Writing Tips: Reactions
What does this image have to do with writing? It’s a good visualization of a basic story structure. Let’s break it down. The colored balls are stationary representing the status quo. This is what the day to day life is for your main character at the beginning of the...
Writing Exercise – Why do you write?
One of the first assignments I’d give as a writing teacher would be to have my students write a journal entry on why they want to be a writer. I encourage you to do this now. Remember back to when you first wanted to be a writer before you...
Writing Tip: Getting the words right
Every writer needs to understand the importance of semantics and connotation. In our case, we’re talking about using the exact correct word needed to evoke the emotion or image we want. Imagine you’re reading a story about how the protagonist smashed her car into a tree, but then later...
Don’t let fear and vulnerability keep you from writing
When I come across good writing advice, or general advice that I can apply to writing, I often think about how I would present it to a class. Thinking about how to explain techniques to someone else enhances our own understanding. It also encourages us to use the advice...
Using character motivation and beliefs to raise the stakes
As you write, look through each of your character's eyes. Look for their character motivation, but also for their beliefs and ways these can cross paths in a way that forces your character to make a decision that puts their goal in danger. ...
Writing tip: Observe the small stuff
This writing tip came to me on two separate occasions. Unfortunately, I didn’t have my phone with me to take a picture either time. We’ve been talking about show don’t tell in writing. This subject came to mind as we were driving to Myrtle Beach. Off in the distance,...
First day of writing class: Bullet Journals
Welcome to the first day of writing class. If we were in a traditional classroom, I’d give a quick introduction about myself and setup the class rules. Yes, there are rules in creative writing class. Not only would I go over the rules, I’d pass out a copy and...