Online Class: Novel Writing 101

Explore the intricacies of novel writing with a course that combines artistic expression and disciplined methodology, offering tools to build captivating narratives and characters. Additionally, gain valuable guidance on navigating the publishing world to ensure your novel reaches its audience.
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  • 26
    Lessons
  • 63
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 5,979
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 22
    Hours
    average time
  • 2.2
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Mastering the Art of Novel Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

Crafting a novel is an art that intertwines creativity, discipline, and dedication. While the journey of novel-writing can be intricate, it is by no means unattainable, especially when armed with the right tools and guidance.

This course, "Mastering the Art of Novel Writing," offers both budding and seasoned writers a structured path to breathe life into their stories. We delve deep into the nuances of crafting a compelling narrative, providing you with a toolkit to develop engaging characters, build gripping plots, and lace your narrative with your unique style.

Why This Course?

For many, the idea of a structural approach to writing may seem restrictive. However, a well-constructed framework can act as a compass, guiding writers through the vast ocean of their imagination without getting lost. By adhering to tried-and-true methodologies, writers can channel their energy on ideation, weaving intricate plot twists, and creating memorable characters.

Our course encompasses all elements vital to novel creation, referred to as 'dramatic construction'. From the seed of an idea to the final full stop, we support you in your journey, ensuring that your story stands tall on these foundational pillars.

Furthermore, with the ever-evolving publishing landscape, simply penning a great story isn't enough. We extend our guidance beyond writing, offering insights into navigating the complex world of publishing, ensuring your masterpiece finds its rightful place on bookshelves.

A Glimpse into the Course Modules:

  1. Definition of a Novel: Understanding the essence of a novel and how it differentiates from other forms of literature.

  2. Work Philosophy: Adopting the right mindset and work ethic for sustained writing.

  3. Novel Writing Methods: Exploring varied approaches to novel writing to find what suits you best.

  4. Selecting a Specific Class & Genre: Recognizing where your story fits in the literary world and tailoring it to a target audience.

  5. Point of View (POV): Delving into narrative styles and discerning which lends best to your story.

  6. Manuscript Formatting: Preparing your manuscript professionally for submissions.

  7. Storyboarding to Synopsis Formation: Structuring your novel, mapping out key events, and preparing a gripping synopsis.

  8. Five Elements of Fiction Writing: Unraveling the elements that make fiction resonate with readers.

  9. Character to Plot Development: Crafting memorable characters and placing them in riveting scenarios.

  10. Setting, Theme, Style, & Tone: Building the world of your novel and defining its mood.

  11. Climax, Critical Scenes & Cause and Effect: Driving your story towards pivotal moments and understanding their ripple effects.

  12. Dialogue & Exposition: Mastering the art of authentic dialogue and balanced exposition.

  13. Polishing of Prose: Refining your narrative for a smooth reading experience.

  14. Checklist of Questions: A reflective module ensuring all boxes are ticked before proceeding.

  15. Publish or Perish - Getting Ready to Submit: Preparing your work and yourself for the world of publishing.

... and more!

Each lesson is meticulously crafted, complete with assignments, resources, and evaluations to ensure not just theoretical knowledge but practical application.

In Conclusion

Novel writing can be a challenging endeavor, but with commitment, passion, and the right guidance, the path becomes clearer and the journey enjoyable. If you're ready to commit to your literary aspirations, to mold your ideas into coherent, compelling narratives, then this course is your compass, guiding light, and mentor.

Join us on this transformative journey, and let's together bring your novel to life.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.4 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(5,372 votes)

  • Lesson 1. Novel Writing Unplugged

    The enduring bond between writer and reader thrives on trust and imagination, as novels serve as conduits for exploring unseen realms and embracing the unknown. Beyond the ambition of commercial success lies the intrinsic reward of storytelling itself—each novel a beacon for connection and reflection, bridging communities with shared narratives.

  • Lesson 2. Guided Literary Marathon: Crafting Novels with Discipline

    While embarking on the ambitious journey of writing a novel, authors can benefit from structured routines and strategic time management to maintain rhythm and creativity in their prose. Established authors' experiences demonstrate the power of personalized writing schedules, revealing diverse methods to sustain focus and nurture creativity.

  • Lesson 3. From Concept to Manuscript: The Journey of Novel Crafting

    The evolution from initial drafts to polished manuscripts underlines the importance of feedback and revision in writing, as famously noted by Hemingway. Authors' practices of gathering diverse perspectives transform initial concepts into sophisticated novels, echoing Harper Lee's development journey with 'To Kill a Mockingbird.'

  • Lesson 4. Beyond the Pages: Understanding the Art and Evolution of Storytelling Forms

    Crafting short stories demands precision, economy, and focus, often challenging even established writers to distill complex themes into concise narratives. In contrast, novels provide the luxury to explore vast worlds, intricate plots, and deep character development over extended narratives.

  • Lesson 5. Genre: The Storytelling Compass

    Choosing a genre is pivotal in novel writing as it frames the story's narrative structure and aligns with literary norms, letting your creativity thrive. Reflecting on story nature, writing style, and available time helps in strategically navigating through multifaceted genres.

  • Lesson 6. Narrative Perspectives: A Comprehensive Guide for Novelists

    Point of view not only determines narrative delivery but also deeply influences reader engagement and empathy. In modern storytelling, diverse POVs can mark a profound shift towards inclusivity and broadened cultural narratives.

  • Lesson 7. Mastering the Art of Manuscript Formatting

    Crafting a novel is like navigating a voyage, where mastering manuscript formatting acts as your compass to success. Adhering to industry standards enhances professionalism, ensuring creative brilliance isn't overshadowed by errors.

  • Lesson 8. The Art of Storyboarding: Crafting Novel Narratives

    Storyboarding in novel writing serves as a strategic framework that transforms abstract ideas into a coherent narrative through a visual and structured layout. By organizing scenes and plot points, it enhances creativity, maintains story coherence, and ensures a seamless reader experience.

  • Lesson 9. A Fun Journey into Synopsis Writing

    Your synopsis should serve as both a thrilling overview and an emotional map of your story, sketching character arcs and conflicts that offer a glimpse into the transformative journey within. An engaging hook, clear character descriptions, conflict introduction, and hints at resolution are crucial to crafting an effective narrative snapshot.

  • Lesson 10. Fiction Writing: A Journey Through Storytelling

    In fiction writing, characters become multidimensional entities reflecting human complexity, and plots serve as the canvas on which their stories unfold. Powerful settings create the backdrop for narratives, while themes and style imbue them with underlying meaning and unique voices.

  • Lesson 11. Character Development Mastery: Unleashing Narrative Potential

    Mastering character development involves crafting characters imbued with personal backgrounds and realistic internal conflicts, which drive emotional connections with readers. Through transformative arcs, these characters grow by overcoming their challenges, offering profound insights into the human condition.

  • Lesson 12. The Mechanics of Conflict and Plot in Storytelling

    The lesson explores the intricate dance of storytelling, emphasizing how conflict fuels the plot and engages readers. It provides insights into various types of conflict, from battles against nature to internal struggles, and highlights their role in delivering suspense and resolution in a narrative.

  • Lesson 13. Crafting Narratives: Mastering Plot Structures

    A well-developed plot drives stories and resonates with readers by intertwining dynamic characters and universal themes. Authors use conflict and suspense to propel narratives, making them emotionally impactful and thought-provoking.

  • Lesson 14. Setting and Theme: The Narrative Framework of Novels

    Crafting a novel involves blending characters, plot, setting, and theme to create an engaging narrative tapestry. The setting provides a vivid backdrop that immerses readers, while themes reveal the core truths of the story.

  • Lesson 15. Style vs. Tone: Literary Building Blocks

    Style and tone are the artistic tools that bring literature to life, infusing stories with memorable, emotional depth and delivering varied reader experiences. Through careful use of language, authors like Hemingway and Dickens craft unique worlds where style manifests in the structure and narrative voice, while tone shapes the emotional backdrop, from Orwell's bleakness to Austen's irony.

  • Lesson 16. The Pivotal Art of Novel Writing

    A well-constructed climax is the narrative pinnacle, transforming readers' understanding and leaving a lasting impact. It must be carefully timed to allow for a reflective denouement, ensuring the finale has room to explore the consequences and deeper meanings of the climax.

  • Lesson 17. The Vital Role of Critical Scenes in Storytelling

    Relational dynamics fuel critical scenes, revealing the profound complexities of human connections. These moments illuminate characters’ internal and external conflicts, driving narrative tension.

  • Lesson 18. Mastering Cause and Effect: A Novelist's Guide to Compelling Storytelling

    The deliberate use of cause-and-effect relationships helps writers construct multidimensional plots where characters' decisions and actions shape their destinies. By unraveling these links, authors weave narratives that not only entertain but also offer profound commentary on societal structures and universal truths.

  • Lesson 19. Words that Speak: Mastering Dialogue in Writing

    Effective dialogue resonates with truth, balancing character revelation and plot progression while maintaining narrative momentum. By observing real conversations and employing deft editing, writers can create dialogue that feels both realistic and compelling.

  • Lesson 20. The Intricacy and Impact of Figurative Language

    Seasoned authors like Charles Dickens exemplify how imagery transforms settings into unforgettable canvases, blending literal descriptions with figurative depth. His mastery shows that effective storytelling goes beyond the surface, compelling readers to feel and see within their minds.

  • Lesson 21. Craft Your Narrative with Elegance and Precision

    Audience consideration is vital in novel writing, as thematic elements and language should align with reader preferences for genuine engagement. Understanding audience demographics aids in crafting stories that resonate on a personal and emotional level.

  • Lesson 22. Conclusion Mastery: Tying Up the Narrative Tapestry

    Crafting an effective conclusion involves skillfully addressing and resolving narrative threads, avoiding new distractions, and maintaining rhythm to ensure reader satisfaction. By mirroring the story's introduction, the conclusion creates a cohesive and memorable end.

  • Lesson 23. From Draft to Masterpiece: The Art of Manuscript Revision

    Embracing the chaotic freedom of initial writing allows a writer's creativity to flourish, unencumbered by self-editing. The challenge lies in returning to the text with a critical eye to refine and perfect the manuscript, ensuring it meets the discerning standards of potential publishers.

  • Lesson 24. Enhancing Clarity and Coherency in Writing

    Clarity and conciseness are essential in creative writing to keep readers engaged and focused. A consistent writing style helps maintain the narrative's flow, while seamless transitions guide the reader through the story's journey.

  • Lesson 25. Publishing Unlocked

    In the dynamic realm of publishing, authors face the choice of traditional pathways, with the expertise of literary agents, or the freedom of self-publishing. Each route presents unique benefits and challenges that, when understood, can lead to successful book launches and thriving writing careers.

  • Lesson 26. Writing Beyond Completion: A Pathway to Continuous Creativity

    Great novels blend enlightenment and enchantment, sparking our imagination and deepening our understanding of humanity. With the milestone of completing a manuscript behind you, remember the journey of writing is an ongoing cycle of creation and reflection.
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Analyze the role of historical context and diverse philosophies in shaping novel writing as a dynamic and evolving literary form.
  • Identify and describe the essential features of a novel, including cohesive plot structure, well-defined characters, and an undercurrent of reality.
  • Define a structured writing plan, including outline, synopsis, and chapter summaries, to maintain focus and organization throughout the novel-writing process.
  • Identify personal writing schedules and strategies to consistently dedicate time for writing, ensuring steady progress on their novel.
  • Demonstrate understanding of diverse novel writing methods by outlining personal approaches to creative and structured storytelling.
  • Identify and apply character development techniques to create complex and engaging characters within a narrative.
  • Analyze how technological advancements and changing reader preferences impact the landscape of short stories and novels by listing two examples of each influence.
  • Define the unique attributes of short stories compared to novels by identifying three key characteristics that contribute to their distinct form and narrative style.
  • Identify personal writing preferences and align them with a suitable novel genre by evaluating individual storytelling style and thematic interests.
  • Define the characteristics of at least two novel types, such as picaresque and epistolary, with examples from modern literature.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how different points of view can impact reader engagement and emotional depth in storytelling.
  • Identify the distinct characteristics and advantages of first-person, third-person limited, third-person omniscient, and second-person points of view in novel writing.
  • Define standard manuscript formatting requirements, including font type, margins, and page numbering, by the end of the session.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Novel Writing 101
Course Number: 9770547
Lessons Rating: 4.4 / 5 Stars (5,372 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: You can take this course online in every U.S. state including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. International availability includes English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and South Africa.
Last Updated: January 2024
CEU Value: 2.2 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "Great course, challenging quizzes and assignments. The instructor is helpful and provides the right amount of guidance." -- Nicholas Y.
  • "The course helped fill in gaps in my knowledge about novels and novel-writing. I feel enabled to start drafting my first novel after completing this course." -- Lisa G.
  • "I appreciated the positive feedback from the instructor very much." -- Ronald C.
  • "The instructor was very pleasant individual and helpful as well!" -- Laura A.
  • "Two thumbs up!" -- Ralph C.
  • "Thoroughly enjoyed it." -- Hazel G.
  • "I loved this course! Thank you for offering it!" -- Laura G.
  • "Instructor was quite good." -- Rick H.
  • "The instructor must have been very open-minded to accept different avenues of the imagination and also to accept the "real slice of life" as she put it." -- Mary M.

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