When it comes to views on plotting, there are three types of writers:

1.   Pantsers: who hate to plot

2.   Plantsers: they like to have a general plot to give them a good idea to at least get them started, but leaves room for creativity down the line

3.   Plotters: they want everything defined before the write the first word

Note: This guideline is based on Jessica Brody’s Save the Cat writes a Novel

However: the logic applies across-the-board regardless of the method of plotting (or not)

Question: Should all writers have an outline (even if only rough) before they begin writing

Answer: Universally Yes. You need to know at least roughly want you believe the story to be before writing the first word. You need that Story Idea at least as a guide.

The dividing line is how much room for creativity does each need to allow themselves.

This is a proposed answer in two parts:

Part 1. The Story Idea, Premise and Theme

Define Pantser - Plantser - Plotter

Story Idea XXX XXX XXX

Premise ??? XXX XXX

Theme ??? ??? XXX

Legend: XXX:Defintely ???: Perhaps

Part 2: Story Outline

How Much to Outline Before Beginnin to Write

Pantser Plantser Plotter

Opening Image XXX XXX XXX

Inciting Incident XXX XXX XXX

B Story ??? XXX XXX

Midpoint ??? XXX

All is Lost ??? XXX

Break into 3 ??? XXX

Finale-Climax XXX

Final Image XXX