Writing a First Draft in 3 Steps | My Novel Writing Process

For many, the first draft is the most enjoyable part, but for others, they never get past this initial phase.

After starting and stopping countless first drafts over the years, I've found a process that has worked for me and I've been applying it pretty effectively in my novel-sized trilogy. This is not the fastest way to write the first draft, but if you have difficulty completing your story, give it a try.

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[philipdouglas]

I have the same exact process. I don’t need an app to help me here, just a pen and a couple of cheap notebooks.

[worngachanshatsang]

Been writing my first novel for the last two years. Completed 2/3 of the first draft and working on completing the last third.

Over the process of writing, I think what you've said here absolutely rings true. I've combined both longhand writing and writing on the computer and I can now see how much more progress I make if I write first on paper, without the need to constantly tap the delete button like you said.

I'll try to complete my final third of the first draft in this manner and let you know the progress I make!

Thank you!

[sophiaisabelle]

Good luck on your novel. May God continue to bless you all the way.

[cynthiagates]

I write the same exact way, by hand then transcribe switch to word till the book is done. New subscriber here :)

[MOONSUNLife]

I admire your process so much, it makes so much sense... Writing longhand just feels too slow for me, like my hand can't keep up with what's in my head and the whole thing just ends up being more frustrating than helpful. Still, I can appreciate your method and really hope you can get that book published!

By the way, I read that book of short stories you recommended a while ago, _Bull Head_ by John Vigna. It was such a good read that I decided to give his novel a go next! Thank you for suggesting that author to me!

[ShrineofGenesis-]

This is an awesome process. Tbh I am thinking to do the same now