What is NaNoWriMo? – A Complete Guide

Post updated on September 16, 2019.

What is NaNoWriMo?

As the month of November draws nearer, you may start to hear buzz surrounding NaNoWriMo or NaNo. Officially known as National Novel Writing Month, NaNoWriMo, (or NaNo,) is a month-long event that encourages participants to write a novel (at least 50,000 words) in the month of November.

NaNoWriMo is a fun and fast-paced approach to creative writing with a mission statement that reads:

National Novel Writing Month believes in the transformational power of creativity. We provide the structure, community, and encouragement to help people find their voices, achieve creative goals, and build new worlds—on and off the page.

For anyone who has ever dreamt or even just considered writing a novel, NaNoWriMo is the perfect way to challenge and motivate yourself, find the resources you need, and tap into a community of writers who can help and support you along the way.

How can I take part in NaNoWriMo?

If you want to participate this November, all you have to do is sign-up and follow a few short steps. NaNoWriMo is open to anyone over the age of 13 and is completely free to enter. Young writers who are 17 and under also have the option to participate in the Young Writers Program.

NaNoWriMo Prep: Before the month of November

1. First, create a profile 

• Go to NaNoWriMo.org and click “sign-up” to create your profile and connect with like-minded NaNoWriMo writers throughout the month
• Once you’ve selected a username, and password you will receive an email that will enable you to confirm your account. (Remember to check your spam folder!)
• Click on the link in the email and sign in.

2. Give your novel a name:

• This can be the title or a place-holder, but is necessary in order to update your word count when November begins (and don’t panic, you can change it later.)
• In this section you will also be able to later add your novel genre, cover image, excerpt or synopsis.

3. Select a home region:

• Select your local region – this will allow you to connect with your local NaNoWriMo community and to be notified of events happening near you.

4. Fill in user profile

•  If you choose you can add your location, hobbies, favorite writing music and more

5. Get inspired + prepared

• NaNoWriMo provides plenty of resources and support for participants. From word-counters, to pep-talks from famous authors, as well as special deals and offers from NaNo sponsors – you can find all the resources and inspiration you need to help you write your book in November.

6. Get to know the NaNoWriMo community

• Let friends and family know that you’re participating by updating your profile pictures and websites with NaNoWriMo Flair.
• Looking to get your creative juices flowing? Participate in this year’s #InstaWrimo challenge on Instagram.

During the month of November

1. Begin writing

• As soon as November 1 kicks off, begin writing your novel and be sure to update your word count! You can do this either via the dashboard or header menu. For more help on how to write your novel, check out our other post “5 NaNoWriMo Tips to How You Write 50,000 Words in November.” 

2. Earn badges and set goals for your novel

• Collect badges as you reach word-count milestones or by participating in events, finding a writing buddy, or donating to the cause.
• Use the NaNoWriMo Goal Trackers to set a creative goal for your novel – it can be anything from tracking word counts to hours spent revising.

3. Connect with your local NaNo community

•  During the month of November you can find motivation and support by connecting with other writers in your area via forums, events, or by selecting a writing buddy.

4. Claim victory

• Starting November 20th, you can submit your full novel (at least 50,000 words)  by copying it into the word-count validator by November 30th. If you reach the word-count goal, you win – simple as that!

Now What? After the month of November

1. First things first

•  Congratulate yourself on your accomplishment. Revel in the joy of your own 50,000-word novel. 

2. Claim your rewards

• Each year, NaNoWriMo has plenty of generous sponsors who offer participants and winners rewards ranging from discounts to book deals.

3. Share your story

• After crossing the finish line, you can choose to keep writing, share your story with friends and family, or pursue publishing.
• When the month is over, and you’re asking yourself ‘now what?’ Have no fear! NaNoWriMo continues to provide support and resources for the revision and publishing processes to help your novel reach its full potential.

4. Now what? Publishing and resources

• After the party’s over, now what? The NaNoWriMo community doesn’t stop after the month’s over. Let the revision and publishing process begin! Head over to NaNoWriMo’s site for a complete list of revision and publishing resources, events you can attend to polish your novel, and forums to find writing and critique buddies.

Did you participate in NaNoWriMo last year? We’d love to hear your story, thoughts, and tips – tweet us at @freedom