I admit I can't write very well without some sort of a plan. But I don't use an outline. I use a mind map . I first learned the technique from a Tony Buzan handout in a corporate training course decades ago. I've used the technique ever since, for taking notes, making a shopping list, planning a story. There is a ton of information online about mind maps and mind mapping programs for computers. Me? I prefer drawing them by hand because I'm a doodler, and in my finer moments, I even use assorted colors. I find it gives me the bones, but still allows me plenty of seat-of-the-pants opportunities. (Example below not mine. Isn't it beautiful?) How about you? Have you tried plotting this way? How are you preparing for NaNoWriMo ? Are you a plotter or a pantser? Leave us a comment! ~~~~ Dani Greer is plotting a number of different projects this week and has a mind map for each one.