When I first started writing, I didn’t know what kind of writer I was. I just knew I had stories in my head—characters whispering in my ear, emotions tugging at my chest, and scenes that popped up out of nowhere while I was doing the dishes or trying to fall asleep. I’d sit down, open a document or grab a notebook, and just… write. No outline. No chapter breakdown. Just me and the story, discovering it together one word at a time.
Turns out, there’s a name for that: pantsing. (Yes, it sounds a little silly—but it stuck!) And as I’ve grown as a writer, I’ve learned that knowing your writing style—whether you’re a pantser, a plotter, or somewhere in between—can help you work with your creative energy instead of fighting against it.
Let’s break down what these styles really mean:
What Is a Pantser?
A pantser writes “by the seat of their pants.” That means you dive into the story without a detailed outline, letting your characters, emotions, or ideas guide the journey. Pantsers often write intuitively and discover the plot as they go. There’s freedom in this approach, a kind of wild magic that keeps the process exciting. It’s ideal for writers who thrive on spontaneity and aren’t afraid of a few twists and turns.
Pros of Pantsing:
- Great for creativity and unexpected plot discoveries
- Characters often feel alive and real
- Flexible and emotionally driven writing
Challenges of Pantsing:
- Revisions can be a beast (hello, plot holes!)
- Risk of getting stuck in the middle
- May lose sight of the ending or theme
What Is a Plotter?
A plotter outlines their story before they start writing. This can be anything from a simple bullet list of scenes to an elaborate chapter-by-chapter breakdown. Plotters love structure and tend to have a clear roadmap of where the story is headed. If you like knowing what’s coming next and enjoy organizing your thoughts ahead of time, plotting might be your thing.
Pros of Plotting:
- Clear direction makes drafting more efficient
- Easier to spot pacing and story arc issues early
- Reduces the risk of writer’s block
Challenges of Plotting:
- Can feel rigid or limiting
- May stifle spontaneous creativity
- Risk of “planning fatigue” (outlining so much you burn out before writing)
Not Sure What Style You Are? Try These Tips:
If you’re new to writing and unsure which method fits you best, don’t stress. Here are a few ways to explore your natural style:
1. Try a short story both ways.
Write one short story using a rough outline, and another with zero planning. Which one felt more fun? Which one flowed easier? Your comfort level may surprise you.
2. Think about how you approach problems.
Do you like to plan everything in advance, or dive in and figure it out as you go? Your approach to other creative or daily tasks can offer clues.
3. Keep a writing journal.
After each writing session, jot down how it felt. Were you excited, stuck, or bored? Over time, patterns will emerge—like whether you get energized by structure or freedom.
4. Experiment with hybrid methods.
You don’t have to pick a side. Try using loose plot points or a basic three-act structure to guide your pantsing, or leave space in your outline for organic discoveries. There’s no wrong answer.
5. Ask yourself: What blocks you from finishing?
If you keep starting stories and never finishing, try outlining a bit more. If you’re stuck in the planning phase and can’t get words on the page, try pantsing the first few scenes to break the freeze.
So, Which Style Fits You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and that’s the beauty of writing. The key is to experiment and figure out what feels right for you. If plotting makes you feel overwhelmed, try pantsing. If pantsing leaves you stuck, try plotting just a little. Your process can evolve with each story you write.
Here are a few questions to help you decide:
- Do you enjoy discovering the story as you go? → You might be a pantser.
- Do you feel more confident with a plan in place? → You might be a plotter.
- Do you want the best of both worlds? → Welcome to the plantser club.
Final Thoughts
As a proud pantser, I’ve learned to embrace the chaos and trust my instincts. But I’ve also picked up a few tools from the plotter world to help me finish strong. Whatever your style, don’t be afraid to try new things, mix approaches, or change it up depending on the project.
Writing is personal. Your style is valid. And most importantly—your story deserves to be told, your way.
Happy Writing ^_^
Sara's Writing Sanctuary 