NaNoWriMo Tips and Tricks

Happy writing month to all my fellow writers out there.  Yesterday was the start of the fast and furious novel writing month. I've been taking part in this for 8 years now and because I've learned a few things, I'm sharing them with you. 

Also if you're on twitter follow #NaNoWriMo15 or #NaNoWriMo for updates from writers everywhere! 

Here are my past posts:

1. Are you thinking about it?
2. Tips 1
3. And finally, it can happen to you: Authors who wrote their first draft during NaNoWriMo and after edits and revisions, became published.

Most importantly, have fun with it!

NaNoWriMo: Are you thinking about it?

I LOVE November - not just for the fall flavors, the boots, and the chilly crisp air but also because it's the one time of year that I stick to a writing schedule.

I've done NaNoWriMo for 6 years now and I'll be working on my 7th this year. I love it and here's why:

1. Everyone knows I do it, so I'm not pressured into saying yes for other things this month

2. I write Daily (or almost daily, I do take some days off)

3. The creative juices flow and I get into the heads of my characters

4. I feel accomplished after hitting my word count for the day

5. I talk about writing on twitter with other writers - and it's all encouraging

6. I know the words don't have to be perfect -they just have to be there (This was tripping me up before whenever I started writing, but thanks to the short window, now it doesn't matter. I have all the time in the world to go back and fix them.)

7. I have a plotting dinner date with my husband each year before November at the restaurant of my choice. He listens to me plot and offers suggestions when I get stuck.

So, if you're on the fence, bite the bullet and do it. You won't regret it!

Also, I've written a few handy tips here and here should you still be deciding.

When you join up, don't forget to friend me! (YA Book Nerd of course)

NaNoWriMo Tips

I've been writing for six years and I thought I'd share a little bit what I learned the past few years.

Plot - at least a little bit for each chapter so you know what's coming next. Get a notebook (I'm addicted to notebooks). Write out character details, chapter notes, or maps.

Word Count - create a personal word count and STICK to it! I use 2000 words/day because I know there are days I might take off. Also I want to finish before Thanksgiving - which is later in the month this year. Update your word count at the end of each day on the website - it makes you feel accomplished.

When Writing - After hitting your word count, leave off writing at place when you know what's going to happen next - this will make your next day SO much easier.

Environment - If you're some who can't work with quiet, play a little music in the background, something that gets your creative juices flowing, but that's not going to interfere with your writing.

Writer's Block - When you get stuck (and this WILL happen), talk about your story with someone. I usually talk my plot issues out with my husband and often he has some great ideas on where to go next - or he triggers something by asking questions of the story.

Perfection - Don't expect it, the point of this month is just to get words down on paper. There will be many more drafts as you polish it up. If you concentrate too hard on perfection, you won't get anywhere.

Have Fun - This is a fun event - don't get stressed out about it.

If you're writing this year, Good Luck, and friend me under YA Book Nerd:  http://nanowrimo.org/participants/yabooknerd