Survival Guide: Managing a MFA Thesis Novel in Grad School
Survival Guide: Managing a 55,000-Word Novel During Grad School
Writing a novel is a huge creative undertaking. Doing it while enrolled in an MFA program—juggling workshops, academic reading, teaching, and life—can feel like trying to build a castle during a thunderstorm. But with structure, support, and a clear sense of purpose, it’s absolutely possible.
This guide breaks down the process into manageable phases, with weekly goals, practical strategies, and mindset tips to help you stay on track and finish strong.
Set Milestones by Word Count and Structure
A 55,000-word novel can feel like a mountain. But if you break it into scenes, chapters, and weekly word count goals, it becomes a trail you can hike—one step at a time.
What to Do:
- Weeks 1–2: Outline your story. Create a 1–2 page summary and a list of 10–15 key scenes. Think of this as your blueprint.
- Weeks 3–4: Draft 4–5 foundational scenes (~4,000–5,000 words). Focus on your opening, inciting incident, and early character development.
- Weeks 5–6: Complete Chapters 1–3 (~8,000–10,000 words). Establish your world and tone.
- Weeks 7–8: Reach 15,000 words. This marks the end of Act I—your story’s foundation.
- Weeks 9–12: Draft the middle (Act II, ~20,000–25,000 words). Keep the tension rising and deepen your character arcs.
- Weeks 13–16: Write the final act (~15,000–18,000 words). Resolve your plot and emotional arcs.
- Weeks 17–18: Finish your full draft (~55,000 words). Take a breath—you did it!
Create a Weekly Writing Schedule
Overview:
Grad school is busy. If you wait for the “perfect” time to write, it may never come. Instead, build writing into your weekly rhythm.
What to Do:
- Schedule 4–5 writing sessions per week (30–90 minutes each).
- Set a weekly word count goal of 2,500–3,500 words.
- Use a calendar, spreadsheet, or app to track your progress.
- Treat writing time like a class or job—non-negotiable and essential.
But what’s most fascinating is how this dark chapter in history continues to inspire fiction—especially for young readers.
Use Workshops Wisely
Overview:
Workshops are a gift—but they can also be a trap if you revise too early or try to please every reader. Use them to sharpen your vision, not derail it.
What to Do:
- Submit only chapters you feel ready to share.
- Keep a “revision parking lot” for feedback you’ll revisit after the draft is done.
- Focus on forward momentum. Don’t get stuck rewriting Chapter 1 for six months.
Stay Organized by Chapter and Scene
Overview:
A novel is a living, breathing system. Without organization, it’s easy to lose track of characters, timelines, or plot threads.
What to Do:
- Use tools like Scrivener, Notion, or Google Docs to organize chapters and notes.
- Keep a character tracker with names, traits, and arcs.
- Maintain a timeline of events to avoid inconsistencies.
- Label scenes by function (e.g., “reveal,” “conflict,” “turning point”) to ensure each one moves the story forward.
Work with a Trusted Writing Buddy or Confidant
Overview:
Writing can be lonely. Having someone who reads your work regularly and gives honest, actionable feedback can be a game-changer.
What to Do:
- Choose someone who understands your goals and genre.
- Meet weekly or biweekly to share pages and discuss progress.
- Ask for specific feedback (e.g., “Does this scene build tension?”).
- Be open to critique, but stay true to your vision.
Schedule Recovery Weeks
Overview:
You can’t write at full speed forever. Build in time to rest, reflect, and recharge.
What to Do:
- Every 4–5 weeks, take a “light” week with no new drafting.
- Use this time to reread, brainstorm, or revise lightly.
- Let your brain breathe. Rest is part of the creative process.
Revisit Your “Why” Often
Overview:
When the writing gets hard (and it will), reconnecting with your purpose can help you push through.
What to Do:
- Write a short mission statement for your novel. What do you want readers to feel or learn?
- Keep it visible near your workspace.
- Re-read it when you feel stuck or discouraged.
Thanks for reading!
What’s your biggest challenge when working on a long writing project—and how do you keep yourself motivated week after week?
Dare to subscribe to my newsletter?
You May Also Like
Plot Twists & Deadlines: The Fun and Challenges of Writing a Novel for My MFA Thesis
The Importance of a Positive Message in Fiction
