Creating a Skeleton

This is a self-editing method to ensure your manuscript’s narrative flows logically and maintains coherence across chapters. Here’s what it means with an example:

Explanation of a Skeleton

What It Is: Creating a “skeleton” involves summarizing each chapter into a brief outline (1–3 sentences) that captures the key events, character developments, and plot points. This condensed version serves as a roadmap to identify inconsistencies (such as character traits changing or timeline gaps) or pacing issues (like slow sections).

Purpose: It helps you quickly understand the story’s structure, making sure each chapter moves the plot forward or develops characters without unnecessary repetition.

How to Do It: After drafting, create a summary for each chapter. Then, review the list to ensure logical flow, character development, and thematic consistency.

Simple example (not complete) to help illustrate the concept.

Using the book Soulmate as a foundation:

– Chapter 1: When Worlds Collide

Summary: Ken and Amy experience a wild storm at the farm, which leads to an instant connection.

– Chapter 2: The Farm

Summary: Ken and Amy visit a rural farm, where we learn about the strained relationship between his dad and him, hinting at their future dysfunction.

– Chapter 3: Dear Old Dad

Summary: Confrontation with Ken’s father increases tension, but Ken’s support strengthens their bond.

– Chapter 7: Not Long for This World

Summary: Ken’s health worsens as the couple battles despair, leading to his hospital plea.

– Chapter 11: The Meaning of Life

Summary: Amy wakes up, and Ken finds purpose in their love, bringing their journey to a hopeful conclusion.

Checking Consistency

Plot Flow: The skeleton follows a clear arc from meeting to resolution, but check if Ken’s health decline (Chapter 7) is foreshadowed earlier (e.g., Chapter 2’s strain).

Character Consistency: Make sure Ken’s supportive attitude in Chapter 3 aligns with his desperation in Chapter 7—add a scene if the change happens too suddenly.

Timeline: Confirm the timing matches (e.g., no unexplained gaps between Chapters 7 and 11).

NOTE: The “skeleton” can be a powerful tool to refine your novel for self-publishing. Begin by summarizing all chapters, then adjust as needed.