How to Write a Novel
Writing is an art that allows you to express yourself in a thousand and one ways through a blank page. It is a canvas where you can expose your feelings, desires, and emotions, through which the rest of the world will observe you and in some cases, learn a little more about you, who you are.
If your idea is to sit down and write a novel, to delve into this world of science, fiction, romance, among others, but you don’t know how to do it, through the tips I give you below, you can get an idea of how to start or where to begin.
Contents: How to write your first novel
Find an idea
You may have an idea of what you want to write, or you may not…and that’s okay if you don’t. You can search for inspiration and ideas from anywhere; on the internet, for example, there are countless options that can allow you to get that idea you need to start developing your novel. Now, if you already have your idea, you must take into account that you need two essential elements for a novel to be considered as such, namely:
The idea must be concrete and the presentation and narration should not be generalized, their narrations should be as explicit as possible, in order to allow the reader to have an idea of what is desired to be conveyed. In this sense, the narration of aspects such as characters, places, times, and reasons are of vital importance. The protagonist must have a challenge: it always adds an interesting touch to have a problem to solve before reaching the end or denouement of the story because otherwise, it would be boring and unattractive to the reader. In this sense, adversity will always be necessary when writing a novel, to give the sensation of victory at the end of it.
Define the characters that will be involved in the novel
Create the life of each of the participants in the novel and try to be as explicit as possible. Talk about their biography, their lives, other characters they relate to, among other aspects. Develop the world where they will unfold and allow the reader to be trapped in it, discovering each of the actors or characters that intervene.
Establish the plot of the novel Define the path of the novel you are going to create. In this sense, it is important to note that many writers create novels based on anecdotes, romance, historical accounts, knowing only the beginning of it, without a fixed direction other than the one their imagination allows them to develop, while many others plan what they really want to achieve.
Therefore, I invite you to evaluate the direction your novel will take and to take a pause to verify if it is on the right path, since in many cases, those who leave the evolution of the novel without an established direction, mostly do not succeed in their work.
Study your main character
Your protagonist is the heart of your novel – make sure you know them inside out. Slowly develop their personality traits, backstory, desires, habits, motivations, pet peeves, secrets and more over time.
- Give them both positive and negative qualities that seem authentic. Avoid overly idealistic stereotypes.
- Determine their core wound or flaw that will factor into their character arc.
- Figure out their change/growth journey across the novel. Who are they at the beginning versus the end?
- Know their childhood, family dynamics, important memories and experiences that shaped them.
- Decide on their greatest hopes, dreams and fears. What keeps them up at night?
- Give them habits, quirks and ideosyncrasies that make them unique.
- Determine their speaking style, vocabulary, humor and outlook on life.
- Know their emotional triggers – what sets them off or shuts them down?
As you write, your protagonist should feel three-dimensional. Let them make mistakes and backslide in their development at times. Show how events in the plot impact and change them gradually. Complex, flawed characters that face internal and external battles are compelling to follow throughout an entire book.
The main character is the one who will be your companion throughout the journey you develop, so you must know him or her very well, know who he or she is, what he or she wants, what aspirations he or she has, his or her desires, dreams, and general everything. You must know him or her very well both inside and out, that is, treat him or her as more than a child. The identification and traits of the protagonists are essential within the novel, as well as those of the secondary characters; each one will have a specific role, so it is fundamental to know them thoroughly.
When things happen to you, you usually change your mind, mature over time, and learn to make better decisions, the same happens with the main and secondary characters of a novel. That is why attention to detail is always essential, as it enriches the content of the novel.
Organize the structure of the novel
The structure provides the skeleton that holds your story together. When organizing it, consider the overall flow of events and how you’ll pace the plot progression.
For most novels, the three-act structure works well:
Act 1 – The Setup:
Introduce the protagonist, their world, the conflict they face, and other main characters.
Establish the status quo and the protagonist’s ordinary life before the inciting incident.
Include backstory details relevant to the plot.
Foreshadow the looming conflict.
The first act ends with the inciting incident that disrupts the status quo and propels the story forward.
Act 2 – Confrontation:
The protagonist reacts to the inciting incident and events intensify. Obstacles arise.
New characters, challenges, revelations, and plot twists are introduced.
Raise the stakes and complexity of the conflict.
The protagonist tries to overcome obstacles but faces setbacks.
Add in subplots intertwined with the main conflict.
Continue escalating tension until the climax.
Act 3 – Resolution:
Story questions are answered, truths revealed.
Protagonist must gather strength for the final challenge.
The climax represents the final obstacle and highest point of tension.
Conflict is resolved, problems are solved.
Loose ends are tied up, the dust settles.
The protagonist reflects on their transformation.
Provide closure for readers while hinting at future possibilities.
Within this structure, divide your story into chapters focused on specific scenes. Chapters end on cliffhangers making readers eager to continue.
Develop subplots and secondary characters to add depth to your story
In addition to the main plot and characters, subplots and secondary characters can add depth and complexity to your story. Subplots can provide additional tension, backstory, or character development, while secondary characters can serve as foils or allies to the main characters. When developing subplots and secondary characters, make sure they are relevant to the main plot and characters, and that they enhance rather than distract from the overall story.
Write a compelling opening that hooks readers and establishes the tone of your novel
Your opening is crucial for hooking readers and establishing the tone of your novel. It should grab the reader’s attention, introduce the main character or conflict, and set the tone for the rest of the story. Consider starting with a strong action or dialogue, or a striking description of the setting or character. Avoid starting with too much backstory or exposition, as this can slow down the pacing and lose the reader’s interest.
Create an engaging climax that resolves the conflict and satisfies readers
The climax is the high point of your story, where the conflict comes to a head and the main characters face their final challenge. It should be engaging, suspenseful, and satisfying, providing a resolution to the conflict and a sense of closure for the reader. Consider ramping up the tension and stakes, and ensuring that the resolution is consistent with the rest of the story.
Research and explore various publishing options(including traditional publishing and self-publishing)
There are various publishing options available, including traditional publishing, where you submit your manuscript to a publisher for consideration, and self-publishing, where you publish your book independently through platforms like Amazon or Barnes & Noble. Each option has its pros and cons, so do your research and decide which one is best for your goals and circumstances.
Write the first draft
With all the planning done, it’s time to start writing the first draft of your novel. Don’t worry about making it perfect at this stage – just focus on getting the story down on paper. You can always revise and edit later.
Set a writing schedule and stick to it, whether it’s a certain number of words per day or a specific amount of time dedicated to writing. It’s important to stay motivated and committed to your writing project.
Revise and edit
Once you’ve completed the first draft, take a break from your novel for a few days or even a week. This will give you some distance from your work and allow you to approach it with fresh eyes when you come back to it.
Editing and proofreading are essential for improving the quality of your manuscript. It involves checking for clarity, consistency, and errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Make sure your story flows logically and that your characters and setting are consistent throughout the novel. You can also consider getting feedback from beta readers or professional editors to improve your story and writing.
During the revision process, look for areas where the story could be improved, such as pacing, character development, and dialogue. Consider the feedback from beta readers or writing groups, and make any necessary changes.
Editing is the final stage before publication, where you focus on correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. You can also work on fine-tuning your language and polishing the prose.
Consider seeking feedback from a professional editor
A professional editor can provide valuable feedback on your manuscript, helping you to identify areas for improvement and refine your writing style. They can offer suggestions on plot, character development, pacing, and structure, and help you to eliminate inconsistencies or errors. Consider finding a reputable editor through writing associations, online forums, or personal recommendations.
Publish your novel
Once your novel is complete and you are happy with it, it’s time to publish it. You can choose to self-publish or seek out a traditional publisher.
If you decide to self-publish, you’ll need to format the book for digital and print formats and create a cover. You’ll also need to market and promote your book to reach your target audience.
If you choose to seek out a traditional publisher, you’ll need to write a query letter and submit it to literary agents or publishing houses. If your manuscript is accepted, you’ll work with an editor to revise and prepare it for publication.
Writing a novel can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these steps, you can turn your idea into a fully formed story that readers will enjoy.
Build a platform and engage with readers
Once your book is published, building a platform and engaging with readers is important for promoting your work and growing your readership. This can include creating a website or blog, using social media to connect with readers, offering giveaways or free samples, and attending book fairs or author events. It’s important to establish a consistent brand and voice, and to be responsive and engaging with your audience.
If you have any question, doesn´t hesitate to put it in the comments sections, aslo don´t forget to come back often to our blog for more articles on writing stories.
Youtube video How to write a novel in 12 simple steps
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ( FAQ) How to write your first novel in 12 simple easy steps
How do you come up with an idea for your first novel?
Coming up with an original idea for your first novel can seem daunting. Here are some tips:
- Draw inspiration from your own life experiences, interests, dreams, and fears. Many authors base their first novel loosely on autobiographical events.
- People watch in public places and imagine intriguing backstories for interesting strangers you observe. This can spark fun character ideas.
- Consume fiction across genres and mediums (books, films, TV shows) and take note of plot lines, characters, or settings that inspire you.
- Experiment with “what if?” scenarios e.g. “What if a pandemic wiped out most of humanity?” “What if magic was real and I could use it?” Think through the implications.
- Browse writing prompts/first line generators online and choose some that pique your curiosity to expand on.
- Wake up early and free-write in a journal for 20 minutes without stopping. First thing stream of consciousness writing can uncover unexpected story ideas.
Q: How do you organize and structure your novel?
Having a solid structure before you begin writing can help your first novel feel cohesive. Here are some tips for organizing your novel:
- Create a rough outline mapping out key plot points, character arcs, and important scenes. Don’t get too detailed early.
- Use the three-act structure (set-up, confrontation, resolution) to build the basic arc.
- Within each act, create chapters and scenes with rising and falling action, suspense, and cliffhangers to move the story forward.
- Weave in subplots that complement your main plot and add complexity.
- Make sure scenes transition smoothly and propel the reader towards the climax.
- Use foreshadowing and motifs to hint at what’s to come.
- Know your ending before you begin so you can lay the groundwork and plant clues.
Q: How do you overcome writer’s block when working on your first draft?
Writer’s block can derail your first novel’s progress. Here are tips for pushing past it:
- Step away from the draft and do unrelated activities to give your mind a break.
- Write down thoughts and ideas related to the story even if you don’t use them directly.
- Change your environment and write somewhere new like a cafe or library.
- Set a small, achievable daily word count goal like 500 words.
- Try free-writing for 15 minutes without stopping to get back into a flow.
- Read back over previous chapters to regain momentum.
- Write scenes out of chronological order if you feel stuck on one particular part.
- Focus on improving just the dialogue or description without advancing the plot.
- Do writing sprints to reach word count goals in short bursts.
Q: How do you get feedback on your manuscript?
Getting quality feedback is crucial before finalizing your first novel’s draft. Here’s how:
- Join a writers critique group (online or in-person) to share work and give/receive feedback.
- Find beta readers in your target audience to read the full draft and give feedback.
- Hire a professional editor for a developmental edit to identify flaws in plot, pacing, characters etc.
- Use the feedback to objectively evaluate your manuscript’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Incorporate the feedback into your revisions and query letters as applicable.
- Repeat this process until you feel the novel is polished and ready for submission.
- Stay open minded when receiving criticism and use it to improve your craft.
Q: How do you stay motivated during the long novel writing process?
Writing a book requires immense motivation. Here are some tips:
- Set a reasonable daily or weekly word count goal to make consistent progress.
- Reward yourself when you achieve writing milestones like finishing a chapter.
- Track your progress to see how far you’ve come.
- Read motivational quotes and stories from other authors.
- Join a writing group for accountability and encouragement.
- Remind yourself of why you started writing this particular story.
- Visualize what it will feel like to finish your draft.
- Take occasional short breaks from the project so you don’t burn out.
- Eliminate distractions and set a designated writing time.
- Believe in your abilities even when self-doubt arises.
Q: How do I come up with a story idea?
A: Coming up with a story idea can be challenging, but there are several techniques you can try. One approach is to brainstorm different scenarios or situations that interest you. You can also draw inspiration from your own experiences or people you know. Another option is to explore different genres or themes that you enjoy and see if any ideas spark from there.
Q: How do I start writing my first novel?
A: Starting to write your first novel can feel daunting, but the key is to simply begin. Set aside time each day to write and establish a writing routine. It’s also helpful to outline your story, so you have a roadmap to follow. Remember, the important thing is to start writing and let your ideas flow.
Q: Do I need to write every day?
A: While it’s not necessary to write every single day, establishing a regular writing habit can greatly benefit your progress. Writing consistently helps you stay connected to your story and keeps the creative juices flowing. Set a writing schedule that works for you, whether it’s every day or a few times a week.
Q: How do I meet a deadline for my novel?
A: Meeting a deadline for your novel requires discipline and effective time management. Break down your writing process into smaller tasks and set specific deadlines for each one. Create a realistic writing schedule and hold yourself accountable to stick to it. If necessary, consider seeking support from a writing group or accountability partner.
Q: Should I rewrite my novel?
A: Rewriting is an important part of the writing process. After completing a first draft, it’s common to go back and revise your work. Rewriting allows you to strengthen your story, improve pacing and character development, and refine your writing style. Embrace the rewriting phase as an opportunity to make your novel even better.
Q: How much time should I dedicate to writing?
A: The amount of time you should dedicate to writing varies depending on your schedule and personal preferences. Aim for consistency rather than quantity. Set aside dedicated writing sessions, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day. The key is to make writing a priority and find a balance that works for you.
Q: How do I outline my novel?
A: Outlining your novel can help you stay organized and ensure a clear direction for your story. There are different methods of outlining, such as using a traditional outline format or creating a visual storyboard. Start by outlining the major plot points and character arcs, and then fill in the details as you go.
Q: Do you have any writing advice for beginners?
A: For beginners, it’s important to remember that writing is a journey. Don’t be too hard on yourself and allow for imperfections in your first draft. Seek feedback from trusted readers or join a writing group for support and constructive criticism. Most importantly, keep writing and don’t give up on your dreams of becoming an author.
Q: How do I establish a writing routine?
A: Establishing a writing routine involves finding a time and place that works best for you. Choose a consistent time of day when you can focus and be uninterrupted. Create a designated writing space that inspires creativity and minimizes distractions. Experiment with different routines until you find what works for you.
Q: Is it easier to write the first draft of a novel?
A: Writing the first draft of a novel can be both exciting and challenging. It’s often referred to as “getting the story down” and allows for creative freedom without too much concern for perfection. While it may seem easier in some aspects, every stage of writing has its own set of challenges. Embrace the first draft as a starting point and be prepared for revisions and edits in subsequent drafts.