For readers who are considering writing a novel, biography, memoir, how-to guide, history, etc., I think the best way to get started is by taking a writing class. That’s how I began my journey.

Collin College  (Collin College Webpage)

I prefer onsite classes rather than with online programs. There are several options at Collin College in Texas.

The formal, for-credit classroom courses at Collin College can be found at:
https://www.collin.edu/academics/programs/CoursDes_ENGL.html.

• ENGL 1301 – Composition I – Intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising, and editing, both individually and collaboratively.
• ENGL 1302 – Composition II – Intensive study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts.
• ENGL 2307 – Creative Writing I – Practical experience in the techniques of imaginative writing. May include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, or drama.

These are rigorous college classes with homework and tests. They require admission to the college. You may be able to audit the classes and free yourself of the rigors of assignments and exams.

Collin College – Courtyard Campus (Collin Collge Webpage)

Taking continuing education classes is another option. These classes do not require admission to the college unless they lead to a certificate. This is the route that I selected.

The continuing education classroom courses at Collin College can be found at:
https://www.collin.edu/ce/pdfs/Collin-CE-Schedule-Spring-20.pdf

• Basics of Writing a Novel Subject: CWRI 9216 – Hours: 24 Fee: $149 73478 1/27–3/16 M 6:30–9:30 pm 202072 CY
• Blueprinting Your Novel Subject: CWRI 9200 – Hours: 15 Fee: $129 Prerequisite: Basics of Writing a Novel 73479 3/23–4/27 M 6:30–9 pm 202072 CY Market and Promote Your Novel Subject: CWRI 9215 Hours: 12 Fee: $119 73480 4/16–5/7 R 6:30–9 pm 202072 CY
• Market and Promote Your Novel Subject: CWRI 9215 Hours: 12 Fee: $119 73480 4/16–5/7 R 6:30–9 pm 202072 CY
• Memoir Writing I Subject: CWRI 9226 – Hours: 12 Fee: $89 73483 1/29–3/4 W 10 am-noon 202072 CY
• Memoir Writing II Subject: CWRI 9227 – Hours: 12 Fee: $89 73484 1/29–3/4 W 12:30–2:30 pm 202072 CY

Check out your local community colleges and universities to find a class that meets your needs.