by Kimberly A. Smith

Created on: November 23, 2008   Last Updated: March 11, 2012

Every writer has a different process. There is no right or wrong way to writing a novel. What matters when you sit down to write is that you find the steps that work the best for your own mind. Try all the different methods and see what you find helpful and what you find does nothing. If you need a place to begin, here is a basic list of the steps to writing a novel.

• Brainstorming

For many writers, ideas arrive at unlikely or unfortunate times. How often have you had a brilliant idea for a novel pop into your head, only to forget by the time you had access to a piece of paper? Create a system to organize your brainstorms. One simple option is to purchase a spiral notebook and dedicate one page to each idea. Then, when you want to start a new project you will have a collection to look through.

Also, you may want to consider keeping a notebook next to your bed. Many writers report that they find their best ideas just before they fall asleep or within their dreams. Write them down instead of going back to sleep!

• Outlining or World-Building

Ask a group of writers how they outline, and you will get a different answer for every person. Some write detailed, chapter-by-chapter outlines while others skip this step entirely. It is important to decide how your brain works best when considering how much organization you will need. A novel outline is a great tool for many writers, so try creating a simple one for your next project.

World-building is not just for science fiction and fantasy writers, although it is a crucial step for them. You might need to build your world if you are setting your novel in a fictional town. Draw a map so that you know where the grocery store is and how your residents will get there. Readers may notice if your buildings move throughout the book! If you do write science fiction or fantasy, make sure to define the rules of your world. Magic and technology should always have limits, and those limits should be consistent throughout the story.

• Writing a Rough Draft

Too many writers call it quits because their first draft does not come out sounding perfect. However, what they are comparing their words to are published books. Those authors have already revised and rewritten their first drafts. Give yourself permission to just get the story down on paper. You will polish the words later.

There are many different ways to motivate yourself to write. Some writers insist on writing a certain number of hours per day

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