Outlining can be a controversial topic for writers. Plotters rely on outlines to plan the structure and flow of fiction, nonfiction, and memoir projects, but may get stuck crafting the perfect one before setting words to page. Pantsers—who write “by the seat of their pants”—don’t want their creativity hemmed in by something so formal, but sometimes lose threads of their story in the process.

In this interactive talk, I will present several outlining strategies, from the traditional method taught in grade school, to a more freestyle and forgiving type that breaks down blocks and fosters consistency and coherence. No need to have a project in mind; examples and prompts will be provided.