Well, first of all, think about the theme of your novel. Is it about love, adventure, or something else? Once you have that clear, start mapping out the main characters. Describe their personalities, backstories, and what drives them. After that, make a timeline of the major events in the story. You can use index cards to write down each event and then arrange them in the order they'll occur in the novel. Another important aspect is to consider the sub - plots. They add depth to the story. Outline how they'll interact with the main plot. This comprehensive approach will ensure a well - structured and engaging novel outline.
One of the best ways is to start with a basic idea of the story's beginning, middle, and end. Jot down the main characters and their goals. For example, if it's a mystery novel, note who the detective is and what they're trying to solve. Then, break each part into smaller scenes or plot points. This gives you a clear roadmap for writing the novel.