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Plot-less

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Mon Feb 13, 2012 10:56 pm
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hopeispeace says...



I have an issue here; I'm never disciplined enough to write out my plots before I start them, and usually end up giving up on plot required writings. I've turned to poetry but I feel like it's just out of laziness. Really, I enjoy writing the lyrics to songs and the dramatic dialogue that I've included in unfinished plays.
But, can anyone give me tips on how to write out the plot first? I have ideas, I just can't seem to apply them to a bigger picture before I start writing. Help! Thanks.
~HopeisPeace




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Mon Feb 13, 2012 11:53 pm
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EloquentDragon says...



First off, it doesn't have to be tedious or lenghty/detailed. Use index cards, a great invention! Just write done the major points. If you write plays or screenplays you should know what these are: Hook, dilema, turning point, reversal, climax, etc. Write fast. Don't worry about getting something "right," you can always go back and change stuff later.
I usually start with a character. If something sticks out to me I brew over it for a while until I've got some basic idea for a story. Pull from your imagination, don't be concerned with accuracy.
Get some good books. Check out a few from the "writer's" section of the library. See how they suggest you write out the plot. You can find stuff on the internet to. Formulas and what not.
Post your idea on here too. people won't steal it and they can help the idea improve and help you avoid some (embarrasing) mistakes.
Above, keep plugging away at it until something shines.
Hot sauce is spicy.




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Tue Feb 14, 2012 2:51 am
hopeispeace says...



Thanks, that really helps. I think I will post my newest script idea when I get the chance. And index cards are a great idea; I usually end up in a tornado of torn out paper...Anyway, thanks for the advise!
~HopeisPeace




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Tue Feb 14, 2012 3:09 am
Rosey Unicorn says...



You could also not write out your plot before hand. Writing and discovering the plot as you go is a very viable method of writing, and one that several of my friends use.

Past that, I would use the index card method to keep track of major plot points as you think of them. I would, however, leave plenty of room to find new conflicts and character development to happen naturally, to keep you interested.
You know you're a writer when you're not alarmed at hearing voices in your head, you can't read a book without analyzing it for plot & characters and you consider something you nearly killed yourself to write the most rewarding.

Guilty as charged.