Learning plan cover

Write a novel

LEARNING PLAN

Write a novel

This comprehensive learning plan is designed for aspiring novelists who want to transform their story ideas into finished manuscripts. Whether you're a complete beginner intimidated by the blank page or a perpetual starter who struggles to finish, this structured approach takes you from foundational skills through completion. It's ideal for writers seeking a systematic framework to develop both their craft and the discipline needed to actually complete a novel.

ByCommunity User
2 h 52 m
12 coursesUpdated 4 days ago
How to Write a Damn Good NovelBird by BirdMastering the Art of Novel Writing12 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

This plan was crafted by BeFreed’s proprietary AI to help you learn Write a novel with ease. It is curated from in-depth research on the topic and structured around the most effective learning journeys proven by BeFreed users.

Each episode delivers bite-sized, high-impact lessons distilled from world-class sources — bestselling books, research papers, and expert insights. Together, they form a sophisticated yet accessible path to mastering Write a novel.

What You'll Learn

  • Master the essential mindset and craft techniques needed to start and sustain your novel-writing journey
  • Design compelling plots and story structures that keep readers engaged from beginning to end
  • Develop authentic characters with depth and a unique narrative voice that distinguishes your work
  • Learn advanced storytelling techniques including sensory writing, pacing, and dialogue mastery
  • Complete a polished, publication-ready manuscript through effective revision and finishing strategies
  • Navigate the publishing landscape and understand your options for bringing your novel to readers

Build your foundation as a novelist by understanding the writing process, overcoming common obstacles, and learning the fundamental techniques that every successful writer needs to master.

How to Write a Damn Good Novel cover
How to Write a Damn Good Novel

A no-nonsense guide for aspiring novelists, offering practical advice on crafting compelling characters, building tension, and mastering storytelling fundamentals.

9 m
Bird by Bird cover
Bird by Bird

A witty, compassionate guide to writing and life, offering inspiration and practical advice for aspiring authors.

7 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2source 3The 12 Steps of Writing a Novel Explained
6 sources
Mastering the Art of Novel Writing

Discover the proven techniques for crafting compelling novels, from creating unforgettable characters to mastering plot structure. Learn the complete 12-step journey from initial idea to publication.

26 m

Learn to architect compelling narratives by mastering story structure, plot development, and the frameworks that turn ideas into page-turning novels.

Plot & Structure cover
Plot & Structure

A practical guide for crafting compelling plots and story structures, with techniques for both commercial and literary fiction writers.

10 m
The Anatomy of Story cover
The Anatomy of Story

A comprehensive guide to crafting compelling narratives, offering 22 steps to master storytelling for screenwriters and novelists alike.

10 m
podcast cover
source 1Worldbuilding for Writers: How to Create Story Worlds That Serve Your Narrative16.43: The Narrative Holy Trinity of World, Character, and Plot, with Fonda Leesource 4
6 sources
From Fantasy World to Compelling Story

Transform your rich fantasy setting into a gripping narrative by understanding how world, character, and plot work as a unified system. Learn to identify story kernels, create organic conflicts, and reveal your world through action rather than exposition.

8 m

Elevate your craft with advanced storytelling techniques, character depth, sensory writing, and developing your unique voice that captivates readers.

How to Write a Damn Good Novel, II cover
How to Write a Damn Good Novel, II

Advanced techniques for aspiring authors to elevate their fiction writing, focusing on character development, suspense, and crafting memorable stories.

9 m
Word Painting cover
Word Painting

A masterful guide to crafting vivid descriptions that bring your writing to life through powerful sensory details and imagery.

8 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2Developing Style and Voice in Fiction Writingsource 4
6 sources
Supercharge Your Fiction Writing Style

Master advanced storytelling techniques to create the 'fictive dream' that transports readers. Learn character development, sensory writing, and professional revision strategies from literary masters.

25 m

Transform your draft into a polished manuscript by mastering the revision process, understanding the publishing landscape, and learning how to actually finish your novel.

The Forest for the Trees cover
The Forest for the Trees

An editor's insightful guide for writers, exploring the creative process and publishing industry with wit and wisdom.

8 m
Making a Good Script Great cover
Making a Good Script Great

A comprehensive guide to screenwriting, offering practical methods for crafting compelling stories and characters through the rewriting process.

10 m
podcast cover
Plot & StructureHow to Write a Damn Good NovelCrafting Novels & Short StoriesBecoming a Writer
17 sources
From Spark to Bestseller

Transform your book idea into reality with practical steps to overcome writer's block, develop your story structure, and establish a sustainable writing practice—even when the process feels impossible.

42 m

Users also liked

become a better writer

become a better writer

LEARNING PLAN

become a better writer

Whether you're an aspiring novelist, content creator, or professional looking to sharpen your communication skills, this learning plan provides a comprehensive path from foundational mechanics to advanced mastery. You'll build a sustainable writing practice while developing both the technical skills and creative voice needed to produce compelling, professional-quality work that resonates with audiences.

2 h 32 m4 Sections
Writing and poetry

Writing and poetry

LEARNING PLAN

Writing and poetry

This comprehensive writing program is designed for aspiring authors, poets, and serious writers who want to elevate their craft from amateur to professional level. Whether you're struggling to start your first novel, looking to refine your poetic technique, or seeking to understand what separates good writing from exceptional literature, this structured learning path provides the foundational knowledge and advanced techniques used by accomplished writers across all genres.

2 h 52 m4 Sections
Creative writing

Creative writing

LEARNING PLAN

Creative writing

Creative writing is both an art form and a craft that requires deliberate practice and structured learning to master. This learning plan is designed for aspiring authors, hobbyist writers seeking to elevate their skills, and anyone who wants to tell compelling stories through fiction or creative prose. Whether you're drafting your first short story or working toward completing a novel, this comprehensive curriculum provides the essential foundation and advanced techniques needed to develop as a serious writer.

3 h 6 m4 Sections
Fantasy

Fantasy

LEARNING PLAN

Fantasy

This learning plan is essential for aspiring fantasy authors and creative writers who want to master the craft of fantasy storytelling from foundational concepts to advanced techniques. Whether you're writing your first fantasy novel or seeking to elevate your existing work, this structured progression guides you through the critical skills that distinguish published fantasy authors. The plan combines literary analysis of classics with practical craft elements, making it valuable for both beginners establishing their foundation and intermediate writers refining their technique.

2 h 28 m3 Sections
sell my ebooks

sell my ebooks

LEARNING PLAN

sell my ebooks

This learning plan is essential for authors and content creators who want to turn their ebooks into profitable, sustainable income streams. Whether you're a first-time self-publisher or an established author looking to increase sales, this structured approach teaches you the marketing fundamentals, launch strategies, and scaling techniques that separate hobbyists from professional authors who earn consistent revenue from their work.

2 h 17 m4 Sections
Business ideas

Business ideas

LEARNING PLAN

Business ideas

This learning plan is essential for aspiring entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and business professionals who want to transform ideas into successful ventures while minimizing risk. Whether you're starting your first business or launching a new product within an existing company, you'll gain the systematic approach needed to move from concept to sustainable growth with confidence and clarity.

1 h 51 m4 Sections
Romance books

Romance books

LEARNING PLAN

Romance books

This learning plan is perfect for avid readers wanting to deepen their appreciation of romance literature, aspiring writers seeking to understand the genre's craft, or anyone curious about why romance remains one of the most popular and emotionally impactful literary genres. Whether you're a longtime romance fan or new to the genre, this structured approach will transform how you read, understand, and discuss love stories across all formats and eras.

2 h4 Sections
Read a lot of books,especially fiction

Read a lot of books,especially fiction

LEARNING PLAN

Read a lot of books,especially fiction

This learning plan is designed for readers who love fiction but want to move beyond passive consumption to truly understand and appreciate what makes great literature powerful. It's perfect for book lovers who feel they don't read as much as they'd like, as well as those who want to deepen their analytical skills and build a more comprehensive literary foundation. Whether you're rekindling a reading habit or taking your existing practice to the next level, this plan combines practical habit-building with sophisticated literary analysis.

2 h 21 m4 Sections

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web
Start your learning journey, now