Starting in January 2007, I will again offer the Two Year Novel Course, usually called 2YN. This is a weekly course -- 104 classes in all -- and covers everything from basic idea formation all the way to submission of the project. This class is a presentation of how I approach writing novels, and like any course of this type -- no matter who presents it -- the work will not suit everyone.

However, it is a free class so all you have to provide is a willingness try new things and a determination to do the work.

Having taught this class twice now, I've learned that there is a third thing that will help, though it's not necessary: you should be willing help by commenting and suggesting ways for others in the class to improve their material. The first group did a great deal of this, but the second group was far quieter. I think the first group did better overall for that reason. You should be prepared to spend time on the 2007 2YN board offering what help you can. This is not a requirement, but I think you'll find it helpful for your own work as well

I will do my best to give you the basics and what help I can, but having other people's views and suggestions can make a big difference. I have my own ideas about writing, and they don't suit everyone.

The course will be held on a private board for participants. Classes are posted there and participants post assignments to their personal threads. There is no genre limitation (within the general rules of the site -- in other words, no Erotica or fanfiction novels).

For class purposes, you should have nothing more than a basic idea for a story. This should not be part of a series or anything with already developed characters or worldbuilding. However, bear in mind that you can use the same techniques that you learn in the class for any other manuscript you are working on -- just not as the work material for the course. In fact, I encourage you to work on something else at the same time, because the class will go slow in some areas, and you might find it frustrating to hold back.

Only people who are serious and can commit to two years of work should consider this program. Some months will be more intensive than others, and there will be some leeway as people finish different sections at different times. While the classes are presented once a week (usually posted sometime over the weekend), the work proceeds at your own pace. You may not have completed the work by the end of the two years, but you will still have all the material you need to finish.

People who are in the ongoing 2006 class cannot sign up this year. However, if you have completed either of the previous two courses, you can join again this year.

If you are interested, post to this thread and when I set up the new board I'll give you access.

You might also consider buying the 2YN: Year 1 book, which is available in PDF (Download) format and which you can print out. This is the material that I'll present in the class, so it's not necessary that you have it. However, some people have found it helpful to have the book since they can look ahead (though not post ahead on the class boards), and can do the work even if they are not able to get to the computer on days I put the material up.

http://shop.hollylisle.com/index.php?crn=206&rn=366&action=show_detail

Year One topics:

Writing Basics: Ideas, Genres, Themes, Conflict and more
Character development
Worldbuilding
Outlining
Writing, including what to do when you get stuck

Year Two topics:

Completing your first draft
The second draft
Final edits
Submission

As always, there are no fees or special requirements, other than you be a member of Forward Motion.

If you are interested, just post to this thread and I'll add you to the board when it's open.

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