--- title: "Plotting vs. Pantsing: Finding Your Writing Process" description: Ready to dive into the world of plotting? Get everything you need to know in our latest blog. image: https://www.hireawriter.us/hubfs/HAW%20blog%20(7)%20(1).png --- [Skip to the main content.](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/plotting-vs.-pantsing-finding-your-writing-process#main-content) [![Untitled design (90)](https://www.hireawriter.us/hs-fs/hubfs/Untitled%20design%20(90).png?width=500&height=500&name=Untitled%20design%20(90).png "Untitled design (90)")](http://hireawriter.us) [![Untitled design (90)](https://www.hireawriter.us/hs-fs/hubfs/Untitled%20design%20(90).png?width=500&height=500&name=Untitled%20design%20(90).png "Untitled design (90)")](http://hireawriter.us) - [FOR BUSINESSES](https://www.hireawriter.us/for-businesses) - [SEO COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/seo-copywriting) - [SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT](https://www.hireawriter.us/social-media-services) - [WEBSITE COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/website-copywriting) - [LEAD GEN COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/lead-generation-copywriting) - [MARKETING STRATEGY](https://www.hireawriter.us/marketing-strategy) - [FOR AGENCIES](https://www.hireawriter.us/agency-partnership) - [WHITE LABELED COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/white-labeled-copywriting) - [FRACTIONAL SEO LEADERSHIP](https://www.hireawriter.us/fractional-seo-leadership) - [TECHNICAL SEO](https://www.hireawriter.us/technical-seo) - [TRAINING](https://www.hireawriter.us/training) - [ABOUT HAW](https://www.hireawriter.us/about) - [JOBS](https://www.hireawriter.us/hire-a-writer-jobs) - [LEARN](https://www.hireawriter.us/learn) - [LEARN SEO](https://www.hireawriter.us/seo) - [LEARN BUSINESS CONTENT](https://www.hireawriter.us/business) - [LEARN SOCIAL MEDIA](https://www.hireawriter.us/social) - [LEARN STORYTELLING](https://www.hireawriter.us/storytelling) - [LEARN CREATIVE WRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative) - [LEARN TECHNICAL WRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/technical-content) - [LEARN FREELANCE WRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/freelance) - [CONTACT](https://www.hireawriter.us/contact) Search Toggle Menu Search Toggle Menu - [FOR BUSINESSES](https://www.hireawriter.us/for-businesses) - [SEO COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/seo-copywriting) - [SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT](https://www.hireawriter.us/social-media-services) - [WEBSITE COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/website-copywriting) - [LEAD GEN COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/lead-generation-copywriting) - [MARKETING STRATEGY](https://www.hireawriter.us/marketing-strategy) - [FOR AGENCIES](https://www.hireawriter.us/agency-partnership) - [WHITE LABELED COPYWRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/white-labeled-copywriting) - [FRACTIONAL SEO LEADERSHIP](https://www.hireawriter.us/fractional-seo-leadership) - [TECHNICAL SEO](https://www.hireawriter.us/technical-seo) - [TRAINING](https://www.hireawriter.us/training) - [ABOUT HAW](https://www.hireawriter.us/about) - [JOBS](https://www.hireawriter.us/hire-a-writer-jobs) - [LEARN](https://www.hireawriter.us/learn) - [LEARN SEO](https://www.hireawriter.us/seo) - [LEARN BUSINESS CONTENT](https://www.hireawriter.us/business) - [LEARN SOCIAL MEDIA](https://www.hireawriter.us/social) - [LEARN STORYTELLING](https://www.hireawriter.us/storytelling) - [LEARN CREATIVE WRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative) - [LEARN TECHNICAL WRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/technical-content) - [LEARN FREELANCE WRITING](https://www.hireawriter.us/freelance) - [CONTACT](https://www.hireawriter.us/contact) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Hireawriteronline) [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/joywriteryouell/) [Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/company/hireawriter/) [X](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/plotting-vs.-pantsing-finding-your-writing-process#0) [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8sZOTANgCCjtn29m4J0Z6A) [Medium](https://medium.com/hireawriter) [Tiktok](https://www.tiktok.com/@joyyouell) [Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/joyfromhireawriter/) 3 min read # Plotting vs. Pantsing: Finding Your Writing Process [![Picture of Angela Wyatt](https://www.hireawriter.us/hubfs/Angela%20Wyatt.%20(1)%20(1).png) Angela Wyatt](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/author/angela-wyatt) : Aug 18, 2023, 3:08:49 PM ![Plotting vs. Pantsing: Finding Your Writing Process](https://www.hireawriter.us/hubfs/HAW%20blog%20(7)%20(1).png) Every writer has their own process when crafting a story. Some writers meticulously prepare outlines, mapping out each point they want to hit, while others just put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and let the words flow.  This is the great debate for writers: plotting vs. pantsing. Which is better? Each process has its merits and its disadvantages. One may work better for you, depending on your personality and creative style. Let’s explore plotting and pantsing to determine which aligns [best with your writing personality](https://blog.nanowrimo.org/post/663514886873186304/pantsing-vs-plotting). ## What is Plotting? [Plotting in writing](https://www.writersdigest.com/getting-published/what-is-a-plotter-in-writing) is the process of plotting out their work before writing. One common way to plot is to create an outline to follow throughout the writing process. Many writers find that plotting ensures that writers will get to the end of their stories if they know where they need to go before starting.  ## The Pros of Plotting A clear idea of where you want to end up provides [a solid framework](https://writersedit.com/fiction-writing/the-pros-and-cons-of-plotting-and-pantsing/) for many writers. Here are some advantages of plotting: ### Structured Guidance Plotters act as architects for their writing. They outline the plot, characters, and story arcs before they begin. This approach provides a roadmap and a clear direction of where the work should end. ### Efficient Drafting Writing is more efficient with a well-defined plan in place. Plotters spend less time backtracking and reworking because they have already decided on key elements.  ### Consistency A structured plan contributes to consistency in tone and pacing, which could result in a more polished draft. ## The Cons of Plotting Can plotting work against writers? Here are some negatives of the approach: ### Constrained Creativity Some writers find that a rigid [outline](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=G-ecv1FBxR0) stifles their creative flow. The predetermined structure could limit their ability to explore unexpected ideas that may enrich the work. ### Over-Planning Unfortunately, a fine line exists between a comprehensive outline and excessive planning. Too much time spent on pre-planned details could lead to a lack of spontaneity and flexibility in the process. ### Writer’s Block Ironically, the structure writers aim for when plotting to reduce writer’s block might cause it. If writers encounter challenges while strictly adhering to their outline, they could struggle to deviate from it to find the solution. [![writer workshops](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/24409333/0877856e-0f49-42ee-aee5-85a171ede91a.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/24409333/0877856e-0f49-42ee-aee5-85a171ede91a) ## What is Pantsing? [Pantsing](https://www.writersdigest.com/getting-published/what-is-a-pantser-in-writing) is a creative term for people who write “by the seat of their pants.” There’s no outline, no framework before they begin writing–they have an idea, and away they go. Pantsers argue that their approach to writing allows for full creative expression. ## The Pros of Pantsing Let’s dig into the positives of pantsing: ### Unbridled Creativity Pantsers are adventurers, venturing into uncharted territories with their writing. This approach allows spontaneity, inspiration, and [storytelling](https://www.hireawriter.us/storytelling/exploring-timeless-storytelling-techniques) that may not have arisen with strict plotting. ### Emotional Intensity As pantsers discover the story as it unfolds, the [emotionality](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/writing-creative-non-fiction-from-the-heart) of the work can be more profound. Raw, genuine reactions from the writer can translate to more vivid and relatable storytelling. ### Freedom and Exploration Without the confines of an outline, writers have the freedom to follow their [creativity](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative) down various paths, leading to unique developments that resonate with readers.  ## The Cons of Pantsing When is pantsing a less-than-ideal option? Let’s explore some downsides: ### Inconsistent Structure One of the main challenges with pantsing is maintaining your structure. The lack of planning could result in plot holes, arc inconsistencies, or pacing issues. ### Revision Challenges While the first draft might be exhilarating, pantsers often face more intensive revision processes. Streamlining the narrative and addressing inconsistencies can lead to extensive rewrites. ### Writer’s Block Pantsers might find themselves stuck in the middle of their work without a clear direction. This can lead to frustration and extended periods of writer's block as they struggle to find their way forward. ## Can You Be a Plotter and a Pantser? In short–yes.  [Michael Woodson of Writers Digest](https://www.writersdigest.com/be-inspired/writing-mistakes-writers-make-choosing-between-plotting-or-pantsing) put it best here: “Even the most resolute pantsers can benefit from plotting their direction–from having a North Star. Knowing where you’re going won’t spoil what you discover along the way.” ## Creative Writing with Hire a Writer Ultimately, whether you lean towards plotting or pantsing depends on your writing style, creative process, and the nature of the story you're telling. Plotting offers structure, guidance, and consistency, while pantsing offers unbridled creativity, emotional intensity, and the thrill of discovery.  Many successful authors use a hybrid approach, combining elements of both methods to balance structure and spontaneity. Regardless of your choice, the key is to find what best suits your writing process and helps you bring your stories to life in the most fulfilling way possible. Need help bringing your stories to life? Reach out to the [Hire a Writer team](https://www.hireawriter.us/contact) today. - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![Explore the Rich Tapestry of Poetry: A Dive into Poetic Forms](https://www.hireawriter.us/hubfs/5-4.png)](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/explore-the-rich-tapestry-of-poetry-a-dive-into-poetic-forms) 1 min read #### [Explore the Rich Tapestry of Poetry: A Dive into Poetic Forms](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/explore-the-rich-tapestry-of-poetry-a-dive-into-poetic-forms) ![Picture of Writing Team](https://www.hireawriter.us/hs-fs/hubfs/HAW%20Logo%20T%20%26%20White%20square-3.png?width=30&name=HAW%20Logo%20T%20%26%20White%20square-3.png) [Writing Team](https://www.hireawriter.us/creative/author/writing-team) : Mar 9, 2024, 12:00:55 AM Poetry, as an expressive art form, embraces a vast array of structures and styles. Delving into the world of poetic forms reveals a fascinating... 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