Helpful tools (items) to use for writing a novel.
When I write my own novels, I follow a different method that I use or anyone can use:
1. What I use in my writing process is a notebook. I've gathered many empty notebooks because you never know when they might come in handy. To be honest, I've only used 4 notebooks for the novels I plan to write in the future.
2. Another option I use for writing is the notes app. If you own an iPad, the notes app is very useful for saving any writing from the beginning, especially if you prefer not to write by hand in a notebook. If you don't have an iPad, I suggest using Google Keep Notes.
3. I found this method very helpful by using two tools: Google Docs and Notion. Google Docs is great for securely storing your documents without losing anything, while Notion is also a useful app for keeping track of the novel titles you have in mind and checking them off when you finish.
4. A calendar is essential for the writing process. Why? Because it helps you keep track of the days you plan to publish your chapters, for example, if you’re planning on publishing every Fridays, you’ll be able to see the reminders without feeling stressed.
5. Finally, before I publish a chapter, I always utilize a paraphrasing tool to improve my sentences. It also checks for grammar and suggests better word choices. The two paraphrasing tools I use most frequently are QuillBot and Ahrefs.
I hope these various methods are useful for anyone looking to write a novel from the scratch. I'm just a beginner writer, that's all.
#writertips #beginnerwriters #writingabook #writingcommunity #lemon8writer
When I first started writing, like many of you, I just wanted to get my initial ideas down on paper. But as I dove deeper into the craft, I realized that creating a truly genius story – one that not only captivates readers from the first page but also leaves a lasting impression – requires more than just putting words down. It's about meticulously crafting a narrative with depth, developing compelling characters, and building a plot that truly sings. And ultimately, that incredible story needs a book cover that accurately and appealingly promises the magic and brilliance contained within. While my trusty notebook (just like the one in that picture, where I jot down my initial sparks of inspiration!) and my iPad's notes app are perfect for capturing fleeting thoughts, I've learned to use them differently for deeper story development. Instead of just brainstorming, I now dedicate specific sections for character backstories, intricate world-building details, and outlining crucial plot twists. Sometimes, I even sketch out rough scene diagrams in my notebook to visualize pacing and character blocking, ensuring every moment serves the larger narrative. For detailed story development, Google Docs isn't just for securely storing my documents; it’s become my primary platform for building comprehensive character profiles, creating detailed timelines of events, and mapping out my story's central conflicts and resolutions. And Notion? Beyond just tracking novel titles, I use it to create comprehensive story bibles. I link character sheets to specific plot points, track research, and even set up Kanban boards for monitoring individual scene progress. This level of organization is crucial for ensuring all my story elements are interconnected and consistent, building towards that 'genius' level of narrative coherence. My calendar, which the article mentions, helps with publishing deadlines, yes, but it also helps me schedule dedicated 'story development' sprints. Sometimes, I need to step away from drafting and focus purely on strengthening my plot, deepening a character's motivation, or resolving a tricky plot hole. Blocking out that time ensures I'm not just writing words, but actively building a robust and engaging story structure. And before I even think about a first draft, using paraphrasing tools isn't just for correcting grammar; it's for finding the most impactful and evocative way to phrase a character's internal monologue or a crucial piece of dialogue. Honing the language from the very start significantly contributes to a story's overall brilliance and its ability to resonate with readers. It’s all part of the writing process, leading to a polished final product. Ultimately, all this meticulous planning, developing, and crafting aims for one singular goal: a story so good, so compelling, that it deserves an equally fantastic cover. When I think about my finished novel, I want its book cover to instantly convey the emotion, genre, and unique hook of the 'story genius' I've poured my heart and countless hours into. A strong story foundation means I can provide my cover designer with clear themes, vivid character archetypes, and precise mood references, ensuring the visual representation is as compelling and truthful as the narrative itself. It's not just a pretty picture; it's the first promise of the extraordinary world waiting inside.
