How Long Does It Take to Write a Book? (Average Time + Tips to Finish Writing Faster)

You may have heard that writing a book takes years, but did you know that some authors have written entire books in just a few weeks? On average, writing a book takes six months to a year, but the actual timeframe depends on factors like book length, writing speed, and whether you're traditionally publishing or self-publishing.

Take Stephen King, for example—he reportedly writes six pages a day and has finished books in as little as three months. On the other hand, J.R.R. Tolkien spent over a decade crafting The Lord of the Rings. So, how long does it take to write a book? The answer varies, and if you’re thinking about writing one, you’ll want to know what influences the process. Let’s dive in!

Credit: Etienne Girardet

Quick Answer: How Long Does It Take to Write a Book?

• On average: Writing a book takes 6 to 12 months.
• Fastest possible time: Some authors can write a book in as little as 30 days (e.g., NaNoWriMo participants).
• Longest possible time: A book can take several years or even decades to complete.

Breakdown by Type of Book

• Short novels (50,000 words): 3-6 months
• Standard novels (80,000–100,000 words): 6-12 months
• Non-fiction books: 4-12 months
• Epic novels (150,000+ words): 1-3 years

What Affects the Time It Takes to Write a Book?

1. Book Length & Complexity

• A shorter book (under 50,000 words) can be completed in a few months, while longer, more complex books take much longer.
• Non-fiction books may require additional research and fact-checking, which adds to the writing time.

✅ Tip: Outline your book before writing—it helps you write faster and stay on track.

2. Writing Speed & Consistency

• Fast writers (e.g., Stephen King, 2,000 words/day) finish books in 3-4 months.
• Slower writers may take years, especially if they struggle with consistency.

✅ Tip: Set a daily or weekly word count goal to stay consistent.

3. Publishing Path (Traditional vs. Self-Publishing)

• Self-publishing authors can publish right after writing and editing.
• Traditional publishing takes longer due to submission, editing, and production schedules (adding 1-2 years to the process).

✅ Tip: If speed matters, consider self-publishing or hybrid publishing.

4. Editing & Revisions

• A first draft is rarely ready for publication—editing can take 2-6 months.
• Hiring a professional editor adds more time but improves quality.

✅ Tip: Write without over-editing, then revise thoroughly later.

5. External Commitments & Distractions

• Writers juggling a job, family, or school may take longer to finish their books.
• Full-time writers can complete books much faster.

✅ Tip: Create a dedicated writing schedule and minimize distractions.

Credit: Thought Catalog

Best-Case vs. Worst-Case Scenarios

🏆 Best-Case Scenario: If you have a solid outline, write daily, and work efficiently, you could complete a 50,000-word novel in a month (e.g., NaNoWriMo participants).

🚧 Worst-Case Scenario: If you struggle with writer’s block, lack discipline, or face constant interruptions, a book could take several years or remain unfinished (*like George R.R. Martin's The Winds of Winter).

Common Mistakes That Slow the Process (Avoid These!)

🔴 Mistake #1: No Writing Schedule
📌 Fix: Set daily or weekly word count goals (e.g., 500-1,000 words/day).

🔴 Mistake #2: Perfectionism in the First Draft
📌 Fix: Focus on finishing the draft first—editing comes later!

🔴 Mistake #3: Not Having an Outline
📌 Fix: Plan your book structure before writing to stay on track.

🔴 Mistake #4: Taking Long Breaks
📌 Fix: Write regularly, even if it’s just a few sentences per day.

🔴 Mistake #5: Ignoring Editing Time
📌 Fix: Set aside at least 2 months for revisions and feedback.

FAQs

1. How do I start writing a book?

Begin by defining your book's purpose and target audience. Create an outline to organize your ideas, and set a consistent writing schedule to build momentum.

2. Do I need an outline to write a book?

While not mandatory, an outline can provide direction and help structure your narrative, making the writing process more efficient.

3. How long should my book be?

Book lengths vary by genre:

• Novels: Typically 80,000 to 100,000 words.
• Novellas: Around 20,000 to 50,000 words.
• Non-fiction: Depends on the subject but often between 50,000 to 80,000 words.

4. How can I overcome writer's block?

Try setting small, achievable writing goals, changing your environment, or taking short breaks to rejuvenate creativity.

5. Should I hire a professional editor?

Yes, a professional editor can provide objective feedback, catch errors, and improve the overall quality of your manuscript.

6. How do I find a publisher for my book?

Research publishers that specialize in your genre. Prepare a compelling query letter and consider attending writing conferences to network with industry professionals.

7. What is self-publishing, and is it a good option?

Self-publishing allows authors to publish their work independently, often through platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. It offers more control but requires handling aspects like marketing and distribution.

8. How do I market my book?

Utilize social media, create an author website, engage with book bloggers, and consider book tours or signings to promote your work.

9. How much does it cost to publish a book?

Costs vary based on factors like editing, cover design, and marketing. Self-publishing can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the services you choose.

10. Can I write a book while working full-time?

Absolutely! Many authors balance writing with full-time jobs by dedicating specific times each day or week to write.

11. How can I speed up writing a book?

To write faster, set daily word goals, use dictation software, and minimize distractions. Participating in challenges like NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) can help speed up the process.

12. Can I write a book in 30 days?

Yes! Many writers complete 50,000-word novels in one month through programs like NaNoWriMo. However, it requires a strict writing schedule (about 1,667 words per day).

13. How long does it take to write a book and get it published?

For self-published books, the process can take 6 months to a year. Traditional publishing takes longer—1 to 3 years due to submission, editing, and printing schedules.

14. What’s the fastest a book has ever been written?

Some authors have completed books in under a week! For example, John Boyne wrote The Boy in the Striped Pajamas in just two and a half days. However, this is extremely rare.

15. Do authors write every day?

Most successful authors, like Stephen King, recommend writing daily—even if it's just 500-1,000 words.

Final Thoughts

Writing a book can take anywhere from a few weeks to several years, depending on factors like book length, writing speed, and publishing method. The key to finishing faster is consistency—writing regularly, avoiding perfectionism, and sticking to a solid plan.

Have you ever written a book? How long did it take you? Share your experience in the comments!