Advice often given to aspiring authors is to start with a great story idea. While that makes logical sense, there is another crucial first step that will not only make your new career as a writer much easier. It will dramatically increase your chances of publication. Advancements in technology, such as computers and novel writing software are not the only changes to come about in the world of writing. The publishing industry has become much more sophisticated in the way fiction is categorized. Editors, agents, and publishers, think in very genre specific terms when choosing work for publication. Each genre has rules pertaining to it as well as a customary word count. Knowing all of this ahead of time will save you a lot of time and energy. If the dizzying array of genres and sub-genres leaves you exhausted and confused, don’t worry. There is a simple way to choose a category that is perfect for you. As long as what you enjoy reading has a place in the current market, that is what you should be writing. Using your own reading preferences as a guide will give you familiarity with what is being done in that genre. You will know what works within it and what doesn’t. This will give you the ability to add your unique voice and come up with fresh twists to old themes. If you get your fiction at the library, or in used bookstores, check out a store that sells recently published material to make sure your chosen genre still has a market. If it does, you’re in business. If not, find something similar, get familiar with it, and adapt. Another vital reason for writing what you love is passion. You want to have fun with it. You also want your readers to enjoy the journey and come back for more. If they’re not intrigued by your story and don’t identify with your characters, they won’t stay with you. And, they certainly won’t be back for more. In other words, if your heart isn’t in it, neither will your reader’s be. If you’re not up to selecting the right genre and calculating word count, there is an easy way. Let the Marshall Plan Novel Writing Software find the perfect genre for you. With a few details from you, it will also create a complete template for you to begin your new writing career. Go to http://marshallplannovelwritingsoftware.com/how-to-start-writing-a-novel to get started to day with absolutely no risk to you. The 30 day, no questions asked,  money back guarantee, and free Fiction Makeover ebook is waiting for you.