FIRST CHAPTER MISTAKES NEW WRITERS MAKE ✖️ how to write the first chapter in your book

Today I'm discussing first chapter mistakes new writers make. The first chapter is one of the most important chapters in your novel, as it has to hook the reader if you want them to continue on with your story. I've made a handful of these writing mistakes in my own books, so don't get discouraged if I mention something you do in your first chapter. Writing a book is difficult, and writing a good book is even more so. My recommendation is to write your first draft and then come back to your first chapter so you have a better idea of its purpose in the story and can more effectively edit it to suit your book and characters.

For more writing tips, check out the video below:

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[NataliaLeigh]

✨ Hi everyone! I hope you enjoyed the video and feel more prepared to write a great first chapter. If you want more writing tips, check out my playlist below! ✨

[Jasia.]

Me realizing I started off giving the description of the weather and then the character waking up, making and eating breakfast and it going on like a list : 👁️👄👁️

[bytheBrooke]

I was waiting for the "I look in the mirror" and describe myself cliche haha. That one's a biggie! Loving these videos, Natalia!

[lukewallace]

In my first draft, I had my character wake up after having a dream sequence. He then went to the bathroom for a shower and looked into the mirror so I could describe him. He then had the most boring set of scenes to try to build the world. Oh, and it was chock full of back story! We all go through that phase. :)

[Leah-vbud]

The first story I ever wrote was in the beginning of seventh grade. My first sentence was 'I looked into the lol, it's only been three years but I'm proud of how far I came, yet embarrassed by my old work

[AMG_Creates]

Also, thank you for not telling us "you MUST change the cliches, dont do this it's SOOOO BAD" I've seen a lot of videos that have the illusion of helping but really the person is telling us what we need to do because it worked for them.

[werniechvan]

I am guilty of all these mistakes. :P This is why it is so important for new writers to learn writing craft by watching videos or reading help articles. Thanks for your videos, they are really helpful.

[zey]

I described my main character through the love interest's panic attack. You know that making them use their senses method you use to stop their panic attack? She asked him about the colors around them to ground him and make him focus on something else including asking him what the color of her eyes and hair is. Idk if this is a good way but I did it. :')

[bgchaz]

Okay, now I'm trying to think if I've ever had one of my characters look in a mirror. Surely I must have. Oh wait, I did! It was in the middle of book three in my trilogy. I think I'm safe on that one anyway. Happy writing.

[RenaissanceRockerBoy]

I find that the most effective thing to do is just to jump into the action, and only show info when it’s needed. Starting in the middle of the action is refreshing :)

[sethharmon]

How I describe my main character's appearance in first person pov without mirrors or puddles to gaze into:
Example 1. "My pale skin practically glowed in comparison."
Example 2. "I brushed some wispy black strands (of hair) behind my ear."
Example 3. "I wished my blue (eyes) was as vivid as hers."

[kamreneacallis]

I just realized I haven’t described my MC’s appearance at all 😂😂

[amelie]

thank you so much for this! I'm 12 and i've just finished planning my first book ever, i was trying to write my first chapter but was already having major writer's block on how to start it and introduce my main character 😅 Thank you for the help!!!

[rayray]

Lol dam. My first chapter starts with waking up🤣, time for a rewrite!

[abigailjoanna]

What about dream sequences that come maybe after chapter one? Say dreams are a big part of the book, and they come often. I think as a reader I could handle that, and maybe starting with a dream would be fine if it's very, very key to the story plot.

[MrZkoki]

Your video is really specific. Very good for people that are starting out and are in need of guidance. No vagueness at all. Impressive, truly.

[kenacnud]

Thank you so much for this! I've seen other "cliche" or "first chapter" videos that just leave me discouraged without offering positive advice.

[rolandpais]

'I scowl with frustration at myself in the mirror'. Line First. Chapter One. Fifty Shades of Grey. Sold millions of copies worldwide bringing tremendous wealth to the author and popularity to her novels.

[iatin]

Natalia thank god we finally met, you are the teacher that i never had.

[AMG_Creates]

I'm editing right now and this was super helpful 💜