One of the most common questions new writers ask is: “How long will it take me to finish my first draft?” The frustrating truth is: it depends. Yes, I know. But the answer is based on SO MANY factors.
Your speed will hinge on your writing habits, the scope of your project, your available time, and your comfort with imperfection. But understanding the elements that influence drafting time can help you create a plan that works for you.
Factors That Affect Your Drafting Timeline
1. Word Count Goal
A 50,000-word novel (like those in writing challenges) will take far less time than a 120,000-word epic fantasy. Before you set a deadline, decide how long your book is likely to be.
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Contemporary romance: often 70–90k
- Mystery/thriller: 80–100k
- Fantasy/sci-fi: 90–120k (sometimes more)
You can find a more precise guide to word count here.
2. Writing Speed
Some writers can churn out 2,000 words in an hour; others find 500 a victory. Your natural pace will set the tone for your schedule.
3. Consistency
A steady pace beats random bursts of productivity. Writing for 30 minutes daily may get you further than sporadic 4-hour marathons.
4. Planning vs. Discovery Writing
Plotters often draft faster because they know the direction from the start, while discovery writers (pantsers) may need to backtrack or rethink entire plot threads.
5. Perfectionism
If you try to polish every paragraph before moving on, your draft will take longer. First drafts are for telling yourself the story, not for producing a masterpiece.
Average Timeframes for a First Draft
Writers often fall into three general categories:
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Fast drafters: 1-3 months (common in writing challenges)
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Moderate pace: 4-8 months
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Slow and steady: 9-18 months
None of these timelines is “better.” They simply reflect different lifestyles, processes, and commitments. Some writers can take years to finish a fantasy novel when others have another book ready three months after their last.
Tips for Finishing Your Draft Faster (Without Losing Your Mind)
Set a Daily or Weekly Word Count Target
This gives you something measurable to hit. Even 500 words a day adds up. You'll write your novel without even noticing it.
Silence the Inner Editor
Editing can wait until you type “The End.” Every time you go back to tweak, you’re delaying forward momentum. Editing can also be a quick task done in less than a month.
Use Writing Sprints
Set a timer for 20–30 minutes and write without stopping. You may surprise yourself with how much you produce.
Limit Distractions
Phone in another room, browser tabs closed, notifications off. The fewer interruptions, the faster the words flow.
Write in Imperfect Conditions
Don’t wait for the perfect mood or free afternoon: write in the 15 minutes before work, on lunch breaks, in the car (dictation apps can help).
Breaking It Down: 3-Month, 6-Month, and 1-Year Draft Plans
Let’s assume your target is 80,000 words (a common novel length). Adjust the numbers if your goal is shorter or longer.
3-Month Plan (About 90 Days)
- Words per month: ~26,667
- Words per week: ~6,150
- Words per day (writing 6 days a week): ~1,025
This pace is intense. You’ll need to block out consistent daily time and accept a VERY messy draft. In that case, editing will probably take quite some time.
6-Month Plan (About 180 Days)
- Words per month: ~13,334
- Words per week: ~3,075
- Words per day (writing 5 days a week): ~615
This is more sustainable for people balancing work, school, or family. It gives you space to think while keeping steady progress.
1-Year Plan (About 365 Days)
- Words per month: ~6,667
- Words per week: ~1,540
- Words per day (writing 4 days a week): ~385
This slow-and-steady pace is ideal if you want to minimize burnout or if you have a packed schedule. Just guard against losing momentum.
30-DAYS NOVEL PLANNER
