Putting your very first novel out there sounds awesome… but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Usually, writers begin their journey with a basic premise, an awesome character, or simply an interesting story they can't stop thinking about. And then comes the struggle: plot holes, self-doubt, bad writing habits, and other obstacles on the way to writing a novel.
The fact is that any author struggles when starting out with something new – even those who have already achieved success in their career. The best thing about writing a debut book is that you don't need to be perfect for this all you have to do is be patient and persistent.
If you're currently searching for how to write your first novel, read on for some helpful advice on how to become a first time author.

Start With a Clear Direction
A common mistake made by new authors is to write a novel without having a clear idea of how it will unfold. You don’t have to have an elaborate plan in place, but it is important that you have some sort of idea of what you’re doing before you put down thousands of words.

Think about these questions:
•    Who is the protagonist?
•    What is his/her objective?
•    What is the conflict?
•    What changes by the end?

By having these answers ready, your story will have a plot, and you will not have to worry about stopping midway through the story because you got stuck.
The story is a voyage, one which must include obstacles, blunders, and growths for your characters in order for your readers to be interested.
A sketch of what will happen in each chapter will make writing your story much more manageable.

Your First Draft Is Supposed to Be Messy
Many novice writers give up because they think their first draft will be perfect. It won’t be, and to be perfectly honest, it shouldn’t be.
The first draft should be about getting your ideas down on paper from your head. There are going to be some things that flow well and others that don’t. And that’s okay.
A common problem for new writers is to try to edit and write at the same time. Most of the time, this just hampers your progress.
There’s always time to make changes later. The best way to improve something is not to work on a partially completed draft but to perfect a completely finished one.
On some days, you’ll have no problem with writing. On others, things won’t go so well. This is okay – what’s important is simply being there.
Conclusion: perfection isn’t necessary for the first draft.

Build a Writing Routine That Actually Works for You
One of the most common problems that people have when they try to write their first book is the problem of inconsistency. Many authors tend to wait for inspiration before they start writing; however, that does not happen always.
What you should do is develop an easy-to-follow routine.
It will not take hours out of your day but only 20-30 minutes.

Here are some easy targets:
•    Write 500 words per day
•    Write one chapter a week
•    Write daily at night
•    Work out plans for scenes on the weekends

It's the consistent efforts that will get you rolling, and momentum will breed confidence.
Consistency, not effort, is what matters.

Dealing With Writer’s Block
Each author faces that point where it all stops making sense. There are many reasons why this might happen; you could be exhausted, the scene could not work, or even that you are overanalyzing it.

Luckily, this is normally a temporary state. Here are some debut novel tips when you hit this wall:

•    Write a different scene
•    Have a short walk
•    Read a book in the same genre
•    Verbalize the scene
•    Even write terrible prose just to keep writing

Yes, intentionally writing poorly is surprisingly helpful.
Also, reading is a way to kickstart your imagination. Observe how other writers use tempo, dialogue, and emotional expression in their writing; it is perhaps one of the fastest ways for you to get better at your craft.
It’s not the talented writers who write books; it’s the writers who complete them despite struggling through the process.

Focus on Finishing First, Everything Else Later
Many new writers find themselves side-tracked by the idea of publishing their book way too soon – covers, reviews, marketing, everything.
Yet to be honest, it really does not matter at all if the book is not completed yet.
Always aim to finish your first draft no matter what.
Afterwards, revision will come naturally, along with polishing scenes and sharpening the dialogue.
Novels will always have to be drafted several times.
Receiving constructive criticism from those you trust is a valuable asset. New pairs of eyes may be able to see what you no longer see for yourself.
And at the end of the day, completing your novel makes you way better than all the people who never got past half of theirs.
Just do it.

Final Thoughts
When you are writing your first book, it might seem daunting because you are comparing yourself with other writers who have experience in writing. However, every published author has been where you are right now; all you need is to learn as you go along.
Some days, writing will be tough, and you might want to stop. But the important thing is to keep going, no matter what.
In reality, writing a book has nothing to do with perfection. Instead, it is all about growing, getting better, and persevering in the story that you tell.