Pinterest, a popular visual discovery tool, has transformed the way many writers approach novel planning. With its ability to organize and curate images, links, and ideas, Pinterest has become an invaluable resource for aspiring and experienced authors alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to use Pinterest effectively for novel planning, creating novel outlines, and managing pins to streamline your writing process.
1. Understanding Pinterest and its Benefits for Writers
Before diving into the specifics of using Pinterest for novel planning, let’s first understand what Pinterest is and why it is so beneficial for writers.
What is Pinterest?
Pinterest is a hybrid between a social media network and a visual search engine, allowing users to discover, save, and categorize images, videos, and articles. These visual bookmarks, known as “pins,” can be organized into collections called “boards,” making it easy to collate and access information on a wide range of topics.
Benefits for Writers
For writers, Pinterest offers several advantages when it comes to novel planning:
Visual Inspiration: Pinterest’s image-centric platform helps writers visualize their characters, settings, and scenes more effectively, aiding the creative process.
Research: Pinterest can be used to collect and organize research materials, such as articles, images, and videos related to your novel’s subject matter.
Organization: By creating boards for different aspects of your novel, you can keep all your ideas, research, and inspiration in one place, making it easy to reference and update as needed.
Collaboration: You can invite other writers or editors to collaborate on your boards, allowing for easy sharing and feedback during the planning process.
2. Setting Up a Pinterest Business Account
As an author, you will want to create a Pinterest Business Account, rather than a personal one. This will provide you with access to valuable analytics and promotional tools that can help you market your books more effectively.
To create a Pinterest Business Account, follow this link and enter your email and password. If you already have a personal Pinterest account, you can convert it to a business account by following the instructions provided.
3. Optimizing Your Author Profile
Once your business account is set up, take the time to optimize your profile to reflect your author brand. Make sure to include the following details:
Profile Photo: Use a professional headshot or a high-quality image that reflects your author persona.
Display Name: Use your author name or pen name to maintain consistency and make it easier for readers to find you.
Username: Incorporate your author name or pen name, even if you need to add numbers or variations if your desired username is already taken.
Author Bio: Keep it under 160 characters and provide a brief overview of who you are as an author and what you write. Including relevant keywords will help your account appear in search results for those topics.
Location: You can be as specific or vague as you like, but including a general location adds a personal touch to your profile.
4. Creating Boards for Novel Planning
When it comes to using Pinterest for novel planning, it’s all about the boards. Boards serve as categories or collections for your pins, allowing you to keep all your ideas and inspiration organized.
Here are some essential boards to create for novel planning:
Character Inspiration Board
This board is dedicated to collecting images and ideas related to your characters. You can pin photos of people who resemble your characters, images of clothing or accessories they might wear, and any other visual cues that help bring your characters to life.
Setting Inspiration Board
Create a board for the various settings and locations in your novel. This can include images of real-life places similar to your fictional settings, as well as photos of buildings, landscapes, and other elements that help you visualize the world your characters inhabit.
Plot Inspiration Board
Use this board to collect images and articles related to your novel’s plot and structure. You can pin resources on plot development, writing tips, and any visual aids that help you organize your story’s progression.
Theme and Motif Board
If your novel has recurring themes or motifs, create a board to collect images and ideas related to these concepts. This can help you keep track of important symbols and imagery, as well as inspire new ideas for incorporating these elements into your story.
Research Board
As you conduct research for your novel, use this board to save articles, images, and resources related to your topic. This will make it easy to access and reference your research materials as you write.
Secret Boards
You may also wish to create secret boards for aspects of your novel that you want to keep private. These boards are only visible to you, allowing you to work on your novel without revealing any spoilers or sensitive information.
5. Using Pins Effectively for Novel Planning
Pins are the individual pieces of content you save to your boards, and they serve as visual bookmarks that link back to their original sources. To make the most of your pins, consider the following tips:
Quality: Choose high-quality images and articles that are relevant to your novel planning. Make sure the links work and lead to useful, accurate information.
Consistency: Try to maintain a consistent style and format for your pins, as this will make your boards more visually appealing and easier to navigate.
Descriptions: Add brief, meaningful descriptions to your pins that provide context and help you remember why you saved them. Including relevant keywords and hashtags will also make it easier for others to find and share your pins.
6. Finding and Saving Pins for Novel Planning
There are several ways to find and save pins related to your novel planning:
Search: Use Pinterest’s search function to find images and articles related to your characters, settings, plot, and themes. Be sure to use relevant keywords to optimize your search results.
Browse: Check out other authors’ boards and pins for inspiration and ideas. You can follow other writers, join group boards, or comment on pins to engage with the writing community on Pinterest.
Browser Extension: Install the Pinterest browser extension to easily save images and articles from any website you visit.
Don’t forget to re-pin content from other users, as this will help you build your own Pinterest presence and make it easier for others to find and share your boards.
7. Creating Your Own Pins
In addition to saving and re-pinning content from others, you can also create your own pins to share your ideas, inspiration, and book-related content. To create visually appealing pins, consider using tools like Canva or Piktochart, which offer easy-to-use templates and design elements.
When creating your own pins, make sure to:
Use high-quality images that are relevant to your novel planning.
Include clear, concise text overlays that provide context and information.
Opt for vertical images, as these tend to perform better on Pinterest (ideal size: 600 x 900 pixels).
Add a link back to your website, blog, or book sales page, if applicable.
8. Pinterest Marketing for Authors
Once your novel is complete and published, you can also use Pinterest as a marketing tool to promote your book and connect with readers. Here are some strategies for using Pinterest to market your book:
Create a board dedicated to your book, including images of the cover, quotes, and reviews. Link each pin to your book’s sales page or website.
Share content related to your book’s themes, settings, and characters, as well as any articles or interviews you’ve done.
Collaborate with other authors, book bloggers, or influencers by joining group boards or hosting Pinterest contests and giveaways.
Use Pinterest analytics to track your engagement, reach, and conversions, enabling you to refine your marketing strategies over time.
Pinterest is a powerful tool for novel planning, offering writers a wealth of inspiration, organization, and collaboration opportunities. By creating boards, saving pins, and optimizing your profile, you can streamline your writing process and bring your novel to life. So, why not give Pinterest a try and see how it can enhance your novel planning experience?
