NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) is almost here, and if you’re planning to tackle those 50,000 words, you’ve probably already realized that preparation is key.

While some writers love diving into their story with nothing more than a spark, others find that a bit of structure gives them the confidence and clarity to write every day, hit their word count, and ultimately complete NaNoWriMo. 

In this post, we’ll walk through how to make the most of Preptober, so by Day 1, you’re set up to succeed.

1. Nail Down Your Big Idea

Start by clarifying the heart of your story. This can be your premise, a central question, or a “what if” scenario. For instance, ask yourself questions like:

• What’s the driving conflict or main challenge in my story?

• What’s unique or intriguing about my characters or setting?

• What change or journey will my protagonist undergo?

Summing up your story’s core in one or two sentences can help solidify your focus and serve as a guiding star through NaNoWriMo. If you can express your story’s central concept clearly, it’ll be easier to stay motivated and prevent mid-month detours.

2. Map Out Your Plot

Planning doesn’t mean you need to have every chapter outlined in detail, but a roadmap is invaluable. Try a flexible outline, like the three-act structure or the hero’s journey, to give your story some shape.

Tips to kickstart your plot outline:

• Create a rough beginning, middle, and end: Identify where your protagonist starts, a major turning point, and where you want them to end up.

• Brainstorm key scenes: Make a list of scenes that excite you or moments that feel essential to the story.

• Use the Plot Builder to uncover your plot: Our Plot Builder can generate prompts to help you explore your plot, characters, and setting in more detail. Use it to get new perspectives and a deeper understanding of your novel before November starts.

Outlining gives you a foundation, but don’t worry about sticking to it strictly. Your characters or plot may evolve as you write, and that’s part of the creative journey!

3. Develop Your Characters

Characters are the heart of any story, and well-developed ones can keep you interested and motivated to write. Take some time in Preptober to understand your main characters deeply.

Here’s a checklist to help you flesh out your cast:

• Backstory: What are the significant events in your character’s past? How do these experiences shape who they are?

• Goals and motivations: What does each character want, and why? What are they willing to risk

• Flaws and strengths: No one’s perfect! Give your characters realistic traits, quirks, and contradictions.

• Relationships: How do your characters relate to one another? Consider any tension, friendship, romance, or rivalry that might drive the plot forward.

For extra inspiration, create detailed character profiles, or use prompts to explore your characters’ inner lives. Our Plot Builder tool can help here too, with prompts tailored to deepen and complicate your characters’ arcs.

4. Imagine Your Setting

A well-developed setting adds depth and believability to your story. Whether you’re creating a sprawling fantasy kingdom or a sleepy coastal town, think about the setting’s mood, culture, and atmosphere.

Preptober setting tasks to try:

• Map it out: Sketch a rough map or layout of your story’s primary locations, such as the protagonist’s home, the town center, or a secret hideaway.

• Explore sensory details: What sounds, smells, and sights define this place? This can make your setting feel vivid.

• Establish rules and culture: If your story’s world has unique customs, laws, or social hierarchies, jot them down to avoid inconsistencies as you write.

Spending a bit of time on your setting can provide a strong visual and emotional backdrop for your scenes, giving you—and your readers—a more immersive experience.

5. Set Personal Goals and Build a Routine

NaNoWriMo requires steady progress, so think about how you’ll handle your writing routine before the month begins.

• Daily or weekly word count goals: 1,667 words per day gets you to 50,000 by the end of November. If that seems daunting, consider a weekly target that fits your schedule.

• Writing time and space: Identify when and where you’ll write each day. Having a dedicated space (even if it’s just a favorite chair) can signal to your brain that it’s time to focus.

• Inspiration boosts: Consider how you’ll recharge your creativity. A pre-writing playlist, a “story mood board,” or a collection of favorite quotes could be helpful.

Setting up these routines in October means they’ll feel natural by the time NaNoWriMo starts. Plus, establishing a sustainable habit early can help you avoid burnout and stay consistent. 

6. Stock Up on Writing Resources

Finally, gather any tools or resources you might need for the month. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Story tools: Keep a journal, sticky notes, or a document where you can jot down ideas and notes as they come.

• Reference material: If your story involves research, such as historical facts, folklore, or science, organize your notes for easy access.

• Writing community: Connecting with other writers can make a huge difference. Whether it’s a group of friends, an online forum, or virtual write-ins, having a support system can keep you motivated.

And don’t forget that Daily Prompt offers resources like personalized prompts, a community of writers, and the Plot Builder tool to help guide your NaNoWriMo journey.

Make the Most of Preptober

A bit of planning and prep can go a long way in helping you hit the ground running on November 1st. By nailing down your story’s big idea, crafting a flexible outline, fleshing out your characters and setting, and establishing a writing routine, you’ll be ready to tackle NaNoWriMo with confidence.

Increase your chances of success during this year's NaNoWriMo. Check out our other guides:

• Realistic NaNoWriMo Goals: Top Tips for Busy Writers

• NaNoWriMo Self-Care: How to Reach 50,000 Words Without Burning Out

• 6 Best NaNoWriMo Alternatives in 2024