Have you wanted to write a book? Are you stuck at the beginning? Are you constantly telling yourself that you will start tomorrow, next week, or after the holidays? I know that I have wanted to write a book for a long time but I am always stuck at the beginning. I cannot seem to get myself started.

You need to stop using the excuse that you dont have the time. You can always squeeze in a half hour here and an hour there if you decide its important to you. Bring a notebook along to work with you and jot ideas down during your breaks at work. If you commute to work on a subway, you can use that time to write down ideas and develop your plot.

I believe that the best way to get started is to start writing down ideas for your plot. You need to try out different ideas. Look at old novels that you really enjoyed reading and borrow their plot. This isnt plagiarism, you wont be using their exact ideas, but see if you can incorporate them into your book story.

Once you have the plot of your story down, I think its helpful to make an outline of your story. It doesnt need to be a complete down to the last detail outline. It should include a plan for every chapter, major points to be covered in every chapter. It is also helpful to write down each characters main characteristics ahead of time so you have an idea on how to write for that character. You can then use this outline to help you along the way with your story.

After you have completed these tasks, it is time to start writing. Dont get bogged down with the editing or spell checking or whatever at this point. Just write your story. Keep writing. I think that you will find as you begin to write that the story will start to flow. You may find yourself changing parts of the story as you are writing it and thats okay. If you need specific research on a certain point, dont stop to do the research unless you cant continue without doing it. Just make a note near the point you need to cover and come back and do the research later. The point is to just get your story down on paper. Everything else can be done after you are finished.

Writing your own book can be a very personally rewarding experience, even if you never try to get it published. If it is something youve always wanted to do, I highly recommend getting started.

Jennie Crawford
http://www.jenniecrawford.com/writingabook