There’s something timeless and magnetic about writing a novel. It’s more than putting words on a page; it’s building worlds, shaping characters, and expressing your unique voice. But if you’re just starting out, the idea of writing an entire book can feel overwhelming. Where do you begin? What makes a novel... a novel? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essentials: what a novel is, what you need to start writing one, and how to stay on track through the messy middle. Along the way, I’ll share a few tools, including how JustDone can be your silent co-author when things get tricky.
What Is a Novel?
Let’s start with the basics. A novel is a long-form piece of fiction, usually over 40,000 words, that explores characters, plots, themes, and conflicts in a sustained and structured way. It differs from a short story not just in length but in depth. Novels allow space for character development, subplots, and a larger emotional or thematic arc.
Novels come in many shapes and genres—romance, sci-fi, fantasy, literary fiction, historical, young adult, and more. The structure often includes:
- Exposition – introducing characters and setting
- Rising action – building tension and conflict
- Climax – the turning point
- Falling action – resolving conflicts
- Resolution – wrapping up the story
But don’t worry, you don’t have to have all this figured out before you begin.
What Do You Need to Begin Writing a Novel?
You don’t need a fancy degree or a mountain cabin. You need three things:
1. A Rough Idea
Not a fully fleshed-out plot, just a spark. Maybe it’s a character with a secret, a world unlike our own, or a question that nags at you. Write it down.
2. A Writing Habit
Set a goal that feels manageable. Whether it’s 300 words a day or two writing sessions per week, consistency beats intensity. Use timers, set reminders, or reward yourself—whatever keeps your momentum.
3. A Flexible Outline
Think of your outline as a GPS. You might reroute or take detours, but it helps to know your destination. List your main characters, key plot points, and any major scenes you have already imagined.
Pro tip: JustDone’s AI book writer is fantastic for shaping those fuzzy ideas into a working structure, especially when you’re stuck between scenes or subplots.
How to Start a Novel
There’s no single “correct” way to start a novel. But there are a few proven techniques to hook your readers and yourself.
- Drop into the action – Start with conflict or tension. Avoid slow exposition.
- Introduce voice and tone early – The opening pages set expectations.
- Avoid info dumps – Trust readers to fill in gaps.
Start messy. The first draft is for you. Nobody has to see it. Don’t let perfectionism slow you down.
What Makes a Great Novel?
This is subjective, but most great novels share a few common elements:
1. Believable Characters
Even in fantasy or sci-fi, your characters should feel human. Readers connect with flaws, contradictions, and growth.
2. A Compelling Plot
It doesn’t have to be complicated, but it must move forward. Each scene should have stakes or consequences.
3. A Distinct Voice
Your voice is your novel’s fingerprint. It can be lyrical, raw, funny, dark, but it should be unmistakably yours.
4. Theme
You don’t have to know your theme upfront, but great novels leave readers with a lingering idea or emotion. That’s your story’s heart.
Actionable Steps to Move Forward
Based on hundreds of works I’ve ever seen and analyzed, I recommend you this short roadmap that can help you get going:
✅ Brainstorm
Write down any ideas, characters, or themes that interest you. No filter.
✅ Choose Your “What If?”
Good novels often begin with a “what if?”—What if a memory was implanted? What if a prince ran away?
✅ Write a One-Sentence Summary
Can you explain your novel in one sentence? If not, try refining it. This helps keep your focus.
✅ Start Writing Your First Scene
Jump in. It doesn’t have to be the beginning of the book. Start wherever the energy is.
✅ Track Your Progress
Use a spreadsheet, journal, or digital tracker. Celebrate small wins: every chapter finished is momentum earned.
When You Get Stuck
Writer’s block is real. So are distractions. Don’t think you’re an exception; from time to time, every writer feels stuck. But tools exist to help you move through the fog.
JustDone’s AI rewriting tool can take clunky drafts and rephrase them while keeping your voice intact. Whether you need to rework a scene or smooth out a paragraph, it’s like having an editor who doesn’t sleep.
And if you’re unsure whether your text sounds too generic or “AI-ish,” the JustDone AI detector with built-in smart report shows you which parts of your writing might need more personal touch or emotional depth.
Two powerful tools—one mission: helping you finish your book.
Final Thought: Don’t Wait for the Perfect Time
Here’s something I remind myself constantly: The best time to write your novel isn’t “someday”, it’s now. You’ll learn by doing. You’ll grow by showing up. Most importantly, your voice, your perspective, your story? It matters. No one else can tell it but you. So start scribbling. Let JustDone handle the awkward edits and formatting worries. You’ve got a story to tell—and we can’t wait to read it.
