How to Write First Drafts Faster: Tips to Boost Writing Speed

Writing a first draft can feel like climbing a steep hill with no end in sight. Whether you’re working on a blog post, novel, essay, or story, the blank page often stares back like a brick wall. But the truth is, writing a first draft doesn’t have to take forever. With the right mindset, tools, and structure, you can drastically reduce your writing time without sacrificing quality.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn exactly how to write first drafts faster with proven tips, examples, and strategies used by seasoned writers.

What Is a First Draft and Why It Matters

A first draft is your initial attempt at putting thoughts into words. It’s the rough version of your writing where ideas start to take shape. This is the stage where creativity flows freely, and perfection takes a backseat.

Key reasons the first draft matters:

• It builds the foundation of your final piece
• Helps you overcome procrastination
• Makes editing easier since you already have raw material to work with

Why Is It So Hard to Write a First Draft?

If you’ve ever struggled to start or finish a draft, you’re not alone. Here’s why it often feels tough:

• Fear of being judged: You worry it won’t be good enough
• Overthinking: You spend too much time trying to get it right on the first go
• Lack of structure: Without a clear plan, it’s easy to get lost
• Inner critic: You edit while writing, which slows everything down

Ask yourself: How long should it take to write a first draft? Most experts say anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks depending on your content type. But speed increases with practice and proper planning.

Benefits of Writing First Drafts Quickly

Writing your first drafts faster comes with major advantages:

• Boosts creativity: You enter a natural flow without interruptions
• Saves time: More writing in less time equals better productivity
• Improves momentum: Completing drafts fuels motivation to continue
• Reduces pressure: A fast draft lowers the perfectionism trap

11 Powerful Tips on How to Write First Drafts Faster

Here’s how experienced writers increase their drafting speed:

1. Set Clear Writing Goals

Start every writing session with a goal in mind.

• Choose a target word count (e.g., 500–1000 words/hour)
• Use time blocks like the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes writing, 5 minutes break
• Track your writing progress daily

2. Outline Before You Start

Outlining is a game-changer. It gives structure and helps you avoid getting stuck mid-draft.

Try this outline formula:

• Title and subheadings (use H2/H3 structure)
• Bullet key points under each subhead
• Add examples, data, or quotes you want to use

3. Turn Off Your Inner Editor

Editing while drafting is like driving with the brakes on. Instead:

• Allow yourself to make spelling or grammar mistakes
• Focus only on getting your ideas down
• Use placeholders like [insert stat here] to stay in the flow

4. Use Voice Typing Tools

Dictation can be faster than typing. Many writers speak their thoughts to get drafts done.

Popular voice tools:

• Google Docs Voice Typing
• Otter.ai
• Dragon NaturallySpeaking

5. Create a Distraction-Free Zone

Your environment matters. Eliminate what pulls you away from writing.

• Silence your phone
• Use full-screen writing apps like FocusWriter or Bear
• Block distracting sites using tools like Freedom or Cold Turkey

6. Use Writing Sprints

Writing in short, focused sessions helps beat fatigue.

• Write for 15–30 minutes at a time
• Track how much you write in each sprint
• Try sprinting with others in a writing group or challenge

7. Start with the Easiest Section

Don’t start at the beginning unless you want to. If you’re stuck on the intro, skip it.

• Begin with the section you’re most confident about
• Jump around and piece it together later
• Treat writing like assembling a puzzle

8. Use Writing Prompts and Templates

Templates save thinking time. They give structure fast.

Examples:

• Blog post templates
• First draft writing examples
• Novel or story outline templates

9. Accept It Won’t Be Perfect

Speed comes with letting go of perfection. Remember:

• A rough draft is not the final product
• Mistakes are part of the process
• Revision is where your writing shines

10. Use First Draft Writing Software

The right tools can make your workflow smoother.

Best writing software options:

Software	Best For
Scrivener	Long-form content & books
Google Docs	Real-time collaboration
Ulysses	Minimalist writing
Notion	Outlines + writing + planning
Hemingway Editor	Clarity in writing

11. Track Your Progress and Celebrate

Tracking helps you stay motivated and improve over time.

• Keep a writing journal or spreadsheet
• Note your word counts and time spent
• Celebrate each completed draft

How to Write a First Draft of a Novel

Writing a novel draft faster needs structure and stamina. Here’s how:

• Create character profiles before you start
• Use chapter outlines and scene breakdowns
• Set a daily word count goal (e.g., 1500–2000 words/day)
• Join writing challenges like NaNoWriMo

How to Write a Draft for a Story or Essay

For stories and essays, structure is just as important:

• Start with a hook or main idea
• Use a three-part structure: intro, body, conclusion
• Keep each paragraph focused on one idea
• Write freely, then revise logically

First Draft Writing Examples

Looking at samples can give you clarity. For example:

Blog Post Draft (Rough) “Most people struggle with first drafts because they overthink everything. But in truth, writing quickly is a skill anyone can learn.”

Short Story Draft Opening “The rain hadn’t stopped for days. Anna stood by the window, clutching the letter she hadn’t dared to open—until now.”

Notice how these examples aren’t perfect—they’re just flowing ideas.

How Do You Write a Quick First Draft?

• Outline everything before writing
• Set a timer for focus sprints
• Ignore grammar and structure at first
• Type or speak freely

How Can I Get Faster at Drafting?

• Write daily to build muscle memory
• Use templates and frameworks
• Keep distractions to a minimum
• Measure your writing time and optimize it

Final Thoughts: Speed Without Sacrificing Quality

Writing first drafts faster isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about freeing your mind to create without fear. Whether you’re working on a novel, blog post, or essay, these strategies will help you boost your output and finish drafts in record time.