So, you're a writer, huh? But do you know what kind of writer you are? Let's figure that out!
The Plotter: The Screenplay Architect
Plotters are the architects of the writing world. These folks wouldn’t dream of typing a single scene without a detailed blueprint of their entire screenplay. They have outlines, character arcs, scene breakdowns, and maybe even a color-coded Excel sheet tracking every plot point.
The Plotter: The Screenplay Architect
Example: Imagine you’re writing a Bollywood blockbuster. A Plotter will first draft a detailed story outline, then break it down scene by scene. They’ll make sure the hero’s entrance, the love song, the dramatic interval twist, and the emotional climax all hit the right beats. Every character's dialogue is meticulously planned, and every scene transition is smooth as ghee.
Pros:
You can write faster because you have a clear guide.
Saves you a lot of time because there's less rewriting involved.
Cons:
Too much planning can block creativity and spontaneity.
The plot and characters might become too predictable.
The Pantser: The Spontaneous Storyteller aka The Explorer
"Pantser" is short for “flying by the seat of your pants,” an idiom that means acting without a plan or preparation, relying on instinct, and making decisions on the spot. These writers take that approach literally.
Pantsers dive into writing headfirst with nothing but a vague idea and a whole lot of hope. They let the screenplay unfold naturally, discovering the plot as they go.
The Pantser: The Explorer
Example: Now, imagine the same Bollywood blockbuster. A Pantser will start writing with just a rough idea—maybe a hero, a heroine, and a villain—and see where the story takes them. One day they might write an action sequence, and the next, a comedy scene. Who knows? By the end, they might have a masala mix of romance, action, drama, and maybe even a surprise cameo.
Pros:
You feel a greater sense of freedom while writing allowing you to experiment with characters and plot.
You save a lot of time in the planning phase, which you can use for actual writing.
Cons:
You have a high chance of encountering writer's block more easily.
Your screenplay might end up with inconsistent pacing.
In the end, both types of writers end up with a finished screenplay. The only difference is how they got there—and maybe how many rewrites it took along the way.
So, Which One Are You?
There’s no right or wrong way to write. Some screenwriters even combine both approaches—starting with a rough outline but allowing themselves the freedom to veer off course. The important thing is to find the method that lets your creativity flow, whether you’re meticulously planning every scene or letting your characters run wild.
So grab your pen (or keyboard) and get writing—whether you’re plotting it all out or flying by the seat of your pants!
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