Novel November
The only writing challenge that takes you from blank page to first draft in just one month with the help of bestselling authors. Proudly supported by Scrivener.
What if this November, you finally finish your novel?
You’ve dreamed of writing a novel. Now it’s time to actually do it. Join thousands of writers around the world pushing through doubt, distractions, and writer’s block to write 50,000 words in 30 days.
Track your progress wherever you write
Measure your progress directly in Word, Scrivener, Google Docs, or your favorite app—no copy-paste required.
Get direct advice from best-selling authors
Get your questions answered in live sessions led by top authors like Madeline Miller (The Song of Achilles), Rufi Thorpe (Margo's Got Money Troubles), Jessica Brody (Save the Cat! Writes a Novel), Onyi Nwabineli (Someday, Maybe), Mary Adkins (Palm Beach), Graham Bartlett (City on Fire), and many more.
Write with others in the community
Join daily writing sprints and networking events where you’ll write alongside fellow participants, stay accountable, and feed off the energy of a global writing community.
Celebrate your success
Earn rewards and badges as you achieve your writing milestones so you maintain momentum throughout the challenge.
The novel way to write your first draft
Your dream of a finished first draft is closer than you think with Novel November (NovNov). Here’s how this 30-day writing challenge works:
October
Prepare and plot
Learn how to shape your story and start November ready to write. Get free workshops and advice from bestselling authors, editors, and agents.
November
Put pen to paper
Write 1,667 words a day in your favorite writing app. Stay on track with daily sprints, expert Q&As, and a community that keeps you motivated.
December
Polish to publish
With 50,000 words under your belt, learn how to edit, publish, and market your book with advice from agents, editors, and published authors.
Stories from past challenge participants
The commitment of writing 1000 words every day and reporting back when it's done—its like a mini dopamine hit when you tick it off.
I had days that were slow, but I always wanted to have something interesting to share in the community posts, which helped me keep pushing foward.
Honestly just participating with other writers has been a really eye-opening experience. I've been very alone in my whole writing process and so it's nice to be able to see other people out there and you know there are people there to help.
This brought out my competitive side! Knowing I needed to present my word count daily helped motivate me to keep writing every evening.
The guided writing sprints have been my best friend! That and the encouraging support from the community!
Just the fact that it was done as a race, it was in small bits as well. It is always the hardest to just get started. Once you are a 1000 words in, the next 1000 or 2000 are much easier.
Every kid deserves room to read
We're celebrating NovNov by supporting Room to Read, a groundbreaking charity dedicated to bringing literacy and equality to children living in poverty and conflict-stricken communities. For every writer who completes the challenge, we'll give $2 to Room to Read.
Novel November FAQs
What is Novel November?
Novel November (NovNov) is a free 30-day writing challenge designed to help you write the first draft of your novel. With expert workshops, daily writing sprints, progress tracking, and a supportive global community, you’ll have everything you need to hit 50,000 words in one month.
Who can join?
Anyone. Whether you’re writing your very first novel or you’re an experienced author looking for accountability, Novel November is built to support writers at all levels.
How do I sign up for Novel November?
If you don't already have one, you need to register for a free ProWritingAid account to join Novel November and get access to all features. Click here to sign up for NovNov for free.
When does this 30 day writing challenge start?
Novel November begins on November 1 and runs through November 30. Prep workshops and resources are available throughout October so you can start November ready to write.
How much does Novel November cost?
Nothing—participation is completely free. You’ll get access to the full program of workshops, community events, tracking tools, and expert support at no cost.
What tools do I need?
All you need is your favorite writing app—Word, Scrivener, Google Docs, or wherever you already write. Novel November integrates with these tools so you can log your word count wherever you write. You can also write by hand and manually log your word count via the Novel November dashboard.
How does Novel November work?
In October, you’ll prepare with planning workshops and expert advice. In November, you’ll aim to write 1,667 words per day (50,000 total) while tracking your progress directly in your favorite writing app. In December, you’ll get access to resources on editing, publishing, and marketing your book.
Is my writing safe with Novel November?
Absolutely. Any text you write for Novel November remains your own. ProWritingAid never sells or shares your writing, and your work is never used to train any algorithms. You can write with confidence knowing your novel is safe and private.