October Novel Prep Challenge

If you are new at this (like I am) you may like what I just found. I've been having trouble with gaps in the story. For example: why does Harvey decide to blackmail Bubba? How do the articles move from one place to another? What ties it all together? I figured something like this was bound to happen. I decided to do what I always do. Just start writting. It comes under the concept of 'brainstorming'. If you can follow one thing (or person) no matter what plot you have in mind, you will find the character leading you through the story. He will give you what you need to fill the gaps. In my case, there is a set of carving tools that are the focus of the story. I decided to follow the movement of the tools. This helps a lot because you start to fill in gaps (maybe more than one). Brainstorming for me, is essential. Just have to keep on track. Hope this discovery of mine helps someone out there. IF it doesn't make sense, just smile and nod!