Introduction to Structuring Your Novel with Scrivener

Writing a novel is a complex process, and structuring it effectively can make the difference between a jumbled story and a well-organized narrative. In this article, we will explore how to use Scrivener, a powerful writing tool, particularly when it comes to creating an outline. We will discuss the software's features and elaborate on alternative tools like Corkboard that can assist in crafting a well-planned novel.

Why Use Scrivener for Outlining?

Scrivener is a versatile writing environment that offers a multitude of features designed to aid writers in the structuring process. Unlike more linear tools, Scrivener allows for a non-linear approach to organizing your plot and ideas. However, for some writers, this non-linearity might be a bit overwhelming, especially when trying to address specific plotting issues.

Alternatives to Linear Outlining in Scrivener

One such alternative is the Corkboard method, which is particularly effective for visualizing and organizing scenes and elements of your plot. This method involves creating notecards for each scene or plot element and arranging them on a virtual corkboard. Not only does this help in visualizing the intersections of your plot threads, but it also makes it easier to identify gaps or inconsistencies in your story.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Scrivener and Corkboard for Outlining

Using Scrivener for Your Outline

While Scrivener itself does not provide an integrated outlining tool, it does offer several features that can be used for structuring your novel effectively:

Binder: The binder feature in Scrivener can be used to organize your scenes and chapters. You can create a folder structure for different parts of your novel, making it easy to navigate and find specific scenes. Scene Notes: Each scene in Scrivener has a note section where you can add a brief description of the action. This helps in maintaining a concise summary of each scene, which is crucial for an effective outline. Character and Research Notes: The tools for character and research notes can help you keep track of important details and ensure consistency across your narrative.

While Scrivener is a robust tool, some users find that its linear approach can be limiting. If you're struggling with a more linear structure in Scrivener, consider using the corkboard method to complement your work:

The Corkboard Method for Outlining

The corkboard method is particularly useful for visual thinkers and those who benefit from a more tactile and visual approach to writing. Here's how you can use it:

Card Creation: For each scene or plot element, create a card in the corkboard. Write a brief description of the action that takes place on the card. Color Coding: Use different colors to represent different points of view (POVs). This helps in managing multiple narrative perspectives and ensures that you are clear about whose viewpoint each scene represents. Arrangement: Arrange the cards on the corkboard in a way that reflects the flow of your story. You can move the cards around easily to adjust the sequence of events. Total Visualization: Once you have all the cards, you can get an overall view of the story by simply looking at the arrangement on the corkboard. This makes it easier to spot inconsistencies or gaps in your plot.

Combining Scrivener and Corkboard

To get the best of both worlds, you can use the corkboard method to create your outline and then transfer it into Scrivener. This allows you to leverage the flexibility of the corkboard for visualization and organization, while using Scrivener for detailed management of your narrative.

Breaking Down into Chapters

Once you have a clear outline from your corkboard or Scrivener, breaking down into chapters is simply a matter of assigning scenes to specific chapters. In Corkboard, you can indicate this by setting flags or using color-coding to represent different chapters. In Scrivener, you can leverage the flagging feature to mark the end of one chapter and the start of another.

Conclusion

Creating an effective outline is crucial for the success of any novel. Scrivener is a powerful tool for structural organization, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. The corkboard method provides a flexible and visual approach that can be a valuable complement to Scrivener. By using both tools, you can ensure that your novel is well-structured, engaging, and free from plot holes.