The Most Common Mistakes New Writers Make
Writing a book is a long and continually thoughtful process. So if this is your first time putting your words to paper, it’s understandable that you may not have every aspect of creating the perfect book covered.
Do you have a great story you want to share, and have the ambition to move forward with your dream? Let me reassure you: common first-timer mistakes don’t need to hold you back!
Instead, look for these mistakes that tend to occur with new authors, and use your editor’s eye to correct and change as needed before you reach your final chapter. By being aware and alert for these potential missteps, you can ensure your book will be just right, before it heads to the publisher!
You want the reader to understand your story, your environment, and your characters, but trust your reader to fill in the blanks!
Over-explaining is a common problem with new writers, simply because we want our readers to truly understand where we’re coming from. Trust that your writing style and your voice is enough to guide the way.
New writers know they want to prove themselves, and it’s easy to overcompensate for this by throwing in as many impressive words as possible.
But your language doesn’t have to be at a doctorate level in order to be impressive! In fact, by using too many long, arduous, and complicated words, you could lose a chunk of your audience in the process.
One of the biggest challenges for writing a full book as opposed to a short story or novella is that you have to keep the style consistent throughout. This includes using one or no more than two point of views and sticking to the protagonist throughout the story. After all, your reader needs to bond with your “main character” through the story, and this is hard to do when the focus shifts around too many characters.
Two other things to keep in mind when it comes to consistency are style and pacing. Certainly some parts of your book may be more exposition, while others are more exhilarating or fast paced. But keep your timeframe steady and understandable throughout, without big or jarring time jumps.
You’ll also want to keep your writing style consistent as well, from your first page to your last. Sitting down and making time to write every day will go a long way in ensuring that your voice stays consistent throughout your book.
No writer can go it alone, especially if they are a first-timer! You may want to write, edit, and self-publish your own story, which is certainly an economical way to go. But even the best writers in the world need a hand along the way.
Consider enlisting the help of a “partner publisher” who can assist you with copyediting, layout, cover design, ISBN and bar code registration, and all those little details you might not be aware of if this is your first book.
With a trusted publisher who has experience helping thousands of writers realize their dream, you’ll feel you are in good hands when it’s time to go to print.
Another great way to bounce ideas around for your book is to meet other writers! I have the perfect opportunity for you with my Book Bound By The Sea event this coming January.
Join us in Florida for this 3 day workshop, packed with information and ideas for book writing and publishing. Get inspired while learning and forming a network of writers like you!
I hope to see you there, but until then, happy writing!