How Many Words Should You Write Each Day for NaNoWriMo?

NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) was an annual event until its closure in April 2025, where writers aimed to write 50,000 words in November, encouraging creativity and progress over perfection. It was a month-long event that encouraged writers to push through the barriers of perfectionism and just get their ideas down on paper. While that 50,000-word goal might sound intimidating, it's actually very achievable when you break it down into smaller, daily word count goals.

The key to hitting that big number is consistency. Rather than focusing on the massive total, if you tackle it one day at a time, the task becomes much more manageable. Writing just 1,667 words every day will add up to 50,000 words by the end of the month. While some days will feel easier than others, the important part is showing up each day and sticking to the goal. Remember, it's about making progress - small steps lead to big results!

How Many Words a Day?

The daily word count goal for NaNoWriMo is 1,667 words per day. That’s right, if you write 1,667 words every single day, by the end of the month, you'll have reached the 50,000-word target. This number is calculated based on the fact that November has 30 days, and 50,000 divided by 30 equals 1,667.

But why is this number so important? Well, it’s a simple formula to make sure you hit your goal without burning out. Writing 1,667 words a day is manageable for most people, even if you don’t have hours to sit and write. You don’t need to do it all at once - breaking your writing into manageable chunks or focusing on consistency each day will make it easier to stay on track.

The beauty of the 1,667-word target is that it’s not only achievable, but it also fits into the daily rhythms of most people’s lives. When you think about it, this goal isn't that much when you break it down.

Breaking Down the Daily Goal

1,667 words it’s the length of a couple of pages in a book or about the same as a few paragraphs of dialogue. If you’re writing at a comfortable pace, you can often knock out 1,667 words in under two hours. This means you don’t have to dedicate an entire afternoon or evening to writing,you can fit it in during smaller pockets of time throughout your day.

This daily goal also allows room for flexibility. If you’re someone who prefers to write in short bursts, you could easily write 500 words in the morning, 500 in the afternoon, and finish the day with 667 words after dinner. Or, if you’re more productive in the evenings, you could aim for a larger writing session after work. The key is consistency,if you commit to writing those 1,667 words each day, you’ll be amazed at how quickly the words add up.

Additionally, keeping the daily word count at 1,667 prevents you from feeling overwhelmed. The idea of writing 50,000 words in a month can sound daunting at first, but focusing on a daily number makes it feel far less intimidating. It’s all about showing up every day, even when you don’t feel inspired. Some days, the words may flow easily, and other days, they might come slowly, but as long as you stick to the 1,667-word goal, you'll stay on track to finish your novel by the end of the month. Plus, there’s a real sense of accomplishment each day when you hit that target, which can fuel your motivation to keep going the next day.

Tips for Staying on Track

Consistency is Key

One of the most important things to remember during NaNoWriMo is to write every single day. It doesn’t matter if you’re struggling with ideas or if the words aren’t flowing perfectly. Writing a little each day keeps the momentum going and ensures that you’re still making progress toward your goal. Even if you only write 200 words one day, that’s still a step forward. Don’t let a small setback derail your progress.

Set a Routine

Routine is your best friend when it comes to NaNoWriMo. Set aside a specific time each day for writing, whether it's in the morning with your coffee or during a lunch break. By sticking to a routine, you’re building a habit that makes it easier to write each day without having to think about it too much. Eventually, it’ll feel like a natural part of your day.

Don’t Worry About Perfection

One of the most common mistakes writers make during NaNoWriMo is trying to write the perfect sentence, perfect paragraph, or perfect chapter. Remember: NaNoWriMo is about quantity, not quality. You can always go back and edit later. The goal is to keep writing and push past the urge to perfect every word. The more you write, the more you'll discover about your story and characters - and that’s where the magic happens.

Use Word Count Targets

Life happens. Some days will be busier than others, and you might find it hard to get in your daily word count. To help balance this out, try aiming for a higher word count on days when you have more time. For example, aim for 2,000 or 2,500 words on a weekend when you have more free time. Having a buffer will make it easier to catch up if you fall behind during the week.

Find Your Peak Writing Time

We all have a time of day when we’re most productive, whether it’s early in the morning, late at night, or after a workout. Finding your peak writing time and scheduling your writing sessions during that period can help you write more efficiently and get your words down faster. If you’re someone who gets energized at night, that could be the perfect time to hit your daily word count!

What to Do If You’re Falling Behind

First off, don’t panic! Falling behind during NaNoWriMo is completely normal. Life can get busy, you may hit writer's block, or sometimes you just don’t feel like writing. The most important thing is to stay positive and keep moving forward. Focus on how much you’ve already accomplished rather than stressing over what’s left. Here are some strategies to help you catch up:

• Double up on your word count: Use weekends or free days to write extra. Aim for 3,000 to 4,000 words on days when you have more time.
  

• Try writing sprints: Set a timer for 20-30 minutes and write as much as you can, without worrying about editing. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can build word count during a focused sprint.
  

• Set smaller goals: Break your writing into smaller chunks, like 500 words before lunch and 500 after dinner. This makes the goal feel more achievable and less overwhelming.
  

• Adjust expectations if necessary: Life happens! Don’t feel discouraged if you can’t reach 50,000 words. If you hit 40,000 or 30,000 words, that’s still a huge accomplishment. The key is to keep writing!
  
  

Remember, NaNoWriMo is a journey, not just a destination. Keep pushing forward and enjoy the process! You’re doing great!

Stay Focused and Catch Up with a Distraction-Free Writing Device

As you work toward your NaNoWriMo goal, staying focused and maintaining momentum are crucial. If you find yourself distracted or struggling to get words down, it’s helpful to remove any potential barriers to your productivity. One powerful way to eliminate distractions is by using a tool designed specifically for writers: theFreewrite device.

Freewrite is a distraction-free writing tool that helps you focus solely on your writing by eliminating everything that might pull your attention away. With its minimalist design and dedicated writing environment, Freewrite allows you to write without the temptation of apps, social media, or notifications. We built it to help writers stay in the zone and push forward with their drafts. This makes it an ideal companion for catching up on word count during NaNoWriMo.

By using Freewrite, you can embrace the "forward momentum" philosophy, which emphasizes writing freely and quickly during your drafting process. Freewrite’s simple interface helps you avoid getting bogged down by your inner critic or the urge to perfect every sentence. This allows you to produce more words in less time. It’s perfect for catching up when you’re behind on your NaNoWriMo goal.

1. Smart Typewriter

The Smart Typewriter is a distraction-free writing device designed to keep you focused on your words. With its mechanical keyboard and E Ink display, you can write comfortably for hours without distractions like emails or social media. Its durable aluminum body and long-lasting battery make it reliable for any writing session. Whether you're drafting a novel or working on a short story, this device helps you stay in the zone, syncing your work to the cloud for easy access and backup when you're ready to edit.

Main Features:

• E Ink display with frontlight for easy reading

• Full-size mechanical keyboard with Kailh Box Brown switches

• Durable aluminum body with retractable handle

• Distraction-free drafting to keep you focused

• Cloud syncing with Google Drive, Dropbox, and Evernote

• Long-lasting battery for uninterrupted writing

• Multiple language and keyboard layouts available

2. Alpha Raven Black with Backlight

The Alpha Raven Black with Backlight is a compact, ultra-portable writing device designed for writers on the go. Weighing just 1.6 lbs, it’s perfect for everything from daily commutes to long trips. With a warm backlight and cloud syncing capabilities, it allows you to write anytime and anywhere. The Alpha is optimized for distraction-free drafting, helping you stay focused without the temptation of social media, email, or notifications.

Main Features:

• Warm backlight with adjustable brightness levels for writing anytime

• Low-profile Kailh Choc V2 key switches for quiet, comfortable typing

• Compact design weighing just 1.6 lbs, ideal for portability

• Cloud syncing to save your work to Google Drive, Dropbox, and Evernote

• 100-hour battery life for long, uninterrupted writing sessions

• Supports over 30 languages and 60+ keyboard layouts

3. Traveler

The Traveler is a lightweight, portable writing device designed to help you write without distractions. With its E Ink display, long battery life, and compact design, it’s perfect for writers on the go. Whether you're traveling, commuting, or working from a coffee shop, the Traveler ensures that you stay focused on your writing. It automatically syncs your work to the cloud, making sure you never lose any progress.

Main Features:

• E Ink display that’s glare-free and sunlight-readable

• Full-size scissor switch keyboard for a smooth and comfortable typing experience

• Ultra-lightweight design at just 1.6 lbs, perfect for portability

• Cloud syncing to save and back up your documents automatically

• Long-lasting battery with up to 4 weeks of usage on regular use

• Supports over 60 languages and 85+ keyboard layouts

4. Alpha Cosmic Edition

The Alpha Cosmic Edition is a unique, portable writing device designed to help you stay in the creative zone. With its warm backlight, anti-glare screen, and lightweight design, it’s perfect for writing day or night. The Cosmic Edition comes with an exclusive felt sleeve, adding an extra touch of style and protection. Whether you’re writing on the go or in a quiet room, the Alpha Cosmic ensures your writing flow remains uninterrupted by distractions.

Main Features:

• Comfortable backlight with adjustable brightness levels for writing day or night

• Full-size mechanical keyboard with Kailh Choc V2 low-profile switches for smooth typing

• Ultra-portable at just 1.6 lbs, ideal for traveling and creative journeys

• Continuous storage for up to one million words

• Cloud syncing to save documents to Dropbox, Google Drive, and Evernote

• 100-hour battery life for long, uninterrupted writing sessions

• Supports 30+ languages and 60+ keyboard layouts

• Comes with an exclusive felt sleeve for added protection and style

5. Hemingwrite Signature Edition

The Hemingwrite Signature Edition is a premium writing device that combines the iconic features of the Smart Typewriter with a tribute to Ernest Hemingway. Designed in collaboration with Hemingway’s estate, this special edition device comes with a raw aluminum body, green keycaps, and a polished finish that makes each unit unique. It also includes a luxurious cognac leather attaché case, ensuring your device stays protected as you embark on your writing adventures.

Main Features:

• Raw aluminum chassis with green keycaps for a premium, hand-polished finish

• Licensed collaboration with the Ernest Hemingway estate

• E Ink screen with frontlight for distraction-free writing day or night

• Full-size mechanical keyboard with tactile switches for a satisfying typing experience

• Continuous cloud syncing to automatically back up documents

• 100-hour battery life for long, uninterrupted writing sessions

• Comes with a custom-fitted cognac leather attaché case for protection and style

6. Smart Typewriter Valentine

The Smart Typewriter Valentine combines bold design with modern writing technology, creating a unique device for writers who want to defy ordinary. Inspired by 1969 Italian design, this special edition device not only helps you focus on your writing but also makes a statement. With its iconic look, premium carrying case, and signature mechanical keyboard, Valentine is the perfect companion for writers who value both style and substance.

Main Features:

• Bold design inspired by 1969 Italian aesthetics

• Signature mechanical keyboard with box brown tactile switches for satisfying typing

• E Ink screen for clear, comfortable reading and writing

• Automatic cloud syncing to save and back up your documents

• Long-lasting battery for uninterrupted writing sessions

• Includes a water-resistant carrying case with a stylish strap for easy portability

• Supports multiple languages and keyboard layouts, including QWERTZ, AZERTY, and DVORAK

Conclusion

Reaching the NaNoWriMo word count goal is completely achievable, especially with the right mindset and approach. While the 50,000 words might seem daunting at first, remember that it's all about progress, not perfection. Your goal is to finish, not to write a flawless novel. You’ll have time to revise and polish later.

Keep in mind that every word you write, no matter how messy, brings you one step closer to completing your story. So, don't worry about getting it "perfect" right now - just keep writing, one word at a time, and let Freewrite help you stay on track! Stay focused, stay positive, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions