I'm 2 paragraphs in.. I tend to get caught up in planning and using that an excuse not to write so this time I just started writing but now I'm procrastinating because I don't have a plan. I am going to try the sign post method.
I'm about 25% into my first draft and have found that creating my sheet of sign posts has been an invaluable part of the process. I have learned so much from the Reedsy blog and YT channel. Thank you so much!
I recently decided to get into writing, and I've been binging all of your writing advice videos. They've helped me get a lot of good perspectives on my work, and help me flesh out my writing process Thanks for the awesome videos!
I'm just starting the fourth chapter of first draft; hit the first signpost after the inciting incident! My general rule is about an hour a day, after dinner. This is because if I start before dinner I might forget about eating. Yes, I said an hour, but it's not uncommon for me to go way over that. What I've found also helps a lot is avoiding things like RUclips rabbitholes unless it's content about writing, which keeps me interested in writing. Thanks for the post.
Outlines are great. I use the 27 chapter structure outline. And write the shortest description for each part that I can for each chapter. And then I’ll add scene specifics onto the next level of the outline along with any passage ideas I get.
I've just finished the first draft of my first chapter, on a 6 month schedule to finish the first draft of the entire novel. i love your videos! Thank you.
Almost half-way done with first draft, first novel. Good advice. I feel that a lot of newbies think that they have to write it right the first time. So they spend a lot of time beating themselves up because it's not so great. Advice: Chill out, don't worry about it. No writer writes a great book the first draft. Only after a few rounds of edits do you call it done. You will write some pretty laughable stuff in the first draft. Trust me. But no one ever has to see it.
I write mostly in the evenings and at night, 8pm.-2/3 am. It's never too late to write for me. I do my writing on my phone, keep the app on the main screen and have the folder open when I tap the app. When I feel like I'm not in the mood or mindset to write, I read the last scene I wrote. It usually works. I did a challenge in October, having no idea what NaNoWriMo is. I wrote a 35k draft in 2 weeks. I'm currently in the process of rewriting it, though the draft works mostly as a general outline and the thing is probably going to be several times longer. And writing it is more fun than the first time around, without the pressure of finishing as soon as possible.
The planning phase is very important. Writing something as complex as a novel is difficult to do off of a whim. Without solid planning the initial writing sessions of a draft might be a lot of fun, but then things start to bottom out after a few months. I consider writing a first draft like climbing a mountain. You want to know your route. You want to be knowledgeable about all of the equipment you're going to bring with you. Being a bit savy and having tricks up your sleeve doesn't hurt. And there is the other half of the climb which is making sure that you take care of yourself. While writing the first draft, there is a balancing act that occurs. Ultimately you don't want to cheat yourself, and cut corners. But at the same time you don't want to be too strict, and set unrealistic goals. If your productivity slows down to 30 words per day, and is like this consistently, then maybe you have bitten off more then you can chew. Never have shame in abandoning an idea, the experience only made you better. Constantly write, and constantly read because the only thing you gain is an advantage. If you complete the first draft, then you are at the top of the mountain. But its only worth a pat on the back because you still have to climb down.
From writing my thesis, devide into logical sections and start with the easy parts. Then, the harder parts are small, isolated chunks, and are easier to face.
"If you notice yourself using something as a reason to not write... remove that from your life." welp time to block Reedsy I guess. Sorry I gotta get rid of distractions. XD
I'm at the beginning of Act II in my first draft of a fiction novel and I watched your rising action and mid point videos for help. Thank you for the great tips. I have written 2 non-fiction books which I envisioned as stepping stones to eventually writing fiction, since in non-fiction I already knew the plot because I lived it. I just had to focus on starting and completing, and making everything as interesting as possible. The fiction writing includes a totally new aspect, creating everything from nothing. It's overwhelming but exciting, and possible.
I just started my first book, so I have a long way to go, but I think I know how to start it. I’ve set goals for myself every two months using the Hero’s Journey Structure and I know I will do it. Also, thanks for the tips.
Love these videos, they're always very useful and relevant. My two cents: Shaelin, you should have your name on the videos because no one knows how to spell it!
I'm still in the pre-planning phase. I've got the beats of the plot in my mind. Now I just need to do a little more world-building and character planning, then iron out my outline. This isn't my first novel, but I haven't completed a novel in over twenty years, so I could use some refreshers!
I’m at the same stage as you. Outlining and sign-posting. I know how it will begin and end. I just need to figure out the journey. And I’m world building and character building along the way. Good luck!
I'm just about to start the first draft of my first novel! (Technically kind of the second because I'm about halfway through the first draft of a novel I'm co-writing)
Hi Shaelin, I have a question :) Could you do a video on similes and metaphors? I've been noticing that when other writers use them properly they can be so brilliant, yet in my own writing they never seem to work out right. And I was wondering if there were any tips and tricks to help with that.
Taking a rest from writing, as advised by all the experts, after writing my first draft. Starting again in the new year to edit nd revise . I hit my 30,000 word target and will look at it with fresh eyes.
@@johnparnham5945 Great for you. I’m currently working on a screenplay for a TV show. I don’t if it’s just me, but I am so inpatient while writing. I feel like I’m not making any progress and want to finish my project already. Sadly that leads to a lot of discarded projects I gave up on after 5k-10k words.
Wrote 9 chapters of 1st draft, then realised something was amiss and re-started by massive re-writing from 2nd chapter and now almost finished with 4th chapter. So, somewhat like you...
I've somewhat outlined my first 25% and some (not all) signpost for the rest of the book. (also done some worldbuilding for fun) Started writing the 1st chapter weeks ago and... still not done with writing it... (it's the first chapter, page, impression etc. so it's been so hard to write)
I'm in the middle of my very first first draft (well, of a novel, I've written a couple short stories before). I just hit my midpoint the other day! But I keep having this whole “I just got past a plot point I've been working towards, so now what the heck do I do?” thing going on. Not really writer's block, more of just getting back on my feet and figuring out what I'm doing now. I've been having quite a bit of fun so far. I'm hoping to finish the last half of my novel this NaNo.
I started one recently, wrote a few pages then rewrote them and changed the tense, I'm also trying to figure out something real personal for my character to use it against him later hahahaha sorry
You're throwing away 25,000 words? OMG, I don't think I could do that. LOL I'm starting a first draft for NaNoWiMo. I always allow myself to start a shiny new project for NaNo. This way, I'm always excited to participate. :)
@@Reedsy Oh, I misunderstood you. Just throwing it away and starting over seems to be such a waste. I know what is involved with writing that many words. :)
Oooohh - on my last novella I tossed 80% of it or around 40,000 words m(first drafts are wordy)- -i don't normally go that wrong but i ignored my gut and kept writing because of deadlines. Another issue was having a massive upheaval in my life. That contributed to me ignoring my instincts. Its alright to throw away drafts. If it's not working--its not working my! If I don't want to read it my fans won't want to read it either.
I know that no one really cares, but I just wanted to remind everyone that Jesus loves you. So much. And He wants you to love Him back. He is the way, the truth, and the light, and my life has completely turned around. ❤️
“If you notice yourself using something as a reason to not write... remove that from your life.” See ya later kids, Moms got stories to write ✌🏻😂
ROFL omg noooooooo
I got rid of my needy, lazy wife. Now I have a lot more time to write in peace and quiet. My kid was happier too and more creative.
Yes now is the perfect time to quit my dream school which I have already spent $30,000 to attend xD
@@aboycalledfish I'm actually quit
lol
I know it's a joke but just to be clear she did mean small obstacles lol
I'm 83% done with my first novel's first draft, your videos have greatly inspired me to keep writing.
You're almost there!!
I'm 100% done !!!!! And thanks to you reedsy! I'm from india... I always found your accent fascinating! Haha
u/oddlyspecific
Perfect timing. I'm working on a first draft.
ruclips.net/video/FbXUezCHUyM/видео.html
What’s the hook?
@@skaetur1 it's a time loop stories set in a small town
I'm 2 paragraphs in.. I tend to get caught up in planning and using that an excuse not to write so this time I just started writing but now I'm procrastinating because I don't have a plan. I am going to try the sign post method.
Just so you know, you are doing an amazing work! So plseae, don't (ever) stop as your guides and tips are simply the best. Good luck!
I'm about 25% into my first draft and have found that creating my sheet of sign posts has been an invaluable part of the process. I have learned so much from the Reedsy blog and YT channel. Thank you so much!
I wrote many first drafts. 😁
Nice!
You too??? LOL!
Did you write "The Children Amoung the Dead"? Or is it just a coincidence that you share the name with the author....
I did wrote a short called the Children Among the Dead. It isn't popular.
@@milestrombley1466 That's pretty cool, I previewed it on Amazon and it doesn't seem half bad. Nice job!
I had made outline of every subplots, and I had finished 60% of my first draft. What you said is totally correct. I can correlate with it.Thanks👍👍
Wow, I LOVE that rope analogy!! Awesome video, thanks!
I recently decided to get into writing, and I've been binging all of your writing advice videos. They've helped me get a lot of good perspectives on my work, and help me flesh out my writing process
Thanks for the awesome videos!
I'm just starting the fourth chapter of first draft; hit the first signpost after the inciting incident! My general rule is about an hour a day, after dinner. This is because if I start before dinner I might forget about eating. Yes, I said an hour, but it's not uncommon for me to go way over that. What I've found also helps a lot is avoiding things like RUclips rabbitholes unless it's content about writing, which keeps me interested in writing.
Thanks for the post.
Outlines are great. I use the 27 chapter structure outline. And write the shortest description for each part that I can for each chapter. And then I’ll add scene specifics onto the next level of the outline along with any passage ideas I get.
I'm looking forward to start writing my first draft. Thank you for the great tips.
I've just finished the first draft of my first chapter, on a 6 month schedule to finish the first draft of the entire novel. i love your videos! Thank you.
Almost half-way done with first draft, first novel. Good advice. I feel that a lot of newbies think that they have to write it right the first time. So they spend a lot of time beating themselves up because it's not so great. Advice: Chill out, don't worry about it. No writer writes a great book the first draft. Only after a few rounds of edits do you call it done. You will write some pretty laughable stuff in the first draft. Trust me. But no one ever has to see it.
I write mostly in the evenings and at night, 8pm.-2/3 am. It's never too late to write for me.
I do my writing on my phone, keep the app on the main screen and have the folder open when I tap the app.
When I feel like I'm not in the mood or mindset to write, I read the last scene I wrote. It usually works.
I did a challenge in October, having no idea what NaNoWriMo is. I wrote a 35k draft in 2 weeks.
I'm currently in the process of rewriting it, though the draft works mostly as a general outline and the thing is probably going to be several times longer. And writing it is more fun than the first time around, without the pressure of finishing as soon as possible.
The planning phase is very important. Writing something as complex as a novel is difficult to do off of a whim. Without solid planning the initial writing sessions of a draft might be a lot of fun, but then things start to bottom out after a few months.
I consider writing a first draft like climbing a mountain. You want to know your route. You want to be knowledgeable about all of the equipment you're going to bring with you. Being a bit savy and having tricks up your sleeve doesn't hurt. And there is the other half of the climb which is making sure that you take care of yourself.
While writing the first draft, there is a balancing act that occurs. Ultimately you don't want to cheat yourself, and cut corners. But at the same time you don't want to be too strict, and set unrealistic goals.
If your productivity slows down to 30 words per day, and is like this consistently, then maybe you have bitten off more then you can chew. Never have shame in abandoning an idea, the experience only made you better. Constantly write, and constantly read because the only thing you gain is an advantage.
If you complete the first draft, then you are at the top of the mountain. But its only worth a pat on the back because you still have to climb down.
You explain well....
From writing my thesis, devide into logical sections and start with the easy parts. Then, the harder parts are small, isolated chunks, and are easier to face.
I really needed this positive perspective on writing, thank you for this video! 😁
"If you notice yourself using something as a reason to not write... remove that from your life." welp time to block Reedsy I guess. Sorry I gotta get rid of distractions. XD
I'm at the beginning of Act II in my first draft of a fiction novel and I watched your rising action and mid point videos for help. Thank you for the great tips. I have written 2 non-fiction books which I envisioned as stepping stones to eventually writing fiction, since in non-fiction I already knew the plot because I lived it. I just had to focus on starting and completing, and making everything as interesting as possible. The fiction writing includes a totally new aspect, creating everything from nothing. It's overwhelming but exciting, and possible.
Your videos are a great help - thank you! Will finish my first draft of my first book in a few months.
Helpful, useful especially selection of words
I just started my first book, so I have a long way to go, but I think I know how to start it. I’ve set goals for myself every two months using the Hero’s Journey Structure and I know I will do it. Also, thanks for the tips.
Love these videos, they're always very useful and relevant. My two cents: Shaelin, you should have your name on the videos because no one knows how to spell it!
I'm still in the pre-planning phase. I've got the beats of the plot in my mind. Now I just need to do a little more world-building and character planning, then iron out my outline. This isn't my first novel, but I haven't completed a novel in over twenty years, so I could use some refreshers!
I’m at the same stage as you. Outlining and sign-posting. I know how it will begin and end. I just need to figure out the journey. And I’m world building and character building along the way. Good luck!
Good tips 🙏
I'm guilty of putting aside drafts when a snag comes up. Though I found it easier to keep writing once I let myself have a little time off the draft.
Great tips! This is probably the first video I have ever seen without a single dislike:)
If came to watch lecture for tomorrow paper, but now I'm watching again and again bcz u Looking so beautiful❤😂❤
Hi guys I am 14 and writing my first book. Reeday is the best website to do so with so many free to use tools
I'm just about to start the first draft of my first novel! (Technically kind of the second because I'm about halfway through the first draft of a novel I'm co-writing)
Hi Shaelin, I have a question :) Could you do a video on similes and metaphors? I've been noticing that when other writers use them properly they can be so brilliant, yet in my own writing they never seem to work out right. And I was wondering if there were any tips and tricks to help with that.
Great instructions, thank you.
I just finished the first draft of my third book, and I'm two chapters into my new book. I have another lined up after this one.
I'm beginning my first draft at 58 yrs old 👍⭐
Thanks this was very useful
I am at 20763 words. My initial target is 30.000 words for my first middle grade novel but I may go over that if the story needs it.
How’s it going
Taking a rest from writing, as advised by all the experts, after writing my first draft. Starting again in the new year to edit nd revise . I hit my 30,000 word target and will look at it with fresh eyes.
@@johnparnham5945 Great for you. I’m currently working on a screenplay for a TV show. I don’t if it’s just me, but I am so inpatient while writing. I feel like I’m not making any progress and want to finish my project already. Sadly that leads to a lot of discarded projects I gave up on after 5k-10k words.
Wrote 9 chapters of 1st draft, then realised something was amiss and re-started by massive re-writing from 2nd chapter and now almost finished with 4th chapter. So, somewhat like you...
Good Details... Thanks 🌎
Sign Posts = Main Ideas!!
I've somewhat outlined my first 25% and some (not all) signpost for the rest of the book. (also done some worldbuilding for fun)
Started writing the 1st chapter weeks ago and... still not done with writing it... (it's the first chapter, page, impression etc. so it's been so hard to write)
I would've appreciated if you included a sample/example of a first draft
Just in time for my first NaNoWriMo
Same
Same! They know exactly what we need :D
Same! We can do this guys! :)
She has NaNoRiMo videos too! Good luck!
Writing multiple stories at the same time😘
Hello...First Draft ...very important
You are so uplifting 👍⭐
@reedsy I'm done with my first draft!!!! And thanks to you reedsy! I'm from india... I always found your accent fascinating! Haha
Seems like Stephen King movie adaptations like to let the viewer choose their own adventure, regarding the ending. Talking about Cell and 1408
I think I am a discovery writer with a smidge of signposting along the way in terms of note taking.
I'm in the middle of my very first first draft (well, of a novel, I've written a couple short stories before). I just hit my midpoint the other day! But I keep having this whole “I just got past a plot point I've been working towards, so now what the heck do I do?” thing going on. Not really writer's block, more of just getting back on my feet and figuring out what I'm doing now. I've been having quite a bit of fun so far. I'm hoping to finish the last half of my novel this NaNo.
I started one recently, wrote a few pages then rewrote them and changed the tense, I'm also trying to figure out something real personal for my character to use it against him later hahahaha sorry
Have fun along the journey of writing🌎
I write the possible Chapter's Title...to guide me!!
Great vid with great advice. Thanks. im 29,000 words into my 1st book. A self help memoir
I’ll do my best to finish it very early. You can save you family, if you play well enough. They’ll be changed by that time, I’m sure.
You have a bottle of beer and first draft writes itself
Thanks.
You're throwing away 25,000 words? OMG, I don't think I could do that. LOL I'm starting a first draft for NaNoWiMo. I always allow myself to start a shiny new project for NaNo. This way, I'm always excited to participate. :)
Not throwing away, improving upon :)
@@Reedsy Oh, I misunderstood you. Just throwing it away and starting over seems to be such a waste. I know what is involved with writing that many words. :)
Oooohh - on my last novella I tossed 80% of it or around 40,000 words m(first drafts are wordy)-
-i don't normally go that wrong but i ignored my gut and kept writing because of deadlines.
Another issue was having a massive upheaval in my life. That contributed to me ignoring my instincts. Its alright to throw away drafts. If it's not working--its not working my! If I don't want to read it my fans won't want to read it either.
I am at 8 pages.
And now?🤩
I wanna build my writing i don’t how can i start my writing is horrible Help me please
I am three words in. They read... "Flowers are honest."
I am in my intro
I wrote so many drafts for the same story but I can never seem to finish them 😂
At this point, I don't think I'm able to write a first draft. My story is all over the place and I don't know how to end it!
First. Please notice me senpai
hello!
YAGBAW
I'M EARLY
Make me normal, now. I think it’s the right time.
Whatever she’s putting be through, put him through the same kind of tolerable intensity. Don’t stop, until she stops, and is ready for a bargain.
🥰😍💗💓💗💓💗💓💗💓
"If you notice yourself using something as a reason to not write... remove that from your life."
Okay, goodbye school! i'll miss you...not 😭✋
helpppppppppppppppp
I know that no one really cares, but I just wanted to remind everyone that Jesus loves you. So much. And He wants you to love Him back. He is the way, the truth, and the light, and my life has completely turned around. ❤️
Make him bleed.