Writers will talk about their outlining and book structure.

I just write.

Writers will plan the black moment in their book.

I just write.

Others ponder plotting in three acts.

I just write.

Some will define and redefine, characterize and re-characterize. 

I just write.

Seminars are given, books are written, blog posts are posted about how to correctly write a novel.

I just write.

So when people ask me how I write a novel, I respond:

I just write.

When people ask me how I plan my novels, I respond:

I just write.

When someone asks me how I thought up my idea, I respond:

I just write.

And from my experience, the best way to write a novel is to just write.

Word after word. 

Putting the words on paper is always the most important part of writing. Everything else takes care of itself.