Taking a Pledge To Write a Crappy First Draft

Yawatta Hosby  
The different ways to get your story finished on the first try without worrying about writing rules, and giving an idea of what writers experience after NaNo

Most experienced and beginner writers participated in NaNo this year. It's a fun challenge of creating a 50,000 word novel in the month of November. For those that are busy during that time of year, Camp NaNo is also an option.

The tip I'm going to share can apply to NaNo or anytime you write a first draft:

IT'S OKAY TO WRITE A CRAPPY FIRST DRAFT.

The whole point of writing is to get your thoughts on paper or your laptop. Being old school, I always jot my stories in notebooks because they're easy to carry and you never know when you'll find inspiration. After I'm finished, then I type my words into a Microsoft Word document or Google Doc, depending on if it's a short story or novella.

I'm asking you to take a pledge with me:

  • Turn off your inner-editor
  • Don't stress yourself, attempting to make each chapter perfect on the first try
  • Get all your zany ideas on paper or your laptop, no questions asked
  • In the famous words of Stephen King "don't write in fear"

Why is it okay to write a crappy first draft?

BECAUSE, OF COURSE, YOU'LL REVISE LATER.

The same writers who participated in NaNo are more than likely taking a few months to revise their stories. Taking out the info dumps. Taking out the excessive backgrounds of their characters. Checking grammar and varying sentence structure. Adding creative metaphors. Strengthing character's voice. You get the idea.

Nothing is perfect on the first try. Life would be boring if that was true. It's exciting going through multiple drafts until you're satisfied with your story. It's a huge accomplishment. No matter what--be proud to call yourself a writer.

Happy Writing!

Keep smiling,

Yawatta Hosby

 

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