Introduction to the novel writing: keeping going
Key facts
- Cost: £170
- Credits: 10
Summary
As Thomas Mann so famously put it, "a writer is someone for whom writing is more difficult than it is for other people." Nowhere is this truer than for the marathon effort it takes to write a novel! How can you hold on to so many plots, characters, scenes, settings and story ideas at once? After getting started, how do you keep going?
Join this practical and encouraging course for new writers to give your existing novel plans a big push forward. Learn new ways to create engaging characters, keep up a strong narrative structure and entice readers to keep reading. Find new helpful habits and tips and feel supported to write more and learn more from sharing what you write. In short, refresh your motivation and practise to keep going with your novel plans whether you are a newcomer or an existing writer in need of fresh inspiration.
Over a series of welcoming talks, close-readings and approachable writing exercises, our expert tutor will explain:
- The key features of short stories
- how to apply these ideas and techniques to your own writing
- how to share what you’ve written with others and improve with feedback
You will also have the chance to discuss and reflect on what you learn with other students and the tutor in seminars.
Choose this course if you want to learn:
- the basics of what makes novels work
- key techniques to help you write your novel
- how to share your work and improve with mutual feedback
- (for those who submit for assessment) how to improve with written feedback, how to reflect on your writing process
Who is this course for?
Anyone already developing as a writer and interested in:
- writing imaginatively and improving their short story writing skills
- Developing further creative writing skills and refreshing their practise
- finding a supportive writing community to share work and gain feedback
- the short story as a literary form
Qualifications/credits
(optional) 10 credits at SCQF 7 / Level 1
Can contribute towards the attainment of Certificate or Diploma in Higher Education (Creative Writing)
Assessment
If you opt to take the course for credit the assessments are:
- One 1,500-word novel writing portfolio (75% of final grade)
- One 500 word self-reflective essay (25% of final grade)
Mode of study
This 10-week course will be delivered via 2-hour seminars led by a tutor.
Course materials will be provided via our online learning platform Moodle
Prospects
- Can begin your journey as a writer and help you find a supportive community
- Can reenergise and refresh your existing writing practice
- Can begin your study of creative writing at university level
- contribute towards a Certificate or Diploma in Higher Education
- can inform your personal reading list and introduce you to some inspiring writing
Find out more
The University holds open days throughout the year where you can meet with staff to discuss our short course provision. Find out more about University of Glasgow open days
Available sessions
- Date: 12/04/2025 - 14/06/2025
Day: Saturday
Time: 13:00 - 15:00
Reference: Introduction to the novel writing: keeping going(HOLD1)- Online live book now