What type of writer are you?

The most challenging aspect of writing that I face is developing the story/character plot.

  Some writers create a complete outline for each chapter, each character and knows what will happen in the story (including the subplots) from the beginning all the way to the end.  These writers are known as Plotters. 

Then  you have your Pantser writers.  These writers just sit down and type out their story by the seat of their pants.  They only have a small idea on what they would like to happen in the story, but for the most part they write whatever pops into their mind. 

Lastly there's the Plantser writer.  This type of writer is both a plotter and a pantser.  They make rough notes on what they would like to see happen in the story as well as any changes to the characters.  These writers start writing with a general idea while following their notes to keep them on track.

I am a plantser writer.  I keep a notepad near by as well as a notepad on my phone.  As an idea comes to me I jot them down.  When it is time for me to write, I glance at my notes, sit in front of my laptop and write whatever flows into my thoughts.  I have a hard time plotting out a complete outline since my creative mind constantly shifts directions.  It took me a long time to accept what type of writer I am.  I always thought because I didn't create an outline I was doing something wrong and shouldn't follow my dream.  But I eventually got over that realizing that just like anything in life, it takes all kinds.  Some of the best writers fall into each of these categories.

So the question is, what type of writer are you?

What I've learned so far about promoting my book

I see on twitter all of the time different people offering to promote your book for a fee.  Some may offer book promotions for just $10 while others want more with the promise of sharing your book with all of their twitter and facebook followers.  I am here to tell  you to save your money and invest it into something worthy like a book cover or an editor.

I did pay a couple of people/groups to promote my book on twitter and while they did what they promised, I gained nothing from it.  Yes I suppose more people saw my book but I do not have anything to show for it except for money that could have been spent on better things, like purchase a copy of Scrivener.

I have made my share of mistakes and I have learned the hard way what works and what doesn't--still learning.  If you are proud of your book scream it from the roof tops and don't pay anyone to do that for you.  Engage with people on twitter and there's also twitter groups that will retweet your post for free.  GoodReads has tons of groups you can join for discussions, to engage with other readers as well as promote, & lets not forget about cross promotions.  You will be amazed at how many authors will become your biggest fan since they are readers too.