🖊 NaNoWriMo 101 | a guide to preparation

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Hello friends! Today, I give you a bit of an introduction to NaNoWriMo and why people participate in it whilst also showing a little bit of how to get started in your prep by looking at plot, character, and worldbuilding in amongst other things! I hope you enjoy it and I can't wait to write together!
If you'd like to buddy with me, you can find my profile here: nanowrimo.org/participants/jo...
With love,
Joel ☀️
Prince of Stories & Scion of the Sun
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[@bookishlandings4445]

"I am a chaotic bisexual and I cannot have one seating position." Speak the truth king! Lol, I move around like every 5 minutes so, bi and pan solidarity hahaha

[@francescakyanda9182]

Ummmmmm, I was just telling my friend about a story idea I had and sat down to start it and this...popped up? The magic? The timing? I have no choice but to stan.

[@fictionalfates]

we love delivering content when needed

[@JamesDescutido]

This is called synchronicities! Good luck with your story!

[@collidewiththesea]

Me, who has no skill in writing: It's NaNoReaMo, baby

[@filbertvancemartin8236]

Girlie same

[@rue2838]

Me, someone who has not written a short story in 5 months, planning to write a 150,000-200,000 word novel that is a part of a trilogy, all because i can write 2,000 words an hour. Dear god help me lol.

[@sammorgan9526]

"Don't wait forever to write to your story." True, but I had an idea back when I was 12-13? And i wrote it last year (age 16) for NaNo and it went really well because the characters and story had simmered in my mind for so long, AND i had a lot motivation to keep working because i had waited SO long to start the project! But anyways, you guys should jump into your ideas! I believe in you!

[@giuliacatalena9409]

Exactly! I’ve been writing and rewriting this one story for a year or two on and off, and now I’ve finally decided to sit down and work on the idea for NaNoWriMo. By now, I’ve practically become friends with those characters.

[@girlintheair4191]

4 classes in college, during a pandemic/election year, crippling anxiety... But honestly I feel like I’m going to do well this year! Lots of discord servers and now sprints will definitely help

[@CamiloSilvaSotoCams]

I could use some discord servers tbh

[@kipepeo259]

Oh my goddddd YAY I wanna write for NaNoWriMo for the first time this year this is lovely!

[@CocoRegardless]

Yess, me too, this came at the right moment😃I'm really excited for my first NaNoWriMo😁

[@fictionalfates]

ahhh i'm so excited for you both!!

[@bryceantonio]

Yay! Glad to know I’m not alone☺️

[@daughterofgod4927]

Don't say God's name in vainnnn siss😩

[@TheElysianer]

it's so refreshing to see a content creator that is open, chill, and honest. It's hard to come by youtubers/booktubers that speak like normal people and keep it real! You've gained a new subbie

[@sapphoslibrary]

i absolutely do not have time for nano (uni yuck) but this is so helpful since I'm hoping to start writing soon!! also i am so amazed that you can keep up with uni, youtube, writing and whatever else... what kind of witchcraft???

[@fictionalfates]

honestly, i'm convinced i must possess some kind of witchcraft but it's mostly just me flailing around chaotically, remembering things that I have to do on the day that I have to do them

[@sapphoslibrary]

@@fictionalfates it's the power of witchcraft, caffeine and just a dash of chaotic bisexual energy. also, flailing chaotically and doing everything last minute? a mood.

[@cerabella1792]

Me having an AP class, newspaper, and an honors class: Istg I'm insane. Over 200k August 2020 - rn.

[@niah1935]

For any writers who want to try outlining but haven't found resources on the 3 act structure that click with you, I highly recommend Tomi Adeyemi's free writing course. It serves as a sample for her other writing services and classes, but it really broke down the 3 act structure into a way that made sense to me. It was really helpful and made me feel much more confident with plotting my novel. It's only short, but I think it is a great resource for writers

[@Tae_Grixis]

Years ago, my go-to form of entertainment was reading and writing. Now I find myself drawn back to that with my interest in gaming fading away. Writing has always been my deepest passion and a dream of a career for me. I appreciate guides like this to help me collect my thoughts and learn how to proceed forward with a more efficient process.

[@illfitingclothes]

knowing i shouldn't consider nanowrimo considering i will be doing a capstone project, working 30 hours, and attending 2 classes a week but..... considering nonetheless

[@fictionalfates]

LMAOOOO MOOD

[@ilikegreenteaverymuch4173]

dudeee, you're so good at this! i've never ever sat throughout a whole video about writing advice but you just have such a way with words and you say everything in a simple and understandable yet such a funny and joyful way! i'm totally gonna remember your advice and keep doing what you're doing! ❤️❤️❤️✨✨✨

[@fictionalfates]

🥺 i'm so glad i could help!!

[@avekatumba4794]

The intro; I live! 💅🏽 We love ✨ priorities ✨

[@fictionalfates]

honestly, the energy is immaculate!

[@hayleydangelo5993]

Thank you for making this video! I’ve been trying to “win” NaNoWriMo for at least 15 years and I’ve never done it! This year is the year.

[@abi_rose]

ah yes, october, the month in which i delude myself into thinking that i’ll actually complete nanowrimo, despite failing every year since 2014 :))) (still, having written 10k words is better than writing none i guess)

[@mandyberry2500]

Hahaha, I'm in the same boat. I sign up for NaNo every year and I'll write anywhere between 2k and 20k words, but nowhere near 50k

[@thecreatorlaurenchi]

I tried NaNoWriMo for the first time last year and I flopped HARD. But it just told me I needed to plan more. Now I'm working on the same novel this year. It's my first year in college but this video told me to get off my ass DO THE DAMN THING! The way you explained it makes me feel better about trying it again this year so thanks so much!

[@fane6154]

Okay diary writing as the character is really smart 😭 cuz I always struggle to write in my characters' voice I think this will help me a bunch

[@sinkinginstars]

I have full-time university, a part-time job, am currently studying to convert to a new faith, AND dealing with emotional distress from the state of the US buuuuuut I think NaNo will be the one thing during all the chaos to keep me grounded! I love this time of year and seeing the support from the writing community

[@candaceifloyd1820]

Joel: "I'm a chaotic bisexual." Me: SMASHES THE SUBSCRIBE BUTTON

[@alyeskareimer9201]

My best friend has just convinced me to impulsively jump into the NaNoWriMo challenge and sent me to your page by saying "He matches your vibes". I have never been more flattered - I can't wait to keep watching your vids!

[@kindateia]

I am writing for NaNoWriMo first time this year, so anxious! I hope I get through.

[@fictionalfates]

You've got this!!

[@kindateia]

@@fictionalfates thank you so much for the support c:

[@chloedaze8064]

i decided to do NaNoWriMo for the first time ever and i’m extremely excited! I decided to start a channel to hold myself accountable xb

[@moooavila]

good luck! i will be working on writing my fiction podcast.... we can do this !!!!

[@fictionalfates]

omg that sounds awesome!!

[@warmxchai3378]

I received some bad news today about my puppy living with me, he's my baby and I love him dearly. Watching this made me feel a little better, my puppy safe at my mom's place now.

[@alyssacascos8665]

NaNoWriMo sounds amazing! As a writer, it sounds like amazing dedication and discipline that I need to participate in. ❤

[@georgiavarley4414]

same! I think I'm going to take part, I need the challenge and discipline!

[@ellebasi5044]

It’s my first time writing NaNoWriMo this year! Thanks for being so helpful!! I’m also going to be vlogging my NaNoWriMo journey! 🧡📝

[@addisons3685]

i saw this video, screamed (just a tad,) then walked downstairs to get lunch. Now I'm upstairs and so ready to watch before next class! ✨

[@Jess-yk5hi]

god I wish I didnt have to miss out on Nanowrimo every year :( I own a small business and my sales in late October/November account for half my annual income and I have to devote every waking second to it or fall behind. At least I can watch your videos while I'm prepping for the holidays! :) Your productivity and ability to stay organized is extremely inspirational but I'm pantser for just about every area of my life lool

[@Veryy_Victoriaa]

Maybe instead of doing November, assign yourself a different month. He briefly mentioned April and July are mini NanoWrimo months as well. I hope you write your story

[@AshleyGriffyn]

Partake in Camp Nanowrimo! It’s during early summer, great for summer break. But I cannot relate any more to this post… had to pause my writing dream to work my small business because it takes most of my time.

[@ann.1166]

i have a story idea full with characters and world building living rent free in my head for like five years now maybe i'll try to finally write it down lmao

[@wikkedlildifranco]

Perfect advice. I've participated for many years and this advice is great advice for beginners and seasoned participants. ❤

[@AnuskaDhar]

ahhh this was perfect timing, it's like you read my mind and knew i wanted a writing vid!! i've always wanted to do nanowrimo but i haven't ever had an idea for a novel or felt like i had the time/motivation until this year, so i'm really excited to join

[@its.maxday]

YAY I did nano for the first time last year and am HOOKED so ty for this vid ✨✨

[@sophiekimber9482]

This is my second year doing Nano, and this was so helpful. Thank you so so much, amazing video and so inspiring. :)

[@LiteraryKnitterary]

I am working on outlining my novel because plot is my weakness. I’ve been having trouble, but what you said about knowing where your characters start and where they end up made me feel better because I have at least made it that far 😅

[@knottyneedle]

I can't wait to check out some of the resources mentioned in order to help me with my story this year.

[@sensbookingit4291]

Loved how you explained that the internal and external conflict is need. I feel like some of the books I've read so far has been missing that. Nanowrimo is a rollercoaster of excitement to me and relate on the anticipation of all the new novels that come out because of it. Happy Writing :-)

[@Veryy_Victoriaa]

Thank you for the advice especially honing in on this being the first draft because I’m feeling overwhelmed already.

[@Kiki-oo3bw]

This came at the perfect time since life is hectic rn and your girl needs supporttt 😭😭

[@chroniclesoftris]

Thank you so much for this video ! This is my first year joining NanoWrimo !!!

[@achilleanmafia]

i'd love a writer's 101 series :O 🥺

[@qine6559]

FINALLY KZbin! Thank you for providing me with a wider selection of "Suggested channels to watch" during nanowrimo. You were suggested on my front page as something I might like. Obviously I did and subscribing.

[@moab9587]

Loveee the writing videos 🤩 this was so helpful, thank you 🙏🏻

[@bookingforewordtoit]

I have no plans to do nanowrimo, but watching this makes me think, hypothetically, I could give it a go. Here for this wholesome, helpful content x

[@moon-cg9xm]

I'm so GLAD you posted this aaaaaa this is my first year and ngl I was excited but bricking it LMAOO

[@debsthecat]

I want to participate in my first NaNoWriMo this year and this was THE BEST video I found for prepping!! Thank you so much for your practical tips, and for the reminder that we're going for progress not perfection. I needed to hear that, especially as a first time novel writer!

[@nicolewilkins1860]

I really enjoyed your YT recording. So sensible for such a young person, and your introduction to approaching NaNoWrimo are really helpful. I also like that you have Pikachu on the shelf.

[@itsnessuhhh613]

I’m doing NaNoWriMo for my second year and absolutely loved this video. Prepping is no joke 🙃

[@kathrynstubbs4519]

The Hero's Journey by Campbell! Yes!

[@tahirahkhadija6486]

Just learned about NaNoWriMo and was looking for some insight this preptober. I knew I had found the right voice at, "I'm a chaotic bisexual so I can't have one seating position." I've never felt so seen!! 😂 Instant subscribe and follow across social media, I hope you'll be doing some coverage this year too!

[@fictionalmusings4676]

I can't wait for NaNoWriMo, it's going to be a busy af month but I'm excited to finally stop being scared of getting my ideas down on paper!!

[@DavidDecero]

I'm always looking out for good books on the craft of writing and I've never came across Philip Pullman's Daemon Voices. I'll have to pick it up now. Thanks for putting that out there and good luck next month!

[@teacup294]

Honestly, massive kudos to you for managing to do NaNoWriMo during university! University killed my creativity, but now I am a graduate (woop) and am attempting to make up for lost time. I am totally a plants-loving plantser too, but this time I *will* outline properly. Good luck! 🍀

[@alexz3t899]

a writing series would be so cool !! :)

[@julie2141]

I hate you now I want to write something you made it look so amazing and clear with your advices my brain is burning with ideas now hope you’re not too proud lol ! No but more seriously i will share this video with anyone who wants to write something i love it you explain how to do it so well !

[@withlovemare]

You’ve given me the courage to join Nanowrimo. I tried a few years ago and got overwhelmed and discouraged but I’m going to try again.

[@shayshayxox929]

This was very helpful! Thank you!

[@litnana8916]

thank u! I needed a guide!!

[@tammietriestoread]

i'm attempting nano for the first time because i have fomo LOL but i loved your take and more chilled out approach to this!

[@Fred2303]

I just sent you an invitation. Seeing the progress of my buddies always motivates me to write.

[@vidaworksout]

Omg so glad I found you as a creator! Can’t tell you how fast I hit that subscribe button

[@Isabella-iu2sf]

I'm too busy with uni for nanowrimo this year, unfortunately 😭😭, but I found that pacemaker really helps me keep track of my word goal, daily word counts, and where I am in my overall goal. It's a totally free website too! 😊 Also, if anyone is looking for healthy snack alternatives, I tend to go for apples with peanut butter and tea. Happy writing everyone!!

[@wereou]

OH MY GOSH, YESSS! WE NEED WRITING 101 :D

[@jovanadjelic3809]

I have 60k words of my first draft written down and I want to use NaNoWriMo to finish it and then fix any existing plot holes during December. I find a lot of those tips useful, especially since it's really hard to balance school and family and friends and writing plus other hobbies. I find that the pomodoro technique can be adapted amazingly. I usually do a certain amount of work (e.g. writing) then have a longer "break" where I finish my homework and I end up getting a big amount of work done while also resting from each thing as I do the other one. Of course, I also take my time to eat and drink water and take walks, but I think I'm most productive when I organize myself like that. Amazing video, I'll definitely try some of these tips

[@mori7956]

I don't plan on joining Nanowrimo this year but I'm hoping to join next year so this is definitely helpful!

[@SarraCannon]

Love NaNoWriMo and I know you can do it. Love what you said about winning not being the whole point. Hope to join you on Twitter for some sprints.

[@MercuryCalling]

Joel, you're so great!

[@tkb3042]

I'm really excited about working with a "zero draft" rather than a "first draft". I know it's a silly brain thing, but if it means getting any draft done I'm happy! (Also, just subscribed, glad I found your channel!)

[@CheyeW13]

This might fall under your general writing series, but I'd love a similar video about what to do after NaNo. I never touch my NaNo novels after the November drafts because I either hate the roughness of the draft or it just seems so daunting to approach.

[@nishapan1376]

I loved this video! I think I'm going to try thus approach to writing. I have a tendency of over-planning that this approach would be good for, I think. Also, what is the title of the Daemon Voices essay on the 11 different plot structures? I would love to read that one first.

[@amyashcrft]

i've debated doing NaNoWriMo every year but i think this is gonna be the year i actually do it 😌

[@zoeelovee2]

I loved this video and I don't know if it's the vibes or just mannerisms/accent/Idk but you remind me so much of Jack Edwards! (I mean this as the highest compliment)

[@achilleanmafia]

*THANKS FOR POSTING THIS I'M GONNA WRITE MY FUCKING NOVEL(S) IN NOVEMBER NOW*

[@Sofia-ssn]

i love ur videos and ur aesthetic

[@fictionalfates]

thank you so much 🥺

[@Sofia-ssn]

@@fictionalfates no problem and omg i can’t believe you responded aaaa🥺🥺

[@ankiitapandey]

This is my first year and I am absolutely terrified.

[@sora397]

i'm in high school and i'm literally behind in every single class and i have a thesis due by the end of the semester so it would be incredibly moronic of me to do NaNoWriMo this year but i'm still going to do it bc i enjoy making stupid decisions that end up crippling my future

[@carlisaboysname]

whoa! how did you do that intro!! it’s so pretty

[@ladyursala]

I’ve never seen any of your videos before but you remind me of Prince haha

[@bryceantonio]

This is my first Nanowrimo so I’m super excited! I’m having trouble picking which project to do tho. I don’t know if I want elf thief bards or battle of the chosen ones🙃

[@fictionalfates]

Oof, both of them sound SO GOOD! I hope you're able to figure out which one you want to write!

[@bryceantonio]

@@fictionalfates Yeah me too😂 btw ur outfit was AMAZING This video!

[@muffinbutton9593]

Bro "Battle of the Chosen Ones" is such a cool title 😲

[@bryceantonio]

@@muffinbutton9593 the real name would be “We are The Chosen” but thank u! It’s a story about 2 opposing prophecies and a test of friendship! I’m basing it off Arthurian Legend.

[@muffinbutton9593]

@@bryceantonio ... Bro. That's amazing. I would read the hell out of that. It already sounds epic. Brrrroooooooo. Okay I'm kinda hyped now

[@lauraaraujo3552]

Hey, lack of caffeine is a SERIOUS problem!!! Coffee is a basic human need.

[@RubyRaeReads]

hello king serving the professor ~lewks~

[@martinbecak2293]

I always queue up the same songs when I'm writing, I should definitely save time and just make a damn playlist 😂 and yeah, juggling college and writing is really fun sometimes. I am not doing nanowrimo this year, but my goal Is to expand my current outline (And figure out what actually happens in my story oops). Good luck to everyone :))

[@mercury4104]

i did nanowrimo last year, but after going over everything i wrote in the 30 days, it made absolutely NO SENSE and was really just an overall messy, funny work of writing with no plot whatsoever. so i will be attempting to actually write and finish a novel this time, without it being too much of a mess. what im worried about is the fact that i have no time. november isnt really a test month, but i have school from 8-5 every day, and from 9-3 on sundays. i only have free days on fridays, and saturdays my parents take away all electronics. so im really going to have no time to do anything, but i suppose i'll work it out.

[@anetherealgirl_113]

Dude i just clicked on this and i love your voice. enough caffeine xD

[@teresarosereads]

❤️❤️❤️

[@honeypotfilms6066]

not me wanting to buy the cute tapestry in the back - honeypot films

[@mariapaulapontflores8092]

For a moment there I thought you were Jesper from SoC lol (I'm new here, obviously)

[@steampoweredpixel]

Lol I just watched a Grammarly advert :')

[@exhale987]

OMG, a writing vlog would be awesome nsieneidnf

[@wynninglilac]

Can you still start this even if it's late? I forgot that it's actually that time of the year again.

[@vanshika123456789]

SAVE THE CAT IS SO GOOD OH MY G O D S!!!!!!!

[@violentends]

“i am a chaotic bisexual and i cannot sit in one seating position” oh my god i felt that

[@jasminehermione2998]

My gosh you're pretty Joel

[@carterwrites]

I had to rewind at 8:40, like did you just say Hannah Montana???? :)

[@annakiseleva7418]

quoting Hannah Montana HAHAHAHAHA (This has been really helpful tho, thanks!!!)

[@melissaandzoeram883]

I just realized that NaNoWriMo existed... Time to start late-

[@claudiazinser4408]

Woah! There's zero views on this thing

[@claudiazinser4408]

I've never ever been this early to a vid before

[@Sofia-ssn]

me neither i was even first i’m so happy 😊

[@Twiland7]

subscribed as soon as u said chaotic bisexual. i too cannot sit like a normal human being lmao

[@fionajohnston]

Jeepers, this chap hasn't drawn breath and I am also trying to take it all in! Could he please slow down a wee bit. I am almost out of breath listening to it.

[@florafable8636]

You can press the three dots in the right hand corner of the video and change “Playback speed” to .75!! It will slow the video down for you :)

[@fionajohnston]

@@florafable8636 I found the three dots but it says report or open transcript.

[@_echointhevoid_]

please dont put music over your speaking

[@mungoslade]

PROGRESS not PERFECTION.