Did you make any writing goals last year? I did. Finish editing WIPSend first queryStart new WIP Did I accomplish those goals? Yes. Yes, I did. But this would be the first time I’ve achieved all my self-imposed writing goals or resolutions. I’ve dreamed up some pretty big literary mountains to climb in the past. … Continue reading The Truth About Writing Goals
Tag: writing rules
NaNoWriMo?
No, it’s not Japanese. It stands for “National Novel Writing Month,” and is affectionately referred to as “NaNo.” NaNo is traditionally held during the month of November. It is not a competition. But you can connect with other participants on the NaNoWriMo website and by using these social media hashtags: #nano #nanowrimo #nano19 #nanowrimo19 #amwriting … Continue reading NaNoWriMo?
On Finishing
Writers are strange people. We love spending our days dreaming up elaborate plots and lovable characters. Scenes play out in our minds like a Hollywood-quality production. We write them out and edit a little (or a lot, depending on your process), but then we’re swept away by the latest shiny new idea. That poor project … Continue reading On Finishing
Critique Group Tips
It takes an army to build a book. Yes, you are the one who writes it, but you can’t do everything. Before you start working toward publication, it would be best to have as many eyes on your manuscript as possible. And no, I’m not talking about your mom. I’m talking about critique partners, beta … Continue reading Critique Group Tips
Reasons for Writer’s Block
Some say writer’s block is a myth. Others say it silences their muse. Whatever position you hold, you know that sometimes, writing is hard. Really hard. And it’s hard for a reason. Here are my top 3 reasons for writer’s block: 1) Boredom This one is more common for me than I’d like to admit. … Continue reading Reasons for Writer’s Block
All About Genre
Wondering what your genre is? Wishing you could sum it up in a word? I’ve been there. But the thing is, you probably can’t. So today, I’m here to help you find your multiple-word genre. Note: Here, we are specifically talking about fiction genres, so if you're trying to name your non-fiction genre, this article … Continue reading All About Genre
Hey You, Writer!
Yes, I’m looking at you. The one who wishes you’d spent more time writing. The one who doesn’t feel good enough. The one who feel like an impostor. The one who wants to quit. The one that doesn’t feel like a writer. I’m talking to you. And I’ve got some news. Everyone is, technically, a … Continue reading Hey You, Writer!
How I Plot: 2019 Edition
Some people use beats. Some use acts. Still others use the Story Grid structure. Personally? None of those methods work for me. I use lists. Let me explain When I get a story idea, the first the I do is write down a basic character sketch of my main protagonist(s). (For more on my character … Continue reading How I Plot: 2019 Edition
7 Questions a Writer Asks:
Most stories start with a writer asking questions. A passing thought about a movie you saw. Wondering how the outcome would’ve changed if this or that had been the case. The questions and wonderings often lead to daydreaming about said character/plot. Pretty soon, that notebook or binder is on your desk (or in your bed) … Continue reading 7 Questions a Writer Asks:
Fuel Friday: Poetry
Ever wanted to write poetry? Here’s some basic rules and definitions for you! Foot- A unit of poetic meter or rhythm Breve- An unaccented syllable IAMB- A type of foot that consists of a breve followed by an accent Anapest- A type of foot that consists of two breves followed by an accent Trochee- A … Continue reading Fuel Friday: Poetry









