Plotter Vs. Pantser: Which Writing Style Are You? 

Are you a plotter or a pantser? If you’ve ever sat down to write and found yourself wondering whether you need an outline or if you should just dive in headfirst and see where the story takes you, you’re not alone. Writers across every genre face this precise struggle, particularly when beginning a new project or attempting to build a more consistent writing process. Identifying whether you’re a plotter (someone who outlines and plans ahead), or a pantser (someone who writes by the seat of their pants) can totally upend how you approach writing and how much you enjoy it. But working out which approach is best for you isn’t always easy. Today at What We Writing, we’ll break down the differences between plotters and pantsers, explore the pros and cons of each writing style, and introduce a new option: the hybrid “plantser”. Whether you’re just starting out or deep into a novel, you’ll come away with a clearer picture of your creative process and how to make it work for you. 

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What Is A Plotter In Writing? 

A plotter is a writer who prefers to plan and outline their story before they start writing it. Sometimes referred to as an outline-based writer or someone who uses a structured writing process, a plotter maps out major plot points, character arcs, and even scene-by-scene breakdowns in advance. 

This method is all about having a roadmap, knowing where the story is heading before the journey gets underway. 

Common Traits of a Plotter: 

• Loves creating outlines, timelines, or storyboards before drafting. 
• Often builds detailed character bios and worldbuilding documents. 
• Motivation comes from knowing what happens next.
• Feels more in control with structure and a clear plan. 
• Enjoys revisiting and refining the outline during the writing process. 

Benefits of Plotting: 

• Stronger story structure: Plotters can avoid plot holes and pacing issues by laying the groundwork early. 
• Easier foreshadowing: Knowing the ending allows writers to weave clues and themes more effectively. 
• Fewer rewrites: A clean and concise plan usually leads to cleaner first drafts. 
• Reduced writer’s block: With a step-by-step outline, plotters are less likely to find themselves stuck mid-draft.
• Goal-oriented progress: Tracking milestones (i.e. word count per chapter) can boost productivity. 

Being a plotter doesn’t mean your story can’t grow or evolve. It simply means you have the groundwork to build from. Many successful authors depend on this structured approach to writing to maintain consistency and clarity in their work. 

What Is A Pantser In Writing? 

A pantser is a writer who prefers to uncover the story as they go, without a detailed outline or pre-planned structure in mind. The term comes from the phrase “writing by the seat of your pants,” meaning these writers depend on their instincts, spontaneity, and intuition to guide their creative process. 

This discovery writing approach thrives in unpredictability and allows the story to develop naturally in real time. 

Common Traits of a Pantser: 

• Leaps into writing with little or no planning. 
• It is often inspired by a single character, scene, or image. 
• Writes to “find out what happens” rather than following a predetermined path. 
• Comfortable having messy drafts and revising later on. 
• Leans on the thrills of unexpected twists.

Benefits of Pantsing 

• Creative freedom: Without a rigid structure, pantsers can follow their ideas wherever they lead. 
• Authentic character development: Characters might grow more authentically when they aren’t tied to an outline.
• More emotional writing: The spontaneity often produces raw, in-the-moment scenes. 
• Fewer limitations: Pantsers skip over getting stuck perfecting outlines before they begin. 
• Flow-focused process: This free-flowing writing style can lead to immersive, highly engaging sessions. 

Despite what you might think, pantsing is all about chaos and vibes. It’s about trusting your instincts and allowing the story to reveal itself. Many authors thrive using this intuitive writing process, embracing the creative unknown as part of their creative journey.  

Plotter Vs. Pantser: Pros And Cons Compared 

When it comes to different writing styles, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re outlining every painstaking detail or writing by instinct, each method has its own strengths and challenges. 

Below is a side-by-side comparison to help you understand the benefits of being a plotter versus a pantser, and which might suit your personality the best: 

Plotter	Pantser
Clear structure from the start	Creative freedom to explore new avenues
Easier to track story arcs and pacing	Surprising, spontaneous plot twists
Helps to avoid plot holes and inconsistencies	Characters evolve naturally
Makes drafting faster and more focused	Less pressure to “get it right” from the off
Great for writers who thrive on preparation and order	Ideal for writers who feel stuck when they feel boxed in
Supports long-term projects like series or complex plots	Perfect for discovery-driven writers and short fiction
Con: May feel restrictive or overly rigid	Con: Can lead to messy drafts and more rewrites
Con: Risk of over-planning and procrastination	Con: Higher chance of plot holes and narrative dead ends

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Check Out Our Guide To Plot vs Story

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Which Style Is Right for You? 

There’s no wrong answer; it all depends on your creative workflow, personality, and goals. Some writers start out as pantsers and slowly become plotters. Others combine both (looking at you plantsers – we’ll talk about that next!)

Ultimately, understanding the pros and cons of plotting vs. pantsing can help you write more confidently and sustainably. 

What If You’re Both? Meet The Plantser

Not every writer finds themselves resting neatly in the plotter or pantser category, and that’s completely okay. If you find yourself doing some planning, but still love the freedom of discovery, you might be what’s known as a plantser. 

A plantser blends the best of both worlds: enough structure to remain grounded, but enough flexibility to allow creativity to take the lead. This hybrid writing style is incredibly popular among modern writers, particularly those who like to begin with a loose outline and refine it as they go. 

What Does a Plantser’s Process Look Like? 

• Begins with a broad story idea or a rough outline. 
• Plans key turning points or character aims, but leaves room for spontaneity. 
• Updates or adjusts the outline as the story evolves. 
• Embraces both logic and intuition in the writing process. 
• May outline some sections, but free-write others. 

Real-World Examples of Plantsers:

Many well-known authors fall into this middle ground: 

• Brandon Sanderson: Known for his extensive worldbuilding, but he often allows room for characters and subplots to evolve authentically. 
• Neil Gaiman: Has mentioned planning certain story elements, but allowing others to develop as he writes. 
• V.E. Schwab: Describes herself as “half plotter, half chaos goblin,” reflecting this balanced approach. 

You Don’t Have to Pick a Side 

Whether you’re a plotter, a pantser, or somewhere in between the two, the most crucial thing is finding out what works for you. Writing is a creative process, not a rigid formula. What matters is that your method helps you to stay engaged, inspired, and moving forward. 

So, if you like a bit of structure and the thrill of discovery? Congratulations – you’re a plantser, and you’re in some great company! 

Wrap Up 

Whether you’re a meticulous plotter, an instinctive pantser, or a flexible plantser, your writing style is part of what makes your creative process unique. Understanding your preferences can help you write more confidently, avoid frustration, and find more joy in the way you work. 

Remember: there’s no “better” or “worse” way to write, just what works best for you. The key is to experiment, stay open to change, and keep showing up for your writing. 

So, what’s your style? 

Leave a comment below and tell us: Are you a plotter, pantser, or plantser? 

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Check Out If You Need An Outline To Write A Novel

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