Word magic.
Do you struggle with plotting your fiction? If you’re an author who finds developing a cohesive, exciting story a chore, and maybe even a nightmare, read on. When I started writing, I struggled with plots. By nature, I’m a pantser—the type of writer who’s struck by inspiration and just wants to write. Laying out a cohesive narrative step by step, … Read more
Confused about plotting? A reader said that she’s giving up on her current novel because “her characters won’t behave.” She doesn’t like them, nor does she believe in them. Here’s a secret. Misbehaving characters can be a GOOD thing. Usually, it happens when you’re trying to make a character do something he can’t naturally do. It’s wonderful: it means that … Read more
Here’s one of my best writing tips: use the ASK process in all your writing. Not only does ASK clarify your writing to YOU (so that you know what you’re doing, and get confidence), it also helps you to write for readers. We looked at the ASK process in an article on how to make writing a book easier. However, … Read more
Want to write a book? You have various processes you could use. The simplest: start writing. More complicated: create a detailed outline. Unfortunately, every book is different, so your favorite process may not work on the book you’re writing. When you’re struggling, going back to basics helps—looking at the bones of your project. Try creating a list of titles; your … Read more
You want to write a book. Perhaps you’ve started, and given up: you’re wondering whether a ghostwriter can help. Ghostwriters can help you to write fiction or nonfiction; let’s look at nonfiction. Check out Esquire’s list of the best nonfiction of 2022 to see what’s currently popular. Write a book: what type of book will it be? What type of … Read more