When it comes to writing books, are you a “plotter” or a “pantser?” Is one method really better than the other?
In this instructional ebook, author Libbie Hawker explains the benefits and technique of planning a story before you begin to write. She’ll show you how to develop a foolproof character arc and plot, how to pace any book for a can’t-put-down reading experience, and how to ensure that … ensure that your stories are complete and satisfying without wasting time or words.
Hawker’s outlining technique works no matter what genre you write, and no matter the age of your audience. If you want to improve your writing speed, increase your backlist, and ensure a quality book before you even write the first word, this is the how-to book for you.
Take off your pants! It’s time to start outlining.
This Revised Edition includes answers to the most popular questions regarding Libbie Hawker’s outlining method.
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Completely changed the way I write books. Has such smart things to say about the emotional shape of stories.
As a classic and devoted pantser, I wrote my first five books with this method. However, my current work in progress clearly needs a structure so that the copious research ahead has a place to go. So reluctantly, I admitted that I had to plot it. I turned to TAKE OFF YOUR PANTS and it is amazing!! I feel like I have real direction and that my WIP will be better served by thinking through the details so thoroughly. I am going to reference this book with all my future writing.
A useful book for pantsers seeking to reform. I love the simplicity of this book, the practical applications, and excellent examples.
Take Off Your Pants! by Libby Hawker is a writing craft book on outlining and plotting with the ultimate goal of helping the reader write faster, and write more novels. In this book, the author shares some practical information in a manner that’s engaging and easy to understand. Her outlining method focuses on three main elements that she breaks down in detail: character arc, plot, and pacing.
I’m naturally a pantser, but my logical side sees the value in plotting and I hope to do it effectively some day. There are so many plotting methods out there, so I continue to read books on story structure to glean information, hoping it will finally “click” for me. Right now, I apply the principles I learn after I’m finished writing instead of before I begin. Maybe one day that will change.
Did Libby get me to take off my pants? Hmm… Probably not. Did I find the information in this book useful? Yes, I did. It definitely gave me some things to think about before my next attempt at outlining. Overall, it was a quick, enjoyable read, and a good resource that I know I will return to.
A very interesting and informative book for aspiring writers. I personally thought that the book was a bit too wordy when explaining things. At times it seemed like it was written for completely inexperienced writes in a high school class. However, that being said, the outline layout and progression provided can be very useful for most storylines, making it well worth a read if you need help organizing your thoughts while creating your story.
This helped me put things into perspective. I’ve been a “Pantser” since day one and I’m trying to write faster since I’m making a series. When these methods I was able to step back from the second book and plan a few core elements the first one missed for so long! It even helped in my ability to talk to others about my ideas.
This is a fresh approach to outlining a novel. I enjoyed the section on pacing – I like the idea of contemplating pace during the outline stage. Can’t wait to try this!
First of all, here is an example of a fricking awesome book title.
The contents are just as good and describe how a pantser (someone like I am naturally, who writes by the seat of their pants) can become a plotter.
There is nothing wrong with being a pantser, it’s just that I realized I wanted to increase my productivity and plotting was my key to doing this.
I highly recommend Libbie’s short, succinct, plotting method.
I always like reading about new approached to outlining before starting a project just to see if I’m inspired to try something new with my own outlining process or even inspire ideas for the story I’m working on. This book did give a few tips I’ll implement, but much of it seemed like information I’ve already learned (with stronger explanations) elsewhere.
That said, if you haven’t tried outlining before or if you’re starting out on your first novel-length project, I do recommend giving this a try. Libbie’s advice is very approachable and easy to understand. Start here, but I’d also suggest making time to read Scott King’s Outline Your Novel.
I was slightly annoyed by the numerous typos in this book, but that’s just me being persnickety.
The best and most succinct ‘How to’ book I’ve ever come across. Wish I’d found it years ago! No guff, no padding, just straightforward guidelines. Awesome. I’d give it 10 stars if I could!
Libbie does a fantastic job walking readers/writers through the outlining process. I love the fresh take to help you think about character arc, plot, Story Core and pacing. This is definitely a book to read for anyone starting their writing journey or who’d like another look at plotting vs pantsing
In rewriting Book 3, The Targeted Pawn, releasing 3/2020, I thought I’d try Libbie’s method. Her style resonated. My story will be stronger and her method is easy to follow and implement. I’m glad I’ve seen her at an Eastside RWA monthly meeting and all-day workshop. The book answers all my questions.
Terrific book for a pantser like myself. I’ve been trying for years to get my head around the whole plotting/story arc the way the rest of the grown up population of writers seems to be able to do it, this has been an eye opener for me.
Read it. It makes so much sense, it had me back banging the keys and I keep going back to the book again and again for a refresher.