Navigating the First Draft: A Novice Author's Guide

As a 17-year-old, you may feel eager to submit your first novel for publication, but the journey of writing and refining it is a significant challenge. The experience of writing your first novel is invaluable, but the process of turning it into a polished and publishable work is just beginning. Here are some key insights for any aspiring writer, ensuring that the road to your best work is well-laid.

Step Away and Return with a Fresh Perspective

One of the most essential steps in the writing process is taking a break from your work. Once you have completed your first draft, put it away for at least a month. Come back to it with a fresh pair of eyes, and you will likely find numerous areas for improvement. This interval is crucial for perspective and will aid you in making decisions that elevate your manuscript to its best potential.

Writers often fall into the trap of being too close to their work, inadvertently missing critical issues. The waiting period allows you to disengage and return with a renewed sense of clarity, enabling you to identify areas for enhancement. Remember, the difference between an accepted and a rejected manuscript could hinge on the quality of your revision. So, be patient and thoughtful as you re-examine every word.

Iterate and Evolve

It is common to need more than one book to truly hone your craft. After completing your initial novel, take what you've learned and apply it to your next project. This iterative process will help you tackle different aspects of storytelling and character development, making each subsequent work stronger. Don't be discouraged by the realization that your second draft will not be perfect; it will be part of the learning journey.

Consider your first novel as your stock in trade. Although it may not sell immediately, it will serve as a foundation for future works. Few first novels are commercially successful, but if they do find recognition, it is often after the author has honed their skills over a series of books. Your first manuscript can be saved and used later for editorial feedback and to build a portfolio. This approach will help you establish yourself as a writer, a crucial step in your career.

Seek and Embrace Feedback

Your self-judgment in your first draft will be clouded by familiarity. It is essential to have readers who can provide objective feedback. Writing is an art of collaboration, and constructive criticism is vital for growth. Let others read your work, and be open to their comments. This external perspective will help you see your writing from a new angle, allowing you to refine your narrative and characters.

As Kayla suggests, think of your first novel as a practice manuscript. It is an essential stepping stone, but it may not be the final product you want to submit. Use this experience to guide you in your next efforts, refining your skills and gaining confidence with each new draft. Kayla's first novel was a significant undertaking, spanning nearly 200,000 words. After reworking it to 95,000 words, she was better equipped to create new, more focused narratives. Her journey is a testament to the value of perseverance and improvement through practice.

Conclusion

The path to becoming a successful author is fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with valuable lessons. With each new novel, you grow as a writer, learning and evolving. Be patient, persistent, and open to feedback. Remember, the best work often comes from the cumulative experience of multiple drafts, revisions, and iterations. Embrace this process, and you will eventually produce the novel you have always envisioned.