Pro Tip: Grab a notebook or your laptop and take notes while you read today’s post– just jot down ideas and plans as you review each task listed. Tomorrow, I’ll be coming at you with your first writing assignment!
The first step in the novel writing process is the planning stage. The planning stage of the writing process is crucial as it sets the foundation for the entire writing project. During this stage, a writer typically engages in several activities, all designed to prepare for the drafting stage. This step is essential because once you sit down to write the first draft, you’ll be prepared to “just do it” without getting sidetracked or bogged down in details that may never make it into your final draft. The planning stage of the novel writing process includes the following elements:
Generate ideas: The writer starts by brainstorming and generating ideas about the novel they want to write. They may use techniques such as mind mapping, freewriting, or listing to generate ideas. There are a variety of free online story idea generators that can also be helpful. These include plot generators and name generators by genre, among others. If you don’t already have an idea for your novel, play with these resources until you have something fun that you will enjoy writing. Remember, this is a fun experiment, so feel free to be as silly as you like if it helps you stay engaged with the project.
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