Description

Do you have a novel idea, a rough draft, scattered notes, or a story that has stalled somewhere in the middle? This supportive, hands-on workshop will help you turn your ideas into a clear, workable plot and give you a roadmap for moving your story forward.
Over four sessions, participants will explore practical plotting concepts, complete guided story-mapping exercises, and receive encouraging feedback from fellow writers. Whether you are beginning with a single idea, revising an existing manuscript, or trying to make sense of a complicated draft, all starting points are welcome. Plotting will be presented as a flexible tool—not a rigid formula—with an emphasis on progress, clarity, and building confidence.
Each session will include a brief introduction to a plotting concept, time to discuss individual projects, guided mapping activities, small-group sharing, and clear next steps to continue writing or revising between meetings. By the end of the workshop, participants will have a stronger understanding of their story’s structure, practical tools they can use immediately, and a clearer path for the next stage of their writing.
Instructor Mei-ling Joiner is a published scientific author who has also written a novel and short stories. She has experience working with a writing coach, serving as a beta reader, coaching writers, and teaching at the University of Iowa, where she developed an activity-based course centered on engaged, hands-on learning.
Participants should bring a laptop with Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel. Printed materials will also be provided for those who prefer to plot by hand.
Four sessions held every other weekFee: $40 for the complete four-session workshop

Activity Secondary Category

Membership Required

Location

308 at Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Center

Prerequisites

Iowa City Membership - 1 person
or Iowa City Membership - 2 people
or Iowa City Membership - 3 people
or Iowa City Membership - 4 people
or Non-Iowa City Membership - 1 person
or Non-Iowa City Membership - 2 people
or Non-Iowa City Membership - 3 people
or RenewActive Membership FY27
or Visitor Membership