Writing Fiction: Developing Your Book-length Story

When you feel you have a great idea for a long story, it’s wise to think about the end result of your efforts before you begin the process of writing. Ask yourself some questions:

• Who is my target audience?
• Will my ideas provide the foundation for a rich plot with interesting characters?
• What backup plan will I use to protect my work?
• Do I have sufficient time and energy for this project?

If you feel your ideas are worthwhile, jot down the story in a couple of sketchy paragraphs, then use those sentences as a guide to create an outline. The outline should contain short sentences that describe the events of your story in sequential order. The outline then becomes the blueprint for your project. It also provides protection for your plot, and helps you to remember details, in case other commitments take you away from your writing for a significant amount of time.

Use the Margins
If you begin writing your story with paper and pen, leave margin space on each side of paper. That practice will provide an area for making notes and keeping track of key points involving your plot and your characters. As your story grows in length, you’ll be wise to create notes in the margins that remind you of details involving your characters so that you can create cohesive threads throughout your story.

Computer Backups
If you are writing your story in electronic form, be certain to maintain at least two copies at all times. Many writers have lost their manuscripts due to accidental deletions and faulty media. You may also want to store your work in two separate locations.

Feedback and Direction
You may want to obtain objective feedback about your story early in the writing process. You can find direction by signing up for writing courses, and by joining a writers group. Do a Web search for writers’ groups in your area. Some groups organize regular conferences, which provide opportunities for individual writers to have one-on-one meetings with reputable agents and editors. Honest, objective feedback from a seasoned professional may help you determine whether you’re writing for your own pleasure, or if you have a story with commercial appeal. Be judicious when sharing details about your story. You wouldn't want someone else to use your ideas before you have a chance to write them down.

Promotion Before Publication
If you are hoping for financial success and wide readership, it is critical to keep in mind that some promotion opportunities take place only before publication. This page will help you learn more about this concept.

Fiction Publishing Resource Links
ACQWEB: A large directory of publishers from Vanderbilt.
About.com: Reviews of books about writing.
Poets & Writers Magazine: Check out the podcast featuring a panel discussion with fiction editors.
Writers Digest: Here's their "Get Published" page.