How Not to Write a Novel

1. Avoid common plot pitfalls to keep your story engaging

Remember: if there is gum on the mantelpiece in the first chapter, it must go on something by the last chapter.

Maintain narrative momentum. Avoid excessive backstory, unnecessary details, or irrelevant subplots that slow down the pace. Instead, focus on:

• Starting with action or conflict to hook the reader
• Introducing plot elements that will pay off later
• Maintaining a consistent tone and pacing throughout the story

Avoid predictability. Surprise your readers by subverting expectations and avoiding clichés. This can be achieved by:

• Creating unexpected plot twists
• Developing complex characters with conflicting motivations
• Resolving conflicts in unique and satisfying ways

2. Create compelling, believable characters with depth

Perfect people are boring. Perfect people are obnoxious because they're better than us. Perfect people are, above all, too good to be true.

Develop flawed, relatable characters. Readers connect with characters who struggle and grow. To create such characters:

• Give them realistic strengths and weaknesses
• Provide backstories that inform their actions and decisions
• Allow them to make mistakes and learn from them

Avoid one-dimensional stereotypes. Characters should be complex and multi-faceted. Achieve this by:

• Giving them unique quirks and contradictions
• Showing their inner thoughts and emotions
• Allowing them to change and evolve throughout the story

3. Master the basics of style to enhance your writing

Clichés and common expressions also offer the potential danger of being too close to the thing to which they refer.

Develop a clear, engaging voice. Your writing style should enhance the story, not distract from it. To achieve this:

• Use varied sentence structures and vocabulary
• Avoid overused phrases and clichés
• Show, don't tell – use descriptive language to paint vivid scenes

Be concise and purposeful. Every word should serve a purpose in advancing the story or developing characters. To tighten your prose:

• Eliminate unnecessary adverbs and adjectives
• Cut redundant phrases and repetitive information
• Use strong verbs to convey action and emotion

4. Craft authentic dialogue and effective narration

Speech tags are one of the places where long tracts of explanation do not go.

Write realistic, character-specific dialogue. Conversation should reveal character and advance the plot. To achieve this:

• Give each character a unique voice and speech patterns
• Use dialogue to show relationships and conflicts between characters
• Avoid excessive exposition through dialogue

Balance narration and dialogue. Effective storytelling combines both elements. To create a good balance:

• Use narration to set scenes and provide context
• Show character emotions and reactions through both dialogue and internal thoughts
• Vary the pace by alternating between dialogue-heavy and narrative-heavy sections

5. Build a vivid and consistent fictional world

While a novel cannot do without plot or characters, your novel should work perfectly well for someone who doesn't notice the symbols at all.

Create a believable setting. Whether writing contemporary or speculative fiction, your world should feel authentic. To achieve this:

• Research relevant details to add depth and authenticity
• Establish consistent rules and logic for your fictional world
• Integrate setting details naturally into the narrative

Use symbolism and themes subtly. Themes should enhance the story without overpowering it. To incorporate themes effectively:

• Allow themes to emerge organically from the plot and characters
• Use symbolism sparingly and purposefully
• Avoid heavy-handed moralizing or preaching

6. Handle sensitive topics and themes with care

If you are far from the mainstream, a more gently persuasive approach is called for.

Approach controversial subjects thoughtfully. When addressing sensitive topics, be mindful of your audience and potential impact. To handle these subjects responsibly:

• Research thoroughly to ensure accurate representation
• Present multiple perspectives on complex issues
• Avoid stereotypes and oversimplification

Be aware of your biases. Recognize and address your own prejudices and assumptions. To create a more balanced narrative:

• Seek feedback from diverse readers
• Consider the implications of your portrayals
• Be open to revising problematic elements

7. Approach advanced techniques with caution

Sex and humor are both very difficult to realize on the page, it is all too easy to realize humor while trying to realize sex.

Master the basics before attempting advanced techniques. Experimental styles and structures can be powerful when used effectively, but they require skill and practice. When considering advanced techniques:

• Ensure they serve the story and aren't just gimmicks
• Study successful examples in your genre
• Be prepared to revise extensively to make them work

Handle sensitive scenes with care. Scenes involving sex, violence, or intense emotions require delicate handling. To write these effectively:

• Focus on emotional impact rather than graphic details
• Use subtle language and metaphors when appropriate
• Ensure these scenes advance the plot or character development

8. Perfect your query letter to increase chances of publication

The time to focus on your novel's flaws is when you're revising it, not when you're pitching it.

Craft a compelling pitch. Your query letter is your first impression on agents and publishers. To make it effective:

• Summarize your story concisely and engagingly
• Highlight what makes your book unique in the market
• Include relevant biographical information and writing credentials

Present yourself professionally. Avoid common pitfalls that can turn off potential agents or publishers. In your query:

• Proofread meticulously for errors
• Follow submission guidelines exactly
• Be confident but not arrogant about your work

Last updated: October 6, 2024