Word count

Noes!
During NaNo there is no delete button!
Remove it from your keyboard!

I have just noticed that the word count validator on the 'novel info' page is working in what they refer to as 'low key test mode'. If you want to play and see how it works, copy your text, go to it, paste it in and submit. It should then automatically use its own counter to check your word count and upload that number. You can then compare their number with the one your own software gives you to see how you are doing in their terms.

You can also type in your score in the top right hand corner then click on update. This is trust time and isn't validated. You will need to validate your count at the end.
The only editing I do is to add back missing spaces and at the end I change all my contractions such as isn 't to is not etc. using the find/replace. Using them is faster typing and changing them adds to the word count almost effortlessly

Mind your golf

hi, I'm new on the block. My massive word count as of yesterday reached the grand total of 183 and today it has dropped to about 100. I thought I had an "interesting" story to tell but the more I read back the more bored I get and am compelled to delete for fear of falling in to a coma. Is this a common complaint for wannabe novelists? :(

First rule of thumb: don't delete.

Second rule of thumb: don't read back, except for reference (e.g. 'what did I call that character / place?')

List your characters (in an actual list at the beginnig where you can find the list easily) as they come into your head.

If it helps and it is the way you work, set out your storyline. Some people find that doing this in bullet points helps.

Start with what you think is your first scene and let it roll.

Your first scene might not be your first scene, but leave it there and go back (or forward) and slot in what works.

Let the words come and get them down. Remember: November is for writing; March is for editing. And have some fun! Welcome to Dublin WriMo!

Jennifer,
Promise with me NOW:
I will never ever again read what I have written during NaNoWrimo before the end of November.
Never ever :)

Thank you so much - I hear what you're saying - I know it'll roll once I get over this frustrating first hurdle. Good luck with your own endeavours :)

ha ha, ok - I promise!! and I promise my fingers aren't crossed either!