From the category archives:

Writing

Generating creative story ideas

November 3, 2009

At one time or another, every writer searches her heart and mind for a great story idea and comes up short. The muse is silent. The motivation is gone. The driving force that compels her to write just isn't there.
At this point, the writer has two options. One: wallow in self-pity, bemoan the situation and [...]

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First-person vs Third-person point of view

September 22, 2009

In working on my novel, I’ve discovered one of the less talked-about differences between screenwriting and novel writing: point of view.
I never realized what a luxury it was to be able to write without having to worry about which character’s point of view should be used for a particular scene. In screenwriting, the point of [...]

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To outline or not to outline

September 1, 2009

There is a lot of debate in Authorland about outlining. Some writers prefer to outline a plot before tackling the process of writing a novel. Other writers prefer “pantsing” — writing by the seat of the pants, with no map to point the way.
Is one method better than the other? Does one alternative lead to [...]

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Neil Gaiman's advice for aspiring writers

August 13, 2009

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Show, Don't Tell

June 3, 2009

Whether you are new to writing or have been around the block a few times, you've probably heard the writers' mantra: "Show, don't tell." Unfortunately, most how-to books don't do a very good job of explaining exactly how to go about showing rather than telling.
Holly Lisle recently created a terrific little video demonstrating the [...]

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Having the discipline to write every day

May 20, 2009

Every writer has her own style and approaches writing differently. Some write in an office while others write at the corner coffee shop. Some have time to write non-stop for hours each day, while others can squeeze in only an hour here and there. Some have a strict routine while others take up their pen [...]

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How to Create Realistic Characters With Depth

May 5, 2009

Clustering is a simple brainstorming method you can use in a variety of ways. Its biggest benefit is that it helps you push past your analytical mind and reach into your subconscious mind for ideas that resonate on a deeper level. A single clustering session can produce dozens of great ideas.
In The New Diary, where [...]

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