How to NaNoWriMo
National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) challenges you to write 50,000 words in 30 days. I’ve completed multiple novels through this challenge, and here’s what I’ve learned.
The Core Advice
Start writing. Don’t stop.
That’s really the essence of it. The biggest obstacle most people face isn’t lack of ideas or talent—it’s the inner critic that makes you second-guess every sentence.
Practical Techniques
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Disable your inner editor. First drafts are supposed to be rough. You can fix it in December.
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Write every day. Even 100 words on a bad day keeps the momentum going.
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Know your daily target. 50,000 words ÷ 30 days = 1,667 words per day. Build a buffer early in the month.
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Find your writing time. Morning, lunch break, late night—whenever works, protect that time.
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Don’t delete anything. Wrote yourself into a corner? Start a new scene. Those “deleted” words still count toward your goal.
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Join the community. Local write-ins, online sprints, and the forums can keep you motivated when the going gets tough.
I’ve been the Swiss regional leader for NaNoWriMo since 2014, and I’ve seen countless writers surprise themselves with what they can accomplish when they commit to the challenge.
The hardest part is starting. The second hardest part is not stopping.
Good luck, and happy writing!