Novel Writing Checklist
Table of Contents
Writing a Novel
Write regularly.
Set aside some time every day when you can work undisturbed.
Keep your writing equipment in your writing place.
Use household chores as thinking time.
Keep a daily log of your progress.
Create a quick outline to help organize and expand your original idea.
Develop a detailed "story plan checklist" to solidify your story's details.
Combine and effectively use tools like your outline and story checklist to weave together a cohesive draft.
Maintain consistent style, tone, and point of view.
Novel Structure
Chapters are linked and they flow.
The first sentence or paragraph is a grabber.
The story starts in the right place.
The story fall broadly into three acts.
The general direction of the story 'up'.
The tension intensifying and the level of danger increasing.
The promises made to the reader through foreshadowing are kept.
All the plots and subplots are relevant.
Every scene has a purpose.
Every chapter end in a way that makes the reader want to turn the page.
Download or Print this Novel Writing Checklist
Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.
Presented by:
Kimberly French
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Views: 26
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Uses: 8
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Tasks: 21
Who it's for
This Novel Writing Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Novel Writing essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Novel Writing structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Novel Writing Checklist
- Save Novel Writing Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Novel Writing (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.