How to write a novel
Practical lessons and tools, for writers
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What do you actually need to write a book? Aside from an idea, there is very little. In this guide we take a look at whats needed.
It's more important than you think. Let's look at what's in a title and how it can help make or break your book.
If you want your book to sell, it's best to first understand your audience. Secondly, write with them in mind and target their desires.
Let's look at the impact that influences have on you, how you should track them and how they help shape your writing.
If you want people to read your book, you need to pull them in, and for that, you'll need a hook. Short, catchy and full of juice!
A high-level overview of what can be expected in the planning and plotting stages. Knowing what is to come will help you focus.
They play a part in almost all fiction; it's hard to avoid them, and honestly, you shouldn't. Let's explore how they can work for you.
Now that you understand the requirements of a good plot. We can delve into how you might go about building one.
In general, most stories are composed of three Acts. A beginning, middle and end. It's a simple principle; execution can vary.
To know what is required of a good plot is to know what is expected of you by the reader. Here we dive into plot building.
Subplots are secondary storylines that usually explore secondary threads. They interact with the main plot to add more depth.
Often overlooked, these are powerful elements that can stitch a story together. Readers feel satisfaction when you close an open loop.
A good story can thrive in the right environment. Don't underestimate how important it is to build a world for your characters to inhabit.
How many chapters, how many words? Common questions every new writer wants to ask.
This is the fun part, a jigsaw you designed and now you can put it together. Here, you will create a bird's-eye view of the entire story.
It's time to look at how to create detailed characters with backstories that pull the reader in and make them want to know more.
Before leaping headfirst into chapter planning, let's first talk about building good chapters, setting the pace and how to structure.
The momentum is building. With a solid foundation behind you, Chapter outlining can begin. How to make chapter outlines.
Launching into the first draft is a daunting task, but it shouldn't be. By now, you've covered the groundwork. Let's start with the first page.
An absolute necessity. If you think you can skip this section, you really can't. Let's explore how editing works and how to do it.
You might think that marketing comes after publishing, but you'd be wrong. You want to start marketing your book before its release.
Writing your first draft. All of the plotting and planning come into play. Everything you've done up to this point now pays off.
Plottng, Planning, Drafting and editing. You've done it all. Next up, you need people to read your manuscript and give feedback.
You have options. Traditional publishing, self-publishing, both viable options. How do you go about each of them?
