NOVEL PLANNER AND CHECKLIST
Novel Planner – Second Edition
The planner was updated in August 2017. After three years in circulation, we’ve updated it in line with current insights.
Over the years, thousands of authors have had success with the novel planner. Here are some of the statistics we’ve gathered.
WHAT’S INSIDE?
PAGE EXAMPLES
The five stages of novel writing that are covered in this book
Planning
The planning stage is exploratory. It’s where ideas become plotlines, and characters come to life. During this phase, the key story elements are identified. Everyone has a story within, just waiting to be told. Some come from personal experience, some from a long-standing idea or passion, and others from the creative depths of our imaginations. How often have you thought, “If only I had the time I could write my novel”? Or how many times have you sat down with your notepad, or at your computer and stared at the blank screen thinking, ”I know where I want the story to go, but how does it begin?” That’s where planning comes in. Allowing all of our ideas to be tested and sequenced is what gives structure to the story. Once you transform the ideas into the physical existence of words, is when you can begin to make sense of them. Finding your story must start with a plan. Planning reveals the theme, plot, characters, and the order of events.
Drafting
During the first writing phase, the actual story will begin to emerge. Generally speaking, the composing of the draft will be the most time-consuming step of the journey, usually taking around six months or more. Using a program like the Novel Suite Software greatly assists during this stage. Having your book available wherever you go will certainly accelerate your progress. It is also recommended to have an early intervention assessment at some point during this stage. Many authors find that this can save a considerable amount of effort by incorporating feedback into their work before investing too much time.
Editing
As an author, there is no better feeling than finishing a novel and preparing to edit! It can be the most exciting part of the process, and there are several things to consider. Once you have completed your manuscript and invested all your time and energy into it for six, twelve, or eighteen months, you can get so absorbed in the story that it’s hard to see things from an external point of view. You understand your story, so when information is not conveyed effectively in some areas, you may not notice. Spelling and grammatical errors are often overlooked because you’ve been too close to your work to get a proper view. At this time, you need another set of eyes to look over the way an audience will, reading the story for the first time. However, when reviewing a novel, not all opinions are created equally. For example, asking your mother to read the story may be sensitive, as she may not want to tell you that there are mistakes in case she offends you. Asking a friend who doesn’t understand the craft of writing may result in advice that is irrelevant, or even detrimental. Find beta readers who understand your genre and have experience writing. Usually, writers’ groups or online forums are a good place to start, but remember, you need to protect your work, and prepare for potential negative feedback on your novel.
Publishing
Practices are rapidly evolving within the publishing space, and now there are many options for publication. Traditional methods are usually the first port of call; however, if that fails, self-publication is becoming an increasingly attractive and reliable option. Publishing has changed dramatically over the past decade and has become accessible to anyone, anywhere. The rise of digital and self-publishing platforms has opened doors to many otherwise, unread authors. It is important to note, however, that this has also opened the floodgates to many poor-quality novels. Since anyone can publish a book, the quality of many novels is weak in comparison to those published by traditional publishers. Self-publication usually results in far fewer sales, but this method will allow you to test the waters. Self-publication does not mean that you cannot publish traditionally. On the contrary, it is an opportunity to demonstrate to publishing houses that your book will sell.
Promotion
Becoming a published author is often thought to be the end goal for writers. However, adequate promotion of a book is necessary for it to compete in the modern publishing marketplace. Whether you choose to publish traditionally or otherwise, personal book promotion will always be required. There are many ways to actively promote your novel. The promotion of your book, and yourself as an author is ongoing as you build your reputation. Think of it like a business and build a strong platform to advance your career. Never stop adding to your portfolio, uncovering opportunities, and never stop writing!
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