Why plot structure is important; even if you aren't a planner

You can find information about plot structure fairly easily. All you need is a computer and an internet connection. Type "plot structure" into a search engine and voilà. I'll wait while you take a look.

If you aren't a planner, you might not know what to do with this information, however.

Do you have to follow these elements? Do you have to reach a certain wordcount for each? What if you aren't able to think of a way to make the action fall right after the climax?

Plot structure is good to know because it does remind you of what makes great stories work.

But, if you're a pantser and the words are flowing out of you, don't worry about it. Keep writing.

Later, when you're editing, you can see how your plot meets established structure steps, if it reveals that anything is missing, and how you can help speed up or slow down some sections as required.