How to Start Writing a Book (Beginner’s Guide)
March 15, 2026
How to Stay Consistent While Writing (Proven System)
March 19, 2026How to Start Writing a Book (Beginner’s Guide)
March 15, 2026How to Stay Consistent While Writing (Proven System)
March 19, 2026How to Set Realistic Writing Goals: A Simple Beginner's Guide.
Do you continue to say to yourself, “I will write my novel tomorrow,” but nothing ever happens? You’re not alone. The majority of beginner writers do not fail because of laziness, but because they set writing goals that do not fit into their daily lives. Lack of consistency is also common among beginner writers because they do not know how to set realistic, attainable writing goals. To establish realistic writing goals, split your novel into small, easy tasks, follow a regular writing schedule, and monitor your progress throughout the process. When you know what you want to achieve and each task is manageable, writing feels less daunting and is much easier to stick with. A simple formula: one small goal each day + dedicated time + consistency = a completed first draft. Here, you'll learn how to set realistic writing goals as a beginner, step by step, so you can finally make real progress on your story.
What does it mean?
Realistic writing goals are those you can accomplish given your time, energy and experience. Instead of saying, 'I will write my novel this month,' say, 'I will write 500 words a day.' Realistic writing goals are,
- Specific (write 300–500 words)
- Portable (can fit in your day-to-day routine)
- Regular (not isolated)
When a goal is stressful or unrealistic, it is likely to become overwhelming. In fiction writing, particularly novels, this is important since the writing process is a lengthy one. You do not write a book in one sitting. Scene by scene, you build it, that’s how it will be built.
You may not know where and how to begin, but a basic daily word count is a good practice to start. It is the most convenient means of measuring progress and creating consistency. Think of it this way: small daily steps work better than unrealistic schedules that you abandon after a week.
The Step by Step Guide to Realistic Writing Goals.
Here are easy beginner-friendly steps that you can actually follow to set a realistic goal.
1. Begin with Your Time, Not Your Dream.
Don’t start by saying, “I want to write a novel.”
Begin with a single question: 'How much time do I really have?'
Think about the time you can realistically write, not just your free time. Ask yourself,
- Will I be able to write 20 minutes per day?
- Or 1 hour on weekends?
Be honest with yourself, and make sure your goals fit your daily life.
2. Establish a Short Word Count per Day.
As a beginner, the best approach is to keep your daily goal small.
Try like this,
- 200-300 words/day (extremely easy)
- 500 words/day (easy)
Even if you write 200 words per day, it would sum up to 6,000 words per month. That’s really great progress.
If a word count feels stressful, set a time-based goal instead, such as writing for 20–30 minutes. Consistency matters more than the exact number.
Many beginners finish their first draft within a few months, and some in a year or two that’s entirely normal.
3. Divide Your Novel into Little Goals.
A novel can feel overwhelming because it is a big project. Divide it into smaller parts such as character creation, outlining, chapters, and scenes. For example
- Week 1: Character creation
- Week 2: Story outline
- Week 3: First 3 chapters
This simplifies the process and makes it less stressful to achieve your goal. This is effective since your brain concentrates better on small and specific tasks as opposed to one big goal.
4. Select a Fixed Writing Time.
Consistency is more important than writing a lot in a single session. Select a time which suits you,
- Morning (fresh mind)
- Evening (after work)
- Prior to bed (quiet time)
Attempt to link your writing time with an already established habit (such as after dinner or before bed). Try to write in the same place each time and minimise distractions such as your phone and notifications. It is much easier to be consistent when you are in a focused environment. Even 20 minutes a day is effective provided you stick to it.
5. Track Your Progress
Tracking your progress helps you stay motivated and see what you've accomplished. Simple methods to monitor are,
- Notebook checklist
- Calendar marking
- Word count tracker
Simple apps or notes on your phone are also an option, in case you want to track using digital methods. Progress is not measured only by word count. Sketching scenes or brainstorming ideas is also good, particularly in your initial stages. The visualisation of your progress will create momentum and keep you going.
6. Be Flexible, Not Perfect
If you missed a day, that’s okay. Start from where you left off on the next day. But when you miss for several days, it is not advisable to attempt to make up for the days you missed. But simply resume with the usual goal you set. It is the habit that counts, not the numbers. Realistic goals are not about perfection; they are about persistence.
Examples/Mini Tips
Now, let’s look at some examples of how beginners can set their realistic writing goals.
The Busy Student
He sets a goal to write 300 words each day after dinner. His plan looks like this,
- His writing time is 25 minutes.
- Turn off all his distractions
- He writes and does not edit.
A timer helps him stay focused and prevents him from writing for longer than planned. The result is that he writes approximately 9,000 words per month, and he finishes his first draft in a few months.
The Working Professional.
She sets a goal to write 500 words on weekends and 200 words on weekdays. She plans like this
- She writes longer scenes on weekends.
- She focuses on making small amounts of progress during the weekdays.
- Carry a notebook with her to jot down her ideas.
Result:
The result is that she writes her novel without burnout.
An effective writing routine helps you avoid burnout.
Mini Tip
When writing starts to feel difficult, cut your target. It is better to write 100 words a day than write nothing while making grand plans. Even little victories build your confidence and the confidence keeps you going.
Common Mistakes Made By Beginners
These are common mistakes beginners make when setting writing goals.
- I will write 2,000 words a day, that sounds good, but it is difficult to keep. Try to set a goal that can be achieved.
- Waiting for motivation is a mistake. Motivation often comes after you start writing, not before. Focus on your habit, not on the feeling.
- If you stop to correct every sentence while writing, it slows your progress. Editing and writing are two different things. Finish your first draft first and then focus on it later as both are different.
- A basic outline of your writing plan is important, and it helps you to get organised with your writing, otherwise, it can become messy. Even a very basic plan will help you stay on track.
- Avoid comparing yourself with other writers. Everyone progresses at their own pace. This is not a competition, it is your goal and focusing on your goal is important.
- Don't wait to feel inspired. Start writing first, and inspiration often follows.
FAQ (People Also Ask)
Final thought
One of the secrets to completing your novel is to set realistic writing goals. You do not need extra talent or motivation. What you need is a simple, consistent writing plan.
Start small. Stay consistent. Keep going.
Your novel will not be written in a day. It is built one word at a time. Begin today with a small goal of 100–200 words and complete your first writing session.
If you're a beginner, the next steps are learning how to overcome writer's block, stay consistent with writing, and eventually learn how to write a book.
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