In the introduction of First Draft in 30 Days, author Karen Wiesner states, "My 30-day method for outlining a novel eliminates many of the problems that plague fiction writers. Why dig for plots blindly when, with a little preparation, you can craft something worthwhile from start to finish? Why go through countless, lengthly drafts of a novel when you can create an outline so complete that it actually qualifies as the first draft? Why revise hundreds of pages of a complicated manuscript when you can revise a snapshot of your novel that's a quarter of the novel's length? Using an outline can significantly reduce the time it takes you to complete a project from start to finish-sometimes by more than half." First Draft in 30 Days works for any genre and is easily customizable to your particular approach and style. Wiesner's game plan and comprehensive, interactive worksheets make the writing process much more enjoyable. Getting ideas out of your head and onto the paper has never been easier with the help of: Itemized, flexible schedules to keep you focused each dayCompleted sample worksheets inspired by best-selling novelsTips for outlining projects already in developmentBrainstorming techniques to keep you motivatedGoal sheets for getting-and keeping-your career on track By following Wiesner's instruction, you can expect your outline to become a "snapshot" or first full glimpse of your novel. After finishing it, you'll have the makings of an entire book that you'll be excited to continue working on. "Because you've revised so thoroughly, it will read with all the completeness and excitement of a finished novel," says Wiesner. "Using your outline as you write the first draft of your book should be so easy, you might even feel a little guilty about it. You will have done all the hard work creating the outline." What's the Catch? You must have self-discipline. Despite the flexibility of the 30-day method, you must make a commitment to do your part. The book is broken down into ten chapters and four appendices. The majority of the book (Chapters 2 through 7) will take you step by step through the six principle stages of the 30-day method. Each is broken down into a certain number of days during which different segments of your outline are developed and revised. Chapter 9 will guide you through the process of using your completed outline to write your manuscript. Chapter 10 contains goal sheets to help you stay focused as you move through each of your projects. If you want clear direction from start to finish, you'll want to read the book from front to back. If you're satisfied with your own way of writing, simply choose the parts that will enhance your talent.
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