How to Write A Novel: A Very Complete Guide for Aspiring Authors

Writing novels is incredibly rewarding. And like most rewarding things, it can be difficult. It takes hard work, perseverance, and a whole lot of time. But if you’re ready to take the plunge or continue on your work in progress, we’ll walk you through every step.

This guide will cover each part of the process—from coming up with your initial story idea to getting feedback and revising to finally publishing your finished work. 

Whether you're participating in NaNoWriMo and need to know how to write a novel or wrapping up your fifth draft, these tips will help you bring your story to life. Let's get started!

The Prewriting: 6 Steps to Write a Book 

Some writers have an idea and dive right into getting words on the page without ever looking back. Other writers get 20,000 words in and then realize they have no idea how to write a novel. Still others like to know their plot, outline, and character or world details before they begin. 

Basically, are you a plotter or pantser? Whatever your preferred path, getting through these steps to write a book will make sure you’re in a good place to begin or to revise. 

Step 1: Come Up With a Novel Idea

Every good novel starts with a compelling premise. This could be a unique plot twist, fascinating character, or intriguing setting. Here are five ways to brainstorm your next big idea:

1. Use writing prompts: Collections of prompts or writing exercises like in The 3 A.M. Epiphany or 642 Things to Write About offer thought-provoking or playful story ideas.

2. Adapt real life: Draw inspiration from your own experiences, interests, or observations. Pull from historical or current events. Fictionalize them by changing names and places.

3. Flip genres: Take a classic story structure and give it a twist, like sci-fi Pride and Prejudice or paranormal romance Gone with the Wind.

4. Explore "what if" scenarios: Imagine how roles like time travelers, psychics, or vampires would unfold in your everyday world. Or consider how characters might crossover into each other’s worlds. For example, what if Gandalf had to solve crimes with Sherlock Holmes?

5. Study story structure: Understanding the parts of a story can help you create an engaging concept. 

Once you have an idea for your story, expand on it. Outline basic characters, settings, and potential plot points. Brainstorming early helps avoid writer's block down the line.

Step 2: Choose the Right Genre 

After you have a premise, choose the fiction genre you want to write a novel in. This might come naturally from your story idea, or you might have a range of options. Either way, writing novels is easier when you understand the characteristics of your genre. Plus, it will help you find the right readers later on. 

Popular fiction genres include:

• Mystery: A puzzle to be solved, often a murder or disappearance. Agatha Christie is the master.
• Romance: Love stories with happy endings. See Nicholas Sparks. 
• Sci-fi: Speculative stories involving technology, space, or time travel. Think Star Wars.
• Fantasy: Magical or supernatural elements like quests and mythical creatures. Example: Harry Potter.
• Thrillers: Fast-paced, suspenseful plots with high stakes. See Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. 
• Historical Fiction: Stories set in real historical settings or taken from historical events. The Outlander series transports readers to Scotland.
• Literary Fiction: Character-driven stories with elegant writing. Often explores social commentary. Example: The Great Gatsby.

The best way to choose genre? Pick one you enjoy reading that also fits your story idea. You can always crossover or blend genres later on. Knowing your genre can guide you towards the best tone and plot structure for your novel.

Step 3: Sketch Out Your Story Elements 

Before you dive into deep character development or setting descriptions, it helps to plan a few story elements to give your story direction. Here are some tips:

First, sketch the major plot points of your story from beginning to end. Don't worry about connecting tissue yet. Try writing a logline, a.k.a. summarize your story premise in one to two sentences. This can give you an idea of whether it will be enough to hit your target word count.

Then, outline characters. Jot down who the main characters are, and a few key traits or background details. Just enough to take you into the next step of the prewriting process.

Do the same thing with settings. Note where your story takes place and the time period. Location often shapes events and mood.

Finally, list themes. Determine what your novel is really about, such as undying love or moral awakening.

These story elements will give you a roadmap so you don't get lost, and you can take the outlines to develop the pieces in more detail. 

Step 4: Develop Your Characters

Character development is crucial for crafting vivid, multi-dimensional characters your readers will care about. Bring yours to life by digging deep into the details for all your major characters:

• Background: Figure out their age, family, education, major life events. This informs their voice and worldview.
• Physical Description: Describe them in detail and include distinguishing features like scars or unique traits. Help readers visualize them.
• Relationships: Explore how they interact with others. Their relationships to friends, family, and rivals all say something about who they are.
• Quirks: Give them hobbies, interests, or tics like knitting or snacking preferences to add individuality. 
• Motivations: Explore their goals and what’s driving them. This will help you understand how they’ll grow over the course of the story and the actions they’ll take to achieve what they want.

It can help to keep character info handy while writing so you develop their arcs naturally. 

‍Use Motif to create Story Elements like characters that you can access in a side pane while you’re writing. Sign up.

Step 5: Describe Your Setting 

The setting of your story establishes mood, reveals character, and impacts plot direction. 

If you already sketched out your time and place in step three, now consider going in depth. Write out details on your world, like landmarks, weather, geography, or architecture. This will help readers feel transported.

Some stories can benefit from maps—such as a story that takes place in a school or an epic fantasy kingdom. If it helps you keep your locations straight, diagram them. 

When you’re writing a novel, you should always set the scene to match your setting. Use rich sensory details, such as sounds, smells, and textures that would be common in your place and time. This can also help create a tone for your work that ties into the theme. A dark, gloomy castle heightens mystery. A harsh desert underscores struggle. 

And lastly, don’t forget how your setting will impact your characters. It can change them over time, such as a timid country mouse that must become brave to navigate a big city. And similarly, your setting can also reflect the change or emotional state of your characters. You see this often in stories when the conflict is over and winter turns to spring or a character is in despair and it’s pouring rain.

With thoughtful settings, you make readers feel a location as vividly as characters.

Step 6: Outline Your Plot 

When it comes to developing plot, most writers generally fall into one of two camps:

1. Pantsers: They "write by the seat of their pants", letting the story unfold spontaneously. Pantsers may start with just a premise, characters, or opening scene. They discover the plot as they draft, following where the story takes them.
2. Plotters: They carefully plot out the entire story beforehand. Plotters often create chapter outlines and character arcs. They like having an endpoint in mind before starting their manuscript.

So should you plot or go by instinct? There are benefits to both approaches. Plotting avoids narrative dead-ends and loose plot holes. But your story could feel formulaic. Meanwhile, pantsing breeds creative twists since you don't know what's next. But you may write yourself into a corner.

Many writers find that a blend of these two approaches works best. But you know yourself better than anyone and should do what works for you.

If you’re a planner that already made a brief outline in step three, this is the moment when you should detail all the connecting tissue and plot points in your story. If you find yourself getting stuck, try a common story structure to create an engaging arc.

If you didn’t do step three and want to pants it, go ahead. The pre-writing above can still help.

If you want to take a blended approach, sketch a basic plot roadmap so you don't meander, but leave wiggle room for spontaneity. Outline the beginning, middle, and end points so you have direction as you pants the details. This "plantser" combo builds in creative space within structure.

Once you settle on your process, it's time to start writing!

The First Draft: How to Start a Novel 

You've got your story idea, characters, setting, and plot approach. Now the real work begins: writing that first draft word by word. 

There’s not much to say on how to write a novel at this point, other than you need to start putting pen to paper or typing away. However, we do have a few tips, software suggestions, and ideas to make it easier and get you motivated.

First, let’s go through our top tips to turn your vision into an actual manuscript:

7 Novel Writing Tips

With regular practice, creating something from nothing becomes a little less daunting. Here’s a few more tips on how to write a story:

1. Set a consistent schedule. 

Whether it's an hour a day or 500 words a week, goals keep you motivated. Consistency is important to building a habit and finishing your draft.

2. Find your space.

Have a designated writing spot to get in working mode, even if it's just a corner of your bedroom. For some, this might include their ideal lighting or favorite playlist—whatever works to keep your fingers on the keys.

3. Tune out distractions.

This is hard, but keep your phone in another room or silence notifications. If you’re writing on your computer, close tabs. If you’re easily distracted by the internet, you can try some of the distraction-blocking software below.

4. Start where it flows.

Many writers like to write chronologically, but sometimes this can lead to writer’s block. Don't get stuck forcing yourself to start at chapter one. Instead, write an easy or exciting scene first each day to get you motivated. Yes, this might result in a lot more restructuring later. It’s okay.

5. Power through writer’s block.

Push past spots where you get stuck. Highlight, take notes, or leave comments on frustrating scenes and come back to them later. 

6. Accept the mess. 

The revision and feedback stages are for polishing and perfecting later. Just get words down when you’re on the first draft.

7. Be kind to yourself.

Some days the writing flows, some days it doesn't. Celebrate small successes and don’t let off days stop you from writing altogether.

With regular practice, creating something from nothing becomes a little less daunting.

Novel Writing Software to Help You Draft 

There are a lot of free writing software and tools out there that can guide you on how to write a novel, plot your story, or block out distractions. Here’s a few of our favorites:

Motif

We’re obviously biased, but we think our free, online, and easy-to-use writing platform is the best place to start. You can use our modern word processor to write and organize chapters, our planning tab to outline and create story elements, and our research organizer to collect your links and documents. You can also take notes in it, track word count goals, and more. Join free.

Scrivener

Scrivener is one of the most well-known writing softwares out there besides Google Docs and Microsoft Word. It’s a robust program that lets you view research, outlines, and drafts in one place. It also has organization features like binders, notecards, and templates. However, it’s an offline desktop app, so you have to pay to download it, and you’re unable to access your story from other computers.

iA Writer

This one’s for writers who like markdown or those who are easily distracted. This app removes all clutter, so you can focus on the words and the words only. It also has formatting presets for both screenplays and novels. This is a paid app you have to download as well.

Freedom

This app is designed specifically to block distracting websites and apps so you can focus on writing. It works by letting you customize a list of sites or apps to block, as well as the length of time you want them blocked for. Its trial gives you seven distraction-blocking sessions for free.

Finding Motivation to Write: NaNoWriMo 

If you’re struggling to finish that first draft, we highly recommend trying NaNoWriMo! Short for National Novel Writing Month, NaNoWriMo challenges writers worldwide to write a 50,000 word novel draft in November. 

Participants tap into the communal creativity for encouragement and accountability. With word count deadlines and write-ins, NaNoWriMo helps you make progress. Whether you "win" by hitting 50K or not, completing NaNoWriMo can give you a major sense of accomplishment to carry you through the rest of the draft.

A Little Help Along the Way: Books on Writing Fiction

Still not sure how to write a novel, or stuck on a specific plot point? Try learning from the masters with fiction writing books or classes. Some stellar writing resources include:

Fiction Writing Books

• Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody: A screenwriting book adapted for novelists with plot point breakdowns. 
• On Writing by Stephen King: Part memoir, part how-to guide from the legendary horror author.
• The Emotional Craft of Fiction by Donald Maass: Techniques to make your characters and scenes resonate more deeply.
• Writing Fiction For Dummies by Randy Ingermanson: A 101 guide covering the entire novel writing process.

Creative Writing Courses

MasterClass, Gotham Writers Workshop, and even local community colleges or bookstores can offer virtual or in-person novel writing classes. Guidance from published authors in these classes can give you the tools you need to feel confident in your own writing. 

Remember writing your first book takes time, sometimes even years. But by putting in consistent effort, you can go from idea to completed draft. At which point, it’s time for the next big step in the process.

From Drafting to Beta Readers

Once you’ve written those magical words ("The End"), it’s time to take the next step. No, it’s not querying or self-publishing yet. Before that, you should get feedback from beta readers. 

Recruit trustworthy friends or acquaintances willing to read your manuscript with fresh eyes. Try to make sure they already read your book’s genre for the most valuable feedback. 

Then ask them specific questions like:

• Did the premise pull you in?
• Are the characters believable?
• Were there issues with dialogue?
• Does the pacing feel sluggish or rushed?
• Are there any big plot holes?
• What are your favorite parts?
• What’s confusing you as you read?

It also helps to find fellow writers, through a workshop or online group, to exchange thorough critiques focused on helping each other improve. 

Beta reader perspectives pinpoint which parts of your draft are working well and which need polishing. Their feedback will help you answer “how to write a novel” with the next step in the process.

How to Revise a Novel: From Feedback to Editing

Thought you were done writing? Nope. Armed with beta reader feedback, it's time to dive back in for serious editing and rewriting. And there’s a few types of editing and tips that can help you along the way.

Types of Editing for Fiction Novels

Revising a draft often means intensive editing at both a macro and micro level. Here are the main types of editing you can do:

Developmental Editing

This is for substantive revision, where you need to identify major areas for deeper development like strengthening a character’s motivation or adjusting the arc. Look at the big picture elements like plot, pacing, and characterization. Assess whether the overall premise and structure work. 

Line Editing

This type of editing is stylistic. Tighten the writing itself sentence-by-sentence. Check for flow, clarity, grammar, and concision. Look at your overall voice and tone. Do word choices and sentence structures enhance the style?

Copy Editing

Fix inconsistencies, continuity errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation problems. Verify that any facts you’ve laid out are accurate.

Proofreading

Do a final edit to polish up any typos, formatting issues, or spacing problems. Fine tune all details.

Diving into each of these editing layers ensures you refine both the technical and creative aspects of your manuscript. Revision takes your first draft into a polished final novel ready for readers.

Tips for Revising a Novel

When you’re going from how to write a novel to how to revise a novel, following these tips can help: 

1. Let the manuscript rest before revising, even just a few weeks can give you some emotional and critical distance. 

2. Focus first on big picture elements: structure, plot holes, and pacing issues. Save line edits for later.

3. Print it out to edit on paper. Screens can hide mistakes and you’ll catch for line and copy edits this way.

4. Kill your darlings. Be merciless cutting unnecessary scenes!

5. Strengthen imagery and cut your filler adjectives or adverbs. Every single word should count.  

6. Read dialogue aloud to improve the flow and highlight awkward phrasing.

7. Pay attention to repetition. Remove redundant descriptions, words, or sentence structures that are bogging your work down.

8. Verify continuity and consistency. Double check your timelines, character details, and setting facts or descriptions. 

9. Revise the beginning and ending. These are crucial first and last impressions, and the beginning may be the only thing an agent sees when you’re ready to send it out.

How to Publish a Book: Choose Your Publishing Path  

Your manuscript is polished to perfection and you’re done dealing with how to write a novel. Now the question becomes: “How do I publish a book?”

Should you submit to literary agents? Self-publish? Find a hybrid solution? Here's an overview of your options:

Submit to Literary Agents

The traditional publishing route involves signing with a literary agent who pitches your manuscript to publishers. If a publisher acquires your book, they handle editing, publication, marketing, distribution, and sales.

The Pros of Traditional Publishing:

1. Your literary agent handles pitching to publishers and negotiating contracts for you so you can focus just on writing.

2. Large, traditional publishers like Penguin Random House or Simon & Schuster (known as the "Big Five") have wide distribution reach and bigger marketing budgets to promote your book.

3. You typically receive an advance payment when you sign the publishing contract, followed by royalty payments on each book sold. Advances can range from a few thousand dollars for debut authors to millions for established authors.

4. There is prestige associated with being published by one of the major publishing houses. It's seen as an endorsement of your work.

The Cons of Traditional Publishing:

1. Landing a literary agent is very difficult for debut authors. Agents reject the vast majority of manuscripts. Be prepared for lots of rejection letters before securing representation.  

2. The traditional publishing process is slow. It can take over a year from agent submission to hitting bookshelves. And you’re not guaranteed that your agent will be able to get your book picked up by a publisher.

3. You have less control over cover design, title, and other creative aspects. The publisher makes the major decisions.

If you want to traditionally publish, thoroughly research literary agents who represent your specific genre before querying. Make sure to follow each agent's submission guidelines. With perseverance and a strong manuscript, traditional publishing is possible for new authors too.

Self-Publish Your Novel

Self-publishing means you handle everything yourself: professional editing, cover design, formatting, distribution, sales, and marketing. 

The Pros of Self-Publishing:

1. You have full creative control over every aspect of your book. You choose the title, cover design, release date, and more.

2. You keep a much larger royalty percentage, averaging 70% or more of each sale depending on the self-publishing channel (e.g. Amazon). With traditional publishing, you typically get around 10 to 15% in royalties.

3. The publication process is much faster, usually three to six months instead of over a year. You can release your book as soon as it’s ready rather than waiting for agent submission and contract negotiation.

4. Self-publishing allows you to start building your author brand and fanbase early. You own the relationship with your readers.

The Cons of Self-Publishing:

1. You take on all the work and cost of editing, distribution, marketing, and promotion. The learning curve is steep and the costs can be high without guaranteed sales.

2. Without a major publisher’s marketing budget and connections, you likely won’t get your book into brick-and-mortar bookstores. Promotion is primarily online. TikTok’s BookTok and Instagram is key for this.

3. There’s still a stigma among some that self-publishing means lower quality, though this is changing.

For many authors, the freedom and higher royalties of self-publishing outweigh the heavy workload. It gives you full control of your book’s destiny.

Also keep in mind that some authors begin with self-publishing, and then later use their success to attract agents. Every author's path is unique, so do what feels right for you and your book!

Start Your Novel Writing Journey

We hope this guide gives you a clear process for how to write a novel, from generating concepts, to writing your first draft, to revising, and finally publishing. While writing a story takes dedication, know that each step you take brings you closer to holding a finished book in your hands.

What story ideas are simmering in your mind? What tools will help you craft that page-turning premise into an incredible book? What publishing approach best fits your writerly dreams? This is just the beginning of your journey. Now go write that future bestseller!