<p>Anybody trying to write a novel or trying to get published? I'm writing a novel, but I doubt it would be publishable. If anyone has done either of these things or is trying to do either of these things please post your experience, advice, and/or questions you have. Oh, and please don't tell anyone that they shouldn't bother writing a novel (or anything else for that matter), because I personally think that if a story is really stuck in your head and can't get out, then writing it all down is a good thing whether anyone reads it or not.</p>
<p>Join an online writing community (there are plenty) and get help with editing bits and pieces of it (for instance, by posting individual chapters). And keep writing. I wish I had the concentration and drive to write longer pieces.</p>
<p>It's an ongoing goal for me, but one I've never actually started. I'm at the short-story phase of my writing "career," and I've learned not to force things.</p>
<p>I have a tough time with classroom creative writing classes because they tend to serve a purpose which I don't believe in (in short form, the completion of a particular story or project). Getting feedback from someone is invaluable, but structuring a process that seems to be pretty liquid is damaging. I agree with somebodynew: find an online community. To go further with that, find a specific online community, one that matches your particular needs (ie, a non-fiction novel group, or a fantasy novel group, etc.). You'll only be butting heads if you try to get advice for your science fiction novel from a group of religious fiction lovers (though I'm sure you'd get some great insight on the craft in general!).</p>
<p>Making writing a habit helps a lot, I've found. If you write no matter what mood you're in, no matter how you feel -- even if it's just some throwaway pages or a running journal -- you will find it much easier to get to the heart of your story, write what you mean to say, and keep going to the end of that piece you know you need to put on paper.</p>
<p>Best of luck. :)</p>
<p>Thanks for your advice, it's really helpful! I always seem to have trouble beginning my stories. It takes forever! After the beginning, though, I'm just fine.</p>
<p>What is your story about?</p>
<p>I'm trying to get published, but not in terms of writing a novel. I work as a student trainee with National Cancer Institute, and it's very possible for me to publish my results in various nationally-recognized science journals. I just hope I'm good enough =)</p>