I participated in NaNoWriMo last year and had an absolute blast. NaNoWriMo stands for National Novel Writing Month. This event happens every year during the month of November. The main goal is to write 50,000 word throughout the month of November, basically writing a novel! Last year, I only wrote 10,500 words, but I am trying my luck again this year! Here are 11 tips I wish I would have known last year!
1. Plan
You do not have to plan out every single detail, but having something, even just a character name is extremely helpful in the long run!
2. Set aside time to write every day
Implement it into your daily routine! It has been calculated that you need to write 1,667 words per day to reach the 50k by the end of the month.
3. Don't be discouraged if you miss a day
Missing a day sucks, but you can always make up the words another day!
4. Utilize the forums
It is SO helpful. There are hundreds and hundreds of people who have participated in NaNoWriMo over time and since it's beginning in 1999. Utilize them, let them help you when you get stuck.
5. Know when to take a break
Writing a novel is stressful! Sometimes you just have to step away for a little bit to clear your head. Who knows, maybe you'll come back with an amazing idea.
6. Participate in word sprints
Follow their twitter and participate in their word sprints! Be proud of how well your writing has become and let the words flow.
7. Do not be afraid to hit that back space
If you are not happy about a part of your story, do not be afraid to delete it. You will get the progress back.
8. It does not have to be a novel
You don't actually have to write a novel! It can be anything, letters, essays, your research paper, poetry, or Odyssey articles. The goal is just to get 50,000 words.
9. Let the characters guide you
Sometimes your characters will lead you down a path you did not expect. Let them take you there, sometimes it may take you down a path that was better than your original idea.
10. Let others read your progress
Pick out a few good friends that will be honest with you. Sometimes having an outside opinion can help cover plot holes, weird dialogue or spark something new.
11. Be proud of what you accomplished
Even if you do not reach 50k words, be proud of what you have written. There is always next year to get even further than the last.
So, take a chance, pick up your pen or open up a new document. Let your imagination flow and create a new world and accomplish something great.
