Structuring the book

[determined2finish]

Hello,
I haven't posted in this area before but would like to ask a general question. I'm sorry if this is not the right place to ask this kind of question.

I am trying to write a short fictional humorous book and am stuck on where to begin. The problem I'm facing is whether or not to structure the book before actually starting to write it (kind of like how screenplays are designed to hit plot points and twists).

So, for those of you who have written short fictional books do you structure the story in advance with an outline or do you sit down and start writing the story starting at page one chapter one?

Thank you.

[Jamesaritchie]

Hello,
I haven't posted in this area before but would like to ask a general question. I'm sorry if this is not the right place to ask this kind of question.

I am trying to write a short fictional humorous book and am stuck on where to begin. The problem I'm facing is whether or not to structure the book before actually starting to write it (kind of like how screenplays are designed to hit plot points and twists).

So, for those of you who have written short fictional books do you structure the story in advance with an outline or do you sit down and start writing the story starting at page one chapter one?

Thank you.

I just sit down and start writing. It works very well for me, but it may not work at all for you. There is no right way, there's only the way that does or doesn't work for you. It doesn't cost anything to try both ways and see which works best. Go with the one that makes you feel most comfortable.

[arrowqueen]

Yep. Listen to Jim.

There are people who aren't happy unless they've plotted out everything in advance. There are people who prefer to sit down and fly by the seat of their pants.

Find which one you are and go for it.

Good luck.