Reverse outlining your novel (as a revision tool)

Welcome to the wonderful world of reverse outlining. If you've ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering if your story makes sense, or missed any crucial plot points, this article is for you. Strap in, because we're about to do some literary time travelling.

Unravelling reverse outlining

Reverse outlining is like reading a book, but in reverse. Instead of starting with an outline and then writing your story, you're starting with a story and then creating an outline. It's like piecing together a puzzle you've made yourself.

The benefits of reverse outlining

Now, why would you want to do this? Well, it offers a bird's-eye view of your novel, helping you spot plot inconsistencies, character development issues, and pacing problems. It's also an excellent tool for identifying areas where your theme or message may have gone astray.

How to reverse outline your novel

The read-through

Start by reading your novel as if you were a reader, not the author. Make notes about each chapter – what happens, who's involved, and any major revelations.

The outline

Take your notes and start structuring them into an outline. This doesn't have to be detailed – just the critical points of each chapter.

The analysis

Now, look at your outline and start analysing. Are there plot holes? Does the pacing feel off? Do your characters develop in a believable way?

The revision

Once you've identified the issues, it's time to get to work. Use your reverse outline to guide your revision, ensuring that you're addressing the problems you've identified.

Tips for effective reverse outlining

Reverse outlining can be a unique and powerful tool for revisions, but it can also feel a bit daunting, especially if you're new to the process. So, to help you navigate this uncharted territory, here are some tips to make your reverse outlining journey smoother and more effective.

Break it down

Attempting to reverse outline your entire novel at once can be overwhelming. Break it down into smaller sections – you could do it chapter by chapter, or even scene by scene, depending on what works best for you. This makes the process more manageable and less daunting.

Embrace change

During the reverse outlining process, you might uncover plot holes or inconsistencies that require major changes – maybe a character needs to be rewritten, or a subplot needs to be removed. Don't be afraid to make these changes. Remember, the goal of revision is to make your novel the best it can be.

Stay objective

Try to maintain an objective viewpoint as you reverse outline. This can be challenging, as you're likely very attached to your story and your characters. However, try to approach it as if you were a reader, not the author. This can help you identify issues that you might otherwise overlook.

Use a visual aid

Some people find it helpful to map out their outline visually. This could be as simple as writing it out on a large piece of paper, or as complex as a digital storyboard. Use whatever method helps you best visualise your story's structure.

Take regular breaks

Just like any intense mental activity, reverse outlining can lead to burnout if you don't take regular breaks. Step away from your work every now and then – go for a walk, read a book, or do something else you enjoy. This not only prevents burnout, but also helps keep your mind fresh and your perspective clear.

Keep the big picture in mind

Remember, the goal of reverse outlining is to improve your story's structure and pacing. Don't get so caught up in the details that you lose sight of the big picture.

Riding the wave of reverse outlining

Reverse outlining is a powerful tool in your revision kit. It might feel strange at first, but once you get the hang of it, you'll wonder how you ever revised without it. So go ahead, try it – you might just find that it revolutionises your revision process.

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