When you write a novel...?

Question:

When you write a novel...?

...do you like to write it from beginning to end (for the most part), or skip around (say, write the end first, then a scene from the middle, etc.)? Which do you think produces a stronger story?

Also, how much outlining do you do prior to starting the manuscript? I have my own opinions and experience on this, but I'm curious to see what the most commonly used methods are.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: That depends on what works for you as a writer. Everyone has their own individual method of organizing and producing ideas, their unique creative process that produces their best work.
I personally usually start writing when I have a strong idea or image, and I create my outline in my mind. I usually have a document where I throw down ideas, pictures or scenes that come to me- don't sit down and deliberately brainstrorm, I write whenever something strikes me as worth writing about.
I find that if i force myself to write the beginning of the novel first, I usually come up with somethign I later end up changing anyway as the novel develops. I look at the novel as a mobile text that can constantly evolve during production.
I notice that if I follow my ideas they show a natural progression and link with one another as the story gains clarity in my mind.
of course once im done there's the editing process and review in which I read and reread and also have some trusted author review.