It's here! Write a story in a month is finally here!
Who else is super pumped?
Ok, I'm going to be helping you out as much as I can. I'll be writing my own book, something I've been working on for a few months but haven't gotten past the research phase. Also, I joined a support group through My Book Therapy, which is a great website for budding authors. They'll be emailing tips and encouragement throughout the month.
So let's get started with some "how to" pointers:
1. Map out the basics. I've written tons of stories, short stories, scribbles and nonsense but I always start with a basic idea of where I'm going. I don't always know the details but I have a general idea of where my characters are heading. That sink or swim moment is called the "black moment", it's when their darkest fears are becoming reality and it's good to have a general idea of what this moment will look like. All scenes lead to this.
2. Time Management. Ok, if you're really organized, map out how many words you're aiming for, figure out how long it takes to write 1500 or 3000 words (average length for a short or longer chapter) then you can tell how many hours it will take for you finish the book. Set aside the hours and get writing. If you aren't organized, make sure you write everyday, or at least every week day. Keep an eye on the calendar and aim for 25,000 by mid month, just to stay on track.
3. No editing. No going back. That's right, shut off your internal editor, shut off your self doubt and just write. Don't worry about grammar, passive voice, verb choice, just write. Also, if you come up with a new idea mid-story, go with it. Don't go back and edit the past to fit that story line. You may end up coming up with a different story thread later and then you'd end up editing twice. If you're mid-story and you discover a turn in plot, just make a note and start writing the new plot idea. You'll edit everything later.
Ok, these are three tips to get you started. Don't forget to have fun!
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