When you begin writing a novel, one of the most powerful tools you can give yourself is a well-structured outline. It is more than a planning document—it becomes the blueprint that supports your characters, your world, and your narrative direction. A solid outline gives you clarity when the story expands, confidence when you revise, and stability when the writing gets difficult. Start With the Core Elements: Character, Plot, and Setting Before outlining, it helps to establish three foundational components: who your characters are, what they will experience, and where the story takes place. These elements form the scaffolding that everything…
