I totally use spreadsheets too (I think it’s the former banker in me) I have a main tab with each of the major beats outlined and then columns tracking characterization and my two main narrative arcs to make sure i am deepening character and advancing the narrative arc with each beat. Love seeing someone else’s process to see what I can learn!
Wow, pretty impressive. I do use multiple sheets that I'll go into more in future posts. I also do something similar to what I think you mean with character arcs, just not in a spreadsheet.
When you spend 100 hours a week in spreadsheets for a decade - excel = life. Haha. I’m sure you aren’t interested in little old me’s process but I’m always happy to share if you want to take a look!
I love this! I started building a character spreadsheet to keep track of overlapping trilogies, especially as I expand their stories into novels.
Seeing all the little details in one place has been helpful. Your explanation makes so much sense, and now I will add more physical descriptions. Thanks for sharing!
You're welcome! That's one of the beauties of a spreadsheet, especially a digital one. You can so easily expand it as needed with more characters and details.
I totally use spreadsheets too (I think it’s the former banker in me) I have a main tab with each of the major beats outlined and then columns tracking characterization and my two main narrative arcs to make sure i am deepening character and advancing the narrative arc with each beat. Love seeing someone else’s process to see what I can learn!
Wow, pretty impressive. I do use multiple sheets that I'll go into more in future posts. I also do something similar to what I think you mean with character arcs, just not in a spreadsheet.
When you spend 100 hours a week in spreadsheets for a decade - excel = life. Haha. I’m sure you aren’t interested in little old me’s process but I’m always happy to share if you want to take a look!
Thanks for the offer. I'll keep it in mind. I see where the banking comes in.
Great idea, thank you Connie! I use those character sheets you mention, but I'll try a spreadsheet next time.
Hope it helps with your characters. I'm pretty sure it will.
Thanks… this is very helpful!👍
Happy to hear that!
I love this! I started building a character spreadsheet to keep track of overlapping trilogies, especially as I expand their stories into novels.
Seeing all the little details in one place has been helpful. Your explanation makes so much sense, and now I will add more physical descriptions. Thanks for sharing!
You're welcome! That's one of the beauties of a spreadsheet, especially a digital one. You can so easily expand it as needed with more characters and details.
I can see how this visual is helpful and readily makes for comparison. I’ll integrate this into my practice to help me with organization.
I think you'll find it really helpful. Good to start early then update as you outline/write.