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How I Wrote A Novel In 4 Months

I love writing! It has been a hobby of mine since I was 12 years old. As I grew older, my hobby soon turned into a passion, and then published books. As I continue to grow as a writer, I’ve developed a system of how I write my novels. I understand that not everyone will write a novel as fast as I have, still, I want to share how I wrote a novel in 4 months!

1.     Month One: Story and Outline

For the first month, I write down a summary of the story. I write no more than a paragraph to start getting my writing juices flowing. Next, I write a chapter by chapter summary of what is happening in the plot. This structure I follow to set up my story: Chapters 1 through 6 are the opening/exposition, Chapters 7-15 are the rising action/climax, and Chapters 16 beyond is the falling action/resolution. I know that some chapters are maybe shorter or longer. Even in my books, it may not have this exact structure, but it’s a good layout to follow if you are stuck.

2.     Month Two: Begin to Write!

After I’ve outlined the story, it’s time to write! Now, I know I write fast. This part can take you as long as you need it. I understand sometimes it hard to write down or type your thoughts, but it is possible. Sometimes we have writer’s block, but all things will soon come to fruition. And there are tons of ways to over overcome writer’s block. Some examples being listening to music, taking a walk, or a taking nap. I like to watch documentaries or listen to music to get my brain juices flowing again.

3.     Month Three: Keep Writing!

Don't worry about how much you write a day. Just know to keep writing! I think this graphic below motivates me the most:



No one is saying you need to write 5 paragraphs, or 8 pages, or even 20 pages in one day. It’s all about going at your pace. Just continue at it until you reach the end of your story. Occasionally, since I've already had everything outlined, I'll skip in between certain chapters or sub-chapters. Then I go back and fill in the chapters I skipped. I usually do this when I have writer's block or when I feel myself slowing down on the scene in the story.

4. Month Four: Finish and Edit!

Well, now you've finished your first draft! Hooray! This causes for some celebration. Either tweet about it, post it, or buy yourself a slice of cake. You've done something a lot of people can't do and you should be proud of it. Now is time for what I believe is the hardest and longest part of the book process, editing. I believe one or two good professional editors are needed for any book, either if it’s self-published, traditionally published, or hybrid. Try to edit yourself too and don't forget about beta readers. They're just as important as any editor is. Everyone's editing procedure is different, but for me, I usually do one or two professional editors, share it to some sensitive readers, and a handful of beta readers.

 

Well, thank you for reading! I hope this helps some of you in your writing journey. Best of wishes to you all and remember live, love, laugh.

 

  

About the Author
I have had a lifelong love of literature and art. As a new writer, I want to create a beautiful fantasy world(s) with compelling and intriguing characters. I reside in South Carolina and am an undergraduate at the College of Charleston. I have been blogging for almost a year and I love it just as much as I love writing books! I love to spread positivity and joy to those around me and look at the world through a glittery pink lens.



 

Blog:

Win’s Books (www.winsbooks.blog)

Social media:

Facebook: @WinnieTatawAuthor

Twitter: @WinsBooks

Instagram: @WinsBooks

Pinterest: @WinsBooks


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Jerry said…
This blog post provides helpful tips on how anyone can write their own novel.
June 2, 2025 at 1:30 AM
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