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Ever dream of writing a novel? Well, here are the Top Ten steps to making that dream come true. Keep in mind, these steps don't take into account actual talent and training, just basic writing. Talent can be broadened by taking writing courses and learning the craft, a life time commitment for professional novelists. ~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif
Ever dream of writing a novel? Well, here are the Top Ten steps to making that dream come true. Keep in mind, these steps don't take into account actual tale... more
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1
Pick a genre. Sci-fi, romance, horror, suspense, crime, drama, humor, chick-lit, etc. Choose a genre that interests you. If unsure, ask yourself, what kind of TV shows or movies do I like?
2
Think of a basic plot, using your chosen genre to determine the criteria. ie. Romance = girl meets guy; they hate each other at first or one loves the other but something or someone is in the way; something happens to throw them together; against all odds and obstacles, they conquer all; they live happily ever after.
3
Choose your characters and develop them 3-dimensionally. Imagine an actor or actress will play the role of your characters. Who would play them? Describe them physically, emotionally, create back story/history, explore their faults etc
4
Create subplots. Subplots give a multi-dimensional effect to a novel. These plots often run in the background, sometimes later emerging as a twist later on. Subplots can revolve around a main character or a main antagonist (the enemy).
5
Use "Red Herrings". "Red Herrings" are false clues dropped here and there, inconspicuously, to lure the reader into drawing a conclusion that later proves to be false. Think Jedi mind tricks.
6
Use foreshadowing to hint at something to come. In horror flicks you often see that knife in the butcher block early on. The future vicitm may even be using it to innocently dice carrots. Later she uses it to defend herself. Or better yet, it's missing from the block and everyone knows the killer has it and is on the hunt.
7
Describe the setting and weather. Do this in terms appropriate to the genre and/or mood. Use darker descriptions for suspense and horror.
8
Up the ante with unexpected twists. When it looks as though things are going to come to a satisfying ending, up the ante and throw in a twist. Readers love unpredictability.
9
Set writing goals. Set daily goals as to how many words you expect to write, adjusting them to life's ups and downs. Set mid-size goals, then larger ones (such as finding a publisher) to keep you focused on finishing your novel. Tweet your daily goals so you'll feel like you've committed to them.
10
Edit, edit, EDIT! Writing a novel is one thing. (And congrats if you do!) But in order to make it readable, you MUST edit your work. Every sentence needs to be aalysed. If it doesn't ADD to your story, cut it. If it doesn't reveal something, DELETE. Once you think you're done editing, find someone else to edit it--a friend, teacher, English major, or actual editor. Hire an editor and learn from them. Editing is a skill that must be learned in order to become a successful novelist. Happy writing!
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