Writing Fiction Using the Snowflake Method: A Step-by-Step Guide for Writers
Ever Dreamed of Writing a Novel? Start Small, Grow Big—Like a Snowflake!
The snowflake method of writing fiction is a well-kept secret. As we explore the lanes and bylanes of the snowflake method, you will feel like you are embarking on a thrilling adventure, uncovering the riches of storytelling using this unique method.
India is a land of stories—whether it’s epics like the Mahabharata, the charm of R.K. Narayan’s Malgudi Days, or the thrillers of contemporary authors. Weaving the perfect novel isn’t just about inspiration but also structure. Enter the Snowflake Method, an intuitive way to write a book that expands from a single sentence into a full-fledged story.
The snowflake method for writing stories is like manna from heaven. Although it can be followed for any genre of writing, it is most popular among fiction writers.
If you’ve ever struggled with writer’s block or messy plotlines, or wondered how to write a novel using the Snowflake Method, this is for you.
Snowflake Method Steps: How to Write a Novel Using the Snowflake Method
The Snowflake Method, developed by Randy Ingermanson, helps writers build their novels incrementally. Here’s an example of a snowflake method steps and how you can apply it to your novel writing project:
Step 1: Write a One-Sentence Summary
Your novel should fit into a single sentence. Think of this as your “elevator pitch.”
Example: A Mumbai teenager discovers he has supernatural powers inherited from an ancient warrior clan.
Step 2: Expand to a One-Paragraph Summary
Add the main conflicts and twists.
Example: Aryan, a Mumbai schoolboy, accidentally unleashes an ancient curse linked to his ancestry, setting off a battle between good and evil forces hiding among modern-day Indians.
Step 3: Develop Your Characters
Write a detailed character breakdown. Give each protagonist and antagonist their motivations.
Example:
| Character | Role | Conflict |
|---|---|---|
| Aryan | Hero | Learns about his hidden powers while dealing with school life. |
| Priya | Best friend | Doubts Aryan’s abilities but helps him solve the mystery. |
| Raghav | Villain | An immortal enemy who wants to control Aryan’s power |
Step 4: Expand the Story
Take the paragraph from Step 2 and stretch it into five paragraphs—each covering the beginning, middle, and end.
Step 5: Write a Scene List
Break the story into short scene descriptions, like chapters in a novel.
Example:
Scene 1: Aryan accidentally moves an object without touching it.
Scene 2: His grandmother reveals the family’s warrior past.
Scene 3: A secret enemy follows him home…
(and so on)
Step 6: Write Your First Draft
Now, flesh out your story using the roadmap you’ve built. You won’t feel lost—your plot and characters are already structured!
Snowflake Method Example: Applying It to Fiction
Imagine you’re writing a crime thriller set in Kolkata. Here’s an example of how the Snowflake Method helps:
- One-Sentence Summary:
A journalist uncovers a secret network controlling Kolkata’s underground crime scene. - One-Paragraph Summary:
As she investigates, she discovers the criminals are politicians using Kolkata’s heritage to cover illegal activities. - Character Profiles:
Protagonist: An ambitious female journalist fighting against corruption.
Antagonist: A cunning politician hiding behind his respectable image. - Scene List:
Opening: A Journalist meets an informant near Howrah Bridge.
Mid-story: A political scandal shakes the city.
Final scene: A dramatic exposé threatens her life.
Snowflake Method Template for Writers
Looking for a quick Snowflake method template? Follow this structure:
- Sentence Summary → Expanded Paragraph → Character Profiles → Scene List → Drafting Process.
Time to Write Your Novel!
The Snowflake Method is perfect for writers dealing with epics, thrillers, mythology-based fiction, or even Bollywood-style narratives. Start with one idea, expand it step by step, and soon, you’ll have a whole novel ready for the world.
Feeling inspired? Start your Snowflake Method journey today!
Helpful Reading:
Write a Story that Captures the Reader’s Imagination
How to Write a Story in English and Hindi?