They say the beginning of a matter is better than the end. So it is important to have a catchy start. The first few paragraphs should leave the reader yearning for more. However, this is not something that just happens, it’s made to happen. Learning how to write the beginning of a novel is an art in itself. Below are some key things to watch out for as you commence.
The first thing to do is to have a laid out strategy. Strategize on how you want the beginning to come out then start brainstorming on how you can make that a reality. If you choose not to have a clear marked plan, then think of the overall novel and what the story is all about. Mind the length. If you want a page long or a paragraph long, set that out clearly.
As you commence, use easy flowing language that will appeal to the eye of the reader. Don’t bog yourself down with too much detail. Remember less is a lot. Another important rule to follow is creating suspense. Don’t divulge the story too soon. Allow it to build up with each unfolding scene and with the introduction of different characters.
Should you realize in the third chapter that you introduced the story too soon, you can always find your way back. Add in more details to lengthen it somewhat. This is the first step in learning how to write the beginning of a novel.
As you approach the end of the beginning, don’t make it too obvious that you are concluding. Try to bring the characters together at the same time creating a rift that makes it impossible to conclude the story at that point. The reader will want to know what happened next and this is exactly what we want. Learning how to write the beginning of a novel exacts a lot of your time.
You should however watch out so that you don’t tire the reader with too many words which are basically saying the same thing. The climax at the beginning is as important as the middle. So, don’t forget to bring your story to a pulsating climax.
Finally, flow with the storyline. Don’t start to write a sentence then stop midway for a lunch break, then proceed an hour later. This will influence the flow. If you had for instance, stated that one of your characters had gone to a hotel, don’t continue with him going to another state. These are just a few basic steps in mastering how to write the beginning of a novel.
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