Working out the plot for a novel is a process that evolves. In Twitter PLOT TIPS, Martha Alderson gives some plot basics. Check out: Beginning, Middle and Ending on the right hand side of her blog. SUPER TIPS!
a) The difference between the romantic freedom of creating art versus a carefully chosen discipline often is consistent productivity
b) It can take a few attempts to string scenes along the plot planner’s basic line before settling on the right ideas & the right organization
c) A story is about a character transforming her weaknesses into strengths.
d) Focus on your strengths. Don't think about the end result. Concentrate on writing at the scene level only, for now...
e) When considering the action your protagonist takes at the climax, question the limits of what is a reasonable and possible new way to live
f) What I quickly learned in the plot consultation is that the writer's tenacity is for writing not finishing. At some point you have to pull the story together and wrap it up.
g) Energy of the middle of a story is more intense than in the beginning, as protagonist is more rigorously blocked from reaching her goals.
Martha also has a YouTube video series: PLOT A NOVEL, MEMOIR, OR SCREENPLAY
I find it so true that you should write "on the scene level." One of my favorite YA authors, A. LaFaye told me that I should write until I don't know what happens next, then stop. Wait for the "next" part to come to you. Works for me.
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