I’m 50,000 words into my second book “I Won’t Cry” and I’m aiming for 70,000 words. I’m not finished writing the story yet, but I’ve already come up with ideas to insure I reach my goal.
Here are my 5 ways you can reach your target word count:
1. Check your research
You may have written a description about a place or a topic that you’ve researched that might need more clarification.
By adding more details, examples, or whatever the situation of your research calls for, can help increase your word count.
2. Add Descriptions
If you haven’t already, check to make sure you described the scene the best way you know how. Including sound, smell, and even the weather. This could add about 100 words for each new scene or place you have in your story.
Also character description details are important, too, so adding facial expressions to your character’s actions helps paint a better picture for your readers. (just an example)
3. Add a Scene
If you think your audience will benefit from a new scene then go for it. This scene can be used to clarify something that may have been a little fuzzy in the plot.
Be sure to have the scene advance the story and not just an obvious, I-need-more-words scene.
4. Add an “event” or “situation”
This “event” or “situation” is basically adding something new altogether in the plot. Something else that happens that’s big enough to add 5,000 words but doesn’t take away from the main point of the story. In fact this “event” should enhance the story overall and not take away from the story’s value or confuse your readers.
5. Reread your novel to see what’s missing
You know your story the best and by rereading through your work you can spot areas that need sharpening;
– Look for plot holes
– Check for clarity
– Make sure your words give off the emotional levels you aimed for
That’s it. That’s all I got so far. I’m sure there are more ways to add words to your novel to reach your goal and if anyone has a technique or strategy they use, please share it with me in the comments.
Thanks for reading,
Shaquanda
