by Abigail Zinnecker (PWR 2027)
If you’re reading this, chances are you have a story you want to write. The truth is, most people do. Everyone carries around an idea for a book they wish they could put on paper. The wonderful part? Anyone can learn to write a good story. It just takes time and practice.
So, why do so many people never start? Because the first step is often the hardest. Even seasoned writers will admit that beginning a novel can feel daunting. But there are ways to make that leap less intimidating. It all comes down to finding the starting process that works best for you.
Outlining
One classic approach is outlining. This involves sketching out your novel from beginning to end –plot points, character arcs, key scenes, twists, and themes. Outlining can give you a clear roadmap so you always know what comes next. It allows you to address and avoid plot holes before you start writing, and it gives you more opportunities to foreshadow future events.
But outlining isn’t for everyone. If you only have a few characters or scenes in mind, trying to plan an entire book in advance might feel overwhelming. That’s why some writers prefer to take the opposite route and get straight to writing
Jumping Straight In
This is the “go with the flow” method: sitting down and writing with only a general idea of your characters or story. It’s a great way to get words on the page without the pressure of heavy planning. You’ll discover your characters as you write, and the plot often unfolds more organically.
The downside? Consistency can become tricky. Without reference notes, you might find yourself asking, what color were his eyes again? Did I already reveal this plot twist? Sometimes this method leads to more plot holes, extra rewrites, or a higher risk of deleting paragraphs or even whole chapters you spent time on. But for many writers, the freedom outweighs the risk.
Mixing It Up
The good news is you don’t have to choose one extreme. Plenty of writers mix methods. Maybe you write the scenes that are already clear in your head — even if they don’t belong at the beginning. Who ever said you had to start on chapter one? You don’t.
This means you can create rough outlines for certain characters or big twists while leaving the rest flexible. You can choose to start writing the scenes you’re most excited for.
The beauty of drafting is that nothing is set in stone. You can always cut, revise, or rewrite later. What matters is getting your ideas out of your head and onto the page.
Final Thoughts
That first line of your novel is daunting, but the truth is, most published novels had a completely different beginning in draft one. So don’t wait for perfection before you begin, because it’s not going to happen on your first go. Start with an outline, dive straight in, or mix and match until you find your rhythm. There is no wrong or right way.
The worst that can happen? You collect a handful of messy but interesting ideas. The best? You finish a novel that only you could write.
Either way, you’ll never know until you start.
PWR Blog 
Great insights! This article perfectly captures the struggle many writers face when starting a new project. I appreciate how it highlights that there’s no single “correct” method—whether outlining, jumping straight in, or blending both approaches, the important part is simply beginning. Creativity thrives differently for everyone, and giving yourself permission to start imperfectly is often the key to unlocking real progress.
Thanks for the encouraging reminder that even a messy first draft is a meaningful step forward.
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