1. Ignore the market and write what you want

Publishers will be very keen to tell you to a write specific type of book, namely something similar to the current literary craze or bestseller. Write what you want to write, be the next big thing and not another iteration of a phase that will pass. People don’t know what they want to read until they actually start.

2. Stay at your desk

The question that every writer invariably gets asked is ‘where do your ideas come from?’ While no one can provide the definitive starting point of inspiration, Pullman knows exactly where they end up. The end of the line is at your desk. Resist wandering off, checking social media or making yet another cup of tea. You wouldn’t to miss a brilliant idea because you weren’t there to receive it.

3. Find the way of writing that works for you

Everyone works differently. Sitting at a desk in silence might be best way for you to write or it might fill with you with dread. If you find that curled up on the sofa with your laptop and music playing motivates you to write, then curl up on that sofa! If a plan clarifies your thoughts, then great, but if it’s more of a hindrance than a help, just start without one. The most important part is the writing; don’t be tied to how you think you should write if it doesn’t produce anything.