How to Write an Apocalyptic Novel

• 1). Familiarize yourself with the apocalyptic genre, as knowing your subject matter is one of the most important elements of writing a successful book. You want your work to be original, of course, and while you don't want to copy ideas from other authors, you should be aware of any templates or essential concepts in the genre that have been successful. Voracious reading is one of the keys to becoming a great writer, and reading from the genre within which you want to write is important.
  
  
• 2). Create biographies for your characters before you begin writing. You may have an idea of what your primary characters will be like, but putting it on paper helps you think through it, and allows you be consistent with your characters' personalities, language and decision-making as they move through the story.
  
  
• 3). Write an outline for your story, taking it from event to event. Your story will change and evolve as you write, of course, but it is essential that you start with a clear path and have an ending in mind before you start your book.
  
  
• 4). Develop major themes that drive your story along and make your readers connect with the book emotionally and care about the characters. Your book may be about redemption, survival, good vs. evil or love, but a theme that connects with the human spirit gives your book its soul.
  
  
• 5). Form a "pressure cooker" scenario that drives the action forward. Your characters should be compelled to act within a certain amount of time. This situation gives your story a sense of urgency and excites the reader. Perhaps your characters need to reach a safe area before being overtaken by malevolent beings or must obtain and ingest a vaccine before getting sick.
  
  
• 6). Sit at your computer and write something every day. Many thoughts and ideas for your book will be floating around in your head, and they may disappear before you get them on paper. In addition, forcing yourself to write keeps you in good habits and forces you to consistently tap into your creativity.