Plotting vs. Pantsing
In short: Plotting means planning a story before writing; „pantsing“ means discovering the story as you write. Both ways of working get you there.
Where the terms come from
„Pantser“ comes from the phrase „to fly by the seat of your pants“ – steering a plane by feel, without instruments. The pair plotter and pantser became popular above all in writing communities; Stephen King is the best-known pantser, describing in „On Writing“ how he discovers stories as he writes.
Which type are you?
The plotter: Plans structure, characters and turning points in advance – gives security, but can curb spontaneity.
The pantser: Starts with an idea and lets the story grow – lively, but more prone to dead ends.
The middle way: Many work in between: a rough plan as a railing, but room for surprises.
Plotting and pantsing on Fireside
Both approaches suit Fireside: you can save drafts and keep writing at your own pace – or publish a longer story as serial fiction and discover part by part where it leads.
Related terms: Plot · Synopsis · Through-Line
Frequently asked questions
Is plotting or pantsing better?
Neither – it depends on your type. Try which one gets you moving and finished more easily.
What does pantser mean?
Someone who writes without a fixed plan and discovers the story while writing (from „by the seat of your pants“).
Can I combine plotting and pantsing?
Yes, most writers do. Many plan the beginning, the ending and two or three turning points, and let themselves be surprised in between.