How to Free Write a Book
Realize that you don't necessarily need a topic., Discard the temptation to write following the "rules"., Adopt the free-writing way instead., Using only those two things, write a beginning paragraph., Simply continue writing from this point, until...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Realize that you don't necessarily need a topic.
All you need is a solid character and a setting. -
Step 2: Discard the temptation to write following the "rules".
For example, the rules would suggest writing a plan along these lines: "Plot:
A, who lives in South Carolina, has a strong desire to be the next American Idol.
If you write something using a topic so obvious and real as this one, it will be harder to write.
It is easier to "free write" a book when you have created a made-up place and events.
That way, when you're in need of a town name, you can make one up, instead of having to grab a map and pick one and do background research on it. , Simply state the character's name (Sarah McBride) and the location (North Benadsway).
That done, start writing using only those two things.
This makes it easier, because developing a story is easier when you are not trying to stick to a plot. , For example, "I have never wanted to be who my mother was.
She was a dancer, a beautiful, graceful dancer, all dressed in pink.
That is not something I want to be.
I just want to be able to keep my overalls on, and sleep in my underwear like I did when I was a child.
Can't I just choose my own future, instead of having it chosen for me?" There, you have your first paragraph.
That is an example using first person, but other examples are available. , At that point, go and bake cookies or walk the dog.
After munching on those for a while or getting fresh air (or both) get back to work! -
Step 3: Adopt the free-writing way instead.
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Step 4: Using only those two things
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Step 5: write a beginning paragraph.
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Step 6: Simply continue writing from this point
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Step 7: until you find a natural stopping place.
Detailed Guide
All you need is a solid character and a setting.
For example, the rules would suggest writing a plan along these lines: "Plot:
A, who lives in South Carolina, has a strong desire to be the next American Idol.
If you write something using a topic so obvious and real as this one, it will be harder to write.
It is easier to "free write" a book when you have created a made-up place and events.
That way, when you're in need of a town name, you can make one up, instead of having to grab a map and pick one and do background research on it. , Simply state the character's name (Sarah McBride) and the location (North Benadsway).
That done, start writing using only those two things.
This makes it easier, because developing a story is easier when you are not trying to stick to a plot. , For example, "I have never wanted to be who my mother was.
She was a dancer, a beautiful, graceful dancer, all dressed in pink.
That is not something I want to be.
I just want to be able to keep my overalls on, and sleep in my underwear like I did when I was a child.
Can't I just choose my own future, instead of having it chosen for me?" There, you have your first paragraph.
That is an example using first person, but other examples are available. , At that point, go and bake cookies or walk the dog.
After munching on those for a while or getting fresh air (or both) get back to work!
About the Author
Martha Knight
Dedicated to helping readers learn new skills in lifestyle and beyond.
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