How to write more quickly?

Writing can be a slow process, especially when you are trying to make every word of your writing worth it. But as an author, you would have definitely wondered many times about how you can write more quickly. In today's blog, we will discuss the tips that will help you write faster: 

1. Set a "Decision-Free" Writing Environment

Before you begin to write, analyze the factors that can affect your efficiency while you write. Pre-decide on the tool that you want to use, the place where you want to write, and the music that you want to listen to (if any). It will prevent you from draining your energy before you write even a word, and you get a chance to be more creative in less time.

2. Use Placeholder Words Instead of Getting Stuck

You might have noticed that you end up wasting time while finding the perfect word. So next time, whenever you don't find a perfect word. Try this: 

• Use placeholder words like (emotion), (scene), or (transition), whatever is relevant, and move on. 

• Come back to it during the editing phase. It will help you to maintain the pace of your writing.

3. Start with ‘Invisible Outlines’

It is not always necessary to have formal outlines before you start writing. This is what you can do: 

• Write 3-5 points like you are explaining the plot to your friend. It will help you to write faster without feeling overwhelmed.

4. Use Time-Constrained Writing Bursts (but redefine the goal)

It's okay to set time-bound goals, but you should always focus on quality over quantity. 

Ask this question to yourself: How can I move the scene or section forward? This will let you shift your focus from perfection to building momentum.

5. Create a 'Warm-Up Paragraph' Habit

Write 1-2 paragraphs on any random topic before you start working on your manuscript again. It will help you clear the clutter of your mind and activate your creativity.

6. Repeat Key Phrases 

When you are finding it difficult to write fast: 

• Reuse certain phrasings or descriptions intentionally in the first draft. 

• Remember that you can add variations during the editing phase.

7. Create a "Filler Bank"

Save common transitions, scene openers, emotional responses, etc, in a document so that you can use them whenever you are stuck. You can rewrite those parts later.

8. Write Backwards When Stuck

It's common to get stuck while writing, but next time, whenever you feel stuck, this is what you can do: 

• Start writing from the scene that you know or from the ending that you have in your mind about your book.

9. Embrace Imperfect First Sentences

You won't be able to write faster if you are always worried about the imperfection in your first draft. So the next time, whenever imperfection haunts you, recall the quote given below:

“You might not write well every day, but you can always edit a bad page. You can't edit a blank page.”

-Jodi Picoult

Writing is not a race that needs to be won; rather, it is a process that should be enjoyed. Practice these tips and see how it helps you to be more efficient without sacrificing quality with each passing day.

If you need help refining your draft, visit our website and hire a professional to refine your book.

Read 'The Difference Between Autobiography, Biography, and Memoir'