#256. Why “Just Start Writing” Can Be Terrible Advice for New Writers

#256. Why “Just Start Writing” Can Be Terrible Advice for New Writers

From Fiction Writing Made Easy with Savannah Gilbo | How to Write a Novel & Writing Advice by Savannah Gilbo

July 14, 2026 · 16 min · Episode 256

About this episode

This episode discusses the pitfalls of the common advice to 'just start writing' for new writers who may not yet be ready to do so.

Everyone tells you to just start writing. Nobody tells you when. And if you keep starting your novel and stalling out a few chapters in, that missing piece might be exactly why. “Just start writing” is one of the most common pieces of writing advice out there, and for some writers, it's exactly what they need to hear. But if you're a brand-new writer who's still figuring out your story, following this advice too soon can leave you stuck, overwhelmed, and wondering why your first draft keeps f...

People in this episode

Host: Savannah Gilbo

Topics covered

  • writing advice
  • new writers
  • overcoming writer's block
  • novel writing
  • creative process

Keywords

  • writing tips
  • beginner writers
  • story development
  • first draft
  • creative writing

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