7 tools all novelists need

*Collaborative post

 

 

Photo by Nick Morrison on Unsplash

 

If you dream of writing novels. There are a number of things you can do to make your dreams closer to reality. Though everyone is different when it comes to their creative flow, there are a number of tools you’ll need to write your own masterpiece. 

Software

While many writers still use a standard word processor, novel writing software has come a long way. You can now use it to map out your plots, characters and collate research. It really will help you crystalise your novel in your mind and keep all of your important information together. 

A writing routine

Every great writer has a writing routine. This is when and where they write. Some feel more creative early in the morning, others late at night. The key to productivity is consistency. Even if you’re pressed for time, a short, consistent writing routine is still preferable to a sporadic one. 

 

It might take a bit of time for you to find yours, but once you do, it will increase your confidence. 

Notebooks

Who knows when inspiration will strike. You won’t always be next to a computer when it does. Keep a notebook and pen on you at all time and note down any idea or inspiration that you have. You can always use the note-taking app on your phone too if that’s easier for you to carry around. 

A good spelling and grammar checker

The latest versions of spelling and grammar checkers are so much better than they used to be. They can interpret context and even learn from your previous writing projects. Grammarly is one of the most popular, there are free and paid versions you can try. 

A good editor

An editor is a novelist’s best friend. They go far beyond simple spelling and grammar checks. They are trained to assess stories submitted to them for publication. Not only can they give advice on potting and story, but can help spot any plotholes or errors that might be lurking in there. They can also arrange for information to be fact-checked and cleared legally before publication. Even if you haven’t secured a publishing contract, you can hire an independent editor to get your manuscript into it’s the best shape before you submit it or self publish. 

Beta readers

These are the people that you can use to test out your novel before it’s published. They are usually just ordinary people with a love of reading. They can give you feedback on your novel from the average reader’s point of view. 

Books

The legendary master of horror, Stephen King says  “if you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot,” Read as many books as you can. Read widely and outside of the genre you want to write in.

Conclusion

The journey to writing your novel is an exciting one but requires a lot of hard work. These tools will help you write more efficiently and get your novel into the best shape it can possibly be.