Writing a Novel

Practical advice on plot development, character creation, dialogue and structure for aspiring novelists. Articles cover agents, publishing rights, research techniques and common writing challenges.

Deciding on a Plot for Your Novel

Choose a plot structure and genre for your novel before you start writing, then figure out how your characters will drive the story.

Do I Need an Agent for My Novel?

Getting a literary agent isn't always necessary, but it can dramatically improve your chances of landing a publishing deal with a major publisher.

Picking Credible Names for Your Book Characters

How the names you give your characters shape reader assumptions and reveal backstory, class, and personality.

Sub Plots for Your Novel

How to use subplots effectively in your novel without overwhelming readers or losing the main story.

The Importance of Location in Your Novel

Your words need to bring fictional locations to life, whether you've visited them or not, so here's how to research them properly.

Writing a Novel: Building Your Characters' Backgrounds

Give your characters believable backgrounds by revealing just enough history to keep readers engaged without overwhelming them with exposition.

Writing a Novel: Selling the Rights to Your Work

Once your novel gets published, your publisher might want to adapt it into a script for TV or film, which means selling the rights to your work.

Writing Flashbacks

Flashbacks can hook readers and reveal character backstory, but poor execution makes plots feel bloated and confusing instead of compelling.