35. What is a chapter?

Do you keep toying with an idea for a novel, but you’re not even sure what constitutes a chapter?

In today’s episode, you’ll learn not only why we use chapters but also what to include in them, their average length, and different ways to end chapters.

So tune in to find out how to identify the purpose or goal of your chapter and thus what to write next. Want even more help with finishing the first draft, check out episode 22 also.

Topics discussed in this episode
  • Defining chapter
  • Including internal and external conflict
  • The average length
  • Different ways to end chapters
  • Identifying your chapter’s purpose or goal
  • A challenge for your chapters
  • Know at least this when starting a new chapter
About Erin

For 15 years, Erin has worked as a magazine and book editor, encouraging each writer’s individual voice and strengthening their writing goals. When she became a parent, she set aside her own writing aspirations to focus on her family. As the years passed, she grew increasingly anxious, depressed, and angry until she realized that she had forgotten who she was beyond being a parent.

Despite fearing her skills had atrophied, Erin started writing again. She first created her blog, Life Beyond Parenting, and then created the Parents Who Write podcast. Erin’s current role as a podcaster and writing coach enables her to help parents pursue their writing dreams.

She earned her MA in Writing from Johns Hopkins University, and she has finished the first draft of a fantasy-romance novel. She lives with her husband and their two young boys in Maryland.

Connect with Erin
Join our online community

Let’s connect via my Facebook group, Parents Who Write, at https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentswhowrite.

Listen or Watch

Listen to Parents Who Write on Apple Podcasts
Listen to Parents Who Write on Spotify
More button

Feeling stuck in your author journey?

As an experienced editor, I specialize in helping writers like you, especially parents juggling family and creativity, finish and publish their books.

Take action on your writing dreams! Book a FREE 30-minute discovery call to discuss how I can help you implement these strategies and finally achieve your author goals.

Bonus: Book your call and mention this episode for a free publishing check list.


Related

Writing about family and difficult memories
Do you have personal moments of your life that you want to write about, but you're not sure how to approach writing about family? Tune in to learn tips for navigating these issues.
The Write Women Book Fest 2023: Inspiring journeys and genre magic (part 1) episode of the Parents Who Write podcast
Seven women authors who attended The Write Women Book Fest 2023 discuss their literary careers, love for their chosen genres, and inspiration sources.
Writing for the sake of mental health w/ Esme Iris
After years of silence, she finally resumed writing for the sake of mental health. Esme Iris, a homeschooling mom of five, is on the show today.