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We're into crazy Week 3!!! Can you believe it?
As of right now I'm at 26,868 words (yes, behind for today...) but hope to meet my daily goal by tonight! How are you doing?
What's that you say? You're stuck? You're behind? You've never written so many words all in one place before? You don't know where you're stories going? You're almost done with the plot you'd planned to use...and you're only half way through the month?
Well, not to worry - you're not alone if you can say any of the above statements. If fact, you're in great company! I've heard from several friends who are desperately behind, don't know what their next chapter will be, are almost at the end of their plot, or are just plain tired.
Sometimes it helps to know you're in good company.
But, as much as the sentiment is good, that doesn't mean it helps your writing. I've compiled a list of ten things you can do to add to your word count.
10 Ways to "Just Keep Writing"
1. Keep writing.
Yep, simple as that sounds, it's important that you don't give up! You
2. Do some research.
If you're stuck, sometimes the best way to get "unstuck" is to gain more insight into something you're writing about. Personal example: Researching gunshot sounds...it not only helped me describe a scene, but add to it as well!
3. Take a break.
Stressed you aren't going to make your personal deadline? Take a break. Go for a walk, make a cup of coffee, take a short nap. Take the time to let your creativity rest and it's almost a guarantee you'll gain some inspiration to get back to it!
4. Talk to someone.
Talk out your plot! I did that a few nights ago at dinner with my roommates and -BAM- got an idea.
5. Add a plot twist.
Lacking in word count? Add a plot twist. You may have to go back and set it up in earlier chapters, but if you can think of something to add that will not only add interest but words, do it!
6. Add a character.
Again, you may need to go back and add them into the beginning (something to be done AFTER NaNo) but stick them in there now. I'd recommend adding notes about areas where you think you could add them in earlier, just not doing that during November.
7. Add a subplot.
In line with adding things, if you are close to the end of your novel and you're only half way through NaNo (maybe 25k words or so) you definitely could benefit from adding a subplot. Maybe it doesn't start until half way through, or maybe you'll add in more later, but either way, you'll need something to help you sustain momentum until the end!
8. Extend your scenes. You don't want to go around prolonging everything...but maybe some of your scenes are too short? Consider lengthening some here and there but make sure the additions are profitable and not just filler ;)
9. Think it through.
Take a few minutes, sit back, and really think through your plot. This, in combination with #3, can be very helpful. It's like when your mind relaxes at night before bed and you get a great idea. Your brain needs space to work and think in order to create. Give it that space.
10. Draw out feelings and emotions.
These things are SO helpful! Not only for adding words (hehe) but also for really creating a scene that you can feel and include your readers in. Take time to make sure you're adding in thoughts, feelings, and actions.
So, how are you holding up in the excitement of week two?
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