A Systematic Approach to Writing: The Snowflake Method

The Snowflake Method is a popular method for planning and structuring a novel, created by Randy Ingermanson, a successful novelist and writing coach. The method is based on the idea that a story can be built from a simple idea, like a snowflake that starts with a single crystal and grows into a complex and beautiful structure. In this blog post, we will explore the Snowflake Method, its advantages and drawbacks, and some examples of its usage.

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The Snowflake Method:

1. Start with a simple idea: Begin with a one-sentence summary of your story.
2. Expand the sentence: Expand the summary into a paragraph that includes the protagonist, the central conflict, and the ending.
3. Develop character arcs: Create a one-page summary for each major character, detailing their backstory, motivation, and development throughout the story.
4. Create a scene list: Develop a scene list that outlines the major events of the story.
5. Expand the scene list: Expand each scene into a paragraph that includes the setting, the characters involved, and the key events.
6. Develop the story further: Expand the paragraphs into full scenes, incorporating dialogue, action, and description.
7. Finalize the outline: Review the full outline and make any necessary changes before beginning to write the first draft.

Advantages and Drawbacks:

One advantage of the Snowflake Method is its focus on building a story step-by-step, which can help writers to develop a clear and cohesive narrative. The method can also be helpful for writers who struggle with getting started or need structure to their writing process.

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However, one drawback of the Snowflake Method is that it can be time-consuming and may feel restrictive to some writers. Additionally, the method may not work for all types of stories, as some stories may require a different approach to planning and structuring.

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Sample Usage:

One example of the Snowflake Method in action is in the novel The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. The simple idea is that two sisters in Nazi-occupied France must navigate the challenges of war and survival. The expanded summary includes the sisters' names, their differing attitudes towards the war, and the ending where they are reunited after the war. The character arcs include a one-page summary for each sister, detailing their motivations, fears, and growth throughout the story.

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The scene list outlines the major events of the story, such as the sisters' involvement in the Resistance and their experiences with the German occupation. The expanded scene list includes a paragraph for each scene, detailing the key events and characters involved. Finally, the full outline is reviewed and refined before beginning to write the first draft.

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The Snowflake Method is a popular and effective tool for planning and structuring a novel. While it may not work for all writers or stories, it can provide a helpful framework for those who need structure and guidance in their writing process. Ultimately, the choice to use the Snowflake Method or any other narrative structure will depend on the writer's preferences and the needs of the story being told.

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