What you'll learn
Improve your work skills by learning the techniques of writing a novel through our comprehensive writing short courses online and in Sydney!
The interactive live online novel writing course will be delivered via Zoom with a small class group.
Writing a novel may seem like a tremendous task to undertake, but this practical novel writing course will give you a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of fiction novel writing, along with a writer's toolkit full of techniques and tips for creating engaging fiction. Designed to equip you with the skills to write captivating novels, this novel writing course will teach you how to create compelling characters, draft a plan, and optimise reader experience.
You will also gain valuable insights into the publishing industry from an experienced, published author. This course will give you the foundation and bricks for building your fiction novel, one word at a time.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this novel writing course, you will have enhanced your career prospects by:
- Know how to develop and craft compelling characters your readers will cheer for
- Understand and know how to draft plot outlines and story plans
- Know how to use scene and sequel to draw a reader along in the story
- Be able to optimise reader experience by using point of view, dialogue and setting to your advantage
- Know how to hook editors, agents and readers by creating an engrossing read they can’t put down
- Understand the steps involved to prepare a finished novel for submission or publication
- Gain valuable industry insights beyond the secret doors of publishing, and understand the process from story concept through to publication.
Course content
What will be covered in this novel writing course?
Week 1: Character
How to build compelling heroes, villains and supporting characters with objectives, motivation and conflict, and understand character interactions and their roles within the story
Week 2: Structure, plot & hooks
How to plan your story, develop an outline, ensure conflict is sustainable, and hook the reader's interest all the way through until "The End"
Week 3: Scene & sequel, tension & pacing
How to engage action and reaction, character insights and pivots, to create drive and direction, assess the structural merits of a scene, and how to raise the stakes and ratchet the tension and control the pace of your story
Week 4: Point of view, dialogue & setting
How to utilise deep point of view and dialogue to conceal and/or reveal, and use setting as a character in your story
Week 5: Revision & editing
How to objectively assess your story for structural integrity, fix any issues, and edit and polish your story until it shines
Week 6: Synopses, submissions and publishing
How to write a synopsis, research editors, agents and publishers and prepare your manuscript for submission
Online delivery
Please note: The online course is a modified version of the full course, so the content and learning outcomes will be reduced to suit online delivery and the shorter course duration.
Intended audience
Who is this novel writing course for?
This course is carefully crafted to cater to students looking to upskill, including beginners who are new to the craft of creative writing, as well as those with some prior experience in writing.
Course materials
What to bring to class
- A notebook with removable pages
- Pen or pencil
- A laptop or tablet if this is what you prefer to write on (optional)
Course testimonials
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Olivia said: How no one was pressured into sharing ideas, it was a close and intimate group so it was a safe space to share ideas.
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Linda said: Shannon was very engaging and informative throughout the 6 week course. She was great with her knowledge and helped with a number of my questions. I'm looking forward to putting into practise some of the things I have learnt. Will be looking at doing the next course.
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Mike said: An excellent course for beginners and for those with some writing experience... Shannon Curtis knows her stuff, has published many books and imparts her experience, strength and hope with a minimum of fuss. Great value and a terrific tutor. Well done Sydney Community College - another happy client.
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Chris said: Shannon teaches with information, compassion, and high energy. I loved class, especially the in-class exercises.
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Emma said: The teacher was knowledgeable, engaging and very experienced. She was well prepared and encouraging in the craft of writing.
Course tutors
Shannon Curtis
Great reasons to enrol in a short course with us
Small classes
A personal approach means quality learning, so you can enjoy plenty of interaction with your instructor and the chance to ask questions.
Short & sweet
Our short courses & workshops get straight to the point, providing the skills you need with minimal commitment of your precious time.
Facilities & equipment
Our range of venues suit every type of course, are easy to get to, and have the equipment and tech needed to support your learning.
Easy, secure enrolment
Enrol online 24/7 with a safe, convenient 3-step process, and you can change your mind up to 7 days before class starts.
Quality instructors
Our educators bring first-hand experience and knowledge, with up-to-the-minute practices from diverse industries.
Business or pleasure
Our courses help you rapidly increase your skills and knowledge, for professional development or personal interest.
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<p>Improve your work skills by learning the techniques of writing a novel through our comprehensive <a href="https://www.sydneycommunitycollege.edu.au/courses/writing-performance/writing">writing
...If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Creative Writing Course: Novel Writing
If there isn't a class to suit you, please join our waitlist and we will notify you when we have places available. Join waitlist for Creative Writing Course: Novel Writing
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