Want to write the novel you have been promising yourself? Here are my top six writing tips for anyone wanting to write a novel, and what happens afterwards. This is what works for me:
- Write what you enjoy reading. You are far more likely to stay motivated and finish the book.
- Write something every day, even if it is only 200 words. Consistency matters more than volume, and habits get novels finished.
- Write in the way that suits you. Ignore anyone who insists you must plan everything or, conversely, write entirely by instinct. Work out what works for you and commit to it.
- Write your own words. Resist the temptation to let AI do the writing for you. There is no better feeling than being able to say truthfully, I did that.
- Always finish the draft. It will be rough, awkward and imperfect, but finishing matters more than quality at this stage.
- Do not get precious about your knobbly bits. Editing takes time. Read your novel out loud and cut what does not work (the knobbly bits). You will hear the problems. Only then can you begin to polish.
Your Novel: Is it Ready?
Probably not. So, where do you go from there? Get your novel read through by a like-minded and trusted friend or friends. It can be hard, but listen to them. When you have polished your grammar and style as much as you think you can, find a good editor. Not the cheapest, but one who comes recommended. Everyone’s work needs editing. We are all blind to our own writing. Publishers have their own editors if you choose that route, but always get your work to the very best standard you can.
Publishing
Once the editing process is done, you have two routes to choose from*, depending on why you want to write and publish your book:
1. Find an agent who is looking for the genre you have written in. Look on their website and follow their submission policy to the letter. Be professional at all times. There is a plethora of advice available about this part of the process. The best advice is written by agents themselves. Do not give up, and be prepared for rejection letters. You will be following in the footsteps of hundreds of successful authors. Remember that this process can take two or three years before it can result in publication after you have found an agent. Be prepared to work with them if they suggest changes to your novel. They know what they’re talking about.
2. Self-publish your work. This is not the second-best route anymore—it’s an alternative. If you choose this method, take it seriously. Get a great cover designed by a professional. Some people have the skill to do this themselves, but always run your covers past trusted friends who read your genre.
Learn how the self-publishing world works. You have many options, but never pay someone to publish your work. I repeat, never pay someone to publish your work. There are scammers out there. Avoid them. They lie.
Companies such as Amazon, IngramSpark and Book Vault will sell your books, taking a percentage of the profits. That is how it works in publishing. They often leave better margins for authors than the traditional publishing route. Do not forget that you also have the option of ebooks and audiobooks. Many readers now prefer these to print.
This route takes work. You will find one important truth whichever path you choose. Writing the book was the easy part. Marketing the book is much harder. Be prepared.
Remember Why You Are Doing This
Now, remember what I said about why you want to write and publish your book? If it were simply to say you’ve done it, that is fantastic. You will not need to worry about marketing or finding an agent. You can self-publish and sell it to friends. There is nothing wrong with that if you are happy selling a handful of copies.
On the other hand, if you want to make money from your book sales, it’s going to take time and a lot of patience. It’s a long game. Try and enjoy it while you’re playing it.
I took the self-publishing route and set up a business because it works for me. Whatever route you take, I wish you the very best of luck.
Read more here: So you want to become a writer
* There are hybrid routes, a mix of two, which generally include independent publishers. Read around the subject if you are interested.