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Coming up with a story idea is exciting, but how do you know if it’s worth pursuing? Fiction writers often grapple with this question, especially when faced with an influx of ideas. While there’s no definitive formula for a “good” story idea, certain criteria can help you evaluate its potential. This guide will walk you through the process of determining if your story idea has what it takes to captivate readers and sustain your passion for writing.
1. Does It Excite You?
Your enthusiasm for the idea is a strong indicator of its potential.
- Passion Drives Commitment:
Writing a story takes time and effort. If the idea genuinely excites you, it will keep you motivated through the challenges of drafting and revising. - Explore Why It Excites You:
Ask yourself what specifically intrigues you about the idea—is it the characters, the setting, or the central conflict? Understanding your enthusiasm can help you focus your narrative.
Read more: How to Determine if Your Story Idea is a Good One: A Guide for Fiction Authors
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For new fiction authors, establishing a writing routine is one of the most effective ways to turn creative aspirations into completed stories. A consistent routine not only helps you make steady progress but also fosters discipline, creativity, and confidence. However, creating a sustainable routine requires thoughtful planning and a bit of experimentation.
Here’s how to build a writing routine that works for you.
Read more: How to Build a Writing Routine: A Guide for New Fiction Authors
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Writing is an exciting and creative journey, but for new writers, it can also be fraught with pitfalls. While mistakes are part of the learning process, being aware of common ones can help you navigate the early stages of your writing career with greater confidence. Here’s a guide to some frequent missteps new writers make and how to avoid them.
1. Failing to Plan or Over-Planning
- The Problem:
Some writers dive into their projects without a clear idea of where the story is headed, leading to aimless plots. Others spend so much time outlining that they never get to the actual writing.Plotter – Does a detailed outline - How to Avoid It:
- Find a balance between planning and spontaneity.
- Use a loose outline to guide your story while leaving room for creativity.
- If you’re a discovery writer (a “pantser”), make periodic notes to keep track of plot threads and character development.
- Panster – This person does not do an outline. They let the characters tell the story.
Read more: What Are Common Mistakes New Writers Should Avoid?
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Criticism and rejection are inevitable parts of a writer's journey. Whether it’s a critique from a beta reader, a less-than-glowing review, or a rejection from a publisher, every author encounters moments of doubt and discouragement. While these experiences can sting, they also provide valuable opportunities for growth. This guide will help you navigate criticism and rejection with resilience and use them to become a stronger, more confident writer.
1. Understand That Rejection Is Normal
Rejection doesn’t define your talent or potential—it’s a universal experience among writers.
- Even the Best Are Rejected: Famous authors like Anne Rice and Stephen King (Carrie) faced multiple rejections before achieving success. - Understand that these are also the success stories. There are authors out there that you do not hear about that were rejected 500+ times, and they are still not published to spite their perseverance. I was one such case. Rejected 350+ times. I finally said – F this poo and published myself. Sometimes you have to throw out all the naysayers and do it yourself.
- It’s Part of the Process: Not every agent, editor, or reader will connect with your work, and that’s okay. The book publishing industry is subjective, not objective. They’re also looking for the next billion-dollar hit so that they can cha-ching all the way to the bank and then go on vacation for the rest of their lives. Rarely are they interested in developing your author career, like they were when Stephen King and Anne Rice were first publishing.
- Reframe Rejection: Instead of viewing it as failure, see it as a step closer to finding the right audience or publisher. It’s not your fault they don’t like your book. Keep trying and start making alternate plans.
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Read more: How to Deal with Criticism and Rejection as an Author
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Writing a first draft is an accomplishment, but the real magic happens during editing. For new authors, editing may seem daunting, but it’s a critical step in transforming a raw draft into a polished story. Editing isn’t just about fixing typos—it’s about refining your narrative, enhancing your characters, and ensuring your story resonates with readers. Here’s a guide to help new authors navigate the editing process effectively.
Read more: How Authors Edit Their Work: A Guide for New Writers