How to Plan Your Novel in 5 Days ✍🏾📚
DreamWriterInk — Novel November Edition
If you’ve been wanting to write a book but don’t know where to start, planning your novel before you begin drafting can make the writing process smoother, faster, and far less overwhelming. Whether you're a new writer, an indie author, or participating in NaNoWriMo / Novel November, learning how to plan your novel in just five days will help you build momentum — and stay committed.
This method focuses on clarity, character, conflict, and direction — the building blocks of all strong storytelling.
Let’s begin.
If you’ve been wanting to write a book but don’t know where to start, planning your novel before you begin drafting can make the writing process smoother, faster, and far less overwhelming. Whether you're a new writer, an indie author, or participating in NaNoWriMo / Novel November, learning how to plan your novel in just five days will help you build momentum — and stay committed.
This method focuses on clarity, character, conflict, and direction — the building blocks of all strong storytelling.
Let’s begin.
Day 1: Clarify the Core Story ✨
Before outlining chapters, define the heart of your story.
Ask Yourself:
This is a story about __________________________
Who wants __________________________
But struggles because __________________________
Until __________________________ happens.
This becomes your:
Ask Yourself:
- What is this book really about?
- What message or transformation do I want the reader to experience?
- Who is the main character at the beginning — and who will they become?
This is a story about __________________________
Who wants __________________________
But struggles because __________________________
Until __________________________ happens.
This becomes your:
- Elevator pitch
- Back-cover blurb
- Query letter anchor
- Content for your author website
Day 2: Develop Your Characters 👥
Characters are the emotional foundation of your story — they make readers care.
Focus on Three Core Characters:
- Protagonist (main character)
- Antagonist (what or who stands in their way)
- Support Character (friend, love interest, guide, rival)
-
- What does this character want more than anything?
- What past memory or wound shaped who they are?
- How will this character grow or change by the end?
Day 3: Outline Your Plot 🧩
Use a simple, clear structure. No complicated charts required.
Approx. Word Count for 50k Novel
Act 1
Introduce characters + core problem
~12,000 words
Act 2
Rising challenges + complications
~20,000 words
Act 3
Crisis or breaking point
~8,000 words
Act 4
Resolution + transformation
~10,000 words
Plot should build, rise, break, then resolve — like music, breath, and memory.
Approx. Word Count for 50k Novel
Act 1
Introduce characters + core problem
~12,000 words
Act 2
Rising challenges + complications
~20,000 words
Act 3
Crisis or breaking point
~8,000 words
Act 4
Resolution + transformation
~10,000 words
Plot should build, rise, break, then resolve — like music, breath, and memory.
Day 4: Worldbuilding & Atmosphere 🌍
Your world does not need to be huge — it needs to be specific and intentional.
Describe Your Story’s Atmosphere:
- What does this world sound like?
- What details appear in the background of scenes?
- What is the culture, pace, and emotional tone?
Write one sentence for each:
- Sight 👀
- Sound 🎧
- Touch ✋
- Taste 🍇
- Smell 🌿
Day 5: Create Your Writing Plan 🗓️✍
Consistency is more important than speed.
Choose a Writing Schedule That Fits Your Real Life:
- 30 minutes each morning ☀️
- 1 hour in the evening 🌙
- 2–3 short sprints throughout the day ⏱️
For a 50,000-word Novel November draft:
Writing Frequency
Words/Day
Every day ~1,667 words/day
5 days/week ~2,500 words/day
Weekends only ~6,250 words/day
Pick the one you will actually maintain.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone 🤎
Writing is easier — and more joyful — in community.
✨ Join the Authors’ Kickback
(Every Saturday in November!)
A space for:
- Writing sprints
- Craft lessons
- Accountability
- Community support
- Black literary culture & creativity
Let’s write, not just talk about writing.
➡️ RSVP: https://bit.ly/Novel_November
🗓️ Saturdays in November
✍🏾 All levels welcome
