How to Write a Novel in a Month: A 30-Day Plan for Success

Without the stress and overwhelm!

By Natasha Khullar Relph

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It started out as a joke: Could I write a publishable novel in a month?

My first novel had taken five years to write and an additional two years of editing before my literary agent considered it done, so it wasn’t as though I had a brilliant track record. But I’d been a journalist for over a decade, spitting out 1,000-word articles on deadline several times a week. I’d written eight nonfiction books, each in less than two weeks. Surely there was some trick I was missing. A lesson I could transfer from my nonfiction to my fiction that would make the process easier and, well, faster.

I started learning and experimenting as much as I could, and while I didn’t finish my second novel in a month, I did write a very respectable first draft in seven weeks and sent the final manuscript to my agent a few months after. I realized that, with the right strategies and careful planning, writing a novel in a month is a completely achievable goal. Even for me.

Two years later, I signed up for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and finished the first draft of my third novel in less than 30 days.

This is the plan I followed.

Is writing a novel in a month even possible?

First, let’s just address something I know many of you are thinking: Is this even possible?

See, when someone asks whether writing a book in a month is possible, they’re not asking whether they can put 50,000 or 80,000 words on the page during a period of 30 days. What they’re really asking is: Will it be any good?

Typing is not the same as writing and while it’s certainly possible to vomit out 80,000 words in a month, are those words actually useable once the month is over and the celebrations complete?

Let me put your mind at ease. Here’s how long it took for these novels to be written:

• The Gambler by Fyodor Dostoyevsky: 26 days
• On the Road by Jack Kerouac: 3 weeks
• A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess: 3 weeks
• I, the Jury by Mickey Spillane: 9 days
• The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson: 3 days
• The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne: 2.5 days

What is NaNoWriMo?

30-day novels aren’t just the domain of well-known authors. Each year, thousands of writers from around the world take part in NaNoWriMo, a writing challenge in which writers aim to finish a 50,000-word novel during the month of November.

Founded by writer Chris Baty, NaNoWriMo is now a nonprofit organization, and part of Nano’s offering is Camp NaNoWriMo, which occurs in April and July every year and offers writers additional opportunities to set and achieve writing goals, such as working on novellas or short stories.

Successful NaNoWriMo projects and published books include:

• Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
• The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
• Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
• Wool by Hugh Howey

If you’re planning on finishing your novel in the next 30 days, it’s an excellent idea to hop on over to nanowrimo.org and sign up, so you can get access to the resources and community the organization offers.

How to Write a Novel in a Month

Now then. Are you ready to write your book? Here’s your 30-day plan for success.

Day 1: Define your story idea
Day 2: Outline your novel
Day 3: Identify major plot points
Day 4: Give your characters depth
Day 5: Focus on setting and world-building
Day 6: Develop a writing routine
Day 7: Set daily writing goals
Day 8: Start writing
Day 9: Write the most exciting scenes first
Day 10: Maintain momentum
Day 11: Get in the habit of writing in sprints
Day 12: Create triggers
Day 13: Develop subplots and character relationships
Day 14: Try to get ahead of the daily word count
Day 15: Continue pushing forward
Day 16: Keep capturing ideas as they come
Day 17: Embrace the messy middle
Day 18: Tap into community
Day 19: Leave the revising for later
Day 20: Revisit your outline
Day 21: Find sources of inspiration
Day 22: Maximize your productivity
Day 23: Keep yourself accountable
Day 24: Gamify your writing with challenges
Day 25: Limit your use of social media
Day 26: Watch out for self-sabotage
Day 27: Keep working on your craft
Day 28: Write the climax and resolution
Day 29: Finish your first draft
Day 30: Celebrate!

Day 1: Define your story idea

Let’s get real on this first day of our 30-day novel writing journey. The goal here is not speed for the sake of speed, but finishing our novels faster so we can have a more enjoyable process during the writing and build a solid body of work. Preparation is key to that.

Jack Kerouac may have only spent three weeks writing the first draft of his book, but the reason he was able to do so was because he was working off the notes he’d been making during his travels. While there certainly are writers who open up the blank page on Day 1 with no idea of the story they’re telling, you’ll have a much easier time if you have some idea of your characters and plot before you begin.

Here’s what you need to have ready by the end of Day 1:

• Your novel idea: Start by revisiting the initial spark of inspiration that led you to this novel. It might be a character, a concept, or a “what if” scenario that intrigued you. Clarify your vision and what you hope to achieve with your novel.

• The genre: Consider the genre for this novel. Will it be a romance, a fantasy epic, a mystery, or perhaps a combination of genres? Your chosen genre will shape the tone, style, and expectations of your novel.

• Themes: Identify the overarching theme or themes you want to explore in your story. These themes can be the emotional core of your novel, providing depth and resonance to your narrative.

Spend some time today brainstorming ideas, plot points, character traits, and potential settings related to your story idea. Jot down notes, make sketches, or create a digital folder to collect your thoughts. This brainstorming session will serve as the foundation for your novel to rest upon.

Remember, Day 1 is all about setting the stage for success. Define your story idea clearly, and you’ll be well prepared to dive into the writing process over the next 29 days.

Day 2: Outline your novel

A solid outline is key to finishing your novel in the next 30 days. Regardless of whether you’re a dedicated plotter who likes to map out every chapter and every scene, or a “pantser,” that is, someone who likes to write by the seat of your pants, a rough outline can keep you focused on the story and prevent you from going off in directions that don’t serve you, especially if this is your first book.

A few things to consider:

• Pantser vs. plotter: Decide on your approach to outlining. If you’re a plotter, you might prefer a detailed chapter-by-chapter outline. As a pantser, you may choose a looser, more flexible framework. Both methods can lead to successful novels, so pick the one that most suits your style.

• Rough outline: Begin sketching out the major plot points of your novel. Identify the key events, twists, and turns that will drive your story forward. While this is just a rough outline, it provides a clear structure for your narrative.

• Synopsis: Consider writing a synopsis of your novel at this stage. A synopsis is a summary of your story, typically around 1-2 pages long. Crafting a synopsis can help you understand your plot and characters and how everything fits together in your book.

Remember, your outline doesn’t need to be set in stone. It’s a roadmap that can guide you, but you’re free to make detours along the way. Embrace the creative process and use Day 2 to build a solid foundation for your story.

Day 3: Identify major plot points

Now it’s time to delve deeper into your story’s structure by identifying the major plot points. These pivotal moments are the heartbeats of your narrative, guiding your readers through your characters’ journeys. Here’s what you need to remember:

• Narrative structure: Choose a narrative structure that resonates with you and your story. The three-act structure is a classic framework that divides your story into three main acts: setup, confrontation, and resolution. Alternatively, you can follow the Hero’s Journey, a mythic structure that traces a hero’s transformational path. (Also look at: The Hero’s Journey, the Snowflake Method, and Save the Cat.)

• Major events: Identify the major events that will propel your plot forward. These events often correspondent to turning points in your story, such as the inciting incident, the midpoint twist, and the climax. List them in chronological order.

• Conflict and resolution: For each major event, clarify the central conflict and how it contributes to the overall story arc. How will these conflicts be resolved, and what impact will the resolutions have on your characters and plot?

• Subplots: Subplots add depth and complexity to your story, so ensure they integrate seamlessly with the main narrative.

• Foreshadowing: Think about how you can foreshadow these major plot lines earlier in your story. Foreshadowing can create anticipation and a sense of cohesion within your narrative.

Day 4: Give your characters depth

Now it’s time to breathe life into your story’s characters. Characters are the heart and soul of any novel, and creating well-rounded, believable individuals is essential.

Begin by focusing on your main characters—the ones who will steer your story. Create detailed character profiles. While many writing teachers suggest you use templates and workbooks to nail down their names, ages, physical descriptions, and more, I find these superficial features to be the least interesting parts of your characters. Instead, when I’m writing fiction, I like to journal as my characters, exploring their inner and outer landscapes, and letting them steer me towards their desires. Sometimes, I’m able to lift entire paragraphs and sections from these journals and drop them straight into my book.

Remember, well-developed characters are not static; they evolve and react to the events of your story. It’s essential that you understand what motivates each of them. What are their goals, desires, and ambitions? What do they fear or hope to achieve? Give them compelling backstories, too, and contemplate how they will grow over the course of your novel.

Day 5: Focus on setting and world-building

The world in which your story unfolds is more than just a backdrop. It’s a living entity that can enhance your narrative. Today, start by defining the primary setting of your story. Is it a bustling metropolis like New York, a quaint English village, a sprawling fantasy realm, or something entirely unique? Describe the physical features, climate, and geographical elements that will shape this environment.

Here are a few more things to consider when you’re creating new worlds or rediscovering an existing one:

• Time period: Determine the time period in which your story takes place. Is it set in the past, present, or future? Historical, contemporary, or speculative fiction? Your choice of time period will influence aspects like technology, social norms, and culture.

• Unique elements: Consider what sets your story’s world apart. Are there magical elements, advanced technology, mythical creates, or other worldly phenomenon? These unique elements add depth and intrigue to your setting.

• Cultural aspects: Explore the cultures within your world. What are the customs, traditions, and belief systems of your characters? How do they interact with their environment and each other? Cultural richness can lead to compelling conflicts and character dynamics.

• Map your world: If applicable, create a map of your fictional world. Visualizing the geography can help you maintain consistency in your storytelling. Maps are particularly valuable for fantasy or science fiction settings.

• Rules and laws: Define the rules and laws governing your world. These can include the laws of magic, the limitations of technology, or the principles that govern societies. Consistency in your world’s rules is crucial for reader immersion.

• History and lore: Develop a history and lore for your world. What significant events have shaped its past? Are there legends, myths, or historical figures that influence your characters’ actions or beliefs?

• Tone and atmosphere: Consider the tone and atmosphere you want to convey through your world building. Is your story whimsical, dark, adventurous, or mysterious? The setting plays a vital role in establishing the story’s mood.

• Sensory details: Use sensory details to bring your world to life. Describe sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures that immerse readers in your setting.

Day 6: Develop a writing routine

Okay, so now that we have clarity on what we’re writing, let’s talk about how we’re going to do it.

Today’s work is to map out a consistent routine that keeps you on track and makes the process of writing this full-length novel feel more manageable. Here are some ideas on how to create a routine that works for your life and writing goals, and not against it.

• Create a writing space: Designate a physical space for your writing. It could be a quiet corner of your home, a local coffee shop, or a cozy library. Make sure it has all the tools you need, such as your laptop, notebooks, or reference materials.

• Pick your writing time: Identify the times of the day when you’re most alert and creative. Some writers are early birds, while others are night owls. Choose a time that aligns with your natural rhythms and when you’re less likely to be interrupted.

• Determine session length: Decide how long each of your writing sessions will be. This could range from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on your schedule and writing goals. You can vary the amount of time you write and it’s important to not push yourself to write more than you can comfortably sustain.

Day 7: Set daily writing goals

Psst, here’s the secret of book writing that no one tells you. (Yes, there is one!)

And here it is: Most writers can write 1,000 words in an hour. To finish an 80,000-word novel, therefore, you need to write for 80 hours.

This is not an exact science, of course. It may take you longer because you need to do a lot more research in order to write a truly great book. Or perhaps you’ll take my advice on Day 11 and get in the habit of writing in sprints, which means it might take you a lot fewer hours. Regardless, if you can write 1,000 words an hour on average, you can finish the first draft of a book in 80 hours.

You could spread those 80 hours over a period of years. You could spread them over a period of months. Or, if you’re reading this, you can spread those hours over a period of 30 days.

That is, if you wrote for 2.5 hours a day, you could finish your novel by the end of the month.

Or, perhaps you prefer to look at this in terms of daily word count goals.

NaNoWriMo participants aim to finish a 50,000-word draft in a month, which works out to 1,667 words a day. However, if you’re looking to write a commercial novel, you may be required to submit a draft of 70,000-80,000 words. This means you need to write anywhere between 2,334 and 2,667 words per day.

Regardless of whether you choose to set your writing goals by time or word count, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Assess your schedule: Look at your daily writing schedule and identify the windows of time available for writing. Whether it’s in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening, knowing when you can write is crucial.

• Quality vs. quantity: While it’s helpful to have daily word count goals, remember that quality is the most important thing here. There’s no point writing a novel in a month if you then have to spend the next two years editing it. Strive for a balance between producing a certain number of words and ensuring those words contribute meaningfully to your story.

• Consistency: Aim to write every day, even if it’s a small amount. Consistency builds momentum and prevents writer’s block from creeping in. Whether it’s 500 words or 2,500, make writing a daily habit.

• Flexibility: Life can be unpredictable, and some days may be more challenging than others. Be adaptable and ready to adjust your goals when unexpected events arise. The key is not to get discouraged and to keep moving forward.

Day 8: Start writing

“The scariest moment is always just before you start,” says bestselling author Stephen King. Listen to the master, and once you’re done with your prep, open up that word processor and begin.

If you’re writing in order, you’ll begin with the very first sentence of your novel. This sentence should intrigue your readers and set the tone. Don’t worry too much about getting it perfect at this stage. The key is to just start writing that first chapter. This opening chapter plays a crucial role in hooking your readers. Consider what will grab their attention and make them eager to continue reading.

It’s important to note that when you begin writing, it’s common to encounter moments of doubt or self-criticism, especially if the words on the page don’t truly reflect the vision in your head. Remember, the first draft is simply meant to get the idea to exist on the page. You will go back and fix it later.

Day 9: Write the most exciting scenes first

I have some fantastic news for you: Not only is it perfectly acceptable to work on your scenes out of sequence, but I highly recommend that you begin with scenes that you’re most excited about.

This approach allows you to capture the details of those scenes while they’re still vivid in your imagination, and tackling them early can fuel your enthusiasm and motivation for the entire project. So, sure, if the climactic showdown or a character’s poignant backstory is calling to you, go ahead and dive into those moments, knowing that you can weave them together cohesively during the revision process.

Day 10: Maintain momentum

As you move through the process of finishing your novel, maintaining momentum will be key to your success. Every word you write takes you closer to finishing that novel, so it’s important to not let minor setbacks or self doubt steer you away from your goal. Here’s how to stay on track, even on the days when you’re not feeling it:

• Stay consistent: By now, you’ve established a daily writing routine. Stick to it religiously. Writing a novel in 30 days is a challenging task. Expect rough patches and moments when your writing—and you!—feel less than stellar. Make sure to keep writing through it all.

• Follow your outline: Your outline is your trusty roadmap. Continue to follow it, keeping in mind the major plot points, character arcs, and exciting scenes you’ve planned.

• Avoid the perfectionism trap: It’s tempting to edit and revise as you go, but remember that this is your first draft. Don’t get bogged down by perfecting every sentence. You can fine-tune later.

• Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge your achievements along the way. Completing chapters, reaching milestones, or writing particularly compelling scenes are all worth celebrating. Positive reinforcement keeps you motivated.

• Connect with other writers: If you’re part of a writing group or community, stay engaged with them. Share your progress, seek advice, or simply chat about your experiences. The support of like-minded writers can be invaluable.

Day 11: Get in the habit of writing in sprints

Time for a technique that will skyrocket your productivity and explode your word count: writing in sprints.

Writing sprints are short, focused bursts of writing, usually lasting from 10 minutes to half an hour. While it seems simple on the surface, this is one of the best writing tips I could give you, and it can truly transform the way you write and the ease with which you do so. The rules for a writing sprint are simple:

1. Set a timer for 10, 15, or 20 minutes.
2. Think about what you’ll write. For example, do you know the scene you’re writing, who the characters involved will be, and how it ends? Get clarity on the scene before you start writing.
3. Start the timer and begin your focused writing session. It’s important that your sole focus for the duration of this period is writing your scene.
4. When the timer stops, end your writing session and take a short break before starting the next sprint.

The reason writing sprints are so incredibly effective for boosting productivity and achieving high word counts is because they create a focused, time-bound environment where you commit to producing as much as possible in a short period. It transforms writing from a daunting, open-ended task into manageable, bite-sized challenges, making it easier to overcome resistance and maintain consistent progress.

Day 12: Create triggers

You won’t wake up every day raring to get to the page to write the next scene. Indeed, if you’re like most writers, you’ll have boundless energy at the beginning, and a thirst to finish at the end, but the middle? That’s when things start getting rough and you need triggers.

Triggers are cues or actions that signal to your brain that it’s time to get into the writing zone. They can be incredibly effective in helping you transition from a distracted state to a focused, creative one. Here’s how to create and use triggers for your writing:

• Designate a writing space: Choose a specific location for your writing sessions, particularly for this book. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the sofa in your living room or the corner table at the local cafe. Consistently writing in the same space signals to your brain that it’s time to get to work.

• Use rituals: Develop pre-writing rituals that prepare your mind for creativity. This could involve making a cup of tea, listening to a specific song, or watching an interview with a well-known author. Last year, when I was working on my novel and building my writing habit, I would light an incense stick before every writing session and keep going until it ran out. Even now, every time I smell sandalwood, I’m transported to the world of my novel. Rituals like this can act as psychological triggers to signal the beginning of your writing session.

• Create a writing playlist: Music can be a powerful trigger for creativity. Craft a playlist of songs that inspire you and get you in the writing mood. Play it at the start of your writing session and, over time, your brain will associate these tunes with productive writing.

• Visual cues: Consider having a visual cue in your writing space, such as a framed quote from your favorite author or an image that relates to your novel’s setting. When you see these cues, your mind will automatically shift into writing mode.

• Mindfulness techniques: Before you begin writing, take a few minutes to practice mindfulness or deep breathing. This calms your mind and prepares it for focused creative work. The act of consciously centering yourself can be a powerful trigger.

Day 13: Develop subplots

The stage is set and you’re probably knee-deep into the conflicts of your novel. It’s time to add depth and complexity to your story by focusing on subplots and character relationships. These narrative elements are like the spice that enhances the flavor of your novel. Here’s how to develop subplots and character relationships effectively:

• Subplots with purpose: Identify subplots that serve a purpose in your story. They should complement, intersect with, or contrast the main plot. Think about how they can add layers to your characters and overall narrative.

• Character arcs: Consider how subplots can impact your characters’ growth and development. Subplots often provide opportunities for characters to change, learn or face challenges outside of the main storyline.

• Interweaving: Strategically interweave subplots with the main plot. Subplots should not feel disjointed or distracting. They should enhance the reader’s understanding of the main story, offering insights, foreshadowing, or contrast.

• Conflict and tension: Subplots can introduce additional conflict and tension. They can be a source of internal or external conflict for your characters. This tension keeps readers engaged and invested in the story.

• Character relationships: Explore the dynamics between your characters. Consider how their relationships evolve throughout the novel. Develop not only the central relationships but also the peripheral ones. These connections can influence character choices and add depth to their motivations.

• Backstories and secrets: Subplots can unveil character backstories, hidden motivations, or secrets. Use them as a tool to reveal crucial information at the right moments, creating suspense and intrigue.

• Character crossroads: Subplots often bring characters to crossroads where they must make significant decisions. These choices can impact the overall plot and character development.

Day 14: Try to get ahead of the daily word count

Life can be unpredictable, and unexpected events may disrupt your writing routine. To get ahead of this and prevent yourself from getting off track on the days you may have less time or energy, I recommend getting ahead. That is, making sure you’ve created a buffer of extra words by staying ahead of your required word count. Here are a few ways to do this:

• Set incremental goals: Instead of aiming for just the daily word count, set a slightly higher target each day. This ensures that you accumulate extra words over time.

• Utilize productive days: On days when you feel particularly inspired or energized, take advantage of that momentum to write more than your daily quota.

• Early morning or late night writing: If your schedule allows, consider writing when you’re most alert and focused. Early mornings or late nights can be productive periods for many writers.

• Plan ahead: Spend a few minutes each day outlining what you’ll write in your next session. Having a clear direction when you sit down to write makes it easier to exceed your daily target.

Day 15: Continue pushing forward

By this point, you’ve introduced your characters, set up the conflict, and established the world of your novel. When it comes to the actual novel, it’s time to raise the stakes. Create obstacles, conflicts, and dilemmas that keep your readers engaged and invested in the outcome. Make sure your characters are facing both external and internal challenges that push them to their limits.

Don’t be afraid to let your creativity run wild during this phase. Some of the most unexpected and brilliant ideas can emerge when you’re in the flow of writing. Trust your instincts and explore new directions if your story takes you there.

Day 16: Keep capturing ideas as they come

As you continue to write, you’ll likely have new ideas or insights about your story. Instead of ignoring them or stopping to change everything you’ve already written, jot them down in a separate notebook or document. This allows you to acknowledge these creative sparks and new directions without disrupting your writing flow.

It’s okay to make significant plot or character changes if they make sense for your story’s development. Trust your instincts, but don’t let these changes lead to endless rewrites. Use this new information to write the next chapters, but resist the temptation to go back and change everything you’ve already written. You can do that during the editing phase. For now, the goal is to finish, albeit imperfectly.

Day 17: Embrace the messy middle

This is the most difficult period during the entire duration of the manuscript, and it’s not uncommon for writers to give into procrastination or self criticism at this point of the process. Regardless of whether you’re a first-time author working on your first book or a full-time writer who’s been writing for years, this is usually the point at which you’ll find very convincing excuses for why you can’t write.

Here’s what you need to do when you find yourself feeling sluggish and overwhelmed during the messy middle:

• Recognize it for what it is: The middle can be tricky terrain. It’s where you’ve introduced your characters and set up the conflict, but the climax and resolution are still on the horizon. This is a natural part of the writing process and almost every writer will encounter it.

• Stay committed: Commitment to your writing goal is your most powerful ally right now. Remind yourself why you decided to write this book in the first place, and what you’re getting out of this 30-day challenge. Revisit your initial inspiration and look through your early outlines and notes to deepen your connection with the story.

• Set realistic expectations: Understand that not every writing session will produce brilliance. Some days, your words might feel lackluster or uninspired, and that’s perfectly okay. The key is to keep moving forward, even if it means writing imperfect scenes. You can also revise and improve in subsequent drafts.

Day 18: Tap into community

When the initial excitement of starting your novel has faded and the finish line remains distant, it’s important to tap into the support and inspiration of your writing community. Some ideas:

• Participate in NaNoWriMo: If you’re taking part in NaNoWriMo or the National Novel Writing Month, use the resources and connections available through the NaNoWriMo website. Engage with fellow NaNoWriMo participants, join forums, and participate in virtual write-ins during the month of November. This community is known for its unwavering support during the novel-writing process.

• Collaborative writing sprints: Consider organizing or taking part in collaborating writing sprints with other writers. These focused writing sessions can boost your productivity and motivation. When you’re writing alongside others, it creates a sense of shared commitment and accountability.

• Accountability partners: If you have a writing buddy or accountability partner, now is the time to lean on each other. Share your daily progress, encourage one another, and set writing goals together. Knowing that someone is counting on you can be a powerful motivator.

• Virtual write-ins: Explore virtual write-ins or live streaming sessions where writers come together to write simultaneously, even if they’re physically distant. The energy and solidarity of these events can rekindle your enthusiasm.

Day 19: Leave the revising for later

If you’re feeling a strong temptation to revisit and revise what you’ve already written, DON’T! The beauty of the first draft is in its imperfection. It’s a rough draft, which means that every word will not be polished to perfection at this stage, and that’s exactly how it should be!

Your primary objective during these 30 days is to finish your novel. The urge to go back and re-read what you’ve written or edit certain sections is a distraction and, often, a form of avoidance. Keep your eye on the prize, which is getting to a finished first draft by the end of this month.

Day 20: Revisit your outline

Today, we’re going to go back and revisit the original outline. By this point, your story has likely evolved, characters have developed, and unexpected twists may have emerged. Reflect on your initial story idea and plot outline. Are you still heading in the direction you envisioned on Day 1? If there have been unexpected detours or shifts, consider whether they enhance or detract from your story’s overall impact.

If you’ve veered significantly from your initial plot outline, consider updating it to reflect your evolving story. Having a revised outline can serve as a roadmap for the remainder of your writing journey. This adjustment also acts as a safeguard against potential story collapse. By assessing the trajectory of your narrative at this point, you can identify and address issues before they become full-novel rewrites.

Day 21: Find sources of inspiration

Feeling a little bit tired? A little bit bored? A little bit frustrated? Having thoughts of “this is too hard” or “why am I doing this?” swirling around your head? You, my dear, are in dire need of some inspiration. And this is how you get it:

• Read outside your genre: Exposure to different writing styles and narratives can spark fresh ideas and perspectives, but we don’t want reading someone else’s incredible book to become a stick you use to beat yourself up with. Therefore, read, but only in a genre that’s nothing to do with what you’re currently working on.

• Connect with nature: An obvious suggestion, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Even a simple walk in the park can sometimes do wonders for your creativity. Spend some time outdoors, whether it’s near a lake, by the ocean or in the woods.

• Other art forms: Explore other forms of artistic expression, such as visual arts, music, or theater. Museums, galleries, and live performances can stimulate your creativity and offer unique insights into storytelling.

• Creative writing prompts: Work with creative writing prompts (we’ve got over a hundred for you here). These can help provide a fresh perspective or challenge you to explore uncharted territories within your narrative.

• Meet your friends: If you’re not used to writing at this pace, you’ve probably been neglecting your social life. Now’s the time to call a few people and make amends. If you feel comfortable doing so, engage in conversations with friends, family, or peers about your novel’s themes or characters. Their input and questions can spark new ideas or help you see your story differently. Don’t ask for critiques at this stage, however.

• Visual aids: Create a vision board or collect images that represent your story’s settings, characters, or key scenes. Visual aids can provide a tangible reference point for your writing.

• Virtual travel: Explore the world virtually through documentaries, travel blogs, or online tours. Even if your novel is set in a fictional world, real-world insights can add depth and authenticity to your storytelling.

• Stay open to the unexpected: Inspiration often strikes when you least expect it. Keep a notebook or digital recorder handy to capture sudden bursts of creativity, whether it’s during your commute or while doing household chores.

Day 22: Maximize your productivity

We’re inching closer to the last week of our novel writing month. So far you’ve been keeping an even writing pace so you could develop your story and your characters, but you’re in the thick of it now. Which is why today is the perfect day to ramp up the productivity and start making some serious headway towards the finish line.

Make sure you’re continuing to allocate dedicated blocks of time for writing. Guard this time as sacred for your writing sessions. You also want to identify the most critical scenes or chapters in your novel and tackle them during these peak creative hours. Save less demanding tasks, like research, for times when your energy dips naturally.

Speaking of research, while it’s essential, it can also be a time sink. Try to strike a balance between researching relevant details as needed and avoiding the rabbit hole of excessive research during your drafting phase.

Day 23: Keep yourself accountable

Take a moment to review how far you’ve come. Celebrate your achievements, whether it’s reaching your daily word count goal consistently or completing challenging chapters. Acknowledging your progress can certainly boost motivation.

It’s also important to be honest about where you’re not hitting your goals and what hurdles you still need to overcome. It’s necessary to find ways to stay on track or recover quickly if you go off track if you’re going to finish this novel.

Accountability, especially at this stage, can be the difference between moving forward or getting stuck. Here’s how to get it:

• Share your process: Consider making a public declaration of your 30-day writing challenge on social media or personal blog. When others are aware of your commitment, you may feel a stronger sense of responsibility to follow through.

• Give yourself rewards: Implement a reward system for reaching your daily or weekly goals. Knowing there’s a treat or positive reinforcement waiting for you can make the writing process more enjoyable.

• Daily check-ins: Commit to daily check-ins with yourself or your accountability partner. Reflect on your writing accomplishments, challenges, and any adjustments needed in your approach.

• Accountability calendar: Create a visual accountability calendar where you mark off each day you meet your writing goals. The act of crossing off days can provide a sense of accomplishment.

• Accountability journal: Maintain a journal where you reflect on your writing journey daily. Document your thoughts, challenges, and triumphs. This journal can serve as a valuable record of your growth as a writer.

Day 24: Gamify your writing with challenges

Today brings an exciting opportunity to infuse some fun and motivation into your writing process by gamifying it. Here’s how:

• Word count challenges: Set daily or hourly word count challenges for yourself. Invite friends or writing buddies to join in. Create friendly competitions to see who can write the most words within a specified time frame.

• Points system: Establish a rewards system where you earn points or rewards for achieving specific milestones. For example, every 500 words written earns you a certain number of points. Have different treats or prizes for various levels of points collected.

• Daily themes: Assign daily themes or challenges to your writing. For instance, dedicate a day to writing intense action scenes, then switch to a day of character development. This keeps your writing varied and exciting.

• Role-playing games: Imagine your novel as a role-playing game (RPG). Each writing session is a quest, and each chapter or scene is a level to conquer. Award yourself experience points for hitting word count goals and leveling up in your “novel game.”

• Writing bingo: Create a bingo card with various writing-related tasks or challenges. Mark off the squares as you accomplish them. Completing a row or column earns you a prize or a sense of accomplishment.

• Stakes and consequences: Assign stakes and consequences to your writing goals. For example, if you don’t meet your daily word count, you might have to skip a favorite TV show. Adding consequences adds a layer of seriousness to your writing goals.

Day 25: Limit your use of social media

We’re getting closer to the end, and if you’re like most writers, the siren call of social media is strong.

The finish line is so incredibly close now, and it’s easy to fixate on other people’s progress, how much you still have to go, or why it’s taking so frustratingly long. It isn’t. You’re just suddenly anxious to reach the end, and it’s not happening as fast as you like.

Social media can provide an easy distraction for a frustrated writer, which is why I suggest designating specific times during the day when you’ll allow yourself to check and engage with social media and ensuring that you stay off it outside of those times. Disable non-essential notifications on your phone and computer as well. From now until you reach the end, make sure every spare minute is put towards finishing this novel.

Day 26: Watch out for self-sabotage

We’re at a crucial juncture in our novel writing process, and an entire month’s of progress hangs in the balance. It’s at this point in the process, when you’re so close to success, that your insecurities and worthiness issues can start flaring up. “Who are you to write a novel?” that inner voice bellows. “Why do you think you can finish a book in 30 days when so many others can’t?”

Understanding what’s happening and believing in yourself is crucial to staying on track during these final days, and it’s important to look after yourself in addition to staying committed to the task at hand. Here’s what I recommend:

• Remember your “why”: Revisit your initial motivation for undertaking this challenge and for writing this book. What does it mean for you to accomplish this goal?

• Mindfulness and self-care: Prioritize self-care practices and be kind to yourself. Get enough rest, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in activities that recharge your creative spirit. Physical well-being is integral to mental endurance.

• Use positive affirmations: Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your skills, past successes, and your ability to complete the project.

• Visualize completion: Visualize the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment you’ll experience upon finishing your novel. Use this mental image as motivation during challenging moments.

Day 27: Keep working on your craft

The finish line is almost in sight. As you press on, it’s essential to remember that your writing craft develops with each word you write. Today’s focus isn’t solely on adding to your word count, but also refining your storytelling skills and enhancing the quality of your narrative. Here’s how:

• Experiment with style: Novel writing is a dynamic process, and it’s an excellent time to experiment with different writing styles, tones, or narrative voices. Challenge yourself to write a scene or chapter using a unique perspective or approach. This experimentation can lead to breakthroughs.

• Character development: Are your characters evolving as the story progresses? Do their motivations remain consistent? Use your time today to refine character arcs, deepen complexities, and ensure that each character’s actions align with their personalities.

• Dialogue mastery: Focus on making your dialogue more engaging, realistic, and revealing of character traits. Remove any exposition that can be integrated more naturally into the narrative.

• Description and imagery: Elevate your writing by crafting vivid descriptions and imagery. This helps your settings and scenes come to life.

• Pacing and tension: Assess the pacing of your novel. Are there moments where tension lags or surges too quickly? Fine-tune the pacing today, ensuring that your story maintains a captivating rhythm that keeps readers engaged.

Day 28: Write the climax and resolution

We stand now at the edge of completion. You’ve taken your readers on an emotional journey and are striving to leave them with a sense of fulfillment, reflection, or anticipation. This is a pivotal moment in the writing process, as your story reaches its zenith and then descends to its conclusion.

Here’s what you need to think about in terms of climax:

• Building tension: The climax is the narrative high point, the moment your readers have been eagerly anticipating. It’s the juncture where conflicts collide and stakes are at their peak. Craft this section to maximize tension and suspense. Ensure that the events leading up to this moment have paved the way for a gripping climax.

• Character evolution: Consider how your characters have evolved throughout the story. The climax is the crucible where their growth is most evident. Show their transformation through their actions, decisions, and emotional reactions during this pivotal scene.

• Confrontation and resolution: The climax often involves a confrontation between opposing forces, whether internal or external. This confrontation should feel inevitable and emotionally charged. As you craft this scene, think about the resolutions you want to provide for the major conflicts.

• Unresolved questions: While the climax resolves the major plot points, it’s okay to leave some questions unanswered or introduce new elements that will carry forward into subsequent novels if you’re writing a series. This can create anticipation for future installments.

To give readers a satisfying resolution, consider:

• Closure and satisfaction: The resolution is the section where loose ends are tied up, and readers find closure. Ensure that your resolution satisfies the central conflicts and character arcs, leaving readers with a sense of fulfillment.

• Character epilogues: Consider providing brief glimpses into the future lives of your main characters. What has changed for them after the climax’s events? How have they been affected by their journey? These epilogues can offer readers a sense of finality and hope.

• Tying up subplots: Address any remaining subplots or secondary character arcs in the resolution. Readers appreciate when all narrative threads are addressed, even if some are left open for potential exploration in future works.

• Emotional impact: Craft the resolution with an eye for emotional impact. Consider the emotions you want readers to experience as they reach the last page.

• The final sentence: The closing sentence of your novel should resonate. Whether it’s poignant, thought-provoking, or uplifting, make it memorable.

Day 29: Finish your first draft

With the climax and resolution in place, you’re mere steps away from completing your novel. Today, your goal is to complete your first draft. You may have some loose ends to tie up or final scenes to write. Keep your momentum going as you bring this to a close.

As you write the last words of your manuscript, don’t forget to savor the moment. You’ve taken an idea from your imagination and transformed it into words on the page. That’s an incredible feat!

Day 30: Celebrate!

Today marks a monumental achievement in your writing journey. Over the past 30 days, you’ve poured your creativity, dedication, and determination into crafting the first draft of your novel. Now it’s time to cross the finish line and bask in the glory of your accomplishment.

Celebration is an essential part of any accomplishment. Treat yourself to something special—a favorite dessert, a luxurious bath, or a relaxing evening with a good book. You’ve earned it! Consider sharing the moment with your friends and family. They’ve likely witnessed your commitment and passion throughout this journey (not to mention the breakdowns and tantrums) and they’ll be thrilled to celebrate with you.

You are now officially a novelist and your manuscript is a testament to your creativity and perseverance. Congratulations!

You’ve finished! Now what?

The book is finished, the champagne popped, and the hangover food consumed. What next?

Here are some items to put on your to-do list for next month:

• Take a break: Listen, you’ve done an incredible job of working hard, showing up, and getting the damn thing written. If you’re feeling exhausted after this, it’s time to give yourself some love and take the time to recharge. You’ll need it for the next steps in your journey, and so make sure to come back refreshed.

• Revise and edit: Once you’ve had enough distance from your manuscript and are in a good place to review it, open up your document and read through the whole thing in one go, making notes as you go along. These first impressions will be invaluable during the revision process. Once you’ve done that, start cleaning up the novel. For some writers, this requires one more draft, but most writers will end up with second, third, and fourth drafts before they get to the final draft.

• Start your next novel: I wouldn’t recommend this if you’re new to the craft or if you’ve just finished your first novel, but many established writers will start working on a new book almost immediately after they’ve finished writing one. While they write one, they’re editing another.

• Work with a professional editor: Once you’ve done all you can yourself, it’s worth hiring a professional editor to go through the book with you again. This has become standard practice now, regardless of how you choose to publish.

• Decide how you’ll publish: Will you be pursuing the traditional publishing path or will you self publish your book? If you’re going traditional, you’ll need to put together a query letter and synopsis to send to a literary agent. If you’re working towards a self-published title, you’ll need to prepare your manuscript for publication by hiring someone to design the book cover, writing a compelling book description, and uploading the file on to platforms, including Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).

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