Writing a novel is one of the most rewarding but also most challenging creative pursuits an author can take on. Starting a story is often exciting—the first chapter flows, the characters feel alive, and the world seems endless with possibilities. But finishing a novel? That’s where many writers hit a wall.
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck halfway through your manuscript, staring at the blinking cursor, wondering how to push through to the end, you’re not alone. In fact, most aspiring authors never complete their first book. The good news? With the right mindset, strategies, and habits, you can cross the finish line and hold a completed manuscript in your hands.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 practical tips on how to finish writing a novel, along with advice drawn from professional writers, writing coaches, and publishing experts.
1. Set a Clear and Realistic Goal
One of the most common reasons writers abandon their novels is that the goal feels overwhelming. A 70,000–100,000 word manuscript sounds massive when you look at it as a whole. Instead of focusing on the mountain, break it into smaller, achievable steps.
- Daily word count goals: Aim for 500–1,000 words a day, depending on your schedule.
- Weekly milestones: Track progress by chapters or sections.
- Time-based goals: Commit to writing for 30–60 minutes daily.
By setting measurable goals, you create momentum. Remember, consistency is far more important than writing in big bursts once in a while.
2. Create a Solid Outline
Some writers are “pantsers” (writing by the seat of their pants), while others are “plotters” (planning everything in advance). Regardless of your style, having at least a loose outline will make finishing easier.
- Identify the beginning, middle, and end of your story.
- Define your main character’s arc—how they change from the first to the last page.
- Write a roadmap for key plot points to prevent stalling midway.
Outlines don’t need to be rigid; they’re flexible guides. But knowing where your story is headed can help you avoid writer’s block and keep the narrative on track.
3. Treat Writing Like a Job
Finishing a novel requires discipline. If you wait for inspiration, you might never finish. The key is to treat writing like a job—something you show up for, regardless of mood.
- Schedule writing sessions into your calendar.
- Treat deadlines as non-negotiable.
- Eliminate distractions: silence notifications, find a quiet space, or use tools like FocusWriter.
Successful authors agree on one thing: showing up consistently is what turns a draft into a finished book.
4. Write First, Edit Later
Many writers stall because they try to perfect every sentence while drafting. This slows momentum and kills creativity. The drafting stage is not about perfection—it’s about progress.
Adopt the mantra: “Don’t get it right, get it written.”
- Resist the urge to edit as you go.
- Use placeholders if you don’t know the perfect word yet.
- Remind yourself that revision comes later.
First drafts are meant to be messy. The editing process is where your novel truly comes alive.
5. Keep Your Characters Active
If your novel feels stuck, it’s often because your characters are standing still. Characters drive the story. To keep momentum:
- Ask yourself: What does my character want right now?
- Put obstacles in their way to create conflict.
- Ensure every chapter pushes the story forward.
When your characters have goals and face challenges, your story naturally moves toward resolution.
6. Build Accountability
Writing can feel lonely, but accountability can be a game-changer. Sharing your progress with others can help you stay motivated.
- Join a writing group (local or online).
- Partner with a “writing buddy.”
- Share updates on social media or writing forums.
Even telling a trusted friend about your deadline makes you more likely to follow through.
7. Push Through the Middle Slump
Most writers find the middle of a novel the hardest part. The excitement of the beginning has faded, and the ending feels far away. This is known as the “sagging middle.”
Strategies to overcome it:
- Add a twist to reignite tension.
- Introduce a subplot that ties into the main conflict.
- Raise the stakes for your protagonist.
Remember: momentum often returns once you push past this difficult section.
8. Visualize the Finish Line
Sometimes the best motivation is to imagine what finishing will feel like. Picture yourself:
- Holding your completed manuscript.
- Sharing your book with beta readers.
- Submitting it to agents or self-publishing.
Visualization isn’t just motivational—it reinforces your commitment to seeing the novel through.
9. Reward Yourself Along the Way
Writing a novel is a marathon, not a sprint. Rewarding yourself can keep the process enjoyable.
- Treat yourself after finishing a chapter.
- Celebrate milestones (25%, 50%, 75% done).
- Plan a bigger reward for completing the draft.
Positive reinforcement makes the process feel less like work and more like an adventure.
10. Embrace the Editing Process as Part of Finishing
Many writers think finishing a novel means completing the first draft. But in reality, finishing also means editing, polishing, and preparing the manuscript for readers.
- Do at least two to three rounds of self-editing.
- Consider hiring a professional editor for developmental feedback.
- Run your manuscript by beta readers to catch blind spots.
Editing isn’t the enemy of creativity—it’s the refinement stage that turns raw words into a publishable novel.
Common Obstacles That Keep Writers From Finishing
Even with strategies, writers often face hurdles. Here are the most common ones—and how to overcome them:
- Perfectionism → Remind yourself that drafts are supposed to be imperfect.
- Writer’s block → Revisit your outline or skip ahead to an exciting scene.
- Self-doubt → Every writer doubts themselves. Focus on progress, not perfection.
- Time constraints → Write in short sprints (15–30 minutes) instead of waiting for hours of free time.
Final Thoughts
Finishing a novel isn’t easy—but it’s possible if you stay disciplined, motivated, and intentional. Remember, every great author you admire once faced the same blinking cursor and the same doubts. The difference is they kept going.
By setting realistic goals, writing consistently, pushing through the middle slump, and embracing editing as part of the process, you can finally complete your novel and take the next step toward sharing it with the world.
Your story deserves to be told. Don’t leave it unfinished.
