On average how long does it take for a writer to write a 350 page novel?

Question

Do most authors usually outline what they are going to write or do they just "go with the flow"?

Answer 1

I'll answer the second bit first.

Most authors will plan out what they are going to write, almost like a storyboard in a film. There are some "stream of conscience" writers but in the fiction genre, it is important to construct a tight plot and logical progression - and most writers need to work at this carefully with an outline plan.

As regards how long it takes...........I guess a good "average" would be, say, 18-24 months? Difficult to say, look how long it takes JK Rowling to crack out Harry Potter books........whereas Barbara Cartland and Agatha Christie were far more prolific.

Answer 2

I agree with the answerer above that you can do it in about 3 months. All it takes is some discipline. Or at the most it should take you a year. The old adage goes that a page a day makes a novel in a year.

As for outlining: Some authors outline meticulously. It' s really a matter of personal preference.
The problem is only of you put all your creative energy into the outline you might be sick and tired of the story by the time you're actually writing the book!

A good way to outline is to jot down a few notes in three parts:
-Beginning
-Middle
-End

Yes, I know this sounds a bit too basic. But that way, you'll have a general structure and you'll know the overall direction your story is going.

Another approach is to outline while you write. Just think a few scenes ahead each time you finish your witing session. Jot down in a few words what you want to write next.

Also, sometimes it helps to keep a list of your characters. But only a general, superficial list.
Some writers make actual personality profiles of their characters. This is a total waste of time. Don't bother with that. It's overkill.

If you want to write more seriously, check out some writers magazines, such as Writers Digest, or Poets and Writers.
It also helps to join writers organizations/ groups. That way you'll be amongst your peers. It's a good way to develop your craft. And you'll see that there is no "right" way of writing a novel. It all depends on the writer.

What all successful writers have in common is discipline and persistence.

Happy writing!

Answer 3

I'm on page 325 of a book that should be about 375. It's taken me two months to get that far. I usually average 3-5 pages a day, but I can only write on certain days because I have a full time job and a part time job, plus kids and dogs and everything else. Some authors write every day, 1000 words per day (3-5 pages). I just write as much as I can. And as much as my time allows. And a note to the people who like outlines: I don.t. Every teacher I've had has told me to write an outline, and I think that it inhibits my creative side. So you can if you want to, to keep you on track, but I don't like them. I like to plug the characters down in the book and see where they take me. It's always more interesting than if it's a step-by-step.

Answer 4

If you just write a couple of hours per day everyday, you can do it in about 3 months or so from start to finish. Its really hard though because most of us get distracted, or lazy, or any other number of reasons. Most writers quit after the first 50 pages too.

Only bad authors and authors that went to college make outlines(same thing).

(hehehe that statement is gonna piss off some people)

Answer 5

To write 350 pages, all depends on your will and need to express yourself about your topic. If you are a novice it may be good to read books on how to write, or be advised by someone who is familiar with the art. Or you can just practice by writing, and writing and writing. Because before you know it you will have 350.

Answer 6

I usually sit down for a moment, and start planning things before I write, but I pretty much just go with the flow after a while. You know? :D

Answer 7

Hard to say. I started a novel once...wrote 5 pages....15 years ago....I have an outline but lack the will and desire to continue...

Answer 8

stephen king forced himself to write 10 pages a day if you write ten pages in a day then it will take you a month and 5 days.



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