Writing Files: Staying Organized

Some people have asked how I organize my writing, especially when penning a full-length (or lengthy) novel.
I use both old-school methods and electronic. 
For the old school method, I always have a thick notebook that is for the novel ONLY. Nothing else. (Okay, once in a while I have to scribble some kind of note in there when I'm desperate for paper, but I try not to.) I usually use  a five subject notebook, that way I can use the different sections for things like character profiles, chapter outline, and Things-That-Need-To-Happen (that is what I call it!). 
  Recently, for The Underbelly Series, I grabbed an 11X17 size piece of paper to create a diagram- one side has the city, St. Clair, in the middle and connected by lines are all the characters- the "good" guys on the left side and the bad crew on the right. I have at least one character that is riding the rails and working for both sides, so this type of diagram lets me see how everyone in the story is connected.
  Electronically, I use Google Drive to write it all up. I use separate documents for chapter outline, character profiles and plot points. Then I make each chapter a separate document as well. My character profiles are color coordinated- good guys one color, bad guys another color, and then those that work for both sides a third color. 
 The Underbelly Series is the most organized story that I have ever put together. I'm now of the mindset that I can't have too many documents about it, or too many notes- as long as it stays organized. You don't want to clutter the whole shebang up so much that it's impossible to work on it. 

KR 

Getting Down into that Smooth Groove....

My outline for the new erotic paranormal novel is coming along nicely! It's so exciting- when the pieces start falling together, and the characters start to wake up and move around. 
 I'm really putting effort into this outline, an actual outline, instead of just winging it. It's my own personal challenge and experiment- I want to see this outline through to the end, and stick to a framed course. I know how often I get derailed just winging it, so I'm going to see how much better this way is. Knowing the way I am, I need this outline. 
 Of course I have a bunch of errands to run, so I'm going to have to jump in the shower and go get them done. Yes, there might be a stop at a consignment shop along the way. I'm always on the hunt for pieces of treasure to add to my wardrobe ;) And my summer office wear still needs some help. 
  I hope everyone has a great weekend, and gets plenty of writing done!

Kelly R.