Want to write a novel but feel like Tinkerbell taking on Goliath? Relax, it's not so bad. This course is filled with practical advice, techniques and exercises that will have you developing ideas and writing in no time. Learn about plot, characters, structure, conflict, making time to write, overcoming writer's block and how to make it all the way to THE END.

Course Description

Have you always dreamed of writing a novel but don’t know where to start – or how to finish? 

How to Write Your Novel is a practical and encouraging course designed to take you from first idea to final draft. 

You’ll explore a wide range of techniques used by successful writers to develop compelling characters, rich settings, and strong narrative structures. 

Along the way, you'll gain insight into the habits and mindset of writers, discover new ways to spark ideas, and learn how to approach the writing process with confidence and clarity.

This course is ideal for anyone ready to begin their writing journey, or for those who have started a manuscript but want help shaping it into something publishable. 

You’ll take part in practical writing exercises, group discussions, and feedback sessions in a supportive, collaborative environment. 

By the end, you’ll have a clearer vision for your novel and a better understanding of how to prepare your manuscript for publication, and what to expect when approaching publishers.

Course Structure

The course begins with strategies for generating and developing ideas, as well as understanding the publishing market. 

You'll then move into the heart of the writing process including developing characters, crafting scenes, building atmosphere, and writing vivid descriptions. 

Each session includes short informal lectures, followed by writing exercises, discussions, and feedback. 

Later sessions focus on editing, preparing your manuscript for submission, and understanding the publishing process. 

Participants will also have opportunities to share their work and learn how to give and receive constructive feedback.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Access and develop ideas from a variety of sources
• Understand their own creative process and needs as a writer
• Recognise the role of the market and reader expectations in shaping their novel
• Approach writing with greater confidence and structure from first draft to final version
• Use imagery and vocabulary to write more descriptively
• Create well-developed characters, settings, and emotional tone
• Collaborate effectively with fellow writers and respond to constructive criticism
• Prepare a manuscript in a professional format for submission
• Understand how to approach publishers and what to expect in the submission process

Your tutor is Martina Taeker

Martina Taeker BA (Hon), Grad Dip Ed, M Spec Ed has been teaching at WEA since 1995. 

She is a published poet and fiction author in both traditional and indie markets, and has worked as an editor with a Big Five publishing house in New York. She continues to judge writing competitions, assist authors and other artists with branding and marketing, and work with writers preparing their books for publication.

Having sat on every side of the writing and publishing desk, Martina understands exactly what writers need to know – and what they don’t. Her classes are practical, encouraging, and industry-focused, designed to give students the skills and confidence to succeed, while also helping them avoid the pitfalls and scams that can trap the unwary. She is passionate about helping emerging authors and many of her students have gone on to publish and sell their work.

In addition to her writing courses, Martina also teaches classes in smartphone photography, cacti & succulent gardening, and digital creativity reflecting her wide-ranging interests.