How To Write A Book

Many a time, I see authors asking, "How do I start writing?" "Where do I begin?" And to this, the popular response is "Just write."

This can be quite frustrating to a person whose main problem is that they do not know where or how to begin writing. It's such a broad solution that it ends up becoming a non-answer.

While it is true that the main factor keeping authors from unleashing their stories is their mental hurdles, and launching headfirst into their story, no matter how chaotic, is the key to breaking down this wall, not many are able to take that blind leap of faith.

When I was at this stage of my writing life, my biggest challenge was that I could never finish a story I started. To spur myself to action, I did two things: one, I challenged myself to complete a short story in time to submit to a Commonwealth contest, and two, I planned my story from start to finish. That way, I could physically see the finish line, instead of imagining a large black hole that would forever suck me in.

That's when I fell in love with writing short stories. It's also when I realized that I was a plotter. I prefer spending days of rigorous (or semi-rigorous) planning before penning down a single letter. And though I'm not averse to straying from the plot outline when needed, having that physical proof of the ending helps me a ton,

If you're the exact opposite and prefer flying by the seat of your pants when writing (i.e. going where the wind blows you), you might want to try experimenting with a few scenes for a start. Write the middle, or the beginning, or the end. Write your favorite scene. Write that dialogue that keeps playing out in your head.

When you've touched your toes to the edge of the water enough times, your confidence will grow, and before you realize, you'll be half-way through your epic bestseller in no time!

If none of the suggestions above apply to your situation, then you must figure out what exactly is stopping you from taking that step. After all, the only way to find a solution is to discover the problem.

I wish you all the best, and I sincerely await the day you bring your story to life!

Happy writing!

Your friendly neighborhood editor,

Chiedozi.