Plotter or Pantser? What's Your Fiction Writing Style?

When it comes to writing fiction, there are two types of writers we hear about all the time: plotters and pantsers.

You might be one. You might be the other. Or—like most of us—you might fall somewhere in between. In fact, I’m surprised they haven’t created an official third category for those of us who thrive in a kind of organised creative chaos.

Oh wait. They have.

It’s called being a Plantser—part plotter, part pantser. But honestly? I think that’s a silly name. It makes me think of gardening. I’m going with Compass Writer instead. I don’t need a full map—just a sense of direction.

I'm not a plotter, nor am I a pantser...and I refuse to call myself a plantser.

What Is a Plotter?

Plotters are the meticulous planners. They thrive on structure. This type of writer probably also keeps a clean house and makes their bed with military precision. Before they type “Chapter One,” they’ve already mapped out the entire story.

Some plotters use sophisticated software to track everything that happens in their novels. I’ve even seen writers use spreadsheets—spreadsheets (picture me holding up a cross and hissing).

Plotter Strengths:

• Lower risk of major plot holes

• Fewer rewrites in revision

• Faster writing once planning is complete

• Ideal for tightly structured fiction (like mysteries or thrillers)

Plotter Challenges:

• Risk of over-planning and never starting

• Stories can feel rigid or overly controlled

• Can lose motivation if the ending is already known

I’ll admit—I’m a little judgey about this writing style. It just seems too organised to be truly creative… but let’s be honest, that’s probably my jealousy talking. I’d love to be this put together, and I know it would save me hours (maybe months) of work.

Sigh. It’s just not me.

What Is a Pantser?

Meanwhile, pantsers are out here leaping into the void with nothing but coffee and chaotic vibes. They don’t necessarily know how the story will end—or what’s happening in Chapter Three. They trust the process. They follow the characters. They write to discover.

Pantser Strengths:

• Natural flow and spontaneity

• Characters often evolve organically

• The writing process can feel thrilling and creative

Pantser Challenges:

• Higher risk of plot holes or wandering storylines

• Often requires more revision and restructuring

• Can stall mid-story without a clear direction

What If You’re A Compass Writer?

Let’s talk about the middle ground—because that’s where I live now. After years of being a full-blown pantser, I’ve shifted into a practice that blends planning with freedom. It gives me just enough structure without killing my creative momentum.

Here’s how I work:

• Plot Points First: I sketch out the key beats—but stay flexible. Characters will always surprise you.

• Chapter Focus: Before each chapter, I ask: Is this reflective or action-driven? What do my characters need to experience or achieve?

• Know the Ending: By the midpoint, I’ve figured out how the story ends. It helps build momentum and tension.

• Mental Walkthroughs: I daydream. A lot. I run emotional or situational “what-ifs” in my head before writing scenes.

Sometimes I use a Word doc. Sometimes a notebook. It varies. But this is what “somewhere in between” looks like for me. For you, it might look totally different.

Are you a Plotter or Pantser?

Start by asking yourself:

• Do I feel energised or boxed in by outlines?

• Do I get stuck without a roadmap?

• Have I finished more stories when I plan—or when I don’t?

• Do I enjoy editing more than drafting—or vice versa?

Try both. Plot your next story just to see how it feels. Or give yourself permission to write a messy, unplanned first draft.

Writing is a craft, but it’s also an adventure. And part of that adventure is finding the process that works for you.

I’d love to hear about your writing style. Are you a plotter or pantser, or another thing altogether? (You can be a plantser if you want...)

Leave a comment and share—I promise, if you’re a plotter, I’ll be kind.