About the Course
If you want to write a novel, you need to know the basics of storytelling, plot, character, and style. But you also need to know the expectations of your genre, and how to craft a novel that fits the market and satisfies your readers. In this course, you will learn how to write a novel in any genre, from romance to science fiction, from fantasy to thriller. You will also learn about the different word counts for each genre, and how to plan and structure your novel accordingly.
The course consists of modules, each with a specific learning objective and a practical assignment. For each module, materials have been provided to help you through the course and allow for quick references or easy use to complete assignments. There is no pass or fail; the information provided here is meant to help you hone your craft. The modules are:
Module 1: Multiple Lessons
What is a novel? In this module, you will learn about the definition and history of the novel and how it differs from other forms of fiction. In our lessons,
You will learn:
what is the definition of a novel
what is the history of novel writing
how novels differ from other forms of fiction
what the different types of novels are
novel vs. novelette
what's an ISBN#
costs involved with writing novels
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 2: Multiple Lessons
How to choose your genre. In this module, you will learn about the different genres of fiction, and how to identify your target audience and market. In our lessons,
You will learn:
what are the typical word counts for each genre
basic principles of writing a novel
what are the age classifications of fiction in children to adult
what not to write
market trends
writing what you like vs. writing what is popular
how fast you should write
what affects your writing style and pace
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 3: Multiple Lessons
How to generate ideas. In this module, you will learn about the different sources of inspiration for your novel. In our lessons,
You will learn:
how to use brainstorming techniques to come up with original and compelling ideas
the types of brainstorming methods
how to test your ideas for feasibility and marketability
how to avoid clichés and plagiarism
why being original in concept sells better
pitfalls
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 4: Multiple Lessons
How to create characters. In this module, you will learn how to create realistic and relatable characters for your novel. In our lessons,
You will learn:
how to develop personalities
how to develop motivations
what are goals
what is the importance of having conflicts in your novel
what are protagonists, secondary characters and antagonist
how to balance your cast of characters
what is the role of each of your characters
what happens with too many characters
mistakes and pitfalls
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 5: Multiple Lessons
How to plot your novel. In this module, you will learn how to create a plot outline for your novel. In our lessons,
You will learn:
how to structure your plot into three acts
what are the three acts and what's contained in each
how to end your novel
what are plot devices
things that must happen in your novel to be successful
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 6: Multiple Lessons
How to write scenes. In this module, you will learn how to write scenes that move your plot forward and engage your readers. In our lessons,
You will learn:
how to use dialogue
how to use description
how to use action
how to use narration effectively
how to vary scene length
how to vary structure
what's a hook
what's a logline
what's a synopsis
how to keep the reader engaged
mistakes and pitfalls
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 7: Multiple Lessons
Crafting your dialogue. How to write natural and believable dialogue that reflects your characters' dialogue. In our lessons,
You willl learn:
what the character's personality does to the dialogue
how emotions are shown in dialogue
why goals affect dialogue
how to use dialogue tags, punctuation, and formatting correctly
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 8: Multiple Lessons
Choosing your point of view. How to decide which point of view (first person, third person limited, or third person omniscient) suits your story best, and how to use it consistently and effectively throughout your novel. In our lessons,
You will learn:
what point of view means
what types of point of views are available
what is required of each point of view
how one of the point of views suits your story the best
how to use it consistently and effectively throughout your novel
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 9: Multiple Lessons
Finding your voice. How to develop a unique and distinctive voice for your novel. In our lessons,
You will learn:
how to use tone properly
how to use mood effectively
how to create style and use it correctly
what language does to your story
how to engage your readers
why have consistency of voice is important
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 10: Multiple Lessons
Editing and Revising Your Novel. Editing your draft is an essential step in the writing process. It allows you to improve your novel by fixing errors, enhancing clarity, and refining your style. Self-editing techniques can help you revise and polish your draft without relying on external feedback. Here are some self-editing techniques that will be discussed in this module:
- Proofreading
- Rewriting
- Cutting
- Adding
- Rearranging
By using these self-editing techniques, you will learn to edit your draft and make it ready for the next stage of the writing process.
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 11: Multiple Lessons
Publishing your novel. If you have a novel that you want to share with the world, you need to know how to publish it. Publishing your novel can be a rewarding and challenging experience. There are many steps involved in the process, from writing and editing to finding an agent and a publisher. In our lessons,
You will learn:
what to do prior to publishing
researching the market
identifying your target audience and genre
create a query tracker or use our form
online resources
that publishing your novel can be done in two ways
what each entails
the advantages and disadvantages of each
what each method requires
what different skills and strategies are needed to succeed
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 12: Multiple Lessons
The submission process. In this module you'll cover the variest aspects and requirements for submitting your work to the publishing world. In our lessons,
You will learn:
how to prepare your manuscript for submission
what's important about revising, editing and getting feedback
what's a beta
how to prepare your manuscript for self-publishing
how to query agents
what's a query letter
how to prepare a synopsis
where to find information for submissions
how outlining your book can save you time in the end
how to pitch publishers
how to publicize your book or hire a publicity agency
how else to market your book
dos and don'ts
what is required of you after submitting your manuscript
what is required of you should you publish
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Module 13: Multiple Lessons
Establishing a writing routine. Establish a writing routine that works for you and stick to it. Set realistic goals and deadlines for yourself and track your progress.
You will learn:
what are trackers and which ones work for you
to use our trackers
setting goals
daily word counts
writing sprints
social meda support
joining a writing group
Practical Assignment
Quizz
Summary
Discussion Forum: feedback for your work
Discussion Forum: how do you manage your writing
Discussion Forum: What is your writing routine like
Discussion Forum: What do you do when you are not writing
Discussion Forum: finding a balance and staying healthy
Discussion Forum: finding a writing buddy, accountability buddy, or a writing coach
Course Summary Video
Breakdown of Fees: $904.00
$ 200.00 - base programming
$ 200.00 - For module set-up
$ 400.00 - For lessons: including:
videos
our copywritten forms
other materials
research
resources
forum access
Practical Assignment & Instructor Assessment
quizz
summary
instructor access
6 month access to program
Plus:
taxes
service fee
Notice: All information, forms and content provided for this course is strictly the property of Dark Dove Publishing, The WRITE Affiliates, and J.L. Slipak and should not be copied, reused, rebranded or altered in any fashion for unauthorized purposes, and without explicit permission to do so by the aforementioned parties, hereto.
Any infringement of copyright, trademark, or registration will result in legal actions being taken against violators. Permission of use is governed solely for this program/course as provided strictly adhering to copyright laws of Canada and the United States and for no improper purposes in accordance to the law.
For terms and conditions governing refunds, go to terms and conditions in the main menu under Dark Dove Publishing. All personal data is subject to our privacy policy listed below. Although Dark Dove Publishing strives to provide correct and appropriate materials, any errors or ommisions should be immediately brought to the attention of Dark Dove Publishing in written form by sending an email to:
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All courses are for informational purposes to fine tune and hone the craft of writing. None are for official certification toward a degree, diploma, or professional certification in any form. Go here to read further terms and conditions
Your Instructor
J.L. Slipak
Certified Freelance Writer, Editor, Published Author, CEO of Dark Dove Publishing