Thinking of writing your own novel? Experienced novelists, believe it or not, often write from a basic formula, a proven structure that they use to engage readers. This is especially true for the ones that sell blockbuster titles, the ones that rank high on best-seller lists.

In fact, you’ll notice this very feature as a default feature in many fiction writing software, where it’s treated as an important (albeit optional) part of the process. Each novel uses a different formula, each with its own process and structure. Obviously, a lot will depend on the writer, although many things can also be a factor, including the genre of the novel and the general impressions that he wishes to create.

Here is a sample structure that was used in the process of writing a recent medical thriller.

1. The main character is an expert.

2. The main villain is also an expert.

3. All bad deeds are seen with the main villain in the scene.

4. The main character is helped by a capable team behind him.

5. A romantic relationship must take place between at least one couple from the protagonist’s team.

6. Two or more of the protagonist’s team must die.

7. All deaths must be seen from the point of view of the protagonist or one of the team characters.

8. If at any point you feel stuck, kill someone.

From that formula, you can produce what is practically a large body of prose. Simply add different characters, new conflicts, and new plots, all while carefully adhering to the outlined structure.

If you’re having trouble deciding how you want to present your work of fiction, it’s a good idea to read your favorite novel and use it as a template for your own. Work to break down all the work as a simple formula like above and use it to successfully design your part.