Whether you're writing a novel, essay, or semi-autobiographical book, pages and pages can pile up quickly if you don't plan before you start and organize yourself as you go. However, with the help of this article, that won't be a problem.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Organization
Step 1. Create and label folders
You can do this either on your computer or using real folders. Choose the one you prefer, or you could use both types, in order to have spare files. Label each folder according to the following categories:
- Goals / Deadlines: While you don't have an editor out of breath, it's a good idea to set personal goals and deadlines to get the job done. Create a general folder list and update both this list and your agenda if anything changes. For example, if you need to take your cat to the vet, write it down on your diary and review the general list because this appointment changes your goals.
- Characters: dedicate a folder to each character, main, secondary or minor (but recurring). If your story features characters that can be grouped into certain categories (like aliens or monsters), create a folder for them too.
- Maps / Environments: This does not only refer to a large-scale environment (such as an extended map that allows you to differentiate between sectors of galaxies in a science fiction story or to know which are the protagonist's neighbors), but also to each house that appears throughout the novel, so that the main character's bedroom is not on the first floor in the first chapter and, five chapters later, on the second or third floor.
- Scenes: use a folder with the list of the main scenes (read the "Tips" section), which is used to have a quick overview and one for each scene of the novel. You could also combine scenes in chapter folders. However, if you are not sure exactly what form the novel will take by opting for this technique, it will be easier to make different combinations of scenes until the novel is solid.
- Research: Start with a list of questions about areas of the novel that you are unsure of and use secondary (encyclopedia, etc.) and primary sources, which you can acquire by making phone calls. You can use the phone numbers found on the list or those of your work or personal life contacts.
Step 2. Properly organize these files in a filing cabinet
Keep the major categories (characters and so on) in alphabetical order and then divide them into sub-categories (specific characters). If you're going to do this on your computer, follow the same process. Create a main folder with the title of the novel and insert several smaller folders inside.
Step 3. Make sure the research materials you need can be found easily
You need to have vocabularies, thesaurus and antonyms, books and so on at your fingertips, so you don't waste an hour searching for them if you need them to write the book.
Part 2 of 4: Making the Master List
Step 1. Create a general list of the novel
To understand if your novel has potential or not, start with a rough list of what's going to happen. To do this, write a list of 30 points (leaving a line between one point and another) on a piece of paper. At number one, write a sentence or two about the opening scene. At number 30, write a sentence or two about the closing scene. Now that you know how the novel begins and are aware of the general direction you have taken, write a sentence or two for the remaining numbers.
Part 3 of 4: Being able to write anywhere
Step 1. Create a kit to take with you everywhere
It will allow you to have what you need at your fingertips even when you are not at home. You never know when you will find inspiration. When it happens, it happens, and it's important to take extra moments to work on the novel. The kit can be carried in a tote bag or briefcase and should contain the following:
- Pocket dictionary.
- Spiral notebooks.
- Recorder and USB sticks.
- Various stationery items (pens, pencils, erasers, etc.).
- Small calendar.
Part 4 of 4: Brainstorming Ideas
Step 1. Use brainstorming to come up with ideas and to move forward
This will allow you to introduce new ideas, which were not initially part of the plan. It can also help you overcome writer's block, which may appear at any stage of the writing process.
Step 2. Brainstorm alone or with other people
Go to a place you like, for example to a bar that gives you good feelings, on the beach, in the woods, in the corner you prefer to read. It is important to feel comfortable and at peace. If you work with a friend or with several people, find a place where you all feel comfortable and where you can talk freely, without embarrassment.
You can brainstorm even when you rest. Lie down when you are tired and think about your novel, letting ideas flow freely
Step 3. Focus on the part of the story that requires new ideas
Let them flow free, and don't repress any of them. You don't know what newly surfaced idea could develop further. Record all ideas in the best way (writing, recording on a device such as a camera, etc.).
Step 4. Allow your ideas to settle in your mind for a few more days
Which are the best? Allow them to flourish and turn them into real elements in the novel.
Step 5. Repeat as often as necessary
Advice
- The more truthful the foundations of a novel are, the more credible it will be. For example, if you set him up in medieval England, make sure the dress and manners are correct for each type of character. Write a science fiction novel? You will need to mix imagination and demonstrable facts so that readers are captivated by your words.
- Take breaks and review your work so you know how it's going.
- Having a copy of a house or building plan (both online and on paper) can help you make sure the story flows without jamming. You can create one yourself or use an external source, such as a website, book, or documents from a cultural heritage association. Larger libraries may have plans that you can photocopy right away.
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Recommended sources to write better:
- Vocabulary.
- Dictionary of synonyms and antonyms.
- Grammar book.
- Encyclopedia.
- Books about writing.
