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For example, if you were brainstorming Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, it might go something like this:
The What If? method is a fantastic way to generate ideas and explore possibilities for your book, however this post on revision by Veronica Roth reminded me that the scope of it’s usefulness doesn’t end in the brainstorming stage.
You see, the point of revision isn’t just to make the words on the page grammatically correct or sound a little nicer (that would be final edits or copyediting, not revision). The purpose of revision is to take the story that you have and make it better. Explore the plot, add more layers and levels of complexity, push the limits, delve into the characters and cut it down to the core of the novel.
It’s a lot to try to accomplish, for sure, and sometimes it can seem overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
A great place to start is by going back to the What If? method while re-reading your work. Maybe your first chapter is off—go through it and start questioning everything. Be open to making changes—even huge changes—and know that just because you write down a What If option doesn’t mean you have to use it.
Maybe your protagonist isn't sitting right with you. Start thinking about possible changes in What If? terms and write down possibilities.
The What If? method can open up new directions and potential revision ideas that you might not have considered otherwise. Next time you’re gearing up for revisions, keep this method in mind—it might just open up some new doors of plot possibilities for you.
Have you ever used the What If? method for brainstorming or revision?
- What if the protagonist was a wizard?
- What if he didn’t know he was a wizard?
- What if everyone but him knew he was a wizard?
- What if his family knew he was a wizard, but didn’t want him to know (or ever find out)?
- What if the wizarding community tried to contact him, but his family hid the correspondence?
- Etc.
The What If? method is a fantastic way to generate ideas and explore possibilities for your book, however this post on revision by Veronica Roth reminded me that the scope of it’s usefulness doesn’t end in the brainstorming stage.
You see, the point of revision isn’t just to make the words on the page grammatically correct or sound a little nicer (that would be final edits or copyediting, not revision). The purpose of revision is to take the story that you have and make it better. Explore the plot, add more layers and levels of complexity, push the limits, delve into the characters and cut it down to the core of the novel.
It’s a lot to try to accomplish, for sure, and sometimes it can seem overwhelming. Where do you even begin?
A great place to start is by going back to the What If? method while re-reading your work. Maybe your first chapter is off—go through it and start questioning everything. Be open to making changes—even huge changes—and know that just because you write down a What If option doesn’t mean you have to use it.
Maybe your protagonist isn't sitting right with you. Start thinking about possible changes in What If? terms and write down possibilities.
The What If? method can open up new directions and potential revision ideas that you might not have considered otherwise. Next time you’re gearing up for revisions, keep this method in mind—it might just open up some new doors of plot possibilities for you.
Have you ever used the What If? method for brainstorming or revision?
16 comments:
Nice tip.
Thank you. :)
I've never done this before and I think it is just what I need. I'm completely stuck in my novel and think at least part of it is off kilter. Off to get a notebook and start some what if-ing. thanks!
Absolutely! Happy to hear you found the post helpful. Good luck with your WIP!
I'm halfway through the second draft of my NaNo novel - completely rewriting it with a new plot. It can be discouraging, especially since I don't know if the new direction is a better direction. I'll definitely make sure to try this method :)
I've never attempted the "what if". I'm kind of scared, especially since I've already outlined my story. That Veronica Roth posts some interesting things.
That's a great point, Ava. It's always important to push yourself a little to figure out how much further the story could stretch. Asking yourself questions about the story is probably the best way to go about it. And even if something seems far-fetched, jot it down anyway. You never know where the idea might take you.
In my experience, I've found that most times, changes tend to be a good thing. But on the bright side, if it turns out you don't like the changes, you can always go back and add stuff back in.
Good luck with your revisions!
It can be a little scary to deviate from the outline, but in my experience, I've found that it often turns out to be for the best. :)
Great point about writing down even far-fetched ideas. One of the most important things to remember while brainstorming (revisions or otherwise) is not to censor yourself. As you said, what seemed like a crazy idea might lead you to something fantastic.
This is such a great tool. I havent heard of it before, but I can see myself using it often in the future! Im really excited.
Interesting. I just read another blog this morning on using 'what ifs' and 'whys' for brainstorming. The author was a total panster, but it applies for planners like me as well. A great way to get your story in order before even sitting down with paper & pen (like I do) or the computer.
Great post!
I must be more flexible and let the story grow. Sometimes I treat my stories like children and always tell them no. Papa has to let them grow up sometimes.
Yes! This helped me plot my second book and make it wayyy better than it would have been. What if? is definitely a tool to keep around.
Thank you, Terri! Questioning everything can be extraordinarily helpful for both brainstorming and revising. You never know what you'll come up with after a little extra prodding.
It definitely is a fantastic tool--and a versatile one to boot. :)
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