Do You Outline?

I've had many discussions with writers about whether they outline their novels before beginning them.

One friend, a man who has penned (and had published) over seventy Westerns, never outlines beyond the "main points." He says outlining ruins the fun of writing the story.

"Why write the book," he asked, "if you've already written it all out in an outline?" '

This man enjoys not just the destination but the journey.

I, on the other hand, am an outliner. Yes, my outline changes a bit as I go, but when starting, I get vivid ideas of beginning and end. Then, I figure out how I can reach from Point A to Point B in an interesting (i.e. conflicting) manner.

I'll plot several major points and then write some interesting "happenings" that can occur in between. Then, as story specifics come to me, I jot them where they may fit in.

Yes, it's time consuming. And yes, it takes away some of the impulsiveness (which usually gets me into trouble anyway). However, when I outline, my story stays on track.

There are as many ways to outline (or not outline) as there are writers. I know one man who keeps his entire "non-outline" in his head, and he is much older than I. So, more power to you if you can do this and keep it all straight in your mind. I barely remember to buy milk when I need it. I sure can't keep an entire book in my head. ;-)

To outline or not to outline. That is the question.

Do you do it?