Strategies for First-Time Novelists: Structuring Your Plot and Self-Publishing Success

Introduction

As a first-time novelist, crafting your story can feel like a daunting task. Whether you are just starting to write or you are a seasoned creative with some experience in writing, the key is to have a strategy in place. This article provides you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to structure your plot and navigate the path to self-publishing success.

Structuring Your Plot: Choosing the Right Approach

When embarking on your novel journey, you have two primary options for structuring your plot:

Option 1: Starting with a Draft

One approach is to just start writing, treating this as your first draft. During this phase, you can rewrite numerous parts to refine the storyline. Your initial story will evolve, and you can fine-tune the narrative in subsequent drafts. The focus here is on the story emerging naturally and allowing the plot to unfold. By the time you get to your second draft, you can shape your story to fit the overall ending you’ve envisioned.

Option 2: Plotting in Advance

Another option is to dive into the planning stage. Take some time to think about what you want to happen in your story. Create an outline—start with a few bullet points. Include a sentence for the beginning, another for the middle, and a concluding sentence for the end. This outline can serve as a roadmap to help you maintain direction. Expand on your story as needed until it reaches a level of detail that suits you.

Key Steps for Successful Plot Structuring

Regardless of which path you choose, there are several crucial steps you can take to ensure a solid structure:

1. Identify Key Characters and Their Goals

As you begin to write, identify the key characters in your story and their goals. This will help you understand the conflicts and challenges they will face. Let the plot unfold naturally, exploring challenges and obstacles throughout the narrative.

2. Experiment with Different Plot Structures

Consider trying different structures, such as linear, non-linear, or a multi-perspective narrative. This can add depth and complexity to your story. Outlining major plot points can also help maintain direction and ensure your story remains cohesive.

3. Start with a Compelling Opening

Tell the reader what's going on, and what the main character expects to accomplish. A strong opening hook can immediately capture the reader's interest. Just be careful not to strive for perfection too early—revisions can refine the structure later. Be open to adjustments as you write, and let the story evolve naturally.

Examples of compelling openings include:

Gosh, this looks like a treasure map! Look at her neck. Two holes. I told you there's a vampire in Middleton! Unless I can get $10,000 by the end of the month, mommas gonna lose the house.

These hooks not only pique interest but also hint at the plot or the challenges your characters will face.

Joining Writing Communities for Support

Writing can sometimes feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Joining writing communities can provide valuable feedback and support. Engaging with other writers can help refine your narrative and offer new perspectives that you might not have considered. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach; find a structure that suits your narrative and style.

Self-Publishing and Marketing Strategies

Self-publishing can be a challenging journey, but it doesn't have to be. After publishing over 200 books and running 120 million Amazon ads, I have discovered a few key strategies for success:

Step 1: Start with the Last Chapter

This step may seem counterintuitive, but starting with the last chapter can set the stage for the entire story. It gives you a clear endpoint and helps guide the narrative forwards. By coming up with compelling conclusions, you can keep readers engaged and eager to read on.

Step 2: Write the First Chapter with a Hook

Next, write the first chapter, making sure to add a compelling hook that points to the last chapter. This technique tells readers what they can expect and creates a sense of anticipation.

Step 3: Utilize Online Marketing Tools

Take advantage of online marketing tools like Amazon ads to reach a wider audience. These tools can help you reach potential readers more efficiently. Regularly updating these ads can help keep your book in front of readers.

To make the process smoother, I have created a free self-publishing secrets checklist, which breaks down these steps into easy-to-follow bite-sized chunks. By following this checklist, you can streamline your process and increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

As a first-time novelist, you are part of a vibrant community of writers. By following these strategies and continuously honing your craft, you can create a compelling narrative and achieve self-publishing success. Remember, the journey of writing is a continuous process of learning and growth. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the creative journey.