How to Escape the Show, Don’t Tell Trap
You read it again and again, repeating in your mind: I thought I was showing. This looks like showing to me! So, how do you get out of the show, don't tell trap? Read on.
The Basics of 3 Act Structure
3 Act Structure is the standard for the publishing industry so I think every writer should have a good basic understanding of it.
What to Look for in Your First Chapter
While I tend to read more than the first pages based on the premise, because starting in the wrong place is really common, those first pages can make or break an entry when it’s on submission to an agent or publishing editor—or a reader if you’re self-publishing.
The Heroine’s Journey
When we talk about structure, I often reference 3-Act Structure and the Hero's Journey. While many novels are based on those two, there are other formats that are equally valid,…
The Hero’s Journey Overview
As much as I love the 3-Act Structure, it's important to look at other forms of story structure. One of the most popular fantasy structures (though it is also used…
Going Beyond 3 Act Structure
3 act structure is the standard for the publishing industry so I think every writer should have a good basic understanding of it. But once you've learned 3 Act Structure,…
Dan Harmon’s Story Circle
It comes as a surprise to some people that a lot of #authors are visual learners. And even if you aren't a visual learner, sometimes getting away from ✨ yet…
Evaluate Your Story With A Reverse Outline
Pansters, please don’t abandon this post before you give it a chance. I promise I’m not here to tell you planning your story before writing is essential or to shame…
What Makes An Amazing First Chapter?
This month, I’ve critiqued tons of ten-page samples, and most of them were the first pages of a novel. It’s reminded me how important the first chapter of your novel…