Welcome back to the How-tos of Preptober series where, this week, we’re discussing some helpful tips for Plotters as they attempt to plan a novel for NaNoWriMo. If you’ve been following our guidelines, you should already know how to establish a well-developed plot and some captivating characters. But how can you prep without wasting too much time?
Here are 5 quick and dirty tips for you Preptober Plotters:
1. Freewrite first
One of the easiest ways to get to know your story is to simply write it down. This can be as detailed or concise as you want it to be. Include dialogue, character sketches, maps—or don’t. The point is to tell yourself the story. Always keep notes on your phone or a small notebook to jot down epiphanies. You can brainstorm details in the shower, washing dishes, or during your commute. Purge those ideas as often as you can, and you’ll have a fully fleshed out story in no time.
2. Seek what’s simple
The less time spent staring out the window, the better. Don’t let mundane details like names and titles bog you down. There are all kinds of generators for character names, fictitious businesses, and book titles. This isn’t cheating! Save some time (and your sanity) by not overthinking it and simply picking what will work for now.
3. Tame time
Set a timer. 15-20 minutes for freewriting, 5-10 per stage or story beat. Same with choosing a flaw or theme (there are books that can help with this and even free lists online). Enforcing a time limit will help you avoid overthinking and allow you to apply your creative focus to other things—like developing a thrilling finale or writing compelling dialogue. Your confidence will grow with each obstacle you surmount.
4. Apply some apps
Utilize writing apps and software to help build your plot, develop characters, manage your time, and block out distractions. Implement a little technology to maximize your productivity. A quick Google search will reveal a wealth of resources to help you accomplish your writing (and planning) goals, while saving you time!
5. Curb the chaos
We all get excited about starting a new writing project, but don’t get carried away! Preptober will fly by, and you want to be ready to draft on November 1st. Sure, composing aesthetics and refining worksheets can be a thrill for us Plotters, but you don’t want to waste too much time. This is why we set that timer. Be cool with not having all the details set in stone. And remember, revision is in your future.
Conclusion
Don’t let the desire for perfection hold your creativity captive! Commit to a few healthy boundaries, and your drafting experience will be that much more rewarding. Looking for a few more helpful tips as you prep in Preptober? Check out 5 more tips for our Preptober Plotters here.