Definitive Guide to Writing a Novel - 7 Easy Rules

According to Mark Twain, “Writing is easy. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words”. Indeed, the most challenging part of writing a book is not getting it published, but the actual writing. Scrolling through the list of top fiction book publishers is relatively easier than actually reaching that stage. Isn’t it?

The art of writing a novel is a tad mysterious to those who have never attempted it earlier. Whether you are a first-time writer or a best-selling author, you are in for a lot of effort and sleepless nights. But, if you are dedicated, the rewards can be really promising.

The catch is, there are some rules to follow to unlock your true writing potential. So, let’s jump to that section:

1. Be a Voracious Reader

Books we read as children highly impact our writing style when we become adults. No doubt, writers are shaped by other writers’ writing.

So, it’s more than important to read closely and learn right from history’s most loved authors in the world.

2. Build Healthy Habits

Keep your writing time consistent. It can be either in the morning, at lunch hour, or late at night. Also, it is good to have a dedicated writing room where you spend most of your time working on the book.

It can be your dining room or a home office. Creative ideas come to you if you set a fixed time for them. So, time your work schedule accordingly.

3. Writer-Editor Relationship

A good editor will help you polish your writing and become a better writer. They really are an important part of your publishing process and a good connection will take you a long way in the editing process.

So, check the editor’s references, backlist, ask about their expectations and it will be great if you can connect with them personally.

4. Create A Checklist

What do you want to include in your story? Think about why you started writing this piece. What was the motivation behind it? Make a checklist of one page or either it can be a notebook.

It truly is a helpful tool to help you save a lot of time while writing a manuscript and also save you from committing mistakes.

5. Don’t Rush Your Writing

Usually, the first draft of a book arises from spontaneity so tame your urge to repeatedly make changes. Generating the first draft is like dumping your thoughts down. Later on, you can obsess over whether that word makes sense in the context.

Great editing will only be required once you have drafted a killer story. So, first, focus on thinking and putting that thought process into action.

6. Introduce Characters

Always remember, excellent fiction comes from powerful character development and a captivating plot.

You need a main character who is complicated enough to sustain an actual character and supporting figures who can inspire subplots off the main story structure.

7. Rules Are Likely To Be Broken

Don’t be reluctant to try out new techniques, voices, and styles. Just keep what works for your book and do away with what’s not for you.

It all boils down to your writing style as every writer has their own way of working. So, define your work and it’s okay even if you have to mend some rules.

Conclusion

These tips are not just limited to writing novels, they can apply to other forms of fiction too, like; short stories. Before you start writing, keep these tips handy and you will nail it with your choice of words.

Once you are done and moving to publish, do a search for the top fiction book publishers so you locate the most credible one for your exceptional piece of art.