

• Overplanning: Too much detail can stifle creativity.

• Rigidity: Sticking strictly to a plan might limit spontaneous ideas.

• Time-consuming: Creating a detailed outline can delay actual writing.

  
  

Pantsing Challenges

• Risk of getting stuck: Without a plan, writers may face dead ends or plot holes.

• Inconsistent pacing: The story might meander or lose focus.

• More revisions: Pantsers often rewrite extensively to fix structural issues.

  
  

Finding a Middle Ground: The Hybrid Approach

Many writers find success by combining plotting and pantsing. This hybrid method involves creating a loose outline but allowing room for improvisation. For example, a writer might plot major events but leave scenes and dialogue open to discovery.

How to Use a Hybrid Method

• Outline key plot points but avoid detailed scene-by-scene plans.

• Develop character profiles but let their actions evolve naturally.

• Set goals for each writing session but stay flexible.

  
  

This approach balances structure and creativity, helping writers stay on track while embracing spontaneity.

A notebook filled with handwritten notes and sketches, representing a flexible writing process

Choosing the Right Style for You

Deciding between plotting and pantsing depends on personality, project type, and goals.

Consider Your Personality

• If you enjoy organization and planning, plotting might suit you.

• If you thrive on spontaneity and discovery, pantsing could be better.

  
  

Consider Your Project

• Complex stories with multiple characters and timelines often benefit from plotting.

• Short stories or character-driven narratives may work well with pantsing.

  
  

Experiment and Adapt

Many writers switch between methods depending on the project. Trying both approaches helps identify what feels natural and productive.

Tips for Writers Exploring Both Styles

• Start small: Try plotting or pantsing on a short story before a novel.

• Use tools: Software like Scrivener or notebooks can support either method.

• Join writing groups: Sharing experiences helps refine your approach.

• Track progress: Note what works and what slows you down.

  
  

The debate and it's Impact on Books and Readers

The choice between plotting and pantsing affects not only the writing process but also the final book. Plotting often results in tightly woven stories with clear arcs, appealing to readers who enjoy structure. Pantsing can produce fresh, unpredictable narratives that surprise readers.

Both methods have produced beloved books. For example, George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series blends detailed plotting with spontaneous character developments, showing the power of mixing styles.

A stack of various books on a wooden table, symbolizing different writing styles and storytelling approaches

Writers should remember that no single method guarantees success. The best approach is the one that keeps you writing consistently and enjoying the process.

Stacey Lannigan

Author of Fantasy & Folklore Fiction for YA & NA Readers

@authorStaceyLannigan