Hi, I'm new to writing and have an idea for a novel. The problem is I have started writing it three times, each with a different approach. I have now decided to research more before I start writing again. Can any of you provide tips on getting that first chapter finished please?
I used an outline. I found I couldn't finish the first chapter until I knew roughly where the next led, even though I'd already decided how the story ended. Now I don't write anything without one. If you've not got much time to write I can recommend spending time to lay one out.
My original prologue ended up in the middle of the book (don't ask!) and I had to write another. Don't be afraid to move stuff around if you think it improves the story.
Thank you Victoria, a good idea. I do have some of the chapters more or less decided right now so I may take up your suggestion and see how it goes.
If you can't write the first chapter, don't write the first chapter. I practically wrote my first book backwards, writing every other chapter from the end to the beginning and then going back through and filling the holes once I'd reached chapter one. I don't necessarily recommend that, but certainly don't force a chapter that isn't ready to be written. Focus on a section of the book you are sure about and write that. I think one of the problems of chapter one is that you have to be very secure on the knowledge of your characters before you can confidently build them for the reader. Sometimes that means spending some time with them nearer the end of their story so you really understand what they would ask you to tell the reader at the start.
Hmm, I'm not sure everyone would get that but it makes sense to me!