Before you start writing a novel, it is important to research the subject of the novel first. The author should try to become an expert in the subject of the novel, since most readers are able to detect the inaccuracies and they will also be highlighted by the reviewers of the novel. The initial research may take several weeks to several months depending on how much information the author already has about the subject of the novel. A novel set in the medieval ages will require more research effort from the author than a novel set in modern times.

The steps in writing a novel are:

• start with a brief outline of the novel

• Decide the main protagonists of the novel, characters, their background and interests

• Elaborate on the outline , write a basic sequence of events.

• Write a rough draft of the novel – detailing the characters and events

• Make corrections to get the final draft ready.

Alternately, you can write a short story and then add to the plot to create a novel.  Writing a conclusion can sometimes be the most difficult part of writing a novel, that is why many novels remain unfinished. The conclusion is often unexpected and often decides the success or failure of  the novel.

Many people like writing and plan to write a story. But writing is a creative process, and writing a novel is a time consuming process. The author has to be very disciplined and write a few pages everyday. Many times the writings may not be up to the standards of the author, due to which they may have to be written. Since few people are full time writers and usually hold a conventional job, at some stage they may give up on writing the novel or put the writing on hold, planning to complete it at a later date when they have more free time.

The beginning and end of a novel are the most important parts and play an important role in the success or failure of the novel. The beginning of a novel is important as it has to grip the attention of the reader and tempt him or her to continue reading the novel. The end of the novel or story creates a lasting impression on the reader and influences his or her recommendation of the book to his or her acquaintances and friends.

Experienced writers often experiment with different versions of the beginning and the end . They get feedback from the target audience and modify it accordingly. The literary agent or publisher who have a significant stake in the publication of the novel or book may also suggest modifications. Some times,the writer may not be satisfied with the ending of the novel and keep it unfinished till he or she gets a better idea.

True stories are based on facts and there is always some closure. It is a sequence of events that has actually taken place at some time. Though collecting factual information can be a time consuming process, there is little scope for distortion of facts.

Newspapers and news magazines are supposed to report news stories based on facts. However, the news stories can paint an incorrect picture  by providing only partial information or highlighting only the negative aspects. The personal prejudices of the editor and the business interests of the publisher also affect the bias in the media. For many news stories, there is no right or wrong, it is up to the reader to read between the lines and make his or her judgment about what works and what does not.

Fiction consist of stories which are made up by the author. While the written word in the form of stories and novels is considered fiction, most people create a lot of works of fiction  in their life, in the form of stories they tell each other. Many fabricated tales (or lies) in real life remain unfinished, to cover up for one story, you tell another and there is never an end to the stories you make up, unless you admit your mistake.