The Pros of Pantsing

“Pantsing,” a colloquial term derived from the phrase “flying by the seat of your pants,” refers to the approach some writers take by diving into their novels without a structured plan or outline.

This spontaneous method of writing has its advocates and detractors, and like any creative process, comes with a unique set of pros and cons.

In this post, we’ll explore both sides to help you determine if pantsing might suit your writing style.

Pros of Pantsing

1. Unleashes Creativity

Pantsing allows for a free flow of ideas, often leading to unexpected and innovative plot twists, character developments, and thematic explorations. This spontaneity can spark creativity, making the writing process more dynamic and enjoyable.

2. Fosters Authenticity

Without the constraints of a predetermined outline, the narrative can evolve more organically, potentially leading to a more authentic and emotionally resonant story. Characters can develop in ways that feel true to their nature, rather than being forced into preconceived roles or arcs.

3. Adapts to Writer’s Intuition

Pantsing can be particularly effective for writers who rely heavily on their intuition. It allows them to navigate the narrative based on what feels right for the story at the moment, which can lead to a deeply intuitive and cohesive final product.

4. Maintains Momentum

For some writers, the absence of a strict outline means there’s less chance of getting bogged down in planning and re-planning, allowing for a smoother writing process and potentially faster completion of the first draft.

Cons of Pantsing

1. Risk of Inconsistencies

Without a clear plan, it’s easy to introduce plot holes, inconsistencies, and continuity errors into the narrative. Such issues might not be evident until later drafts, requiring significant revisions and rewrites.

2. Potential for Meandering Plot

Without a predetermined structure, the story might wander or veer off course, leading to a plot that feels unfocused or meandering. This can result in a narrative that loses tension and fails to hold the reader’s interest.

3. Character Development Challenges

While characters can develop organically in a pantsed novel, there’s also a risk that they may not evolve as cohesively as they might with a more structured approach. Significant changes to a character’s arc might be necessary later to ensure consistency and depth.

4. Increased Editing and Revisions

Pantsing can lead to a more convoluted first draft, often requiring extensive editing and revisions to hone the narrative into a coherent and polished final product. This can be a time-consuming and sometimes daunting process.

5. Difficulty in Managing Complex Stories

For novels with multiple plotlines, a large cast of characters, or complex world-building, pantsing can make it challenging to keep track of all the moving parts, potentially leading to a disjointed or incomplete story.

Balancing the Approach

Many writers find themselves somewhere in the middle of the spectrum between strict outlining and pure pantsing, adopting a hybrid approach that allows for both planning and spontaneity. This can involve having a broad outline or key milestones in mind while leaving enough flexibility for creative exploration.

Conclusion

Pantsing as a writing method underscores the deeply personal and varied nature of the creative process. What works for one writer might not for another, and the key is to understand your own preferences, strengths, and weaknesses. Whether you choose to plan meticulously, let the story lead the way, or find a middle ground, the most important thing is to keep writing, experimenting, and discovering what brings out your best work.