Last Updated on January 13, 2023 by Dr Sharon Baisil MD
This article is for you if you want to write a light novel but aren’t sure where to begin. You write a certain kind of book (young adults) for a specific group of individuals. Light novels and short tales are frequently confused, but word count is the only thing they have in common. Writing a light book in English is difficult because of its cultural origin.
You’ve come to the right place if you want to write a light novel! 14 useful strategies for writing a successful light book will be given to you in this article. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran writer, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to Hit The Ground Running. So ready to write your next blockbuster light novel? Let’s get started!
What is a light novel?
A light novel is Japanese-originated young adult fiction. Its name comes from its readability and enjoyment, not its length. A 50,000-word light novel series might be written. Yet, since each tale is mostly around 300 words, it’s more like a novella.
Illustrations are frequently used in anime and manga and are sometimes found in light novels. Several video games and films have utilized photographs as a source. They may also be included in specific journals. The bulk of authors is Japanese, with a few exceptions.
In addition, thriller, mystery, and suspense are some genres in which you can write them.
Light novels may be found in three works: NisioIsin’s Monogatari, Isuna Hasekura’s Spice & Wolf, and Syougo Kinugasa’s Classroom of the Elite.
15 expert tips on how to write the best light novels
If you want to produce outstanding anime like “Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya,” you’ve come to the right place! The light novel industry is exploding. Check out these 15 expert tips, including the bonus tip at the top.
Bonus Tip: Write with the help of a robot!
Along with great editing blurbs, this professional AI tool is also excellent at crafting compelling story hooks, fresh story ideas, character development, authentic dialogues, scene descriptions, and more. Don’t forget to check out its Creative Story, Content Improver, and Sentence Expander template!
#1 First, observe how light novels are written!
Reading and analyzing a light novel is helpful if you’re trying to start writing one. It’s the same with any creative activity. Pick a light novel (or a series) and study the writing style. Yen Press, Del Rey Manga, and Tokyopop all published light novels in the United States, so choose one (or more) to examine. Look at quotes from the characters and get a sense of the characters’ speaking styles to understand how reliant light novels are on dialogue. Remember, though, who you want your book to appeal to.
#2 Don’t forget to research!
Both fiction and non-fiction authors should conduct research as a first step.
A specific incident could have inspired you in the past or present, or maybe you just saw a house one day and had a light-bulb moment that planted the seeds for your tale if you’re writing a book. Before you start writing, make sure you’re well-versed in the topic. This will come in handy when you’re constructing the story and characters.
#3 Start developing characters and the plot’s story
You may utilize this knowledge to develop your tale and characters after you have done your research. If you want your novel to have a more playful or unique format, each story has a beginning, middle, and end. However, you can play around with the frame. Even if your tale isn’t told in the form of a narrative, make sure it’s still coherent. Readers are likely to be turned off if it is too complicated. Character growth should be a top priority as it will help to advance the plot and keep your readers interested.
#4 Plan it right!
When you don’t have any ideas, allow yourself enough time to write; if you get writer’s block, give yourself enough time to gather your thoughts. Like any book, write a schedule of days when you have free time and put your heart on paper. Even if other obligations must take precedence on certain days, don’t avoid your usual too frequently; otherwise, you risk never completing your tale.
#5 Just write your first draft no matter what!
Of course, there are mistakes, spelling, and grammatical faults in the first draft, but it does exist, right? Furthermore, the initial draft is a draft[5] that you may modify at your leisure. You finally get your first chapter after multiple re-toolings. Then repeat the procedure with the remaining chapters, determining if they’re good enough to be read (if not published). Your draft needs work if you don’t believe it’s something you’d choose from a bookstore shelf.
#6 Edit the draft
Make sure to revisit your draft multiple times before publishing. For your book, you want to achieve the correct tone and structure. Even if you’re writing in a notebook, saving your final draft on a computer is recommended. After that, read your work proof before submitting it.
#7 Maintain consistency
When it comes to information, events, or practically anything in your light novel, continuity is the consistency and flow of the light novel. If you don’t have time to go back through your book now and then, make sure you capture significant events in your tale so you can refer to them later.
#8 Format all the images together
Before you start editing your document, make sure your photos are ready. You may do it yourself, or enlist the help of a friend. You may also have an artist do it for you if you want. The scene should be accurately depicted in the photographs. Next, to your final draft, add the photos. Make sure the photos and scenes match up correctly. Writing your light novel without images is an option. They may also be beneficial in helping your readers understand your book. Moreover, adding pictures to your story might help it appeal to a broader audience.
#9 Always review the manuscript or get it reviewed!
To help you identify any mistakes or inconsistencies in your work, take a break before you review it. You may also ask your companions to read your work. You might discover something you’ll need to rectify or enhance. If you’re a reader, make sure your book is something you’d be willing to buy. A professional might also assist you to edit and rewrite your light novel for a fee.
#10 Always include meta-narrative
Your narrator’s mental statements must be written. It allows your viewers to see inside your protagonist’s head. To produce an excellent meta-narrative, use the first person. Put yourself in the character’s shoes and write their mental reactions to the events as though you are one of them. To communicate their emotions and ideas, individuals use words. Nevertheless, throughout the story, you must keep track of consistency.
#11 Use clear sentences
Your story should be full of concise phrases. Don’t use the exact words or phrases multiple times. Your sentences may be lengthy, but they must all be brief. Also, use simple and exact language when expressing your thoughts. whenever feasible, use active verbs rather than passive verbs.
#12 Use imagination
Use your imagination while writing. While there are several basic ways to write a light book, it shouldn’t stifle your imagination or flexibility. Use the following styles to communicate your thoughts. Trigger your audience’s imaginations with the story.
#13 Avoid cliches
When composing, try to avoid stereotypes. Some phrases are becoming overused, so choose carefully. Make them distinct to make sure that your efforts stand out.
#14 Consider self-publishing
If you don’t want to go through any legal complications, try to self-publish it if possible. Just order your first copy through a self-publishing provider like Lulu, then check for errors. Once you’ve confirmed that this is the best arrangement for your light novel, post it online and look for a way to sell physical copies. Only the light novel is presented to you by retailers, so speak up about your book with friends and family.
Final Words
Writing a light novel does not mean your work has to be of poor quality. We’ve explained what makes a light novel different, but if you are still unsure, we recommend you use this professional AI writing tool. It will help you to write an unforgettable novel in just a few steps.
Hi, I am a doctor by profession, but I love writing and publishing ebooks. I have self-published 3 ebooks which have sold over 100,000 copies. I am featured in Healthline, Entrepreneur, and in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology blog.
Whether you’re a busy professional or an aspiring author with a day job, there’s no time like now to start publishing your ebook! If you are new to this world or if you are seeking help because your book isn’t selling as well as it should be – don’t worry! You can find here resources, tips, and tricks on what works best and what doesn’t work at all.
In this blog, I will help you to pick up the right tools and resources to make your ebook a best seller.