How Long Does It Really Take to Write a Book?

Busting Myths and Sharing Real Author Journeys

How long does it take to write a book?” It’s one of the most common questions aspiring writers ask—and one of the trickiest to answer. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline. Some books are written in a matter of weeks; others take decades to finish. So why do we cling to the idea that there’s a “normal” timeframe?

Let’s explore the myths around writing speed and take a look at the real, varied journeys authors take to bring their books to life.

Myth #1: Real Writers Write Fast

We often hear about authors who churn out books in a few months (or even less), but that doesn’t mean it’s the only—or best—way to write. Speed doesn’t equal quality, and “fast” writers often spend just as long editing, rewriting, and revising.

Reality: Some bestselling authors like Stephen King advocate writing a draft in three months, while others, like Donna Tartt (The Goldfinch), famously take 10 years between books. Both approaches are valid.

Myth #2: If You’re Taking Too Long, You’re Doing It Wrong

This is one of the most damaging myths. Life happens—jobs, families, health issues, self-doubt. Writing isn’t a linear path, and a delay doesn’t mean failure.

Reality: J.R.R. Tolkien worked on The Lord of the Rings for over a decade. Margaret Mitchell spent ten years on Gone with the Wind. Good things often take time.

The Journey Is Different for Everyone

Let’s look at how different writers get it done:

• NanoWriMo Authors: Some authors use National Novel Writing Month (November) to draft 50,000 words in 30 days. This is a great jumpstart, but most will still spend months polishing that first draft into a finished book.
• Part-Time Writers: Many authors write around full-time jobs or family responsibilities, carving out time on weekends or evenings. A novel may take several years from idea to publication, but consistency is key.
• Memoirists and Researchers: Nonfiction authors often need extensive research, interviews, or time to emotionally process their story. These projects may take years—especially if accuracy and reflection are priorities.

What Actually Affects Writing Time?

Here are a few factors that shape how long it takes to write a book:

• Genre: A tightly plotted thriller may take more outlining than a personal essay collection. Epic fantasy novels tend to be longer and more complex.
• Planning vs. Pantsing: Plotters who outline every scene may draft faster. Pantsers (discovery writers) might take longer revising.
• Life Commitments: Kids, jobs, or health can slow the process—but they also provide depth and life experience to fuel your story.
• Perfectionism: Some writers struggle to finish because they edit as they go. Others blast through a messy first draft and revise later.

What’s the “Right” Amount of Time?

There isn’t one. The “right” amount of time is whatever it takes you to write a story you’re proud of.

Whether it’s six weeks or six years, your process is valid.

Final Thoughts

Writing a book is a deeply personal, often unpredictable journey. So the next time someone asks, “How long does it take to write a book?”—tell them the truth: It depends. And that’s perfectly okay.