Novel Shortcuts, Chapter 1, Part 1

A brief summary: To be able to write a solid draft quickly and well, it helps to have a good handle on the core of your story.

A basic story premise of a novel consists of the main character, the primary setting, and the overall problem.

Identifying these three components clearly will help move the draft along.

• If you know the character well, then you solve the issues of voice and perspective. You know what obstacles to use and where to place them and why, to keep tension high. The author also points out that a well-defined character is quick to draw the reader into the story, and editors/agents love a sympathetic main character.
  
  
• An effective setting will mold both the characters and the problem. An example the book gives is Romeo and Juliet. Think about how the place and time shapes both the people involved and the problem they face.
  
  
• Lastly the problem can't just be a goal. There has to be the *but* clause in there. "Character must do this" is not a problem. "Character must do this but this is in the way" constitutes the problem.

If something doesn't seem to be working with your draft, going back to each of these components and rethinking them could be key to keeping forward momentum going. The book is fantastic for giving ideas that help you address various aspects of each segment of the premise.

Let's Discuss

What are some tools you might use to

• Clearly define your character
• Choose and know your setting
• Make sure the overall problem will sustain an entire book