Class

The Beginner's Guide to Starting Your Novel

Do you have a 'novel' idea, but aren’t quite sure what to do next? In this high-practicality, no-pressure class, learn how to use essential fiction craft elements such as character, setting, plot, and structure to discover your story, establish a starting point, and help get the right words on the page. Most class sessions will be comprised of approximately 50% lecture/presentation, 25% class discussion, and 25% in-class writing exercises.

This is primarily a process class—the in-class writing exercises are exploratory in nature, for the student’s eyes only. Students will have ample opportunity to discuss and share personal learnings. No experience necessary! Learn with other beginners in a supportive, no-pressure environment. All you need to bring is a notebook, a pen, and your imagination. At the end of the six-week class, students will have gained fresh insights into their story and a stronger sense of direction with which to start their novel-writing journey.

All Classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Standard Time (CST); make sure you understand your time zone, and adjust accordingly

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.