Try This Simple Tactic To Write Fiction Any Time, Anywhere

You want to write fiction. Even if you’re an experienced writer, on some days the words won’t come. Perhaps you’re under stress, and can’t relax to write.

Want an easy way to write any time, anywhere, no matter how you’re feeling, or how busy you are?

Try this.

Write fiction: an easy tactic

Here’s the tactic: follow your inspiration.

Primarily, try writing non-sequentially.

We looked at this in How To Outline A Novel If You’re A Natural-Born Pantser:

Be prepared to write non-sequentially… I keep a “Scenes” folder. If I want to write a scene which won’t come up for several chapters, I place the scene’s document in that folder.

Why write non-sequentially?

We discussed writing non-sequentially in a recent writers’ group meeting. Seven members write like this.

One couldn’t imagine writing any other way. She said: “I’m a complete pantser, but it works for me. I tried writing in sequence: chapter 1, scene 1, scene 2… Can’t do it. I write whatever comes to me. Later I go back and slot the ideas and snippets where they need to go.”

Consider writing non-sequentially, because you:

• Never run out of ideas;
• Follow your natural inclination—you don’t need to force yourself to write;
• Can write anywhere. One member writes fiction only on her phone.

Chances are, your fiction will be better when you allow yourself to be inspired.

But how does it work?

Write fiction non-sequentially: try these ideas

1. Start writing: don’t wait for ideas.
2. Forget your outline, if you have one. Be completely open to what you’re writing in the moment.
3. Be alert for ideas: when you’re open to inspiration, you may find that you get more ideas than before.
4. Starting a new novel or novella? Make a list of what you need: characters, setting, story question, etc.
5. Using Scrivener? The app makes it easy to stitch your draft together: each day’s writing is a new document. Several of our group use Obsidian, with the Longform plugin.
6. Consider using a writing journal, as well as a spreadsheet, to keep track of what you’re writing. Spreadsheet columns could include the date, the area of the novel (setup, middle, building up to the climax…) As your novel grows, you can add “Chapter” and “Scenes” columns.
7. Transitions matter. When you write non-sequentially, you’ll need to compile all your material. You may need to revise more than usual.
8. Trust your creativity.

Thinking about writing short stories? Here’s how

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