Writing Tips
Nuts and bolts on writing
By Margaret Daley Some of my observations and lessons I’ve learned over the twenty-six years I have been writing can be summed up in these 16 “nuts and bolts” of this writing business. 1. Talent is important but equally or more important is perseverance with some luck thrown in. 2. Rejection is part of writing…
Growing Grammar: COMMAndments
People generally approach grammar and liver the same way. They either dive in with gusto or grow pale, start sweating, and look for the nearest exit. Okay, perhaps not the most appealing way to start a column that will feature grammar issues, but food analogies seem to work for me.(Food works for me, but that’s…
How to Improve on a Blank Page
One of the most common questions I get from aspiring writers is “How do I start?” The ideas are in their heads, but the problem is getting them on paper.Whether you are writing magazine articles, story stories, novels, or even homework assignments—here are some tips for improving on the blank page. Sift Through Your Ideas.…
Plot: Series of Scenes
There are many different ways a writer plots–you could say it’s an individual thing. I think as writers we listen and learn about the various techniques that work for others, then we incorporate what works for us–sometimes through trial and error. Some don’t plot at all, but write by what some people have called by…
Querying With an Unfinished Manuscript
AS A FIRST TIME AUTHOR, should you finish your manuscript before you query an editor? I have been asked this question by all kinds of hopeful writers, and the answer is, sorry Kids, but yes. I know, I know. I’m not exactly the most experienced “published” novelist on the block. After all, my book isn’t…
Basic Plotting Tips
When we are talking about a plot, I am compelled to say: SHOW DON’T TELL. You might study some of your favorite movies. A movie has to show you what is going on. It’s the nature of the beast. Also, while you’re at it, study books on your keeper shelf to see what that author…
2 Essential Elements of a Scene
By Ron Estrada The characters of Breaking Bad have different goals…this creates conflict! If you’ve been following along with my NaNoPlotMo method of plotting, or even if you haven’t, eventually you have to write the scenes. Be excited! This is the fruition of your labor. Now you’re free to create without fear of missing some key…
The 6 Month Novel
by Ron Estrada I’m interrupted constantly. How am I going to get a novel written in 6 months? I didn’t say they had to be consecutive months. However, the goal is to help you establish a writing system. One day, as you’ve often fantasized, you will be able to stick to a schedule. We want you…
A Novelist’s Movie Review: Catching Fire
by Ron Estrada Catching Fire, the second part to The Hunger Games trilogy, opened last week just in time for the big Thanksgiving movie rush. Of particular interest to writers is the big question of how to treat the middle part of a trilogy. While not the focus here, I always stand on two rules…
Watching a Movie with a Purpose
by Ron Estrada This week kicks off the big movie season for Hollywood. Thanksgiving weekend will launch some of the biggest flicks of the year. In fact, Catching Fire, part two of the Hunger Games trilogy, has already opened. It’s on my “to see” list this week. As a writer, though, you shouldn’t just sit…