NaNo Tip #2: Plan Ahead

Today's tip: Plan ahead

The weeks before NaNo are great for figuring out ideas, working out plots, meeting characters, and planning ahead for the month to come. Unless you're planning on pantsing this November, in which case the only planning you'll probably want to do is figuring out which idea gets to have your attention. Here are some ideas to help take the edge off the anticipation:
  • Make an outline. It can be as detailed or simple as you want. It could be a couple lines describing the main plot, or a ten page bulleted list of each scene and where each chapter is going to start and end.
  • Make character bios. Write a couple paragraphs describing each character and their pasts.
  • Find character pictures. Find pictures of actors or people that instantly make you think of your characters. I often do this before revisions to help me with character description.
  • Do character interviews. Set your characters down for awhile and just talk to them. You'd be surprised how much you can learn about a character doing this. You might even be able to find their voice.
What are you doing to get ready for NaNo?

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