I’ve completed the National Novel Writing Challenge (50,000 words in a month) several times resulting in the comedy novel with a sci-fi slant that is Housewife with a Half-Life and some literary novels under submission and revision. My first foray into the world of NaNoWriMo was when I had four children under the age of ten and some of the best posts come from that time of madness and perseverance. Like much in life there is no ‘right’ answer. There are pros and cons to the intensity of NaNoWriMo. On the plus side a regular routine and burgeoning wordcount, on the minus side, desperation may lead to writing that’s impossible to decipher after the fact, sentences that don’t actually make any sense and material that needs a good untangle. Other more structured and organised minds have found it a great way to produce whole series of novels. I’ve collated some of my posts below to give you some tips on whether NaNoWriMo is right for you, how to keep motivated and to give an insight into the reality of writing for your life for 30 days straight. The best of luck to all who endeavour either at this pace or more sedately over the course of time.
In this brand new article for writing.ie I look at the Monumental Challenge of NaNoWriMo and give pointers as to whether this challenge is right yoru at this time in your Writing life.
How to do NaNoWriMo when you don’t have the time
This very popular post from the archive gives you tips and tricks to help your productivity and rally support when your life is really too busy to take on the NaNoWriMo challenge.
Ten sure-fire ways to keep yourself motivated and productive during your 50,000 word marathon.
Personal experience
Running for my writing Life. The ups and downs during the 2009 NaNoWriMo session
NaNoWriMo – Now it’s all over would I do it again?
Realistic pluses and minuses of using NaNoWriMo to work on your novel
Head Above Water 