Behinds Quote by Clive Cussler
“I plot as I go. Many novelists write an outline that has almost as many pages as their ultimate book. Others knock out a brief synopsis... Do what is comfortable. If you have to plot out every move your characters make, so be it. Just make sure there is a plausible purpose behind their machinations. A good reader can smell a phony plot a block away.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Author discussion, 2020
Writers can choose structured outlines or spontaneous plotting; both work if purposeful and believable.
In simple terms: Plotting can be planned or improvised, but must make sense.
Key Takeaway
Choose the method that keeps your story credible.
Themes
creativity
structure
authenticity
Mood
analytical
practical
Type
advice
motivational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- game design
- academic research
Key Concepts
plotting
writing process
storytelling
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you prefer a roadmap or discovery in your projects?
- How do you ensure plot purpose?
A Different Perspective
Over‑planning can stifle spontaneity; under‑planning may cause incoherence.
![“My [story] outlines are usually about 5-6 pages long. I'm essentially telling myself the story in short form. I try to make it clear who the major characters are, what they want, and what obstacles they face.” quote by Chevy Stevens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4ca/chevy-stevens-24533_character_my-story-outlines-are-usually-about-5-6_1313989.jpg)
