Five Tips for Writing Your First Novel-Brandon Sanderson

It's November, the National Writing Month here in the U.S. And if you're planning on participating in NaNoWriMo (the annual creative writing project that takes place in November where participants attempt to write a 50,000 word manuscript) I thought I would offer a bit of advice.
I'll be posting a few of these videos throughout the month so keep your eyes open. But most importantly, keep your hands on your keyboard! Those 50K words aren't going to write themselves!
More info about NaNoWriMo: nanowrimo.org/

[@creepyog2008]

I’m a professional truck driver who has plenty of time to think about what to write but don’t have the time to write it. I’m going to try this month, though. Wish me luck!

[@xxririkko]

If you can't write because your hands are occupied, maybe you could try "writing" via speech-to-text or just propping up a recorder to record your thoughts

[@Spooky799kil]

Be careful though. Some states say besides phone calls using a phone in a vehicle is illegal. Not only that but your insurance might not cover it either as they will use you being on your phone.

[@evandempsey7613]

You can hire me to type the stuff you dictate 😂

[@felicitypevideos4224]

The voice memo app on the iPhone is a godsend to write without your hands!

[@sellawin]

Good luck! speech-to-text is getting better all the time...

[@TheKrazyLobster]

"Loosely defining a novel as fifty thousand words or, as I like to call it, the prologue."

[@ender4344]

Lmaooo

[@exosproudmamabear558]

Damn my fanfic was a slightly (12.000 words more) longer prologue then. I wrote that shit in seven months, man writes it in two days.

[@ling2186]

You have to remember that traditional authors like Brandon only write 500 - 1000 words per day when writing a novel. Compared to web novelists who usually write 2000 - 6000 words per day. 50k words is something challenging to traditional authors.

[@exosproudmamabear558]

@@ling2186 In web novels demand is too high and in fanfics it is free and people has other things to worry. They are usually doing it as a hobby so you write all it once in one day after thinking a lot. I usually write two-three chapters at once(13000 words or more) and it affects quality a lot if I go too fast but I can always fix my mistakes by editing or revamping it.(You can even have a few side authors nd an editor if you want) So you can go whatever speed you want. Traditional authors cant change their work and need to compress words since series gonna be long anyway. And quality is open to discussion of course.

[@ling2186]

@@exosproudmamabear558 See that is the thing. I wouldn't write for free so I have to write everyday to make sure that I keep my readers wanting more so they continue to pay me.

[@deanyona6246]

"National Novel Writing Month is a challenge where writers are challenged to write a novel within one month." I see that every month is Novel Writing Month for Brandon...

[@oscarrosenwald4001]

EVERY DAY IS LESBIAN-LOVER-DAY!

[@donovandavis7398]

When your wife leaves and takes the kids. Brandon: At least I have you typewriter and notebook

[@Xarfax321]

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!!! What have I done....?

[@jujujoestar9882]

Word count 🤣

[@jujujoestar9882]

@@devinreese7704 I mean sometimes authors tended to stretch paragraphs.

[@jaydingiesler5280]

I think it’s really neat that such a well loved author is taking the time to teach new writers the craft. Thanks for giving back to the community.

[@wtfwaffles267]

I wish i could like this comment many more times!

[@everlyw7892]

@@wtfwaffles267 well I’ll do it for you!

[@tysanaspeer6968]

Yessssss

[@casey2401]

He’s a rare gem. Can’t recall interacting with a single fellow writer I haven’t pointed towards Brandon, & his manna of writer’s wisdom. 🥰

[@reapermaster1233]

Yeah that's why we love him

[@UdyKumra]

"Most of my novels are quite a bit longer?" Oh really? I couldn't tell 😂

[@sterlingmuse5808]

50000 words is about how long his novellas are lol

[@genericallyentertaining]

@@sterlingmuse5808 Dawnshard is 57,000 words.

[@sterlingmuse5808]

@@genericallyentertaining Oh wow, he topped Edgedancer lol

[@anime_series6809]

50000 words are short to me

[@dpresspotato4495]

I read Chinese novels, trans to English. Typically about 2000 chaps. Wonder how many words were they hmm. And I find them short.

[@SayaKuro12]

1:31 Borrowing a Structure 4:18 Begin with a Monologue 5:39 What does my character want and what does my character need and why can't they have either one 7:21 Choose your type of progress 10:15 Prime your mind

[@Rhadagar]

Thanks!

[@briandoeslife7182]

ty

[@christinabenadict6660]

👍🏽

[@alansmithee419]

Ah yes, "Borrowing."

[@sterlingmuse5808]

Thanks for outlining this. My ADHD brain kept getting distracted.

[@alliramsay1328]

Re: finding a time to prime your mind. Me: *Laying in bed trying to fall asleep* My brian: "Excellent, this is the perfect time to plot out an entire novel."

[@practiceofpoetry]

I also come up with all my best ideas when I'm trying to sleep and then I have to get out of bed to write them down

[@skyesfury8511]

This is, sadly, how I go to sleep every night. Which means I'll never actually WRITE the novels that play out in my mind. =/

[@Raikeran]

i just write notes on my phone till i fall asleep lol

[@drankkenaquamiel5217]

Me when I'm having a shower

[@quibily]

I do this, too. As I lie there, I make a voice memo on my phone, listing out my ideas That way, at least my eyes are getting some rest, haha.

[@clydebarnes8059]

I’m 17 and I’ve been writing short stories for a little while. This will be my first serious attempt at a novel.

[@JenN-fp8id]

Good luck!

[@jimmychurch9588]

You can do it man! Just keep at it, every day writing is a little closer to being done.

[@guardianofthetoasters2323]

Damn same here man what a coincidence (17 yrs old and plan to make worth while sotry), do tell when u finish your book I wanna read it and ill also do the same

[@ender4344]

You got this! Good luck!! :DD

[@jemajoy8839]

👍✍️

[@Vyshhnuu]

50000 words is equivalent to Brandon’s grocery list

[@Cynicalsoup]

Meanwhile Binging with Babish's shopping list is the length of Rhythm of War

[@MrAntares13]

I see Brandon's going for the Evil Abed look lol

[@theaddictofgaming9174]

Naw, the hair is real

[@RaymondStormbl3ssed]

Darkest timeline indeed

[@sesinyembezi1035]

Eeeeeeey!

[@MrDeloty]

♫Evil Troy and evil Braaandon♫

[@RebekahParkhurst]

Oh my gosh yes

[@kazmohdim]

BRANDON! How can I write a book this month when YOUR book comes out this month!!!???

[@reaganorton1710]

Right?!

[@davidpo5517]

It's the test of an author to see if you can ignore distractions, no matter how tempting.

[@thenailsageofgeo4975]

Or just speedrun Rythm of war. Skip half your sleep and it might be doable.

[@aindoria]

You somehow imply you won't finish it in like 2 days.

[@sterlingmuse5808]

@@aindoria I used all of my free time and it still took a week each for Wok and WoR. Oathbringer took longer. I have no reason to believe RoW will be that short for me.

[@nicholasn8480]

”One character is doing something really interesting and your protagonist is just observing and commenting on it, AVOID THAT.” Arthur Conan Doyle has entered the chat.

[@katelynsullivan4400]

F. Scott Fitzgerald has entered the chat.

[@zoeywhite2343]

Emily Brontë has entered the chat

[@TheJadedJames]

As someone who is NOT as acclaimed a writer as Sanderson, I think you can totally have the protagonist be a passive observer. I instantly thought of The Great Gatsby when he said this. But I think the problem he might more specifically be talking about is something like Final Fantasy 12, where the main character just feels pointless versus something where the writer is having you experience the subject of their story, through the lens of a more normal/identifiable protagonist.

[@Maren617]

Holmes is still the protagonist, just not the POV character. We're not following Watson around buying groceries, talking to the neighbors, getting into an argument with someone, etc., we're only following Holmes around (via Watson), hearing everything Holmes hears, seeing everything he sees, but without knowing his inner thoughts until he reveals them at the end. While the POV is external, the protagonist is still clearly Holmes. Same with Great Gatsby: different POV, but Gatsby is still the protagonist. They're not necessarily the same thing. Watson is used like a personified 3rd person narrative voice.

[@jemajoy8839]

😅

[@metro6567]

Remember: you can make NaNoWriMo your own personal challenge! 50k words too much for you? Make your goal 30k, or 10k. Perhaps you just want to be able to write everyday and this becomes your goal. Make NaNoWriMo personal and achievable to you! Keep writing.

[@jessevans9753]

Thanks for this! 50 000 words seems really daunting, so maybe I'll drop it down to 20 000 or something 😂

[@sterlingmuse5808]

Also worth mentioning that setting "time" goals, like "I'll write 3 hours every day" isn't that effective. Even if you only end up writing for half that time, it's generally more effective to say "I'm going to write 3000 words today" or something like that that you can do, because you'll be spending your time more directly and you will be able to see yourself achieve the goal.

[@metro6567]

@@sterlingmuse5808 Yep! Time goals are easy to procrastinate though, whereas seeing yourself get closer to a target word count encourages you to write even more (it does for me, at least)

[@nabilamiah3814]

Of course! You don't have to write only novels either! Novellas, short stories, poems, etc.

[@katelynsullivan4400]

I did this last year. My only goal was to write something everyday, even if it was just one sentence. Some days I wrote 5k, some days I wrote 500, and some days I wrote 3 words. But I wrote everyday. I kept the habit after November and I’ve written 200k words total this past year. Now I’m doing the traditional NaNo this November and I feel confident because I’ve built up the habit, almost like I’ve trained for a 5k.

[@jcwebb264]

I know I'm late but I watched this and then wrote my first ever complete novel - 75k in 26 days. Not in November, not following a group, just decided to do it. It's not good (it's actually more like a really comprehensive outline), but I'm thrilled that I DID IT. Thanks for being the inspiration :)

[@lazarusofentropy5966]

I see nobody’s said anything in response, so I just wanted to say you did an amazing job! Great work!

[@hildalex]

Well done! 🎉

[@rafaellewis1263]

That’s amazing!

[@thethmooteresa]

Incredible 🎉🎉🎉

[@LilyGazou]

Applause!!!!

[@angelawesneski5029]

I love how supportive you are of aspiring writers. There's no divisiveness in the way you are sharing advice. Thanks for being you!

[@thomasmorrone893]

You know why he's so good at giving advice? Because unlike every other person who tries to give writing advice, Brandon focuses on what you COULD do, instead of what you CAN'T or SHOULDN'T do. That's why this man, cross-legged and all, is a great advisor.

[@diegooland1261]

Or he's just cashing in on his name identity for a few KZbin bucks.

[@ufoash440]

@@diegooland1261 You're never gonna be happy in life with that attitude

[@diegooland1261]

@@ufoash440 Never? You mean if I go skiing on the perfect day, I'll go back to the car at the end of the day unhappy? Birth of a child, unhappy? My novel a NY Times best seller, unhappy? Do you think it possible Brandon is, to some extent, cashing in on his name? Or is he totally above such a base motive?

[@sionellmccubbin953]

@@diegooland1261 Brandon has a literature degree and did teaching before he got published and he’s also married to an English teacher, so while his name helps of course I genuinely think he just loves writing and talking about books and sharing that knowledge with his readers. That’s why his lessons are so useful, they genuinely want to help young writers succeed and are based off his own experiences

[@brouwjon]

While I don't want to contribute to a cult of personality, I have to say I'm struck at what a great guy Brandon is. Just really kind-hearted and excited about sharing his wisdom of this craft with aspiring writers. I'm not even a huge reader of his books, but I'm a big fan of him as a person. From all the talks, lectures, and conversations I've seen with him, I can just tell he's a wonderful dude.

[@davidjamerson2777]

It is my opinion that when a person truly loves what they do and the field they're in, their enthusiasm for the field takes precedence in their manner of speaking and thoughts, and as such when others want to get into said field they enthusiastically support that and wish to enable it in any and every way they can. Brandon seems to be that kind of person, and it's amazing to see. Edit: What I mean is that it doesn't appear to be a job to him, he makes it seem to be a passion, and when someone is truly passionate about what they do, they want more people to enjoy it with them.

[@premiumcheddar9983]

This is my fourth NaNoWriMo and I swear that this time I WILL FINISH IT Edit: November 5th and I am approaching 21k words! Edit 2: Monday the 9th now, and I am just under 30,000! One of my beta readers loves what I've been doing so far. Edit 3: November 20th, and I just hit 50k late last night! I'm probably about halfway done with my book, and my friend has informed me that it is really good so far :) Final edit: Nov. 30, and I'm at 63k. I hope you all enjoyed the process and did a great job on your projects!!!

[@karimtharwat6662]

GODDAMN IT ME TOO. WANNA BE MY WRITING PARTNER AND KEEP EACH OTHER ACCOUNTABLE ?

[@paulwarren4155]

We shall accomplish it this year sir. I’m in the same boat.

[@premiumcheddar9983]

@@karimtharwat6662 Sure lol, sounds good

[@strdseraph2765]

Same.

[@LONlG]

You can do it!

[@RJ_Ehlert]

If anyone still likes the concept of a character being on the outside observing "something really interesting happening to another character" I suggest taking Lord of the Rings as an example. Aragorn is basically a quintessential archetype for a main character in epic fantasy. He is introduced as an outsider living on his own and providing for himself with hard won skills. He becomes the de facto leader for a group of people on an important quest, after the first leader dies. He has a tragic star crossed love story where his girlfriend's family keeps them apart. He has a secret bloodline lineage to royalty. He earns the respect and admiration of the nation by being a Big Damn Hero. He eventually becomes King and marries his love after earning the approval of her family. However, The Lord of the Rings is really about Frodo. That's one very good example of how to make an unlikely outside character be an interesting protagonist in your fantasy book, without making them become an elite warrior-mage or ruler of nations.

[@Ryan-mech-muffin]

Yay! Frodo deserves more love. He's an excellent character

[@LoudWaffle]

Aragorn is also, as far as I remember, never even a point-of-view character. I remember reading from an interview that Tolkein always made the point-of-view character the one who knows the least in the situation. That’s why the story is almost exclusively told from the viewpoint of the Hobbits, not only Frodo but also Merry and Pippin, and increasingly Sam toward the end of the story.

[@RJ_Ehlert]

@@LoudWaffle Yes. Using a character who knows the least is a more natural way to deliver information to your reader.

[@samwallaceart288]

This could also be why _LOTR_ was notoriously a "slow" book for a lot of people

[@RJ_Ehlert]

@@samwallaceart288 I disagree. I think it was slow due to the multi-page long descriptions of food and trees.

[@mehkle4431]

Brandon: Maybe when you're doing the dishes me: makes an entire story for 30 minutes then goes back to the room desk only to forget all of it

[@elfboy745]

It's very important not to cross a threshold (doorway) when you are trying to hold on to a thought. It might seem like bunk, but our minds have a bad habit of switching priorities when we cross a threshold- thats why you find yourself forgetting why you entered a room even though you did for a reason. If you do dishes and think of your story, have a way to record it like dictating to your phone. It might not make 100% sense as your mind flows, but at least you will have some of the story you were thinking about.

[@NightWink129]

@elfboy745 Oooh, I didn't know that about thresholds. That actually makes sense, considering the literally different environment you end up walking in to. I've often found that looking at/doing the same thing that I was when I had the idea will help me recall it. Unfortunately, the DVR that I was getting into the rhythm of using went corrupt, and I lost all my files. So, I don't trust recorders like that anymore. At this point, I usually push myself so deep into thought that bee-lining it to my analog journal or commiting the ideas to memory before leaving the room almost always works for me.

[@nachoijp]

I wonder if Brandon likes heists 🤔

[@toenailairconditioner7406]

isnt final empire (mistborn 1) a heist?

[@everettwhitaker7829]

@@toenailairconditioner7406 , indeed it is

[@elsecaller9619]

@@toenailairconditioner7406 bruh that was a joke

[@toenailairconditioner7406]

Atomic1129 how did that go over my head im such an idiot lol

[@sterlingmuse5808]

Beginning of Mistborn, Mistborn book 6, Steelheart (in a way), Warbreaker (in a way). I think it's safe to say so.

[@mohitbelagal4155]

Mark my words: Brandon Sanderson will be the most influential authors ever. Not only are his books phenomenal, he is helping so many young writers out there like me. Thank you Brandon

[@specialknees6798]

He is already one of the most influential fantasy authors ever. That podium consists of Tolkien, Jordan, and Martin, but Sanderson is doing his absolute best to catch up. I guess Sanderson’s problem is they don’t have the same literary quality as the rest. They’re plotted well, with great characters and they’re fun to read, but his prose is lacking and his writing style is very indistinct

[@quinnholleman1547]

It's not that his prose is lacking, it's that his writing style is more similar to a thriller than a traditional fantasy. He's still a fantastic author and his style is very difficult to emulate well.

[@egg7739]

It happened to me with a specific genre. You know, the "I've reincarnated into this fantasy/magic world where I am the daughter of a very important person who was a villain but I turned them good" or "I've reincarnated into this fantasy/magic world that I already know from a book I was reading so I know everything that's gonna happen". I read so many of those, and every time i'd question "If a normal person died only to reincarnate in a fantasy world like that, would they really be that chill? Would they really be the same? work towards good?" and that's how I started writing about a girl who lives as a villain her own life but when she's ready to die, goes back in time and has to deal with her own past mistakes, inevitably making her own selfish decisions completely different from the original timeline. For me, it was a hella good way to get me to write. It's really good advice.

[@egg7739]

@Mekal Covic re:zero was a trip my guy. At some point it felt more like torture on the poor character

[@pulupulu1325]

isekai??

[@thanosnoctem4473]

Damn, that's a cool plot

[@yamidelacroix6729]

What you were reading sounds a lot like the manhwa I was reading, they always had the same sort of flow. I enjoy the genre just wish there were more branching out and stepping into different avenues. Yours sounds really interesting and I can see where different conflicts can pop up. Hope the writing goes well.

[@Nobody-pv9jt]

Bro was reading trashy isekai and it changed his life 💀

[@DrewMalou]

Good luck to everyone who is embarking on their NaNoWriMo journey!

[@ender4344]

Thank you! Good luck to you too if you're participating :D

[@DrewMalou]

@@ender4344 Thank you! I'm not this year, but I am still working on a book, haha.

[@diegooland1261]

They will need it. It's a really bad idea.

[@DrewMalou]

@@diegooland1261 what makes you say that? If it helps people write more, I think it could be a good thing! lol

[@diegooland1261]

@@DrewMalou It takes most people years, not a month. I'm all for a nudge to get writing. But I find it odd because I can't help but write all the time. And what happens when the month ends and the novel isn't done? Have you "failed"? If you have a big pile of stuff, well okay I guess. Outline, plot points, character development?

[@natalie_kendel]

Something I really enjoy about you, Brandon, is that you have this appreciation for writers all being different. You don't claim that one things will 100% work for everyone... and that this is more than ok. I think that's the sign of a seasoned writer who isn't hocking wares or pushing an agenda, but has really experience and wisdom under this belt.

[@diegoanivasa7867]

You sound like you've just been from Jenna Moreci 😂

[@FrankThorntonReviews]

Hello Mr Sanderson, I would just quickly like to say what a great author and inspiration you are to me: a twelve year old writing his first novel. I haven’t finished this video yet, but Great advice so far! Kind regards, Frank Thornton. P.S: thanks for the writing excuses podcasts, they’re also really helpful. P.S.S: I shall make sure to send you a copy of the novel if it is published!

[@RADimation]

Write on!

[@sorayacatfriend]

Always great to hear about young people writing. Good luck!!

[@FrankThorntonReviews]

Thanks for the encouragement everyone, and thanks for the correction on the P.S.S, I shall be sure to remember that in the future!

[@thundertrap4163]

@@FrankThorntonReviews Is good that you know what you want to do from this age! I started to like writing at 14 and during the whole high-school period, because I chose Computer Sciences and Maths as the main ones, I bounced between programmer, engineer, computer engineer, until I gave up and realized that in my country, Romania that is, there aren't any good places to learn how to write. I mean... over here "education" is as developed as the British Empire's education was in 1789... Young one, don't let school or other types of life's limitations hinder thee in thou path!

[@RobertShaverOfAustin]

@@thundertrap4163 Good advice. It wasn't until my second year in college that I figured out that I was responsible for what I learned. I am the author of my experience. Then and there I started taking the classes I wanted to take. I also quite worrying about grades. After college the jobs I took were mostly doing things I had never done before but I liked interviews and was able to persuade the boss that I can learn what is needed to get the job done. Now, after working as an engineer forty years, I'm retired and trying to learn to write. I'm sure I can do it but it is harder than writing software or designing circuits. NaNoWriMo, here I come ... again.

[@SharonStoppable]

One time I challenged myself to write 10,000 words in a day just to see if I could do it, just to get the bare bones of the story out. I did it. Now I want to speed run NaNoWriMo.

[@cormorantcolors6791]

Going off tip 3, I actually like to use my experience with tabletop RPGs (specifically D&D in this example) to build a protagonist. An easy start to a character is a trait, an ideal, a bond, and a flaw. Your trait and ideal are the foundation of your character. How does your protagonist act and what do they care most deeply about? Your bond is a tie to a person, place, or thing that is related to the plot. This is why they should care about what’s happening on a personal level. Finally is a flaw to round them out.

[@MerkhVision]

Oh those are some great key points to use in creating characters!

[@Battleguild]

You can also upscale this with villages, towns, cities, nations, or dungeons: each of these communities make-up one big organism...like what a character is.

[@farahtasneem3304]

That is so helpful, thank you for sharing!

[@kingcrow15]

Next video title, Five novels for writing your first tip.

[@thundertrap4163]

WHERE IS THIS MAN'S NOBLE PRIZE?!!! BTW, Mr. Sanderson, you're surely going to be credited as one of my mentors in my books, even if we never spoke. Your videos on KZbin and your books educated me. First, I got to enrich my vocabulary with some modern words and idioms that I didn't encounter 'til I've started reading "The Way Of Kings" because English is my second language and I've only recently started reading in English. And in second, your videos and classes got me more knowledge about how I should write a book than what 4 years of repeated tries did. I started a "short-story series" with a great idea before I even knew what a short story was, and the atrocities that were in the world-building and character work and plot in that project made me delete it and put it on hold until I finish high school in a few months and focus on my writings full-time. Thanks for the 20 hr education that's worth more to me than the 12 years of painful and time-wasting "education" that has a pending doom.

[@cadencev5572]

honestly same, if I ever make it as an author, I'll put brandon sanderson at the top of my list of acknowledgements

[@fabiancalderon6729]

Nobel's are a political award. Sanderson is not a political writer. Also, King would get it before him lol

[@ThrottleKitty]

Or as Stephen King calls it, Tuesday

[@andrewe360]

50.000 words a day

[@emmanuelkeister1643]

Thank you for the Advice. I'm a teen who been planning a book for a while. I'm a junior in highschool and your videos been a great help. Thanks for writing such great books.

[@thundertrap4163]

Keep going bruv! I'm almost done with school and then I'll go ham on writing. FR, this is a great job for the passionate. The process is a bit slow, the rejections suck, but the outcome is worth it all. Let's keep writing alive at least for this generation and the next,

[@lettuceprime4922]

We're proud of you fam. Take care of yourself and write what you love.

[@gem9535]

Dude, I started a book during Junior High, but eventually had to give up because it just wasn't a good book. I'd say learn how to write short stories first (because short stories need a whole 'nother set of needs), because it doesn't hurt nearly as bad to throw away ten thousand words, as it does to throw away 50,000+ :')

[@gem9535]

That being said, the most important thing is that you enjoy it and that you do it in a healthy way. No sitting at the desk for 8 hours straight or forgetting to eat. Been there, done that, back still hurts my Junior (in highschool) year.

[@haleymist09]

Hi Emmanuel. It's 11 months in the future. How'd it go? Hey, you're a senior now!

[@CJthedragon8]

THIS MAN IS A GOD SEND!!!

[@c-m-laurin-lenschow]

This was uploaded while I was working on my first novel - I like KZbin :)

[@thenailsageofgeo4975]

Nice, I’m in the same boat. Best of luck with your boat

[@pIayingwithmahwii]

he looks like a bond villain with the fancy fireplace, the fancy chair, the blinds, the suit, the beard

[@scottreigle1756]

He just needs a cat to complete the look.

[@Thisone109]

He has a parrot

[@falx94]

I'm currently writing a fairly ambitious/complicated fantasy series, and after a long time of getting stuck just endlessly world building I decided to jump right into it and start writing based on the notes and stuff I had compiled over the past year. This helps a lot, especially the "prime your mind" bit. A lot of my issues come from starting a chapter, writing a few sentences, and then going "Where the hell do I go with this?" I know what the end goal is, but I get stuck on how to get there.

[@TenTonNuke]

I too tried my hand at fantasy writing, but realized my entire first book would have to be nothing but descriptions of each race - their appearances, behaviors, traits. I was like 3 chapters in before I realized that nothing had happened yet. I tried to look at Salvatore and how he built Menzoberranzan and the drow in his Drizzt series, but even that took several books to bring to life. I have since given up and focused more on fantasy based in this world (supernatural elements and such). It's much easier when you don't have to explain what a human is or how a car works. Good luck.

[@lonnisplace1459]

I've been planning a fantasy series for the past decade but every attempt I had at writing it was trash, so I scrapped it. I still plan on writing the series, but I have a few books I'm writing rn. My current story, it took a couple of idea trials. My original idea transformed into this completely different one and this is the furthest I've gotten in writing. I've heard people say that good writers also read, but I got a new perspective the other day. My Lyft driver advised not to read because I'd end up trying to write like the author of the book. I did read and found myself trying to copy them. RN my book is all over the place. Personalities aren't in sync, the pacing is all over the place, and idk if it's good at all. My friend says it is. I know I have to go back to refix the beginning in order to match what's going on now. I just don't know if I'm going too fast in my story. I'm not even at sixty pages yet and so much has happened compared to other stories, idk if it's right. I need to find Beta readers to give me an honest non biased opinion. But for now, I just want to write until I'm finished, then go back and fix the beginning to match everything. I have high hopes and I think my idea is really good. It's just the issue with the execution. But I think I'll try this challenge with my book. I'm already over 30,000 words in, but I'm nowhere near finished. This will help me try to reach my made up deadline to finish by next month, at least my first draft because I procrastinate a lot

[@falx94]

@@lonnisplace1459 You sound similar to me when I write in a lot of ways. I haven't actually run into the problem of unintentionally imitating other writers when I read a lot while writing, but I also locked in my own style a long time ago, so when I read more while writing I just notice that my style becomes more refined. But I imagine that differs for everyone. One thing that helped me tremendously was when I read that the first draft is pretty much ALWAYS going to be trash, because it's not meant for anyone's eyes but yours. The first draft is the author telling themselves the story. Once it's done, once they know the story, then they can start refining it because they're not just shooting in the dark anymore.

[@lonnisplace1459]

@@falx94 That's a helpful way to look at it. I always thought it was just a trashy way to get a story out before refining it. This definitely helps. Idk if I'd say I have my own writing style. I think I do and that style has helped me write essays and creative writing pieces with better than average grades. I may have been trying to copy the author at the moment but I think I'm getting back to my original self, though it's hard to see if that's true. It's my first time actually writing a full length novel, not just attempting to do it. It's nerve racking but after a few trials and finding Beta readers to give me feedback, I think it'll be a success. I think my second book will be, too. I've already started on it. And I've started on my third, as well. I have a difficult time staying on one project. Thank you for that tip, though. I'll keep it in mind

[@falx94]

@@lonnisplace1459 Haha, we're similar that way too! I've got roughly 6 other novels partially drafted in addition to the fantasy series I want to write, and the genres are wildly eclectic. I also have trouble focusing on a single project at a time. It's frustrating but it also makes it easy to jump into something else when I run up against a block on whatever I'm working on currently. Good luck with your work though, when you get published hit me up here and I'll be sure to read it!

[@Niner902]

Mr. Sanderson, As a former creative writing student who lost his way for a couple years, I just wanted to say that discovering the cosmere--and stormlight in particular--is what has inspired me to begin my writing anew yet again! I've always wanted to become a fiction author, with my own emphasis on fantasy and science fiction as well. All I have to say is that the amount of work and time you spend not only WRITING incredible stories but also PROVIDING aspiring writers like myself with advice like this is immeasurably helpful and so, so, SO APPRECIATED.

[@jaymigooden691]

Thank you for the advice. I’m 24 and this is my first serious attempt at writing a book. Terrified but pumped 👏🏾

[@JktuUekmw]

I am not a writer, never wanted to be, but i guess i never realized just how much technique a good book involves to deliver,and that it's not just "well come up with an interesting story and write it down" , so it's been a _week_ of binging Brandon, and hey, a shoutout to Shad for sending me to check out his lectures!

[@gagemorgan7135]

Shadiversity is great.

[@hyrumtanner5584]

Listening again after 3 years, everything is still relevant. Thanks Brandon. As to priming your mind, not sure where you're living if you're mowing your lawn in November! But anyway, my favorite way to prime my mind is to look at artwork. Paintings, drawings, photos, even short videos. Sometimes a scene or setting will just spring out and you'll know that's what you needed for your next chapter.

[@dabee8207]

These were legitimately great tips, writing as a character explaining themselves to u is a great way to iron out ur characters and truly give them different voices and the archetype u want them to have! 😁👍

[@JesseVanWagner]

Really appreciate all the hard work you've put into your KZbin channel this year. I love watching your lectures, but these bite sized videos are great!!!! Thanks Brandon

[@PiratePrinceEdward]

It's super kind of you to help out new writers like this. Thank you.

[@McSkankydog777]

thank you for all the great help for writing that you provide! thank you for your podcast, lecture recordings, pep-talks, and all the other great things you give to the writing community!

[@AlexM-mj3sq]

1:30 Tip 1 - Borrowing Your Structure; a lot of books we write come from experiencing other people's stories, enjoying them, and then digging into the idea "Man, I really liked that story. Could I write something like that?" Boiling a story we enjoy to it's fundamental structure and then rebuilding an original story around that structure 4:15 Tip 2 - Start With A Monologue; Pretending to interview your character and writing out their life story is a great way to get ideas flowing 5:35 Tip 3 - What Does My Character Want, What Do They Need, And Why Can't They Have Both? 7:30 Tip 4 - Choose Your Type Of Progress; We get pulled through stories/stories become page turners because we watch progress unfold. Reinforce this progress through plot and concrete checkpoints. You want to always be moving in a direction (does not have to be linear/always forward) 10:15 Tip 5 - Prime Your Mind; Participating in activities that leave your body moving but your mind free to think (mowing the lawn, doing dishes, cleaning, laundry, etc) push your focus towards your novel and allow yourself to think about what to write next. Prime yourself using daydreams, music, etc. to sit down and start writing without pausing

[@danielleb205]

Thank you for sharing your advice with us, Brandon! Feeling extra inspired to finish my novel🙏🧝‍♀️

[@juveejunko]

I always feel so inspired after listening to him talk!

[@meditationstorytime]

Thank you Brandon! You are one of my favorite people. So kind and generous to give us so much of your wisdom and advice. Love your books and all you've done for the writing community.

[@aaronekstrand758]

Brandon why are you such a blessing, I can't believe this content is free and you're still making it

[@MrBodies07]

Hope I get the chance to shake Brandon's hand at some point and say thanks for all the knowledge he's shared and the huge inspiration he's been. Even if I never publish a word, he's largely responsible for inspiring me to pick up a pen and embark on an incredibly fulfilling writing journey.

[@sarahmatthews5878]

"Quite a bit longer." You are so modest! I love it. Thanks for your tips!

[@cameronsmith1229]

I love writing and I can't tell you how much I appreciate you making these videos. I never thought I could make significant progress on my fantasy series until I followed this channel.

[@NAZGVL_147]

Brian, I've been all over KZbin watching all sorts of videos on how to start writing my first book. Every single question I had, was answered with grace here. Thank You!

[@nchershey]

I really appreciate how willing Brandon is to share his knowledge and experience with others in order to help others reach their goal to write. He takes an attitude where he shares what he knows so that he might enjoy the product of others’ work who have benefitted from him. He benefits from being selfless. How great 👍🏻

[@blewlight5708]

"turn of your internal editor" summs up my biggest problem quite well xD

[@chadfitch3293]

Great practical advice. I'm always inspired by his videos. The way he breaks the writing process down into simple manageable ideas makes me think “hey I can do this!”

[@AG-vk5or]

you are the master. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your wisdom and lectures. And for putting this on KZbin.

[@laurawrigleycarr]

I love how Brandon can give so much great advice that helps writers at all different stages and yet never come off as patronising. Thanks a lot, Brandon!!!!!

[@macanelo3299]

Brandon I just have to say listening to your videos has finally gotten me off my arse and today i'm starting my first novel ❤ you are such an amazing guy for doing all of this, thank you from the bottom of my heart 💪💪

[@Kwahzutah]

Thank you so much for what you do. The way that you make writing knowledge open for people who don't have formal training or don't know what they're doing is really just amazing. You're a huge inspiration for me.

[@gatorcorinne]

So happy you did this! I have fallen in love with your world and as an aspiring author, it is wonderful to listen to your inspiring words.

[@ajiththomas2465]

The 5 Tips 1) Borrow your structure from the genre you want to write in or from several different genres and mix them. Use the conventional structure of the genre as your blueprint. 2) Write character monologues, where characters are basically interviewed and they tell their life stories. This can help with you understanding your characters and fleshing out a backstory that you can use when it comes writing the novel. Basically, like character profiles in a sense. 3) What does my Character Want, Need, how are those two things different, and why can't they have both? Use these to make sure you have a protagonist who is proactive in pursuing their goals. 4) Choose your type of progress. Make sure that your story has motion in it, whether forward or backwards. Just make sure that the story is still. Hash out the signposts of progress. 5) Prime your mind. Get into a good mindset before you start writing. Before you start writing, do an activity that keeps your body busy but your mind free to think about what you want to write. Also use a note taking method as well to write down the ideas instead of relying oyour unreliable memory . So when you finally get to writing, you already know what to write and you can just blitz through.

[@tiredsentinel1724]

Your advise is better than about 90% of what’s on KZbin right now. Thank you.

[@RedBlitzen]

Tip #2 was FASCINATING for me, because I've already been doing it! And I never knew. This is very encouraging.

[@DeadPoemStillAlive]

Tackling NaNoWriMo for the first time this year and I'm hyped to finally get this story written that I've been procrastinating on for so long! Let's go!

[@aboycalledfish]

I started writing in July and I already have 50,000 words down, I consider that winning xD My goal is just to finish the next 20,000 by the end of November.

[@LONlG]

Good luck, you can do it!

[@Railstar1976]

Exactly the right attitude.

[@shanniajoseph4768]

Well said. Thank you for that. It's amazing.

[@Ellieee7807]

You're truly a gem of an author. Thank you for everything you do.

[@bonnie04]

Wow. Brandon, you are such a natural, gifted communicator. Thank you for this video!

[@niclasfredholm7620]

Great advise!🙏 I'm about to turn 32, always loved writing and storytelling, movies with a great story, always did well in school when given tasks like that. A former soldier and I have reached a point in life where I think it is time to write my first book... I just have that one litte voice in my head that keeps telling me it is to late now, I am too old. Reading the comments and seeing this video kind of smuthers that voice a little, gives me some confidence back! Thank you all and keep working everybody, it will be great!

[@mononoke721]

His advice on 'progress' was some of the best I've heard about writing a story in general! Really important stuff when you think about what keeps us reading a good turn-pager book - the author always skillfully seeds the overall progress of the story throughout that keeps the reader engaged and wanting to find out what will happen next, and this can apply just as vitally to a more non-plot orientated book - something more internally character-focused for instance. Unless the reader has these signposts for where the character's internal journey is leading them, they won't necessarily be as invested in it as they would otherwise.

[@theladytassi]

I'm getting ready to start my third draft in about a month here, and I've been overwhelmed because I'm restructuring/revisiting so much that it very much feels like I'm approaching a first draft. This is all super helpful and encouraging advice-thank you so much!

[@mjc_fishing9916]

I’ve been writing on an off for 10+ years and have been going through a particularly large patch of writer’s block. This really helped me out. Thank you for everything you do, Mr. Sanderson.

[@salomesalo7473]

I am so happy because I'm about to write a book. It's been 10 years since I came up with this story and 5 years since I decided that I wanted to write it down. Now I'm really looking forward to write my novel and publish it. 📚

[@TheGallicWitch]

I've been doing NaNoWriMo since 2014 and haven't missed a year. I've won it three years out of all of them, and those three novels won't ever come out of my laptop. But it's taught me so much about writing!

[@premiumcheddar9983]

I've been going since 2017, and haven't finished it a single time yet lol. But this year I'm going to stick with it the whole way

[@pancake7117]

Is it too late to start?

[@premiumcheddar9983]

@@pancake7117 It's never too late to start! Just take it at your own pace, and shoot for a goal that feels right for you :)

[@TheGallicWitch]

@@pancake7117 It's never too late! You'll have to write more every day but you can technically start on the very last day and still participate! Winning might be harder haha. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to give you my social media so we can chat.

[@pancake7117]

@@TheGallicWitch thanks, but I think I'll be good. Just gonna go for it and hope for the best.

[@badandy9716]

Some of the best advice in only 12 minutes. I've written a few spec scripts and really want to do a novel. This video was incredibly helpful and informative.

[@princesswithashotgun2488]

Thanks for the advice! I'm not doing NaNo, but I am writing my first novel, and I like how flexible the advice you give is.

[@adel-a]

Thanks for the advice Very helpful. Here is the timeline : 1. 1:30 Borrow your structure. 2. 4:15 Begin with a monologue. 3. 5:38 Ask "What does my character want? What do they need?" 4. 7:20 Choose your type of progress. 5. 10:40 Prime your mind.

[@keitorin6937]

Ive never personally enjoyed writing myself, i love reading but i always found writing too personal for me- I LOVE seeing people getting so into writing tho! Some of my favourite people on this planet are writers- so cool to see one of the most influential writers ever talk about something he genuinely loves! 💕💕💕

[@bossgbini]

As expected from my favourite author. You singlehandedly got me into writing, Sir. SOMEDAY SOON, I will shake your hand. Thanks for everything, Sir Brandon.

[@fantastic_fiona]

These 5 tips have literally given me more help and information than the last 50 writing videos I have watched by other people. This is going to be a total game-changer. I'm just starting a Star Wars fan-fiction project and intend to ACTUALLY finish it, (I have a looong history of abandoning projects LOL). Thanks soooo much.

[@AustinHartt]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 📚 Introduction to National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and its Challenges - Overview of NaNoWriMo, - Mention of Brandon's experience and encouragement. 01:00 🚀 Hack #1: Borrowing Structure from Other Works - Explanation of borrowing a structural concept from other stories, - Highlight on adhering to essential aspects while infusing originality. 03:22 🔄 Hack #2: Transposing Genre & Utilizing Existing Structures - Methodology of genre transposition, - Benefits and caveats of employing existing structures. 04:21 🎙️ Hack #3: Beginning with a Monologue - Concept of starting with a character's monologue or self-explanation, - Illustration of using this method for character development, - Potential incorporation into the final work. 05:42 🎭 Hack #4: Character Desire and Conflict Development - Exploration of a character’s wants, needs, and obstructions, - Construction of a plot around the character's desires and conflicts, - Emphasis on character-centered storytelling. 07:36 📚 Understanding Character Desires and Story Structure - Recognizing the distinction between a character's wants and needs, - Importance of knowing what will truly make a character happy. 08:04 🛤️ The Necessity of Showcasing Progress in Storytelling - Three primary story elements: a promise, progress toward that promise, and payoff, - Types of progress: physical journey (travelogue) or informational (clues in a mystery), - Reinforcing reader engagement by indicating visible progress toward a goal. 09:25 🕵️‍♂️ Ensuring Alignment and Signposting in Story Pacing Common reader complaints relate to insufficient pacing and lack of evident progress, - Risk of misalignment in signposting different aspects of the story (e.g., romance vs adventure), - Ensuring breadcrumbs are provided to indicate the story's progress and maintain engagement. 10:18 🧠 Priming Your Mind for Writing - Engaging in pre-writing activities to stimulate and prepare the mind, - Creating an optimal mental state conducive for productive writing sessions. Quick notes for my own future reference but maybe someone else will benefit from them.

[@Kyrbi0]

Very helpful, thanks!

[@Mikeztarp]

The monologue is also a good way to find a character's voice.

[@iloveafrikadesigns]

the recommendation on determining what progress you want the reader to see in the book is gold, thank you~

[@irwinwinaris9800]

These tips are also great for readers. They can pinpoint the difference between great and mediocre writing. Also appreciate one of the best fantasy writers giving tips to aspiring writers on a platform like KZbin. Keep up the work Brandon!

[@russelladams9147]

I came back to this video to state for those who aren't aware of Professor Sanderson's teaching altruism. This is a man who has made available a great number of videos to follow to learn about the writing craft. I can't think of an author that has dedicated this level of time to potentially new writers. He gives us hope that we too can put something viable on the page. Thank you as always, sir.

[@abigailjean7131]

It’s my second time participating in NaNoWriMo. This year I’m doing a second draft of last years draft. I’ve spent all year creating a decent ish outline(that’s not complete), fleshing our characters and their arcs, and a nice few months getting off on the tangent of planning a prequel(the prequel builds on the story a lot, it’s not just one of those bad origin story things(I think))

[@josephblumenthal1228]

You've helped me a great deal starting off with my new love and obsession, writing. I've learned things I had no idea was part of this profession. I added hours of practice everyday and my work has at least improved. //thank you

[@leighannbeckett790]

Thank you so much for this video! I am writing my first fantasy novel and only my second novel. I was so hesitant to write fantasy (even though that is what i love to read) because I was intimidated by the world building, but have decided to give it a shot for Nanorimo. Despite the months of world-building and a brief outline, I just couldn't seem to get the story to flow. I really couldn't believe it. I have been dying to get started, but nope, nothing was flowing. Your tip about just sitting and writing from the viewpoint of the character probably saved me from just giving up. I was really able to get the flow going and understand my story better and get my groove back. Thank you so much for all of the resources you make available to writers. XOXO !!

[@MP-om9fj]

Petition for Brandon to go for a full Rothfuss beard. Great advice, glad he started uploading on his channel more.

[@kaalad3666]

Oh wow the character interview. I've done that before in a free write session but I didnt know that was a thing thing. Lol I actually felt kinda stupid when my time was up but I was glad that I got words down on the page and there seemed to be an interesting story in there. I think I'll revisit that for nanowrimo.

[@salonigupta217]

This video is the answer to all questions that came across my mind when i started thinking about writing a novel. Thank you so much.

[@jonbaker476]

Mr. Sanderson, I know I'm late to your video but thank you so much for the advice and for being such a great instructor and storyteller. Keep on keepin on, and thank you once again. Right now I just started reading Words of Radiance and it's great so far!

[@cybersketcher1130]

The sense of progress point may explain why I'm having a difficult time reading Well of Assention. (I am still loving it though, it's so well written)

[@aphrahashe5336]

When you were talking about heists it reminded me that I wrote my novella, The Black Diamond of Sentra-La, while reading The Final Empire. I didn't even think about it and a few weeks later I was talking to my friend about ideas and he had to remind me that I wrote a heist story while reading a heist story when I said I couldn't think where my ideas come from.

[@leonlysak4927]

I think I'm now on video count #12 here. I have no idea why I started watching your videos these last couple of days and how I've gotten hooked, but you've really inspired me to finish a novel I'd been writing since I was a child. Nearly two decades ago! :)

[@johanneskrv]

As an author I must say this was an extremely helpful video, because it actually gives tips on what to do as opposed to just saying what to avoid. Usually the tips are always what not to do. So thank you!

[@wintersking4290]

Thanks for the advice, been struggling since June when I started working on my own novel. Only recently figured out an organizational system I like to help plan chapters and still have trouble just writing and not nit-picking until I get nothing done.

[@Gigglepud]

I realised a few years ago that NaNoWriMo doesn't work for me, the pressure of quantity over quality makes me produce really terrible content that I don't enjoy editing for (unlike my usual writing process where I spend more effort and time in the first draft, but rather enjoy the editing that comes after)... But the few times that I did it, the actual Nano was super fun! Loved the sense of community, loved the rush and loved the sense of achievement seeing my word count rise each year. So good luck to everyone that's doing it this year, first time or otherwise!!

[@CapturedInWords]

I always see the thumbnail for this video and can't help but think Brando Sando's hands look funny in it 😂😂 It gets me every time

[@sarahteter6310]

I decided to commit to at least a sentence a day in November. Sometimes I got whole paragraphs out and sometimes it was a struggle to get a full sentence, but I've started and I'm continuing and proud. Finding this video is extremely helpful, I now have a document I'm using as reference where my main character tells her own life story and that is going to help me stay on track.