Tips On How To Write Novels

Can anyone learn how to write novels, or does it require a special gift? The essence of this is about skill versus ability - skills can be learned, abilities are innate. Arguably, writing is a skill. However, the quality of what you write will depend on ability.

Here are my guidelines to help you make a start writing books. Many professionals will say that going on creative writing courses will help. I started without any formal training, and perhaps it shows in my work. I assume that you are not using novel writing software for the task.

Understand Your Genre

Read widely in your genre - you need to read the competition, particularly the best selling authors. This is a good place to begin learning how to write novels, because you see what sells (but remember that good marketing can sell poor quality work).

Map Out The Story In Advance (Or Not)

Successful writers start out with a plan for the novel: start, middle and end, with the plan pinned up on a wall. I just can't write books this way. I like writing a book to be a journey of discovery for me as well as the reader. Find which method works for you.

How To Write Novels - Just Do It

It will force you to think about 'point of view' (POV). Who is speaking in the story you are writing? There are many technical viewpoints, but the rule is simple: decide your POV and stick to it, ensuring your writing is consistent.

A Plot Develops

Don't worry if you don't have a plot. One will Develop. Picture your main character (MC), and start describing her. Then, describe the character's appearance. Where is the MC - is there a place you know well? Many writers set their stories in their home town. Put your MC there. Then add a random event to that day - maybe the MC witnessed an accident. What was the story behind that event? Or, take any news story, and think about how it got to you - did it come from a reporter in Afghanistan or Paris?. Tell the story of the story.

The act of setting the words down will engage your brain and your creative side.

The school of life is a great teacher, so draw on your experiences whenever you can. Writers write best about what they know. Research areas you don't know well, making notes as you go along.

Show And Tell

Many writers tell the story using dialogue between characters ('showing') in preference to a plain narrative ('telling'), which can be boring unless the writer is highly skilled.

Grammar And Punctuation

If you feel you are shaky in these areas, don't worry, an editor can correct them. Writing books is about much more than grammar if you have a good story to tell. If you are really poor in this respect then it might be advisable to hire an editor before you attempt to submit a manuscript to an agent or publisher.

Finally

The main 'rule' is - just do it. Write the first sentence then the paragraph and so on. Be modest with your early objectives. Write your next hundred words. As you write, ideas will come - note them on a pad, for inclusion later. Join some author forums, and meet other authors - there are thousands of aspiring novelists learning how to write novels, and exchanging ideas. It is a great way of learning the craft.




The author writes thrillers and non-fiction too. Get more guidance on how to write novels at his web site => http://www.jamesmarinero.com/On-Writing/How-To-Write-Novels.html and discover other guidance for writing books at => http://www.jamesmarinero.com/On-Writing/

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