The Snowflake Method: How to Build Your Novel from a Simple Idea

Introduction

The Snowflake Method is a unique approach to writing a novel, designed by Randy Ingermanson. This method helps you start with a simple idea and gradually expand it into a complex, well-structured story. If you’re someone who feels overwhelmed by the idea of writing an entire book, the Snowflake Method can help you break it down into manageable steps. In this post, I’ll guide you through the process and show you how to use this method to develop your novel from the ground up.

Step 1: Start with a One-Sentence Summary

The first step in the Snowflake Method is to distil your novel into a single sentence. This sentence should capture the essence of your story—who the protagonist is, what they want, and what stands in their way. Keep it short and sweet, but make sure it’s compelling enough to hook a potential reader. Think of it as the core of your story.

Example: “A young farm boy must rescue a princess from an evil empire while discovering his own destiny.”

Step 2: Expand the Sentence into a Paragraph

Next, expand that sentence into a full paragraph that outlines the major plot points. This paragraph should cover the setup, the main conflict, and the resolution. It’s essentially the elevator pitch for your novel, giving a broader overview of what will happen from beginning to end.

Step 3: Develop Character Profiles

Once you have your basic plot, it’s time to focus on your characters. Create detailed profiles for each of your main characters, including their backstory, motivations, flaws, and arcs. The more you know about your characters at this stage, the easier it will be to write their journey later on.

Step 4: Expand the Paragraph into a Full Synopsis

Now, take that paragraph summary and expand it into a longer, one-page synopsis. This is where you can start to flesh out the subplots, secondary characters, and key turning points. This step helps you get a clearer picture of how your novel will unfold.

Step 5: Write a Scene List

Finally, break your novel down into individual scenes. Each scene should serve a purpose—either advancing the plot or revealing something new about the characters. Creating a scene list gives you a clear roadmap to follow as you write your first draft.

Conclusion

The Snowflake Method allows you to take a simple idea and systematically expand it into a full-length novel. By starting small and building gradually, you’ll have a solid foundation to guide you through the writing process, ensuring your story is well-structured and cohesive.