We know writing a novel can seem like a daunting task at first. Just starting can seem intimidating!
Fortunately, there are many ways you can simplify writing a novel to make it easier. This list of 10 novel writing tips will help you stay focused, motivated, and organized throughout the writing process.
1. CHOOSE YOUR DEADLINE AND WRITING GOAL
When there’s no deadline or goal to finish, it can be very hard to complete your project.
This is why this is the #1 rule on the list: Set a measurable deadline and writing goal.
Most novels are between 50,000 and 100,000 words. Because it’s easier to add words than cut them out, it’s often better to set your word count goal lower than 75,000 words for your first draft.
To determine the best writing goals and deadline for you, think about how many words you can write in a day. I can generally easily write between 2,500 and 4,000 words a day, so setting a goal of 75,000 words in 30 days is reasonable for me.
A deadline will push you to your limits and write even when you’re not motivated to write.
2. PREPARE BEFORE YOU WRITE
While some writers just sit down at the keyboard to write with no plan or idea, it can be difficult to keep a story going or you may hit writer’s block. By preparing a basic synopsis, mind map, or outline for your ideas, you’ll have something to reference to anytime you come across a roadblock while writing.
There’s many different ways to prepare for writing a novel.
Here’s two examples for ways you can prepare:
3. KNOW YOUR CHARACTERS
The better you know your characters, the easier the writing will unfold. Get to know your characters as well as you would know a close friend.
You don’t have to write every little detail about your character in the story – but the more you know about your character the more you will be able to imagine new scenes and develop the story.
Need help creating strong characters? See our list of Character Development Questions and How to Develop Strong Characters in Your Novel.
4. USE THE RIGHT TOOLS WHILE WRITING YOUR NOVEL
If you’re using Microsoft Office or Open Office to write your novel, you’re likely going to get frustrated during the process. While these programs are great for some writing projects, most professional writers use software specifically made for writers.
There are a lot of great programs and tools that can help you easily write your book. The key is to make sure that whatever you use is productive, reliable, and efficient.
Beyond just software and hardware, there are a lot of other important things – like being comfortable while you work! Never underestimate the importance of a good Ergonomic Office Chair!
5. SCHEDULE TIME TO WRITE – AND ACTUALLY WRITE!
There will never be a perfect time to write. Waiting for when you have more time is a surefire way to never start writing your book. Finding motivation to write may not be easy, but sometimes scheduling time is just as hard!
Schedule a time during the day when you can write with minimal distractions and sit down. Try to disconnect from the internet if you can and force yourself to write. Do it one word at a time. Making time for writing will help you complete your novel.
To your novel success,
MG
Fortunately, there are many ways you can simplify writing a novel to make it easier. This list of 10 novel writing tips will help you stay focused, motivated, and organized throughout the writing process.
1. CHOOSE YOUR DEADLINE AND WRITING GOAL
When there’s no deadline or goal to finish, it can be very hard to complete your project.
This is why this is the #1 rule on the list: Set a measurable deadline and writing goal.
Most novels are between 50,000 and 100,000 words. Because it’s easier to add words than cut them out, it’s often better to set your word count goal lower than 75,000 words for your first draft.
To determine the best writing goals and deadline for you, think about how many words you can write in a day. I can generally easily write between 2,500 and 4,000 words a day, so setting a goal of 75,000 words in 30 days is reasonable for me.
A deadline will push you to your limits and write even when you’re not motivated to write.
2. PREPARE BEFORE YOU WRITE
While some writers just sit down at the keyboard to write with no plan or idea, it can be difficult to keep a story going or you may hit writer’s block. By preparing a basic synopsis, mind map, or outline for your ideas, you’ll have something to reference to anytime you come across a roadblock while writing.
There’s many different ways to prepare for writing a novel.
Here’s two examples for ways you can prepare:
- Write a 1-2 page synopsis of the novel
- Create an outline for your novel
3. KNOW YOUR CHARACTERS
The better you know your characters, the easier the writing will unfold. Get to know your characters as well as you would know a close friend.
You don’t have to write every little detail about your character in the story – but the more you know about your character the more you will be able to imagine new scenes and develop the story.
Need help creating strong characters? See our list of Character Development Questions and How to Develop Strong Characters in Your Novel.
4. USE THE RIGHT TOOLS WHILE WRITING YOUR NOVEL
If you’re using Microsoft Office or Open Office to write your novel, you’re likely going to get frustrated during the process. While these programs are great for some writing projects, most professional writers use software specifically made for writers.
There are a lot of great programs and tools that can help you easily write your book. The key is to make sure that whatever you use is productive, reliable, and efficient.
Beyond just software and hardware, there are a lot of other important things – like being comfortable while you work! Never underestimate the importance of a good Ergonomic Office Chair!
5. SCHEDULE TIME TO WRITE – AND ACTUALLY WRITE!
There will never be a perfect time to write. Waiting for when you have more time is a surefire way to never start writing your book. Finding motivation to write may not be easy, but sometimes scheduling time is just as hard!
Schedule a time during the day when you can write with minimal distractions and sit down. Try to disconnect from the internet if you can and force yourself to write. Do it one word at a time. Making time for writing will help you complete your novel.
To your novel success,
MG
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