How to Write a Novel: A 7-Step Guide

Writing a novel is a process that begins with an idea, develops through outlining and creating compelling characters and grows with a consistent writing routine and revising.

If you want to become a novelist, your first book can feel like a daunting task. But, with the right approach, it can also be a manageable process. Whether you’re starting with a vivid idea or simply a desire to tell a story, breaking the process into clear steps can help you bring your vision to life.

1. Understanding What a Novel Actually Is
A novel is a long-form work of fiction, typically spanning 250–400 pages, according to Jeremy Flagg, a dystopian and sci-fi novelist with the books "Nighthawks" and "Night Shadows" to his credit. He’s also an adjunct faculty member in the online creative writing and English program at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

“Whether exploring seemingly insignificant moments of life or diving deep into the essence of what it means to be human, novels allow writers to weave expansive narratives that capture the complexities of the human experience," he said.

2. Starting With an Idea
When it comes to writing a novel, authors find inspiration in different ways.

Ideas can come from the shows you love or mundane places, said Flagg, who’s often inspired by watching crowded spaces or TV. Once it takes shape, he said, it can be developed further by imagining unique situations and building the story around them.

Choosing a topic or theme you care about makes the process more enjoyable and authentic. Beginners should write about something they are passionate about, he said.

To read the full article on snhu.edu, click here