I've spent a lot of time just writing, on my own, and only joined this site this week but I have seen a couple of people mention 'landmarking'. Could someone please tell me what this is? Apologies if I should know this
I've spent a lot of time just writing, on my own, and only joined this site this week but I have seen a couple of people mention 'landmarking'. Could someone please tell me what this is? Apologies if I should know this
Thanks Louise, I think I have been a 'pantser' upto now but will give the landmarking a go as I can see how it could benefit my writing. I have so much to do :-) I also just found some short stories I wrote some time ago so will edit them and see where that leads
Thank you so much for that. There is a lot of really useful information there which I will take notice of. Much appreciated
When you edit your novel it is vital that you landmark the key dramatic events.
They will ensure your plot and storyline are as strong as possible.
After you have landmarked your novel, the editing process should be much easier.
You may have any number of chapters in your novel, but most good novels have five or six dramatic events that stand out from the rest. They are what keep your plot and storyline as straight, and as simple as possible. The landmarks are the template for your novel.
Pick five or six of the dramatic events that you think are key to your novel. They should strongly relate to your plot, storyline, setting/settings, main character/rounded characters.
Checklist.
Why do you consider these events to be more important than the others?
What is the cause and effect of these events?
Why are they more vital to the plot and storyline than the other events?
How do they interrealate with each other?
Can you visualize how they link together?
As part of the landmark process, you should check to see if your rounded characters behave in the way you want the reader to relate to them. Characters should act in character for the best part, or all of your novel. Failure to do this may confuse the reader.
Check your Settings. Settings are centrally important and should be generally motivated. What is the significance of each setting in your novel. Why is it there? What is its role?
That is my understanding of how to landmark a novel.