Will You Write Your Novel in November?

Is November your novel-writing month?

November might seem like a long way off, but I recently noticed several writers in the communities I'm a member of ask about novel writing in November. So it's closer than we think! These writers have been looking for the annual NaNoWriMo challenge and the tools and community that goes with it. You might not remember, but the nonprofit which used to host the event has shut down.

Never fear! You can create your own novel-writing month and connect with other writers who are doing the same thing. I've done a quick scan and there are several useful tools and networks out there that are FREE. What follows are a few suggestions that can help you turn November into your own novel-writing month:

• FanFic: This site promises a full-scale New NaNoWriMo challenge, including space for personal blogging throughout the month. What's more, to help you get ready for November, they offer planning worksheets, character guides, and tip sheets.

• Pacemaker: This planner helps you set and manage custom writing schedules. Once you identify your November goal/schedule, look under 'Challenges' to find others with November writing objectives and join a challenge for mutual support.

• ProWritingAid: ProWritingAid is holding Novel November. You can set goals, join daily writing sprints, use tools to track your progress, achieve badges, and connect with other writers, including sessions led by successful published authors.

  
  

If you're looking for something more simplified and intimate as an alternative to these large platforms, search Discord and Reddit for homegrown groups that are forming around NaNoWriMo-like challenges. Finally, if you belong to a writers organization already, check with your chapter or the organization's calendar of events.

Hopefully, these ideas will help you set yourself up for success if you're planning a writing goal for November. But if you have other recommendations, smash that comment button and share what you know! I'd love to hear from you!