Starting Your Publishing Journey: The Best Approaches to Begin Writing Your First Book

Starting the process of writing your first book can be both exhilarating and daunting. There are essentially two main approaches to launching your writing adventure: the "pantsing" method and the outlining method. Each has its unique advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately, the choice depends on your personal writing style and the type of novel you wish to create.

The Pantsing Method: A Voyage of Discovery

If you are a "pantsing" writer, you dive into the process without much planning ahead. This method involves beginning to write without a detailed outline, allowing your creativity to flow freely. The primary advantage of this approach is that it can be highly inspiring; as you write, you discover new aspects and directions that may not have been evident at the outset. However, this method can also lead to dead ends and necessitate going back to earlier stages of your writing. Pantsing can be like embarking on a voyage of discovery where you don't know exactly where the journey will take you.

The Outlining Method: Structure and Organization

Conversely, for those who prefer a more structured approach, outlining is the preferred choice. The outlining method involves creating a basic plot and working out every detail in advance. Starting with a couple of lines of premise, expanding to a page, then several pages, until you have a detailed outline that covers 40 pages or more. If you take 10 pages of prose for every page in the outline, you could aim for a 400-page book, or around 120,000 words.

Other Methods to Consider

When it comes to writing a book, there are various methods you can choose from based on your comfort and preference. Here are a few options:

Start with a general idea: Begin with a basic premise and expand it gradually. Create a partial brief outline: Write a synopsis that guides your writing. Outline and write: Create chapters as you go along, or outline in detail before starting to write.

No matter which method you choose, it is always beneficial to join a critique group. This will keep you accountable and ensure that you are consistently producing new content for peer review.

Honing Your Craft

The key to writing a successful novel is not only in your writing habits but also in your reading habits. Read a lot of recent novels in the genre you are writing in to get a sense of what readers want. If one of the books is particularly compelling, reading it a second time with paper by your side can be highly effective. At the end of each scene or chapter, jot down important plot and character-related details. This will help you structure your novel more effectively.

Additionally, exploring writing novels is a vital skill. As mentioned, find some how-to books on writing novels at your local library, especially those focused on your genre. These books can provide invaluable insights and tips that can help you refine your writing technique and hone your storytelling skills.

Remember, whatever approach you choose, the most crucial aspect is to keep writing and editing. There is no secret formula or quick fix for becoming a successful author. It is a journey of continuous improvement and learning. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, have fun writing!