Improve your work skills by learning the techniques of writing a novel with our comprehensive writing short courses, available online and in Sydney.
Whether you prefer flexible revisions or detailed outlines, the goal is always an engaging, well-structured manuscript. In this novel planning course, you’ll explore story structure, character development, plot outlining, and project planning. From crafting captivating characters to implementing goal-driven story arcs, this course is ideal for writers looking to turn their novel concept into a detailed plan. With expert guidance, take the mystery out of writing and begin to sketch out your narrative.
Course Outline
- Week 1: Explore NaNoWriMo; develop character goals, motivation and conflict; create compelling character arcs.
- Week 2: Merge character and plot; understand dramatic story structure; outline your story’s first act.
- Week 3: Master the second act; avoid the mid-story slump; integrate turning points to build suspense.
- Week 4: Write a satisfying resolution; elevate story tension; build a writing schedule for success.
What to Bring
- A notebook with removable pages
- Pen or pencil
- Laptop or tablet (optional)
You will learn
- Create compelling characters with depth and motivation
- Understand and apply dramatic story structure and turning points
- Construct a structured novel outline and writing schedule
You will get
- Comprehensive novel planning knowledge
- Tools and templates for story outlining
- Strategies to stay on target for writing deadlines like NaNoWriMo
Appropriate for
Beginners and intermediate writers aiming to enhance their creative writing and novel planning skills.
What to bring
- Notebook with removable pages
- Pen or pencil
- Optional: Laptop or tablet for writing
What to wear
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Creative Writing: Plan Your Novel
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