Camp Nanowrimo: How To Win

So you want to write a novel...

Camp Nanowrimo is the July version of Nanowrimo, and if you're looking to write a novel with the pressure of Nanowrimo but without the insanity that is midterms and school work, Camp Nanowrimo is for you! I have done Nanowrimo the past two years (my senior year of high school and my freshman year of college) and WON BOTH TIMES. This is absolutely crazy. Let that sink in. If I can win, write over 50,000 words while juggling 6 AP classes and college admissions and then the coursework of an Ivy League University, anyone can do it. 

Based on my experiences with Nanowrimo (and combating the insanity that ensues) 

here is my advice for you. 

1.     Have at least some inkling of what you want to write about BEFORE July 1st

2.     Warm your friends, family and significant others (and pets) about your impending insanity

3.     Tell everyone what you are doing. This way, people besides yourself can hold you accountable

4.     Make a playlist. Pick old favorite, new ones, Mozart, hard rap, anything. Make it several hours long because you’ll need some background music for those long nights.

5.     Stock up on your guilty pleasures. There is no better way to reward yourself for writing six thousand words in one day than with a sack full of Reese’s Cups or a dozen Duck Donuts. 

6.     Get a good throw blanket. It’ll keep you warm, plus keep your laptop from burning holes in your thighs

7.     Make friends with your Starbucks barista. Being a green star rewards member will get you free refills in store, and being friends with your barista will make the seven hours a day you spend in the store much more enjoyable

8.     Don’t be afraid to cry, cuss, and scream.