Some simple steps for writing a novel.


How often do you hear people wish they could write a novel, but they just don’t have the time? 

The first step to getting your novel down on paper is to decide that you ARE a writer, not that you want to be one.  Anyone can say they want to be a writer, but not everyone is.  

Some simple steps –

  • Decide what you want to write your novel on. If you are anything like many writers, they will have literally hundreds of ideas buzzing round in their head. All of this is wonderful, but if you never put any of them down on paper, they will never be a novel. So decide which one to focus on.
  • Write a brief outline of your story. Spend time thinking of the characters in the story and what is going to happen to them.
  • Take a walk. Take a walk without any music playing or talking to anyone else and spend time thinking about your novel. Get your creative juices flowing.
  • Think about your daily life. You say you don’t have the time, but if you really want to write this novel, you will make the time. 
    - What time do you get up? Could you get up an hour early or even 30 minutes earlier and write?
    - Could you spend time writing in the evening instead of watching TV?
    - Could you write during your lunch hour?
    - Do you ever spend time waiting outside to give children a lift? Could you take a notebook and write then?
    - What about writing on a Sunday afternoon instead of snoozing on the sofa?
  • You know your own routine the best, have a realistic and careful think about your day to day life and think when you could write.
  • Aim to write every day. Your writing muscle is like any other muscle in our body. The more we use it the stronger it becomes. Even if you only have five minutes a day, make sure you do write every day.
  • Remember to persevere. There will be times when you just don’t know what to write or haven’t the inclination to write. That’s fine. Put your novel away for a day, then get it back out and carry on. Don’t let it get stored away gathering dust.

A large part of writing a novel is down to you taking the time to write it, not just your creative abilities.  If you do want to write, think carefully about the tips above and just get started. Let us know how you get on!

If you would like to write a novel, why not have a look at our eBooks –

How to Write a Novel 
Writing For Children 
Creative Writing 
Professional Writing 
Or even take a Short Course on Creative Writing -  our Short Courses are automated self-study programs for you to study when and where you want to.