How to use the Speed Writing tool

Speed Writing on Next Chapters is a subscriber-only feature designed to support goal-based writing over time. It is not a fast-typing or sprint mode. Instead, it is built for long-form challenges like NaNoWriMo, where the goal is to reach a total word count within a fixed number of days.

Speed Writing begins during book setup and is only available to subscribers. When creating a Speed Writing book, the creator defines two values: the total number of words they want to write and the number of days they have to complete them.

Using this information, Next Chapters automatically calculates a daily word target. This target represents the number of words needed each day to stay on track and finish the book within the selected timeframe.

As you write, the platform tracks your progress against this goal. If you write more than your daily target, future daily goals are recalculated downward. If you miss a day or write fewer words than planned, the remaining daily targets are recalculated upward to reflect the time left. This recalculation happens automatically and continuously.

Speed Writing tracks words written anywhere in the book. You can add new chapters, revise existing chapters, or continue drafts. Any words added count toward the Speed Writing total, regardless of where they are written.

Speed Writing does not enforce rigid schedules or penalize missed days. It reflects your actual progress and shows what is required going forward based on the time remaining. The goal is visibility and adaptability, not pressure.

Speed Writing books can be personal books, community books, or private group books. However, Speed Writing goals apply only to the subscriber who created the book. Other contributors are not required to meet those goals unless the book is explicitly structured to do so.

Speed Writing is optional even for subscribers. You can write books on Next Chapters without enabling it. For writers who benefit from clear targets and adaptive pacing, Speed Writing provides structure without forcing a specific writing style.