5 Things to Do While Writing Your Novel

There's a difference between an author and a bestselling author: book sales. Below are 5 things I learned to focus on while writing my first book. They also happen to be what every bestselling author includes in their prose.

1. Organization.

Without it, your novel will be a headache for you to write, not to mention confusing to readers. You may know what you're trying to say, but they won't. Map out your story and scenes during the prewriting process, and stick to it. Just as every story needs a beginning, middle, and end—they also need flow. If it doesn't flow smoothly, it's not working, and this means more work for you. Remember those outlines you learned in freshmen English? Well, here's your real-world application. :)

2. Purpose.
What's the point of this sentence? Paragraph? Chapter?
Every line, paragraph, and chapter must be used to communicate a plot point, a character goal, action to increase tension, or action to advance the plot. If it doesn't, it's not needed and you shouldn't include it in your novel.

3. Mystery.
Adding mystery to your novel means motivation for your audience to keep reading. This is something you want to include from the very first line of your book. Why is she on the run? How will he warn his friends? How did she become an orphan? If your book is part of a series, try and write a cliffhanger ending. Your readers will be dying to get a hold of your book's sequel to find out what happens (again– to discover the answers to their questions), and that'll mean more sales for you.

4. Plot Twist.
You should surprise your reader at least three times during your novel. This will keep your reader from becoming bored. If there are no plot twists, your novel may seem dull, and a waste of time to your reader. Make your audience think they know where you're going with your plot and then rip the rug out from under them (but please do so with caution! Always make sure the twist will enhance your story, not steer it in some random direction).

5. Language.
Think efficiency. Make your reader feel like they're in each scene, but don't overdo it. You don't need five paragraphs about what a scene looks like, because your reader wants a story that moves along anyway. If you can replace five words with one, please do so.

Well, there you have it folks- five things I learned while writing a novel. Keep them in mind as you write your Bestseller.

Want to know 12 Pet Peeves Readers Have That Will Get Your Book Shelved? Click here to find out.

Happy writing!

-Heather