Let’s be honest, novel writing is quite difficult. It is an adventure, an ultimately rewarding experience, and super creative pursuits. But yes, it is the most complicated task as well, which even experienced authors have spoken of as the challenging one! With no proper guidance and knowledge about the writing style, a lot of writers end up making common mistakes when sitting down to pen their first draft.
But here’s the good news: a lot of these mistakes in novel writing are easy to recognize and correct. In this blog, we have jotted down 8 common errors that novelists should know about. Let’s begin the blog!
8 Common Mistakes Novel Writers Should Know About
Writing a novel is challenging and can be exhausting as well. In that phase, even an established author can end up writing gibberish. But don’t worry anymore, we have brought you the list of those common mistakes. And by learning to avoid them, you can easily create stronger and engaging stories.
1. Weak Story Structure
A novel without a clear structure will always feel confusing and aimless. Readers can easily lose interest if the events do not build towards a climax.
Ignoring the Three-act Structure
A well-structured story usually follows a beginning, middle, and end. The first act sets up the conflict, the second act escalates tension, and the third act brings resolution. Skipping this balance can lead to a novel that meanders without purpose.
Overcomplicating the Plot
Adding too many subplots can drown out the main story. If the reader cannot see how different events connect to the central conflict, the plot becomes frustrating.
| Weak Structure Example | Strong Structure Example |
| Random, unrelated events | Events drive toward climax |
| No clear resolution | Clear resolution and closure |
| Characters wander aimlessly | Characters pursue clear goals |
2. Flat or Unnecessary Characters
Characters always bring life to a novel. Without the depth, they will come across as unrealistic or unrelatable. A hero who is flawless or a villain who is evil without reason rarely engages readers. Complex characters with strengths and flaws feel more authentic. Strong characters change over time. If your protagonist ends the novel exactly as they began, the story may feel empty.
How to Build Strong Arcs
- Start with a clear flaw or weakness.
- Show gradual change through actions and choices.
- End with a meaningful transformation.
3. Weak and Vague Dialogues
One of the most important tips for writing a novel is never to add weak and vague dialogue. They can either breathe energy into a novel or make it drag. If characters speak only to explain information the reader already knows, the conversation feels unnatural. Also, avoid unrealistic speech like ‘um, well, oh,’ as this can make a character stiff.
4. Improper Fantasy and Writing
Readers want to feel immersed in the setting of the story. Poorly developed fantasy or inconsistent writing can break that immersion. If rules change or details contradict earlier descriptions, readers will notice and lose trust in the story.
Quick Checklist for Strong World-building
- Are the rules of the world consistent?
- Are sensory details used effectively?
- Does the setting influence character choices?
5. Lack of Conflict & Arguments
Remember the rule: without conflict, there is no reason for the reader to care. Characters who agree too easily or problems that resolve without struggle create a flat narrative. Readers need to know what is at risk. Survival, love, freedom, or reputation are strong examples of clear stakes that keep tension high.
6. Pacing and Development Issues
Pacing means the right rhythm of your story. If it is uneven, it can easily make the readers go bleh and out of experience as well.
Slow Starts
A novel that begins with a long backstory or description risks losing readers before the main conflict appears.
Rushed Endings
Skipping proper resolution leaves readers unsatisfied.
Fixing Pacing Issues
Begin with intrigue or action.
Use cliffhangers to keep interest alive.
Balance high-energy scenes with reflective moments.
7. Neglected Theme & Core Message
A novel with no underlying theme can feel super shallow, while a novel with a forced theme will feel like a lecture. So, remember to let your actions show the theme instead of narration. Also, summarize the theme in one sentence to stay absolutely focused. Keep the message intact and ensure to keep its feel throughout the story.
8. Weak Delivery Style
Remember, one of the most important tips for writing a novel: your writing style shapes how readers experience the story.
Overuse of Adjectives and Adverbs
Adverbs and excessive description often weaken sentences. For example, “She whispered softly” is less powerful than “She whispered.”
Repetitive Sentence Structures
Sentences that follow the same rhythm again and again become dull.
| Wordy | Concise |
| “At this point in time” | “Now” |
| “Due to the fact that” | “Because” |
| “He ran quickly” | “He sprinted” |
The Bottom Line
Novel writing is extremely demanding as well as a super rewarding challenge. With the aforementioned list of common mistakes in novel writing, you can easily structure your novel while avoiding them. Bookmark this guide to steer clear of these errors when working on your own publication. Also, if you have already written your novel, you can now review your draft by keeping this guide by your side.
At Ghostwriting Assistance, we have a team of expert writers who can help you enhance your manuscript. They have years of experience in writing and editing novels that are known as the best-sellers in the market. So, take your chance today and get in touch with them by sending us an email at support@ghostwritingassistance.com. Wishing you all the best!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the biggest mistake new novelists make?
The most common mistake is starting without a clear structure. A novel without direction often feels unfocused, making it hard for readers to stay engaged.
2. How do I make my characters more believable?
Give them flaws, desires, and unique voices. Readers connect with characters who feel human, grow through struggles, and make real choices.
3. Why is editing so important in novel writing?
Editing transforms a rough draft into a polished story. It fixes plot holes, strengthens pacing, and ensures the writing flows smoothly for readers.
4. How can I avoid info-dumping in my novel?
Reveal your world through character actions and dialogue. Spread details gradually so readers learn naturally instead of reading long explanations.
5. What role does reading play in becoming a better writer?
Reading widely teaches storytelling techniques and genre expectations. It also sparks fresh ideas and helps writers refine their own voice.
