The Perfect Start for New Authors
Every new writer struggles with where to begin, which is normal. One of the biggest questions I receive is… What do I need to get started as an author?
They get stuck wondering things like, “What word processing software is the best?” or “How do I find an editor?”
It’s hard to move forward when you’re unsure what to do first.
The good news is you can quickly bring order to the chaos by following three simple rules.
In this post, I’ll define those three rules and provide three resources perfect for new authors. I hope this will give you a roadmap so you can start your author journey and write the book of your dreams.
What is the perfect start for new authors?
The answer is pretty simple, actually. You need a word processor that is easy to use, a great idea, and the determination to see your project through to the end.
In other words:
Write. Just write, and the rest of it comes later.
The added benefit of putting all those stressful topics behind you is that you can focus on what makes you an author, to begin with–your creativity! Of course, you will want to address those at some point, but it’s not right now! I’ll tell you why below.
Rule #1: Find a Word Processor
A word processor is any software program that allows you to type and format your manuscript. This includes Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and many fancy programs that cost a great deal of money when you add up the cost over time. Now, if you choose to go with one of the higher-cost platforms, that’s fine! Ensure you understand how to use every feature to get your money’s worth and that it isn’t distracting. Distraction means you won’t get your story written, and we don’t want that.
And remember, while hand writing your book is an entirely valid system, at some point, you will have to type it into a word processor to send it to editors, format it, and upload it to publishing platforms or submit it to publishing houses and agents.
Choosing an appropriate processor is a crucial component of the writing process because you have to WRITE the story to write the story, right?
Many people new to writing start out on the right track but then get stuck because of the dreaded fear of missing out strikes. Who hasn’t seen the fancy ads on Instagram for the do-it-all-for-you, all-in-one writing platforms? I’ve tried them all, and I’m here to tell you… you don’t HAVE to have them, especially if cost is a concern.
When you get off track, you wind up spending all of your time learning new program after new program instead of… writing.
The key to success here is to pick and stick with one you already know. For now… later, you can try all of the fancy things.
To get started here, consider what you already use for work, school, email, etc. Choose a program that works similarly, and use it. My favorite for newbies is Google Docs because it’s free for anyone with a Gmail account and can work for Mac and PC users.
Rule #2: Brainstorm a Good Idea
Not all ideas are good ideas. Not all ideas make good books. And unfortunately, not all ideas are interesting to readers. Your goal is to develop a unique concept, something you can put your own spin on, and that will entice readers to pick up your book.
If you’ve spent hours figuring out how to make your idea work for a book, but something still feels off, something is probably missing. This is when I start combining ideas, and I can do that because I keep an idea folder on my computer.
With this, you can paste together ideas until something truly remarkable comes together. There is almost always a “click” moment for me, and it’s a beautiful feeling.
What if you don’t have an idea at all?
A handy tool for generating ideas is the Reedsy Plot Generator.
This tool has it all! It spells out a plot idea for you, and you can run with it until your heart’s content. The best part about it? It’s TOTALLY free! (Oh, and it works for several genres, too!)
Rule #3: Determination
Determination… resolution of purpose… or, in other words, an author’s ability to shut out the world, stop listening to the negative voices, and write our story.
Here’s where you’ll start digging into why you want to be an author. It will take a lot of work if you intend to make money with your writing. Intense work. More work than one of those HIIT exercise routines that almost killed me years ago.
Of course, this doesn’t mean we will never have moments where we flounder and even fail. Consider how long it took Harper Lee to write the sequel to To Kill a Mockingbird! Or how long it takes George R. R. Martin to spin that wheel of death and write his next installment. Determination ensures we finish the project, but it doesn’t promise it will be easy.
Some approaches you can use to keep yourself accountable are:
Set a timer for writing sprints (any amount of time to start is fine… 5 mins, 10 mins… and work your way up. This works great with a writing partner.) Find another author in roughly the same stage of their career, and hold each other accountable (social media is a great place to find other authors) Keep your writing space distraction-free (yes, that includes your phone if social media distracts you too much)Once you’ve figured out how to tap into your determination (hey, if you have to bribe yourself with snacks, I’ll allow it), there will be no stopping you!
Putting it All Together for Your Perfect Set-Up
There you have it! The 3 components of your perfect start.
Writing a novel at first may seem daunting, but like most things, practice makes perfect. Just focus on your story and what it means to you first. This will help you focus on the end goals rather than the distractions and write a killer debut novel!
What’s next?
If you need help getting started, remember that Reedsy Plot Generator can help you come up with solid ideas to begin organizing your novel. From there, remember to use the word processors you are already comfortable using. Stick with it, seek help when needed, and never be afraid to ask the “dumb” questions.
We’ve all been there. We know how hard it is to do this writing thing, and most authors are willing to help you figure things out.
