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

Growing your audience organically
In this episode, you’ll learn how to reach your ideal readers and how to create content that users actually want to consume AND share.
Cover art for BOOK TALK: The Witch Collector, episode 72 of the Parents Who Write podcast
Learn what makes this fantasy book unique with its use of magic and sign language in The Witch Collector review. Gain tips on avoiding info dumps and introducing several characters too.
Giving yourself permission to write now w/ Megan Clancy
How do we push aside our guilt and give ourselves permission to write now and pursue our creative dreams? Hear how Author Megan Clancy did just that.