Writing advice, insights, and inspiration
Why use writing exercises? Writing exercises help sharpen your skills, spark creativity and break through blocks. They offer a safe space to experiment without pressure. (I once did a dialogue exercise that led to a whole new character.) Examples: Tips: Further reading: The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron How can freewriting boost creativity? Freewriting involves … Read more
What is conflict in storytelling? Conflict is the engine that keeps your story moving. It is the struggle between opposing forces that creates tension and interest. Without conflict, your story might feel like a snooze fest at a tea party. (You don’t want to write a story where readers will fall asleep halfway through!) Examples: … Read more
What is writer’s block? Writer’s block is that frustrating pause when the words refuse to flow, and your mind feels as blank as a freshly polished window. It’s the creative equivalent of your brain going on a mysterious coffee break. (You could find yourself writing a shopping list where your chapter is meant to be!) … Read more
What makes a good mystery? A good mystery hooks the reader with a puzzle that’s both intriguing and solvable. It balances suspense, clues, and red herrings without frustrating the reader. (I once wrote a mystery so tricky even I forgot the solution.) Examples: Tips: Further reading: Writing and Selling Your Mystery Novel by Hallie Ephron … Read more
Why is writing a series challenging? Writing a series means keeping readers engaged over multiple books while maintaining consistency and freshness. It requires careful planning to avoid repetition or losing momentum. (Avoid writing a trilogy where every book has the same opening line!) Examples: Tips: Further reading: Writing the Series by Bethany Atazadeh How do … Read more
Why include multiple languages in dialogue? Using different languages in dialogue can add realism, cultural depth and authenticity to your characters and settings. It helps immerse readers in diverse worlds. (I once wrote a scene with three languages and my editor needed a translator.) Examples: Tips: Further reading: Babel No More by Michael Erard How … Read more
What is flash fiction? Flash fiction is a very short story, usually under 500 words, that delivers a complete narrative with a clear beginning, middle and end. It’s a great way to practice brevity and precision. It can be so short that it fits in a tweet! Examples: Tips: Further reading: Flash Fiction Forward edited … Read more
What makes a great sci-fi story? Great sci-fi combines imaginative worlds with compelling characters and thought-provoking ideas. It explores the impact of technology or the unknown on society or individuals. (I once imagined a planet where tea was currency but yeah I’m still waiting to write that one…) Examples: Tips: Further reading: The Science Fiction … Read more
Why write in a pessimistic tone? Writing in a pessimistic tone lets authors explore life’s darker corners and the ways things tend to go wrong. It can add depth, realism, and emotional weight to a piece. Some readers even find it oddly comforting not because they enjoy despair, but because pessimistic writing often tells the … Read more
What exactly is tone in writing? Tone is the attitude or feeling that your writing gives off to the reader. It sets the mood and helps your audience understand how to feel about what they are reading. Tone can be formal, casual, serious, humorous or anything in between. (I once tried a serious tone for … Read more