National Novel Writing Month Tips...

When you're going to attempt to write a 50,000 word novel in the span of 30 days it makes sense to be prepared ahead of time. Here are some tips that I've picked up along the way

1) Have a decent outline..or at least an idea of what you're writing about: The rules say you can't start writing until 12am (local time) Nov 1st but you can make a plan for yourself. Even if you just plot everything out in your head, as long as you know what you want to write it will help avoid burning out right at the beginning.

2) Ignore your inner editor and critic: Nothing can throw you off like that voice telling you all the mistakes you may or may not be making. If you stop to edit then you're daily word count is going to be low and it may even cause you to get discouraged enough to quit. Tell that voice to bugger off on a vacation until you've finished your novel or December, whichever comes first.

3) Pace yourself: Don't set unrealistic daily and weekly word goals for yourself. If you write more then the 1666 words a day needed to end on time that's great, but if you can't then don't try forcing yourself to. As long as your story is flowing then you're fine.

4) Don't Panic!:  Yes, it's a huge task. Sure others will have higher word counts then you, but that's okay. You're not in this alone so I repeat, DO NOT PANIC.

On a personal note, I like to have a play list of music that relates to the story I'm trying to tell. It helps get the words out when I'm feeling a little blocked. This may work for you too but I know it's not everyone's cup of tea.