February 21st, 2018

The Guide to Starting a Novel

Where should your story start? With the characters? The plot? Well we have made this guide to help new and experienced authors begin the writing process.

1. Brainstorming
Authors have tendencies to be constantly mulling over ideas for new novels. When brainstorming a new idea it’s important to jump right into writing a summary and then let your ideas settle. Come back and reread and then think on it for a few days. Sometimes our really good ideas are great and then other times not so much.

2. Make a Schedule
Obviously writing is mostly made of creativity however, it’s important to remember the logistics such as editing and formatting. Creating a schedule will help ensure you will reach your goals. 

3. Character Outlining
Characters are developed throughout the entire process of writing. Usually characters won’t be complete after the first draft. As you go onto more drafts add more characterization into each character. Make sure each character can stand on its own and will be interesting for the reader.

4. Point of View
Who will your audience be and what characters are most important? Is the story going to be in present tense or past? It’s a lot of work to change your mind so make a decision before going all in.

5. Conflict
Conflicts should be developed along with the characters. This will help define the plot and each character strengths and weaknesses.

6. Start Writing
After you have the basics down and the idea has been mulling over start writing. Focus on where you would like the story to begin. This doesn’t have to be the first chapter per say but make sure every chapter has a point and by the end it accomplishes something. If it isn’t relevant to the story as a whole, leave it out.

7. Developing the Scenes
Do this in several phases. We suggest starting without the fluff. After the initial scene you can add more descriptions and characters. This will help nail down exactly what you are trying to get out of each scene.

Every writer has what works for them. If you are new to writing these are good suggestions or if you’re looking for a changed this is a great place to start.