Okay, this is probably a dumb question, but could anyone describe HOW an outline should look and WHAT to include? I'm taking into consideration TOR's requirements for submitting a story to them: the first three chapters of the story and the outline of the rest of the book. Now, I know the general idea of 'outlining'; say main point 1 and then the subsequent ideas under that heading and so on and so forth. But is there a set pattern or whatnot to follow in submitting the manuscript with that outline? Uh, help me untangle my mind around this will ya? Thanks. :-)
Posted by rickfisher (Member # 1214) on :
Novel outlines are not like the table of contents of a non-fiction book. There are no roman numerals, levels of indendation, or any of that.
Basically, an "outline" is a synopsis. Depending on what they're asking for, it can be anywhere from a page to ten or fifteen pages. If it's one of the longer type, you'll probably have it broken out by chapter. The short type would just be narrative.
Write it in present tense, and don't put in any teasers (i.e., "to find out what happens next, you'll have to read the book").
If you don't find it painful and annoying to write, you're probably not doing a good job.
Posted by Susannaj4 (Member # 3189) on :
Adn if I understand it, just state the story plainly and simply. Not flashy. It's selling the story idea and giving enough info for someone to want to actually read the manuscipt and fall in love with your characters.
Posted by wbriggs (Member # 2267) on :
More detail:
It should be present tense, and since we aren't used to it, it's easy to slip up and put part in past.
Find out how long it should be; requirements vary.
No cliffhangers. Tell the whole thing.
Some say no dialogue, but I think the point is, only if it's the best way to summarize.
I recently helped a fellow writer who'd written her synopsis, and it gave her the devil of a time. You can omit entire sections of the book as needed; you can omit characters; you can omit movements. What you *do* need to tell is what matters.
Hope this helps.
Posted by pantros (Member # 3237) on :
when they say outline they just want something written about the contents of the rest of the book to show that you have actually finished the whole thing and understand how to carry a plot through.
Posted by susie (Member # 3224) on :
Hi,
I have an article about outlines for short stories. I'd be happy to send it to you if you'd like.
Susie
[This message has been edited by susie (edited February 08, 2006).]
Posted by Constipatron (Member # 3183) on :
Please do send, Susie! Anything that helps me get a better grasp on stuff I'm way too ignorant in will be a big help! Thanks!
Posted by pjp (Member # 3211) on :
susie:
Is the article something you can post or post a link to? I'm interested as well.
