How to Write a Novel in 15 Steps

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Much like learning to ride a bike, the best way to learn how to write a novel is by just doing it. Unlike saddling up on a Schwinn for the first time, however, writing a novel can't be accomplished in one hot summer's day. It requires good doses of commitment and perseverance. As Octavia Butler put it: "You don't start out writing good stuff. You start out writing crap and thinking it's good stuff, and then gradually you get better at it. That's why I say one of the most valuable traits is persistence."

This post will break up the 15 major steps of writing a novel into bite-sized pieces, organized in three categories — before, during, and after you write your manuscript. Those steps are as follows:

H O W   T O   W R I T E   A   N O V E L :

Nail down the story ideaRead books in your genreChoose your novel's point of viewEstablish the settingDevelop your main charactersEstablish conflict and stakesCreate an outlineChoose your story structurePick a writing softwareWrite to marketEstablish a writing routineConsider literary devices and techniquesRevise your storyWork with beta readersHire a professional editor

Are you ready for "writing a novel" to be the next plume in your cap? Let's begin...

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