Brain Fog and the Linear Timeline

Hello Writers! Brain fog can make it challenging to hold an entire plot in your head or write scenes in sequential order. But here’s the secret many writers don't talk about – you don't have to write your novel linearly. Here’s how to embrace a fog-friendly writing process that works with your brain, not against it.

Why Non-Linear Writing May Work For You

Traditional writing advice often suggests crafting that perfect beginning and writing straight through to “The End.” But this approach assumes –

·         You can remember your entire plot at once.

·         You can focus on complex narrative threads for long periods.

·         Your energy and clarity remain consistent throughout writing sessions.

For many of us with brain fog, these assumptions don't match reality. Non-linear writing offers a more accessible approach that works with your natural rhythm and energy levels.

Strategies for Non-Linear Writing

1.      Scene Cards

Create digital or physical cards for each scene you know you want to write. Include –

·         A basic scene summary

·         Key emotional beats

·         Important plot points to hit

·         Any vivid details you don't want to forget

You can rearrange these cards as needed, and tackle whichever scene matches your energy level and focus on any given day.

2. The “Hot Spot” Method

·         Write whatever scene is most vivid in your mind right now.

·         Don’t worry about what comes before or after.

·         Keep a running list of scenes you’ve written.

·         Note any connecting scenes you'll need to write later.

3. Digital Organization Tools

Use writing software that allows you to rearrange scenes easily at any point.

·         Scrivener

·         yWriter

Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash

·         Google Docs with headers

·         Notion with databases

4. Connection Points

For each scene you write, note –

·         What the reader needs to know before this scene

·         What this scene sets up for later

·         Any physical objects, information, or character development that needs to happen before this point

Piecing It All Together

Once you have a collection of scenes, you'll need to connect them.

·         Create a basic timeline of major events.

·         Sort your written scenes into rough chronological order.

·         Identify gaps between scenes.

·         Write connecting scenes or transitions when your energy allows.

·         Look for places where earlier setup is needed.

·         Add foreshadowing and character development threads during revision.

Managing Brain Fog When Putting It All Together

·         Use color coding to track different plot threads.

·         Keep a simple spreadsheet of “cause and effect” relationships.

·         Write quick summaries of each scene to help track the flow.

·         Use text-to-speech to hear how scenes flow together.

·         Take breaks between analyzing different sections.

When You're Stuck

·         Write notes to yourself like [Add description here] or [Need earlier scene about X].

·         Keep a “parking lot” document for random ideas and scenes you're not sure where to put.

·         Use voice notes to capture ideas when writing isn't possible.

·         Consider working with a sensitivity reader or editor who can help spot continuity issues.

In Conclusion – Non-linear writing isn't just an accommodation—it's a valid creative approach used by many authors. Some of the most compelling novels were written out of order. Trust your instincts about what scenes feel ready to write and know that the connecting pieces will come with time.

Remember, your brain fog isn't a barrier to writing your novel. It's simply asking you to find a different path to telling your story.

QOD – Do you use scene cards when you plan a story?

Thanks for reading!

-Amos