Online Class: Novel Writing 101

By committing to the steps outlined within this course, aspiring (and even experienced) novelists can find the structure they need to create a well-crafted manuscript, one they will be proud to shop to potential agents and publishers.
Self-Paced, Online Class
Fulton County Library System
 
  • 26
    Lessons
  • 43
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 5,930
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 22
    Hours
    average time
  • 2.2
    CEUs
  •  
    Video Audit
    Available
 
 
 

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.

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Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.4 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(5,339 votes)

  • Lesson 1: Definition of a Novel

    This lesson describes the history of the novel, and the rewards and satisfaction of novel writing.

  • Lesson 2: Work Philosophy

    This lesson explains the Dos and Don'ts about writing schedules and motivation.

  • Lesson 3: Novel Writing Methods

    This lesson explains the different forms, methods, and development for writing novels.

  • Lesson 4: Selecting a Specific Class

    This lesson discusses short stories and novella writing.

  • Lesson 5: Selecting a Specific Genre

    When considering the type of genre you ultimately want to write, it is most important that you objectively assess your strengths as a writer, the time you will be able to commit to the project, and the level of interest you have for specific subjects.

  • Lesson 6: Selecting a Point of View (POV)

    This lesson explains the four points of view an author can use.

  • Lesson 7: Manuscript Formatting

    In order for your work to be viewed as professional, and worthy of acquisition by a potential publisher, your manuscript will also need to be produced in the acceptable official form.

  • Lesson 8: Storyboarding

    This lesson defines what a storyboard is, and how to make and use one in the novel-writing process.

  • Lesson 9: Synopsis Formation

    This lesson explains what a synopsis is, and how to write one.

  • Lesson 10: Five Elements Involved in Fiction Writing

    This lesson describes the five elements that are crucial to writing a novel.

  • Lesson 11: Building Character Development

    This lesson explains the phases to go through as you develop your characters.

  • Lesson 12: Plot/Conflict Development

    This lesson explains how to establish a plot and conflicts.

  • Lesson 13: More on Plot

    This lesson discusses the different types of plot structures.

  • Lesson 14: Setting and Theme

    This lesson explores the different types of settings and themes, and the importance of ensuring that continuity carries throughout the novel.

  • Lesson 15: Style and Tone

    In this lesson we discuss the style and tone of a novel and the difference between tone and mood.

  • Lesson 16: Climax Building

    This lesson describes how to build tension that leads to a climax.

  • Lesson 17: Critical Scenes

    This lesson defines critical scenes, and their placement within the novel.

  • Lesson 18: Cause & Effect

    This lesson describes the cause-and-effect actions that are critical to a novel's plot.

  • Lesson 19: Dialogue

    This lesson discusses the importance of dialogue, and how to make it realistic.

  • Lesson 20: Illustrative Details/Exposition

    This lesson discusses imagery, style, allusions, and symbolism in writing.

  • Lesson 21: Inclusion and Exclusion

    This lesson explains the dos and dont's of adding too much clutter to your writing.

  • Lesson 22: Writing a Conclusion

    This lesson explains the different ways to bring closure to your novel.

  • Lesson 23: Polishing of Prose

    This lesson explains how to proofread your writing.

  • Lesson 24: Checklist of Questions

    This lesson discusses how to remove clutter, and refine your manuscript.

  • Lesson 25: Publish or Perish: Getting Ready to Submit

    This lesson discusses the different ways to submit your work for publishing.

  • Lesson 26: Writing a Novel: Final Take Aways

    Inspirational quotes by some well-known authors, why they write, and why people read novels.
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define what a novel is.
  • Describe working philosophy.
  • Summarize novel writing methods.
  • Select a specific class to write about.
  • Select a specific genre to write about.
  • Select a Point of View (POV).
  • Summarize manuscript formatting.
  • Create a storyboard.
  • Define the synopsis.
  • Summarize five elements involved in fiction writing.
  • Describe building character development.
  • Describe plot/conflict development.
  • Summarize plot requirements.
  • Create the setting, theme, style and tone.
  • Create climax. Identify critical scenes. Recognize cause and effect.
  • Create proper dialog and illustrative details.
  • Write a conclusion. Edit and revise. Publish the work.
  • 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 (5,339 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Available across all 50 U.S. states, this course includes key regions such as California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also open in major English-speaking countries, including Australia, Canada, the UK, and Ireland.
Last Updated: January 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
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.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus

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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