So You Want to Write Novels? Here's How to Become a Novelist
How to become a novelist starts with understanding that you're already on the journey. If you're reading this, you've taken the first step: acknowledging your desire to write. Let's cut to the chase with what you need to know:
Quick Guide to Becoming a Novelist:
Read extensively in your chosen genre Write consistently (aim for daily practice) Develop your unique voice through practice Study storytelling techniques and structure Join writing communities for feedback and support Revise and edit your work thoroughly Explore publishing options when your manuscript is ready
"So you want to be a novelist? The first thing you need to know about writing a novel is that there are no easy answers," notes bestselling author Michelle Richmond. This truth might feel daunting, but it's also liberating. The path to becoming a novelist isn't a single highway but a network of personal trails.
Each successful novelist has traveled their own unique route. Some have formal education in creative writing, while others are entirely self-taught. Some wrote their breakthrough novel in their twenties, others in their seventies. What unites them all? Persistence, practice, and passion.
According to the most recent data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors earn an average of around $79,590, proving that writing can indeed be a viable career in 2025. But the journey typically begins not with a paycheck but with a blank page and an idea that won't let go.
The good news? You don't need special credentials to start. You need only the courage to begin and the determination to continue.
Understanding What It Means to Be a Novelist
Being a novelist means more than simply writing stories. It means becoming a creator of worlds, a sculptor of characters, and a weaver of emotions. Novelists craft extended narratives that engage readers through multiple chapters, developing complex plots and characters that evolve over time.
A novelist is someone who writes novels—book-length works of fiction typically ranging from 70,000 to 100,000 words. But the true essence of being a novelist goes far deeper than word counts. It's about embracing a particular way of seeing the world, of noticing the small human moments that others might miss.
"If you're a writer, you're going to write," Jennifer Weiner wisely observes. This inner compulsion to tell stories often awakens long before publishing contracts or book deals enter the picture. Many successful novelists describe writing not as something they chose, but something that chose them.
The writing life isn't one-size-fits-all. Your journey toward becoming a novelist might take various forms, each with its own rewards and challenges. You might find yourself drawn to become a fiction novelist, creating original stories in genres ranging from literary fiction to mystery or fantasy. Or perhaps you'll balance novel-writing with work as a freelance writer, crafting articles and blog posts that sharpen your storytelling skills while paying the bills.
Some novelists find their voice as children's authors, writing specifically for younger readers. Others find that magazine writing gives them both creative outlet and professional credentials. The paths of copywriting and ghostwriting can also provide valuable experience in crafting compelling narratives while building professional connections.
At the heart of all these paths lies the ancient art of storytelling. Since humans first gathered around fires, we've used stories to make sense of our world, to pass on wisdom, and to connect with one another. The novelist's craft builds on this fundamental human tendency, shaping it into extended narratives that have the power to transport, transform, and even heal.
And healing through storytelling is something we at Superbly Scripted understand deeply. The act of writing—of organizing thoughts, processing emotions, and creating meaning—can be profoundly therapeutic. When you start on the journey of how to become a novelist, you're not just learning a craft; you're developing a powerful tool for self-expression and personal growth.
Whether you dream of bestseller lists or simply wish to complete one meaningful novel in your lifetime, understanding what it truly means to be a novelist is your crucial first step. It's about commitment to the craft, openness to learning, and above all, honoring the stories that only you can tell.
How to Become a Novelist: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: How to Become a Novelist by Developing Your Idea and Choosing Your Genre
Every great novel begins with a spark. Maybe it's a curious "what if" question that pops into your mind during your morning commute. Perhaps it's a character who starts whispering in your ear, demanding their story be told. Or maybe it's just an image that won't leave you alone.
As Toni Morrison wisely said, "If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it." This captures the beautiful responsibility of the novelist – to bring into existence the stories that are missing from the world.
When developing your novel idea, start by asking yourself those "what if" questions. What if a ordinary accountant found out they could speak to ghosts? What if a family reunion uncovered decades of secrets? These questions can crack open entire worlds of possibility.
Pay attention to the world around you. That stranger with the interesting walk at the coffee shop? The overheard conversation on the bus? These everyday moments are gold for novelists. As Joanna Penn suggests, "Follow your curiosity, notice what interests you, and write down sparks of ideas that appear in daily life."
Try to distill your concept into a single sentence – what writers call the "elevator pitch." This should include your protagonist, their central conflict, and something surprising that makes your story unique. This exercise helps clarify your thinking and ensures your idea has enough substance to sustain an entire novel.
Choosing your genre isn't just about categorization – it's about finding your literary home. If you've always devoured mysteries, there's probably a reason. Your genre choice will guide everything from your story structure to your word count:
Literary Fiction dives deep into character psychology and often prioritizes beautiful prose over plot mechanics.
Romance explores the emotional journey between characters with the promise of a satisfying ending.
Mystery and Thriller novels keep readers turning pages to find whodunit or how the protagonist will escape danger.
Science Fiction and Fantasy create new worlds or reimagine our own with speculative elements.
Historical Fiction brings the past to life through meticulous research and compelling characters.
Horror plays with our deepest fears and anxieties.
Write what you love to read. Your enthusiasm will shine through your prose, and you'll already understand the conventions and expectations of your chosen genre. That said, take time to research the current market. Find 5-10 bestselling books similar to your concept and study them closely. What are readers responding to? How might your story offer something familiar yet fresh?
Step 2: Create Compelling Characters and Plot
Characters are the beating heart of your novel. Without characters readers care about, even the most intricate plot will fall flat. Think about your favorite novels – chances are you remember the characters long after you've forgotten the details of what happened.
Great characters start with desire. What does your protagonist want more than anything? This central desire should drive your entire narrative. Maybe they're seeking justice, love, redemption, or simply survival. Whatever it is, make it powerful enough to sustain hundreds of pages.
Next, consider what stands in their way. These obstacles create the conflict that propels your story forward. Is it another character with opposing goals? Internal fears and flaws? Societal constraints? The most compelling stories often feature all three.
Finally, think about how your character will change by the story's end. This change—known as the character arc—gives your novel emotional resonance. Even if your character doesn't achieve their initial goal, they should emerge changed by their journey.
Many writers use what author Nathan Bransford calls the "triangle method" for creating authentic characters – blending someone you know, a trait of your own, and pure imagination. This combination creates characters who feel both familiar and surprising.
For your protagonist, develop a deep understanding of who they are beyond their role in the plot. Know their background, appearance, personality quirks, relationships, strengths, weaknesses, desires, and fears. You won't include all this information in your novel, but this knowledge will inform how your character responds to the events of your story.
Your supporting cast should be just as thoughtfully developed, each serving a purpose in your protagonist's journey. Your antagonist provides opposition, your mentor offers guidance, your allies provide support, your love interest creates emotional complexity, and your foil highlights aspects of your protagonist through contrast.
Plot gives your characters somewhere to go. Several classic story structures can provide helpful frameworks:
The Three-Act Structure divides your story into setup, confrontation, and resolution – a time-tested approach dating back to Aristotle.
The Hero's Journey follows your protagonist through separation from their ordinary world, initiation through trials, and return with new knowledge.
The Save the Cat method breaks stories into 15 specific "beats" that guide pacing and emotional impact.
Christopher Booker's Seven Basic Plots identifies recurring narrative patterns like "overcoming the monster" or "the quest."
Regardless of which structure you choose, effective plots typically include an inciting incident that disrupts your character's normal life, rising action with escalating conflicts, a climactic confrontation, and a resolution showing how characters have changed.
Remember Michelle Richmond's wise observation: "Every novel demands its own structure, pace, and perspective." Use these frameworks as guides, not rigid rules. Your unique story may require adaptations and innovations.
Step 3: Establish a Writing Routine
The romantic image of a novelist waiting for inspiration to strike makes for good movies but poor writing careers. The truth is both simpler and more challenging: successful novelists write consistently, whether they feel inspired or not.
"A writer writes," as author Larry Siegel bluntly puts it. "If you're going to be a writer, nothing, not even a difficult major, can stop you." This simple truth is both comforting and demanding – the path to becoming a novelist is available to anyone willing to do the work.
Creating a sustainable writing routine starts with honest self-assessment. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Do you have 30 minutes during your lunch break? Can you write with background noise, or do you need silence? Work with your natural tendencies rather than against them.
Set specific, achievable goals. Starting with 200-500 words per day or 30 minutes of focused writing builds confidence and momentum. As novelist Jodi Picoult says, "You can always edit a bad page. You can't edit a blank page." Getting those initial words down – even if they're not perfect – is the essential first step.
Your writing environment matters too. Create a space that signals to your brain it's time to write. This might be a dedicated home office, a favorite coffee shop, or even just a specific chair at your kitchen table. The key is consistency – your brain will eventually associate this space with creative flow.
Writer's block happens to everyone, but it needn't derail your progress. At Superbly Scripted, we've found that reflective writing techniques can break through creative barriers. Try free writing without censoring yourself, change your physical location, interview your characters on paper, or skip to a different scene that excites you.
Sometimes the best way to overcome a block is to step away. Go for a walk, listen to music, or engage in a different creative activity. Your subconscious mind often solves story problems when you're not actively thinking about them.
The "Write Drunk, Edit Sober" approach doesn't literally mean drinking while writing. Rather, it suggests writing your first draft with uninhibited creativity and emotional openness, then approaching revision with critical distance and analytical thinking. Give yourself permission to write imperfectly in early drafts.
Accept that writing a novel takes time. Most writers complete a rough draft in about six months, but that first draft represents only about 10% of the complete work. The magic happens in revision, where your initial ideas transform into something deeper and more polished.
Step 4: Revise and Edit Your Manuscript
Ernest Hemingway didn't mince words when he said, "The first draft of anything is shit." This blunt assessment contains a liberating truth: nobody writes a perfect first draft. Not you, not me, not even Hemingway.
The revision process is where the real artistry of novel writing emerges. It's where your raw material – the clay of your first draft – gets shaped into something beautiful and lasting.
After completing your first draft, step away from it completely for at least a week. This distance gives you fresh eyes and emotional perspective when you return. Many writers describe the strange sensation of reading their work almost as if someone else wrote it – this detachment is exactly what you need for effective revision.
When you return to your manuscript, start with the big picture. Does your plot maintain momentum throughout? Are there holes in your logic or timeline? Do your characters remain consistent (or change in ways that make sense)? Does each scene move the story forward? This structural editing phase addresses the foundation of your novel before you worry about sentence-level concerns.
Next comes line editing, where you refine your prose. Look for redundancies, clichés, and weak verbs. Vary your sentence structure to create rhythm. Ensure your dialogue sounds natural and serves multiple purposes – revealing character, advancing plot, and creating subtext.
Copy editing addresses technical issues like grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. While less glamorous than other revision stages, these details matter. Readers notice errors, which can pull them out of your story world.
Finally, proofread to catch any remaining mistakes before submission. Many writers find that printing their manuscript and editing by hand provides a fresh perspective. As Joanna Penn suggests, "Print out your draft and edit by hand with scribbled notes and arrows."
Feedback is essential to the revision process. No writer can see all the flaws in their own work. Consider sharing your manuscript with:
Beta readers – fellow writers or avid readers who provide general impressions from a reader's perspective.
Critique partners – other writers who exchange manuscripts for detailed feedback.
Writing groups – communities that offer ongoing support and critique.
Professional editors – experts who provide specialized editorial guidance.
When receiving feedback, not all suggestions will align with your vision. Listen with an open mind, but trust your instincts about your story. As Philip Vitkus wisely notes, "There are truly no good writers. BUT, there are good re-writers!"
At Superbly Scripted, we've found that revision often reveals deeper layers of your story and characters. What began as a simple tale may develop unexpected complexity and resonance through thoughtful revision. This is one of the most satisfying aspects of the novelist's craft – watching your story become more than you initially imagined.
Step 5: How to Become a Novelist by Exploring Publishing Options
After months (or years) of writing and revising, you'll face a crucial decision: how to bring your novel to readers. Today's authors have more publishing options than ever before, each with its own advantages and challenges.
Traditional publishing follows a time-honored path where you sell your manuscript to a publishing company that handles editing, design, production, distribution, and marketing. This journey typically begins with finding a literary agent who believes in your work and will champion it to publishers.
Research agents who represent your genre and follow their submission guidelines precisely. Prepare a compelling query letter – a one-page pitch introducing yourself and your novel. If an agent expresses interest, they'll request your manuscript. If they agree to represent you, they'll submit your work to publishers and negotiate terms if a publisher makes an offer.
The advantages of traditional publishing include professional support throughout the publishing process, no upfront costs to you, wider distribution to bookstores, and industry recognition. The challenges include fierce competition (many agents receive thousands of queries annually), less creative control over elements like your cover design and title, lower royalty percentages (typically 8-15% for print books), and a longer timeline from submission to publication (often 18-24 months).
Self-Publishing puts you in the driver's seat of the entire publication process. You'll hire professionals like editors and cover designers, choose a publishing platform like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or IngramSpark, set your price and distribution channels, and market your book to potential readers.
The benefits of self-publishing include complete creative control, higher royalty percentages (typically 35-70%), a faster publication timeline, and retention of all rights to your work. The challenges include upfront costs for professional services, responsibility for all marketing and promotion, limited physical bookstore presence, and potential stigma (though this has diminished significantly in recent years).
For a comprehensive guide to self-publishing, Jane Friedman's resources at janefriedman.com are invaluable.
Many authors today choose a hybrid approach, using traditional publishing for some projects and self-publishing for others. This flexible strategy allows you to match each manuscript with its optimal publishing route based on factors like genre, target audience, and your goals for that particular book.
Whichever path you choose, publishing is not the end of your novelist journey but the beginning of a new phase. As your book reaches readers, you'll continue growing as a writer and storyteller. The best novelists see each book as both an achievement and a stepping stone to the next creative challenge.
How to become a novelist isn't about following a single prescribed path – it's about finding the approach that works for your unique voice, story, and circumstances. The publishing landscape continues to evolve, offering new opportunities for writers willing to adapt and persevere.
Nurturing Your Creativity and Avoiding Burnout
The novelist's journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Sustaining your creativity while avoiding burnout requires intentional self-care and ongoing inspiration.
Keeping Your Creative Well Filled
Creativity isn't an endless resource—it needs regular replenishment. Think of your creative energy like a garden that needs tending. When bestselling thriller author Joanna Penn visited London's Hunterian Museum, she didn't go there planning to find inspiration. Yet the sensations she felt while examining medical specimens in jars later became the foundation for her first crime thriller. This illustrates a fundamental truth about creativity: it thrives on new experiences.
Reading widely across genres exposes you to different writing styles, plot structures, and character development techniques. That fantasy novel might give you the perfect solution for your romance manuscript's sagging middle. The memoir you picked up might offer insights into authentic emotional expression that lifts your science fiction story.
Beyond books, other art forms can spark unexpected connections in your writer's mind. The rhythm of a jazz piece might help you find the cadence for a difficult dialogue scene. A painting's use of shadow and light might inspire your description of a character's internal conflict. Films and theater showcase masterful storytelling techniques you can adapt to your own work.
New environments don't require expensive plane tickets—even exploring a different neighborhood in your city can refresh your perspective. Notice the architecture, the way people move, the ambient sounds. These sensory details become the raw materials for your fiction.
The practice of people-watching is a novelist's secret weapon. That heated argument at the next coffee shop table? The tender way an elderly couple holds hands on the park bench? Pure gold for your character development. Keep your ears and eyes open—human behavior is endlessly fascinating and forever inspiring.
Capturing these inspirations is essential, which is why many successful novelists keep an idea journal with them at all times. Your brilliant idea for a plot twist won't wait until you're at your desk. Jot down that perfect snippet of dialogue you overheard on the bus before it evaporates from memory.
When Fear Blocks Your Words
Writer's block often masquerades as procrastination, but its root is usually fear. You stare at the blank page, feeling paralyzed, while your inner critic whispers: "You're not good enough," "No one will want to read this," or "What if you can't finish?"
At Superbly Scripted, we've seen how acknowledging these fears is the first step toward moving past them. Simply naming what's holding you back—"I'm afraid this chapter isn't as good as the last one"—reduces its power over you.
Writing through resistance means putting words on the page even when they feel clumsy or wrong. Set a timer for just 10 minutes and give yourself permission to write badly. Sometimes you need to get the awful first draft out of the way to reach the good stuff hiding underneath.
Many writers are their own harshest critics. Practicing self-compassion means treating yourself with the kindness you'd offer a struggling writer friend. Would you tell them they're talentless? Of course not. Extend that same grace to yourself.
When the publishing world feels overwhelming, try focusing on process rather than outcome. Find joy in the act of creation itself. Celebrate the days you show up at your desk, regardless of word count. The satisfaction of crafting the perfect sentence is a reward in itself.
The stories we tell ourselves shape our reality. Replace "I'll never finish this novel" with positive affirmations like "I am making progress every day" or "My unique voice matters." This isn't empty positivity—it's retraining your brain to support rather than sabotage your writing goals.
Caring for the Writer, Not Just the Writing
The romantic image of the tortured artist sacrificing health for art is both dangerous and outdated. Your body houses your creative mind, and protecting your physical health is essential for a sustainable writing career. Invest in an ergonomic chair if possible. Set up your workspace to prevent neck and wrist strain. Your future self will thank you.
Writing is sedentary work, making regular movement crucial. Many writers find their best ideas come during walks. Ernest Hemingway stood while writing. Virginia Woolf paced as she composed sentences in her head. Movement doesn't just prevent physical stiffness—it also keeps your thinking flexible.
In our always-connected world, setting boundaries around your writing time becomes essential. This might mean turning off notifications, establishing dedicated writing hours, or having honest conversations with family about respecting your creative space. "No" to interruptions is "yes" to your novel.
The solitary nature of writing can lead to isolation. Connecting with others—both fellow writers and non-writers—provides necessary perspective and emotional support. Join a writing group, meet a friend for coffee, or simply call someone who makes you laugh. These connections refill your emotional tank.
The path to publishing is long, making it vital to celebrate small victories along the way. Finished a difficult scene? Treat yourself to something special. Received encouraging feedback? Take a moment to savor it. These celebrations sustain momentum through challenging stretches.
The creative writing healing benefits extend far beyond your novels. Many writers find that their practice becomes a form of self-therapy, helping them process complex emotions and experiences. The very act of changing chaos into narrative creates meaning and fosters resilience.
As novelist Jennifer Weiner beautifully puts it, "Tell the story that's been growing in your heart, the characters you can't keep out of your head." By honoring your unique vision while caring for yourself as a whole person, you'll sustain both your creativity and your joy in the writing process.
How to become a novelist is as much about nurturing yourself as it is about mastering craft. The strongest stories come from writers who have learned to balance passion with self-care, discipline with compassion, and solitude with connection.
Building Your Writer's Platform and Community
Writing may be a solitary activity, but publishing is inherently social. Building a platform and connecting with a community supports both your creative development and your publishing success.
When I talk with aspiring novelists, they're often surprised to learn that writing the book is just the beginning. The path to becoming a successful novelist also involves creating connections – with readers, fellow writers, and the broader literary world.
Developing Your Personal Brand
Think of your writer's platform as your literary handshake with the world. It's not about marketing gimmicks or self-promotion that makes you cringe. Rather, it's about authentically sharing who you are as a writer and what matters to you.
Start with a simple author website – nothing fancy needed! Just a clean, professional space where curious readers can learn about you and your work. My friend Sarah started with a one-page site that grew organically as her writing career developed.
Social media can feel overwhelming, but the secret is to choose just one or two platforms where you genuinely enjoy connecting. If you love visual storytelling, Instagram might be your home. If you prefer quick conversations, Twitter (now X) might work better. The platform matters less than your authentic presence on it.
Many successful novelists swear by their newsletters. Unlike social media, where algorithms control who sees your posts, newsletters create a direct line to readers who've invited you into their inbox. Even with just a dozen subscribers (often friends and family at first), you're building meaningful connections.
"Your natural connection with the audience is more important than perfect grammar or technical prowess," one writing coach told me, and I've found this to be absolutely true. Readers connect with the human behind the words, not a polished marketing persona.
Finding Your Writing Community
No one understands the peculiar challenges of how to become a novelist quite like other writers. Finding your "writing people" can make all the difference in your journey.
Local writing groups often meet at libraries, bookstores, or community centers. These face-to-face connections provide not just feedback on your work, but also friendships that sustain you through the inevitable ups and downs of writing life. I still meet monthly with a group I joined seven years ago – they've seen my novel evolve from a messy first draft to a completed manuscript.
Online forums expand your community globally. Platforms like Absolute Write Water Cooler, Reddit's r/writing, or genre-specific forums connect you with writers at all stages of their careers. These virtual communities can be especially valuable if you write in a niche genre or live in an area without many local writers.
Conferences and workshops offer concentrated doses of both learning and connection. Yes, they can be an investment, but many writers find the relationships formed during these events become career cornerstones. Many offer scholarships or virtual options if cost is a concern.
As one experienced novelist shared with me, "You need writing friends. You need people who understand that rejection is part of the process, who can celebrate your victories and commiserate with your defeats." I couldn't agree more. The writing journey has enough solitary moments – don't make the mistake of traveling it entirely alone.
At Superbly Scripted, we've witnessed how shared writing experiences create powerful bonds through our own writing communities. Writers who support each other not only improve their craft but steer publishing challenges with greater resilience and joy. Join us today!
Leveraging Digital Platforms
Today's aspiring novelists have unprecedented opportunities to reach readers directly, without waiting for traditional gatekeepers to open doors.
A blog related to your novel's themes can attract readers who share your interests. If your historical novel explores Victorian medicine, blog posts about your research might find readers fascinated by that era. These connections often evolve into a supportive community long before your book launches.
Podcasts have become increasingly popular among writers. Whether interviewing other authors or discussing topics relevant to your work, audio content creates an intimate connection with listeners. The format allows your personality to shine through in ways written content sometimes can't.
Platforms like Medium or Wattpad let you share your writing and build an audience simultaneously. Many novelists have found their first dedicated readers through these channels. Some have even attracted agents and publishers after building a substantial following.
Platform-building is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on sustainable practices you genuinely enjoy rather than exhausting yourself by trying to be everywhere at once. One thoughtful blog post a month serves you better than daily posts you resent creating.
The goal isn't to become a marketing expert – it's to create meaningful connections that support your life as a novelist. When approached with authenticity and patience, building your platform becomes not just a publishing necessity but a rewarding part of your creative life.
Overcoming Challenges on the Path to Becoming a Novelist
Every novelist's journey comes with its share of problems. From that first rejection letter to wondering how you'll pay the bills while pursuing your passion, these challenges are normal parts of the writing life. But here's the good news: understanding these obstacles ahead of time can help you steer them with greater confidence.
Dealing with Rejection
Let's be honest—rejection stings. But it's also a badge of honor worn by virtually every successful writer. Did you know that J.K. Rowling's little wizard named Harry was shown the door by 12 publishers before finding a home? Stephen King received so many rejections for "Carrie" that he actually nailed them to his wall as motivation. And Madeleine L'Engle's beloved "A Wrinkle in Time" faced 26 rejections before becoming a classic.
One writer I know shared, "I received 25 rejections before finding a good match with an agent." This isn't the exception—it's the rule.
When that rejection lands in your inbox (and it will), give yourself permission to feel disappointed. Sit with that feeling for a bit. Then, look for any useful feedback hiding in the message. Rejection is about this particular piece of work, not about you as a person or your worth as a writer. Set a time limit for your disappointment—maybe 24 hours—then dust yourself off and keep submitting. The writers who succeed aren't necessarily the most talented—they're the ones who refused to quit.
Maintaining Motivation
The path to completing a novel resembles a roller coaster more than a straight line. Some days, you'll feel unstoppable. Other days, opening your manuscript feels as appealing as a root canal.
During those low moments, reconnect with your original passion. Why did you start writing this story in the first place? What excited you about these characters? Instead of focusing solely on outcomes like publishing deals or sales figures, celebrate the process itself. Did you write for 30 minutes today? That's a win worth acknowledging.
Track your progress in a way that feels satisfying—watching your word count climb from 10,000 to 50,000 provides tangible evidence of your commitment. Find someone who will check in on your writing goals regularly—accountability works wonders when motivation wanes. And don't forget to reward yourself for milestones, whether that's completing a challenging chapter or sending out your first query letter.
Financial Considerations
Money matters can be one of the trickiest parts of pursuing a novelist career. According to the most recent data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors earn an average of around $79,590, proving that writing can indeed be a viable career in 2025. But that figure can be misleading for novelists specifically, as it includes many types of writing careers, and income for fiction writers varies dramatically.
Most successful novelists build their careers gradually, starting with supplementary income from freelance writing, teaching, or other flexible work that supports their novel-writing time. Many writers diversify their income streams by writing short stories, articles, or content related to their novel's themes.
Don't overlook grants and residencies that can provide both financial support and dedicated writing time. And be sure to budget for professional services like editing and cover design—these represent investments in your career, not just expenses.
Novelist Shaunta Grimes shared a realistic perspective: "I sold four books in six years and earned a bit less than $100,000. A solid part-time income." Understanding the economic realities of publishing helps set appropriate expectations and plan accordingly.
The Power of Persistence
If I could distill the most important quality for aspiring novelists into two words, it would echo Larry Siegel's advice: "Keep going."
This simple directive captures the essence of the novelist's journey—showing up on the page again and again, regardless of external validation or immediate success. At Superbly Scripted, we've watched countless writers transform their relationship with challenges through reflective practice. When you view obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than impossible barriers, you develop the resilience needed for a sustainable writing life.
How to become a novelist isn't just about learning craft techniques or publishing strategies—it's about developing the emotional fortitude to continue despite uncertainty. Every published novelist was once exactly where you are now: facing a blank page, battling self-doubt, and choosing to write anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Novelist
Do I Need a Degree to Become a Novelist?
One of the most beautiful things about novel writing is its democracy—you don't need a fancy degree hanging on your wall to tell compelling stories. While some bestselling authors have MFAs in Creative Writing or English degrees, countless others come from wildly different backgrounds or never set foot on a college campus.
"You don't necessarily need to study writing in college to become a writer," as one experienced novelist shared with me recently. In fact, studying subjects that fascinate you—whether it's ancient history, marine biology, or criminal psychology—often provides the rich soil from which unique stories grow. Your distinctive life experiences and knowledge base become your secret ingredients.
That said, intentional learning about the craft can definitely accelerate your growth. Think of these educational options as tools in your writer's toolkit:
Degree programs offer immersive training and valuable connections, though they require significant time and financial commitment.
Certificate programs through community colleges provide focused training with less investment.
Online courses range from free YouTube tutorials to premium masterclasses with famous authors.
Workshops give you intensive, short-term learning experiences with immediate feedback.
And good old self-study through craft books, writing podcasts, and author interviews remains incredibly effective for self-motivated learners.
At Superbly Scripted, we've seen writers succeed with all these approaches. The best path depends on your learning style, available resources, and specific goals. Many novelists combine formal and informal learning throughout their careers, continually sharpening their skills with each new project.
How Long Does It Take to Write a Novel?
"How long is a piece of string?" might be the honest answer here! The timeline for writing a novel varies dramatically based on several factors.
Most writers complete a rough draft in about six months, though I've known authors who've written drafts in six frenzied weeks and others who've lovingly crafted them over six reflective years. Novels typically range from 70,000 to 100,000 words (with variations by genre), and your daily writing schedule dramatically impacts your timeline.
Your natural writing style matters too. Plotters who outline extensively often write more quickly than pantsers who find the story as they go. Neither approach is better—they're just different roads to the same destination.
As Nathan Bransford humorously points out, if you write just half a page a day (about 125 words), you can complete a novel in a year. Consistency often matters more than speed.
Remember too that the first draft represents only about 10% of the complete work. The entire journey from initial concept to publishable manuscript typically unfolds over 1-3 years:
Brainstorming and research: 1-3 months of exploration and planning
First draft: 3-6 months of creative outpouring
Revisions: 3-12 months of refining and deepening
Professional editing: 1-3 months of polishing
Each novel follows its own organic timeline. While some authors, like Harper Lee, spend years crafting a single masterpiece, others produce multiple books annually. Your novel will tell you how much time it needs—learning to listen to that inner creative voice is part of becoming a novelist.
Should I Self-Publish or Seek a Traditional Publisher?
This might be the publishing question of our era, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision depends on your personal goals, available resources, and the specific book you've written.
Traditional publishing might feel right for you if you value the validation of being selected by an established publisher. There's something undeniably special about a professional team believing in your work enough to invest in it. You'll benefit from their expertise in editing, design, and distribution, with potential access to physical bookstores, libraries, and major literary awards.
The trade-offs? You'll likely wait 1-2 years from acceptance to publication, earn lower royalty percentages (typically 8-15% for print books), and face the considerable challenge of finding an agent and publisher in a competitive landscape. And yes, rejection is part of this journey—even for books that later become bestsellers.
Self-publishing might better suit you if creative control matters most. You'll make all decisions about your cover, title, pricing, and marketing. The entrepreneurial aspects of managing the publishing process might energize rather than drain you. You'll keep a higher percentage of sales revenue (typically 35-70%) and enjoy a much faster timeline from completion to publication.
This path requires upfront investment in professional editing, design, and marketing, with responsibility for all promotion falling on your shoulders. While self-publishing stigma has dramatically decreased, some literary awards and review outlets remain closed to independently published works.
Many of today's authors are "hybrid" writers, publishing some works traditionally and others independently. As the publishing landscape continues evolving, flexibility serves writers well.
At Superbly Scripted, we encourage you to align your publishing choices with your personal definition of success. For some writers, seeing their book in major bookstores feels essential; for others, connecting directly with readers through self-publishing brings greater satisfaction. Becoming a novelist is ultimately about finding your unique path—both in crafting your stories and in sharing them with the world.
Conclusion
Becoming a novelist is both simpler and more complex than most aspiring writers imagine. Simple, because the fundamental requirement is straightforward: write consistently and improve gradually. Complex, because the journey demands emotional resilience, creative stamina, and practical knowledge of both craft and business.
As we've explored throughout this guide, becoming a novelist involves several key elements that work together like instruments in an orchestra. You need compelling ideas that resonate with readers. You need characters who breathe and plots that captivate. You need the discipline to establish writing routines that withstand life's ups and downs. You need the humility to revise your work until it shines. And you need the courage to steer the publishing landscape, whether traditional or independent.
Remember what Jennifer Weiner wisely observed: "If you're a writer, you're going to write." This simple truth cuts through all the noise. The calling to tell stories comes from somewhere deep within, and honoring that impulse—regardless of external validation or immediate success—is what truly defines the novelist's path.
At Superbly Scripted, we've witnessed the transformative power of writing. The act of creating a novel changes you in profound ways. You develop patience as you nurture a story over months or years. You cultivate empathy as you step into different characters' perspectives. You build resilience as you face rejection and criticism. These qualities serve you not just as a writer but in every aspect of life.
Your journey begins with a single word and continues one page at a time. There will be glorious days when inspiration flows like a river, when characters speak to you so clearly you can barely type fast enough to capture their voices. And yes, there will be difficult days when each sentence feels like moving a boulder uphill. Both experiences are essential parts of the process.
The world needs your unique voice and perspective. Your stories matter—not as distant dreams but as words you choose to write today, tomorrow, and the day after that. The novel you're yearning to create exists first as a possibility, then as a practice, and finally as a reality.
We invite you to explore more resources at Superbly Scripted, where we offer additional guidance on reflective writing techniques, creative healing, and the craft of storytelling. Your novel awaits—not somewhere in the future, but in the choices you make right now.
Begin. The world is waiting for your stories.
