how do I get started on writing a novel?

Answer 1

Write an outline.

Quite a few people have problems writing on the computer, for some strange reason. Try a notebook for first drafts. When you finish a chapter, type it into the computer, revising as you go.

Do research. I'd say that most of the time when I hit "writer's block" it's because I haven't done my research and don't actually know what I'm talking about.

Don't be afraid to scrap whole sections if you discover you can't use them or they totally suck. Every time Tolkien got stuck on the Lord of the Rings, he went back to the beginning and started from scratch.

Revise your outline.

Walk away, go play in the sunshine, talk to people that don't exist entirely in your head, have a coffee, and then come back and try again.

Figure out your most productive time of day and set a schedule for yourself.

Never, ever, stop writing in the middle of a scene. You'll come back and won't have any idea where you were going. On the same note, carry a notebook and write down any brilliant ideas you have when you have them. I guarantee, you won't remember in an hour when you actually sit down to write them.

Answer 2

With every novel, I first write a skeleton. My skeleton kind of ends up looking like a very tall stay puft marshmallow man. I start with the head- my subject of choice. Then, write down in order a list of what is going to happen, kind of like a grocery list. You want to jot ideas down from top to bottom. At the very bottom, you are going to want your climax and your ending. Everything will change, by the way. For fun, add twists (arms) to fit in.

Next, make a page worth of information about your main character, how they feel, what they like, etc....

Finally, construct a timeline. This is crucial so readers don't get confused.

After this, you want to work on an inner narrative about the story from the main character's perspective. Keep this handy.

Then, start typing. Never over-edit. Make sure when you have finished, you let it sit until you can be completely critical of it, though fair.

As you develop different characters, take notes. That way, you know the character better. Remember, that character is being born from inside you.

If you are not agoraphobic, you likely will have no problem sharing your work with others. Have fun, and make sure you don't submit to agents until you are absolutely sure it is accurate. Follow all submission guidelines.

Answer 3

Pick a topic that you know a lot about. For my book, "The Last Rejection," I decided to write about crime. I like to watch Law and Order and I love to read crime novels. Then the book morphed into a sci-fi thriller. It's a lot easier if you write about something you know about or are familiar with. You can also do research on your book too.

Just come up with an idea you like and start brainstorming. An outline can help or you can just start writing and see where it goes.

Answer 4

Consider outlining the book first. I would create characters with detailed background information so that you can combine these into the book. Once the Characters are lined up start creating a connected story line that makes sense. everytime you add a new idea consider its importance to the chapter and the overall book. As you work through your story line constantly update your chapters.
At this point you have the bones of the book, to be edited as necessary. Chapter by Chapter start filling in the dialoge as you think it works best drawing on the background of each character.
This will get you started! eventually you will need to think about publishing and all that stuff...have some fun with your ideas and write them down while you have it in your mind.
Always make sure that you position yourself to work on your book without distraction and ensure that you can afford it.

Answer 5

I had a professor once tell me to write as much as I possibly can before proofreading it even once. Continuity doesn't matter at all, just write everything that pops into your head. When you are finished, go back to start reading it. You will notice one important thing... that it is all about you, your experiences, etc. After you get all of that out of your system, then you will be able to write truly inspired work.

Answer 6

I carry a small notebook and I’m always writing ideas, names, thoughts, phrases, people physical descriptions (cafes and airports are great for that), curious events, etc. Then, early in the morning, I seat in front on the computer, I pray for a few seconds, review my notes and the story comes out.
Good Luck

Answer 7

Write.

Answer 8

if u don't know then no one can tell ya.
writing a novel or poem is sth that should rush out of u itself.
i mean u can never sit thinking about it.but it comes it self without thinking and u have to just write it.
it depends on the person.in fact not all the man can do it.

Answer 9

I just checked out trulyblessed recomended site it looks like a perfect starting point! Good job Trulyblessed!!

Answer 10

As I told one other person: (abridged version)

Brainstorm all your ideas, write your heart out no matter what, pick your favorite genre and begin again--applying what you know--and take breaks often.