"I generally write a first draft that's pretty lean. Just get the story down"

Nora Roberts is recommending that when writing a story, it is essential to concentrate on getting the story down on paper first. This suggests that the initial draft ought to be concise and to the point, without too much information. It is important to focus on the story itself, instead of stressing over the finer information. As soon as the story is down, then the author can go back and add more information and description. This enables the writer to get the story out of their head and onto paper, and then they can return and refine it. This method enables the writer to focus on the story and the characters, and to ensure that the story is told in the most efficient method.