My experiences writing the first draft of a novel.

Struggling through a first draft of a story or novel? Here are some of the best tips and quotes on first drafts from writers who have been there.

If you asked me several years ago if I knew how to write a novel, I'd stare at you, blank. And here I am now, editing my 1st novel's 2nd draft, still not knowing what the hell I'm doing, but moving forward. I thought, hey, if I can do it, you can do it, right? Why not share? Well then, here goes:

Good news! The first draft of the first book of my new fantasy series is done! I finished a few days ago; you may have heard me whooping with glee.

Completing the first draft of your novel is a major milestone. Your writing motivation might decrease at this point but this guide will help you keep focus.

*That is a hard-working guy, ladies and gents.This article has been reproduced in a new format and may be missing content or contain faulty links. Contact wiredlabs@wired.com to report an issue. http://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/index.php?/topic/164727-j-g-ballards-pen/ *Makes one wonder if processed texts deserve to be called “books.”

At 1:04am, on the 20th of August, after exactly 292 days or 41 weeks and 5 days of writing my first draft of my novel, I wrote those two long awaited words… ‘The End’. I was in bed, in the dark, laptop on my knees, with my sleeping beauty of a wife next to me. […]