Archive for the writing Tag

Why editing isn’t just the how but the what  

Whenever I work with new authors, they’re eager and excited. And almost always they want to focus on how they did—whether the structure they used works and how well it “flows.” But what I find almost 100% of the time is that first, they need help hearing what they said. And without exception, it’s surprising to them to realize what
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Your One Power Trick for Great Storytelling

The trick is not easy. But it’s easily understood. How do you know what to reveal when? Writers who know that, and can do it consistently, are unstoppable. And one of the earliest ways we do this is simply getting into the scene. Feel the emotions and desires of your characters and the weight of the situation. And watch when certain connections
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Writer’s Shortcut: The One Question that Ensures Success

In writing your story, you’ll come across so many distractions online, from self-publishing blogs to highly-rated writing courses, and 2-for-1 “essential” ebooks for writing with passion. But forget all that. All you need is what’s already inside you: that true passion you feel for your story. Passion is simply your greatest essential for starting a fire in someone else. One of Sheri’s
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How to Know If You Have What It Takes in 5 Seconds

You don’t have to know if you have what it takes. You just have to know that you will take what you’ve been given and make something of that. ~ Ann Voskamp As a coach and consultant to writers, I get asked one question constantly: “Do I have what it takes?” For over 13 years, I’ve spoken at writers conferences, always repeating
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On Editors: Find the Best Before You Invest

How do you find the right editor and what’s a fair cost? Editors have different systems of working and what they charge. Cost varies depending on their experience, the type of work needed and other factors.  As an editor, the most difficult part for me is striking a balance between giving writers what they want and determining what they actually need.  The Editorial
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