In fact, it should be the firstĪccording to Zadie Smith, there are two types of novelists: Macro planners and micromanagers. But, the importance of detailing the outlineįor your novel is enormous. It is true that many writers won’t put emphasis on how to outline a novel. It may even stop you from putting that story together. Jumping directly into writing without taking the necessary steps will do nothing but slow down your progress and leave you frustrated. Outlining a novel is a part of knowing how to write a novel or how to write a book. They can be far less intimidating than starting from scratch. These are pre-made outlines that only need your story's specific information plugged in. If you are struggling with the idea, it can be helpful to start with a novel outline template. Some writers cringe at the mention of such extensive planning, but outlining a novel is an important step. Perhaps it's because they don't know how to outline a novel. Have you ever wondered why writers scribble on blank sheets but then burn those innocent pieces of paper just because they can’t seem to capture the story in their mind perfectly?