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As writers, we have an idea of what we want our readers to experience and take away. Whether we know it or not, we’re managing our readers. Writing Tip For Today: Let’s discuss ways to manage your readers. Look Over Here The details you write about in your fiction or nonfiction signal readers. The number […]
Show don’t tell is built on a foundation of concrete sensory details. Use them wisely. Writing Tip for Today: Here are some tips on using concrete sensory details: Consider Character Your POV (Point of View) character narrates the story. Adding concrete Sensory Details (CSD) means taking that character’s age, gender, ethnic or regional background and […]
As we get into the fall season, let’s hope there’s more time to get that word count into gear. Scene writing reminders may help you be more productive. Writing Tip for Today: Here are a few tips on scene writing: Have Purpose When you write a scene, be sure you understand what purpose the scene serves. […]
Writing descriptions of characters, settings or other items requires details. But which details matter? Writing Tip for Today: Here are some tips for writing effective details: Paint a Picture Readers need mental images in order to imagine your story. You supply details to help them conjure the images you want them to have. What many […]
In query letters and synopses, outlines and sample pitches, a virus spreads. Abstract, generalized words and phrases that tell readers almost nothing. Writing Tip for Today: Let’s discuss a few ways to get specifics into your writing. Man v. A Man E.B. White famously said, “Don’t write about man. Write about a man. Great advice. […]
As I’ve said many times, I never edit myself as I write. I want to get those ideas down. But then, I need to fix it up. Those evil, weasel words must go. Writing Tip for Today: Here are some tips for editing out words that don’t pull their weight: Vague Swamp Weasel words can […]
I work with several writing students whose scenes are always improving. Yet one of their more difficult challenges seems to be learning where to begin a scene. Writing Tip for Today: Let’s review a few tips for good scene openings. That Old Middle The first rule of scene writing is to open a scene in […]
In scene writing, certain aspects must be set to keep readers engaged and oriented. When I think over a scene I’ve written, I often list these necessary elements rather like a game of CLUE. I make sure the vital parts are there like Col. Mustard in the study with the pipe wrench. Writing Tip for […]
Writing requires clear communication and good management. Readers must know what to remember as they follow your character from Start to Finish. But when you repeat or overemphasize details, your story begins to go off the rails. Writing Tip for Today: What are some common ways to spot and remedy Captain Obvious mistakes? Micromanaging If […]
The look across a crowded room. That look your mom gives when you’re naughty. The puppy dog eyes of a pleading look. In scene writing, writers are faced with so many looks. But repeating the “L” word too often may irritate readers. Writing Tip for Today: How can writers capture a full scenic experience without […]