Most people who live in the United States fantasize about writing the great American novel. It tops many "bucket lists" (rosters of things people say they wish to do before they die), is a great activity for retirees and offers the perfect romanticized come-up story for those who want to experience the life of the struggling artist.

The truth is the fantasy about writing a great novel can be real ... somewhat.

Not everyone will write a "great" book, giving legions of fans a timeless story that will be talked about for centuries. Even those who do perform such a feat may not ever publish it in their lifetimes. If your goal, though, is to start - and finish - a good story that you might call "the great American novel," you can certainly achieve that.

Here are some tips for reaching that goal.

1. Make sure you really do have a story.

The question you should ask yourself before you even begin writing is this: why does the world need your story? There is no new story under the sun. For centuries, great thinkers have been putting a new spin on age-old parables. The trick is to write the age-old parable in a way that makes something old become very fresh and unforgettable. Once you are sure that you have a fresh approach to your story, it is time to start gathering the details of that story in your head. Here is a formula to help you pare it down to something simple:

A believable character [insert your character's name here]

wants something [insert what tangible or intangible thing your character is trying to achieve or is chasing]

but an obstacle [insert who or what antagonist stands in your character's way] tries to prevent him from getting it.

Your character either succeeds in getting it or he doesn't [insert the resolution to your story].

Your story may have many twists, especially when it comes down to who or what is standing in his way. Your job as the writer is to always keep what you create in the formula in mind as your primary focus for writing your story.

2. Learn literary techniques.

The number of online courses, community classes and formal writing programs in the U.S. is endless. This doesn't account for the thousands of books published on the subject every month. Decide what kind of learner you are and register for a course ... even if it's a course you have with yourself after you buy a book.

Remember, it's not always the story that is most important. What matters most is how you tell the story. Scores of talented writers miss an opportunity

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