7 Novel Planning Tips You Should Know Before You Write Your Novel

If you are thinking of writing a novel of your very own, you should make sure that you have every aspect of the process planned out. Remember that the novel writing process is a very multi-faceted one, and if you start the process without a plan, you might find yourself struggling in the long run. So take the time to plan out every aspect of the writing process. That way, once you do get started on the writing process, you’ll know exactly what is expected of you.

Here are 7 novel planning tips you should know before you write your novel.

1. List down your core ideas

Before you start writing your novel, you should make sure that you have your core ideas down pat. Remember that your core ideas should encapsulate the main themes of your novel. It should be as detailed and specific as possible. By listing down your core ideas, you will have a steadfast guide on how to write your novel.

2. Know your target audience

Apart from listing down your core ideas, you should also identify your target audience. Your target audience should act as you main guide on what topic to write about, and how to write it.

Your target audience is the demographic that is most likely to be interested in your book. They are the ones who will most likely buy and read your work. They are also going to be your strongest supporters, and could be the core group of your fan base. So take the time to identify your target audience, and base your work according to their preferences.

3. Write a dossier for your characters

When it comes to writing a novel, you should pay close attention to your cast of characters. Remember that your cast of characters are the main focal point of your novel. So you should make them as detailed and relatable as possible.

The best way to write characters is to set up a dossier for each and every one of your characters. This will help you differentiate them from one another. It will also help you place them efficiently in your novel’s timeline. Overall, if you want the character writing process to be as effective and efficient as possible, you should write a character dossier.

4. Create a cohesive timeline

Staying on top of the events in your story is one of the most difficulty aspects of the novel writing process. This is because the story could get convoluted as you write it. So it is very important to have a cohesive timeline. You should make a rough draft of your story, and mark all the key events in your story. By doing so, you will be able to keep track of the overall timeline no matter how complicated things may get.

5. Have a comfortable writing space

Aside from planning out key aspects of your novel, you should also make sure that every aspect of the writing process is as efficient as possible. This is because you are expected to stay in this writing space for hours on end.

If the space is uncomfortable and not well-lit, then you will find yourself sick of the place. This is hardly conducive to the writing process. So before you start writing your novel, you should take the time to look for a good writing space. When you choose a writing space, it should be spacious and well-lit. It should also have comfortable furniture that allows you to work in a good sitting position. Remember that bad posture can lead to chronic back problems. Overall, if you want the novel writing process to go as smoothly as possible, you should find an adequate writing space.

6. Your writing schedule is key

Writing a novel takes a lot of time and effort, and it is easy to get sidetracked in the long run. So before you start on the writing process, you should make sure that you have a set writing schedule. When you time your writing sessions, they should be at a time where you can follow them consistently. Your writing sessions can be set early in the morning, in the afternoon after lunch time or late in the evening. Honestly, you can set your writing sessions at any time during the day. What’s important is that you can follow them on a consistent basis.

7. Get Started Right Away

While it is a good idea to plan out your novel, it is also important that you get started as soon as possible. Remember that writing a novel is a great undertaking. It could be quite scary to start on the writing process, however, you won’t get anything done if you let fear rule you. If you really want to write a novel, you should trudge on, and accept the challenge.

Conclusion

When it comes to writing a novel of your very own, it is important that you plan out every aspect of it. With these tips, you will be able to make the novel writing process as efficient as possible.

Now that you know how to plan a novel, you should learn how to self-publish a novel as well. Writers Republic is more than happy to help.