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Tag: productivity

  • Writer’s Callus: A Simple Definition and 3 Tips for Successfully Treating It

    Writer’s Callus: A Simple Definition and 3 Tips for Successfully Treating It

    Writers write, right? They spend their days drafting, rewriting, and finalizing and their nights dreaming about perfectly crafted sentences and what’s next. But what writers may not realize is if they go too long without a break, they’ll show signs of their dedication with a writer’s callus.

    If you prefer writing outlines and drafts by hand, you may have experienced a writer’s callus before. Also known as nerd bump or writer’s bump, these calluses are caused by repeated use of a writing utensil.

    Disclaimer: This is a writing blog and we do not offer professional medical advice. If you’re dealing with writer’s callus or some other condition please consult your doctor for the best course of treatment.

    What is a writer’s callus?

    According to Healthline, “writer’s callus is an area of accumulated dead skin cells that form as a result of repeated friction against your finger.” If you primarily type rather than use a pen or pencil, this type of callus may not be a problem. However, if you do find yourself writing longform for stretches of time, then this is something to watch for! 

    Think of a writer’s callus as similar to a blister forming on your foot after wearing new shoes for a while. Your skin isn’t used to the friction and as a protection measure, your body forms a blister. A writer’s callus forms on your hand for the same reason—your body is protecting that part of your hand from damage by forming a bump.

    Where can writer’s calluses occur?

    Musicians who play stringed instruments often experience calluses on their hands. Guitarists and violinists frequently build calluses where their fingers press against the strings.

    If you engage in strength training, you can probably feel the calluses on the soft skin on the underside of your knuckles where you regularly grip your weights. 

    A writer’s callus can occur on your hand wherever your writing utensil rubs repeatedly. Where the callus appears depends on how you hold your writing utensil. Some people hold their pen or pencil between their index and middle finger while others rest it against their ring finger.

    How to prevent a writer’s callus

    There are many ways you can work to prevent a writer’s callus before it starts. Here are a few common suggestions to try.

    Wear gloves while writing

    Lightweight cotton gloves add a layer between your pen and your hand, reducing the friction created from writing. People often wear gloves while raking leaves or lifting weights for this reason, so why not try it for writing as well?

    Take short breaks

    Short breaks are helpful for many reasons, and one reason is it gives your hands a break. While it’s easy to get into the zone and not want to break the spell, it’s a good idea to take regular breaks to move around, stretch, refill your drink, and then get back to work. 

    Treat writing like a job

    If you don’t yet write full time, try to treat it as if you do. Think about how a day job works—you have regular breaks scheduled throughout the shift, a lunch break, and a quitting time. There’s space between working and not working. There are two full days off each week. Having a schedule for writing (with planned breaks and time off) can also help in preventing calluses from forming.  

    Set aside your favorite pen

    Drastic, I know. Most of us have a favorite writing utensil. Whether it’s a pen we think makes our handwriting look better, or a type of ink that doesn’t smear (I’m talking to you, lefties!), writers are notorious for keeping favorites close. However, switching up the type of pen you’re using to write throughout the day can actually help slow or prevent the form of calluses.  Just something to consider.

    Mix it up

    If you’re on deadline or have high daily word count goals, then it may be prudent to plan for many writing methods. For example, plan to write freehand for your first block of writing, use speak-to-text software for your second block, typing into a computer for your third block, etc.

    I have a writer’s callus, now what?

    Once you have a callus, there are a few things you can do to treat it according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.

    1. Soak in warm water 
    2. File with a pumice stone
    3. Moisturize

    Keep in mind that your callus has formed because your body is trying to protect the skin underneath it from the pressure of your pen. If you are going to continue writing by hand then you may want to keep the callus until you’re ready to take a longer break. 

    I say, if you have a writer’s callus then wear it as a badge of honor! It shows that you’re dedicated to your craft.

    Commitment to a dream is often the difference between seeing that dream come to fruition, or watching that dream remain dormant. If it takes a few calluses to push your dream into reality, it’s well worth it.

    Happy writing, and don’t forget to change up your routine every now and then!

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    • Want to Reach Your Writing Goals? Try a DIY Writing Retreat

      Want to Reach Your Writing Goals? Try a DIY Writing Retreat

      Have you ever considered putting together a DIY writing retreat? It’s not as difficult as it may first sound!

      Raise your hand if you’d love some uninterrupted writing time—a chance to focus fully on your work without the demands of everyday life. You’re not alone.

      Maybe you’ve thought about applying to a writing residency or dreamed about one of the many writing retreats offered each year.

      Unfortunately, for many, these opportunities are nothing but daydreams. The cost of travel is prohibitive for many writers, and taking two or three weeks (or more) off from work can be nearly impossible, especially if you’re writing on the side of a full-time job.

      But no matter whether you’re a full-time, part-time or any-moment-of-spare-time writer, you can take time away to write, right now.

      How? Create a do-it-yourself writing retreat.

      Why you should take a DIY writing retreat

      Making your own time and space to write is a shortcut to many of the benefits of attending a writing residency or retreat. Although a DIY writing retreat doesn’t have the prestige factor of places like Jentel and Hedgebrook, you’ll still find immense value in setting aside a few whole days to write.

      Here are five reasons you should take yourself on a writing retreat:

      1. You want time to write

      Maybe the day-to-day hustle is getting in the way: you just can’t drop everything and write.

      It’s hard to separate out time for your writing! A writing retreat gives you at least a few hours of quiet, peaceful writing time. It can help you build your writing stamina and even jump-start a daily writing plan, which you can take back to your regular life.

      2. You need structure

      If you schedule your writing retreat ahead of time, down to the hour, you won’t have time to think about what you “should” be doing. You’ll be doing it.

      3. You don’t know what to write

      Just finished a project and not sure what to try next? A writing retreat will force you to pick a direction — any direction — and just write.

      Try using prompts or test out a totally new genre or style. If you’ve just finished the first draft of a mystery novel, try writing a children’s picture book. Focused on blogging? Write the first few chapters of that memoir you’ve been thinking about.

      4. You’ve had a project sitting on the back burner for far too long

      Going on a writing retreat will force you to set goals and work towards them. It gives you the headspace to take a good hard look at your project and finally get down to brass tacks. You have to make progress, because that project is all you’re going to focus on for the length of your retreat.

      5. You’ve always wanted to feel like a real writer

      Want to know who goes on writing retreats? Writers!

      How to create a DIY writing retreat

      Taking yourself on a writing retreat doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as kicking your family out of the house for an afternoon and writing at the kitchen table. But to truly get into the retreat mindset, you’re going to need a few things:

      • A change of scenery: Try to go somewhere new, even if it’s just your garage. Giving yourself a break from your usual routine will put you in the right frame of mind to explore
      • A goal: Don’t just say “I’m going to write.” You need a specific, measurable goal. Do you want to just get words on the page? Give yourself a page or word count to hit. Do you want to finish a project? Break it down and aim to finish next step—a chapter, scene or article
      • A plan: Don’t pretend you will write for four hours straight, everyone needs a snack! Write out a schedule for yourself, including coffee breaks and time to relax

      Plan ahead to avoid distractions

      The hardest thing for many people is disconnecting. If you know you’ll be distracted by email, leave your phone in the car and turn off your computer’s Wi-Fi.

      If you’re worried you’ll want to run errands, head to a new town. Don’t go somewhere where you’ll run into neighbors; instead of the local coffee shop, try a coffee shop in a different neighborhood or the library at your local community college.

      Once you’ve found a writing hideout, write your goal on a piece of paper and tape it above your writing space or in your notebook. If you’re in a coffee shop or another noisy place, put on headphones or retreat to a quieter corner.

      Remember to take breaks

      After you’ve spent about an hour writing, give yourself a short break outside your writing space. Don’t think about how much you’ve done or how far you are toward your goal. Instead, enjoy the chance to dedicate time to writing. After your break, head back to your writing space for another hour or so. If you’re feeling good, feel free to write more! If not, try freewriting for a few minutes to loosen up.

      If you have more time—a whole day or weekend—take time off in the afternoon to go on an adventure. Take a run or a hike, or visit a museum. Taking a break can inspire new ideas, not to mention renewed enthusiasm for writing.

      Celebrate your retreat, however long it is

      If two or three hours is all that you can take, great! Open a fresh page in your notebook or computer and spend a few minutes reflecting on what you accomplished.

      Did you like your retreat? Did you feel stumped? What could you do next time to make it easier for you to write: go some place quieter (or noisier), bring a pen and notebook instead of a computer, write with a buddy? Jot down a few notes on your experience and make a quick plan for your next retreat.

      Remember, you don’t need a lot of time or money to write. You just need a few hours and a plan.

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      • 7 Great Gifts for Aspiring Writers

        7 Great Gifts for Aspiring Writers

        If you’re a writer, you might find yourself completely at a loss when someone asks you what you want for a gift. Writers can be difficult to shop for and it can be hard to find gifts for aspiring writers.

        There are a few obvious choices (and we’ll talk about those), but when it comes to writing, there’s really not a whole lot of material required—you need a pen and paper. Maybe a computer, if typing is your jam. Maybe a keyboard, if you want to be fancy about it.

        Gifts for aspiring writers

        If you want to show your love to an aspiring writer with a stellar gift that signals your support—that can be tricky. Especially because so much of writing is deeply personal, and so much of the specifics can vary when it comes to genre.

        So, what do you get for the aspiring writer in your life? Or if you are the writer in someone’s life, what do you ask for?

        Here are a few ideas to get the gift-giving wheels turning.

        Writing software

        While it’s possible to make do with a notebook or free software like Google Docs, there are many other software options available for writers looking to optimize the experience of writing itself.

        These writing softwares help keep work organized by providing places to categorize information.

        Writing software will also make it easy for to format, whether it’s a novel, a book proposal, or some other type of complex document.

        Here are a few software options that aspiring writers will love:

        Here are a few more suggestions for writing software options for aspiring writers

        Journals—seriously

        It might seem too obvious to get a writer a journal, but writers can never have enough notebooks.

        Here are a few options to consider:

        • Spiral-bound single-subject college-ruled notebooks | You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get a writer a good notebook. A few simple college-ruled notebooks like this will definitely be useful, and you can find them almost anywhere. These are great to add to a writer bundle along with a scented candle or tea sampler!
        • Leuchtturm1917 Ruled Notebook | For a more luxurious writing experience, you can’t go wrong with a hardcover notebook like this. The ruled option is great, but if your aspiring writer has big handwriting or generally prefers to have more creative freedom with their work, the dotted version of this notebook might be better for them
        • Rediform Chemistry Lab Notebook | These simple college-ruled notebooks have numbered pages, which is perfect for an organized writer. They’re conveniently sized and perfect for jotting down whatever comes to mind—these are perfect to carry around all day
        • Leonard Notebook from Bull & Stash | If you’re looking for something more high-end that your writer can use forever, opt for a notebook with a quality cover and refillable pages. The refills mean that writers can order fresh paper (which is much less expensive than replacing the entire journal) and keep using the original cover

        You may also like: 5 Types of Journalling Writing to Keep You Creative

        Books about writing

        Aspiring writers are often hungry for writing guidance, and they’re often (obviously) huge fans of reading. So what could be better than a book about how to write?

        Here are some great options for early writers.

        You may also like: Stephen King’s 23 Best Writing Tips

        Hot drink supplies

        Writers are famously fussy, as much as they might try to deny it, and you’d be hard-pressed to find many writers who don’t have rituals surrounding their work. And central to many writers’ process is a cozy beverage—this might be a cocktail, a cup of something warm, or a can of their favorite soda.

        If you want to help out the writer in your life and you want to get them something writing adjacent, here are some suggestions:

        • DIY Hot Cocoa Mix | You can get your writer a big tin of delicious hot cocoa mix from the store and it will be warmly, gratefully received. But if you want to go the extra mile, try making a hot cocoa mix from scratch! I recommend including this in that bundle idea I mentioned earlier—put this in a basket with a scented candle and a nice notebook and you’ve got a writer kit!
        • Tea Sampler and Infuser | Does your aspiring writer love tea? Many of them do. If you don’t know what kind of tea they love, you can’t go wrong with a sampler (and, of course, a cute infuser to keep them company while they’re working on their next masterpiece)
        • Awesome Coffee Club | You’d be hard-pressed to find a writer who doesn’t have a mild-to-severe caffeine problem, or at least a deep love of coffee. The Awesome Coffee Club, founded by the Green brothers, offers delicious coffee that’s ethically sourced. Here’s the quote from their site: “Sourcing partners work directly with small farmers’ collectives to ensure that your coffee is not only good for the growers but also farmed with a focus on regenerative agriculture.” If your aspiring writer is a nerdfighter or person who generally cares about ethical consumption of delicious coffee, send a bag of coffee to them for Christmas

        Writing utensils

        Like notebooks, this might seem like a no-brainer, but again, writers do require endless writing supplies. If you’re lucky enough to know what your writer’s favorite kind of pen or pencil is for everyday use, order them a big box so they never run dry. If you’re not sure, don’t worry, there are options.

        • Sharpie S-Gel Retractable Gel Pen | For an affordable, everyday pen, you can’t go wrong with the S-Gel. I use these all the time and don’t personally notice a lot of bleeding like I do with other gel pens. The writing is incredibly smooth, the pen is comfortable to hold—you can’t go wrong
        • Parker Jotter Stainless Steel CT Pen | At $20, this is your perfect mid-range pen. You can get ballpoint and gel versions of it, and the all-metal classic design makes it look just as luxurious as it feels to write with
        • rOtring 600 Ballpoint Pen or Mechanical Pencil | Another great budget option is this ballpoint pen, lauded for its durability, smooth design, and, of course, smooth writing. If your writer prefers pencils to pens, try the rOtring mechanical pencil for an upgraded writing experience. Reviewers say that the color wears off, revealing the brass underneath, and this lends it sort of a worn-in, personal detail

        If the writer in your life is experiencing calluses on their hands from overusing a writing utensil, here’s what to do about it.

        Local book store gift card

        Most writers are readers and if you know enough about their taste in books to pick up a specific book from your local bookstore, that’s great! If not, there’s no need to fret—you can still give them the gift of a wonderful new book.

        Check out your local bookstore and get them a gift card. You can also get them an Amazon gift card if your city doesn’t have a local bookstore, but local bookstores have that personal, special touch that writers love. Not only are you giving them the chance to buy whatever book they want, but you’re giving them the chance to wander through a bookstore for an afternoon.

        This is a great gift on its own, or make it a bundle with some cocoa mix, a journal, and new pens.

        Online writing courses

        Books about writing and online content about writing are great places for writers to get information about guidance on their craft, but the fact is, many writers are desperate for personalized feedback. Even if you’re one of the lucky few writers who has a loved one willing to read your work, the chances of that loved one having professional-grade feedback are slim to none.

        Writing courses offer writers the chance to actually get professional feedback on their work. They can be a total game-changer, and the advice they get in these courses can help them for the rest of their lives.

        No big deal!

        Here’s a few online courses for beginning writers. Check out the Coursera descriptions linked below for more information about pricing, time to complete, and information about for whom the classes are intended.

        Want more suggestions? Check out these 59 gift ideas for writers

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        • Testimonials for Writers: 3 Ways They Help and Why They’re so Powerful

          Testimonials for Writers: 3 Ways They Help and Why They’re so Powerful

          Testimonials for writers are a crucial factor in creating a word of mouth buzz that can boost your book sales or service referrals.

          Whether you want to put more books into the hands of readers or offer writing services, great testimonials can be a positive influence on your goals. 

          While you’ve likely heard of endorsements, and maybe even have some, testimonials are a bit different.

          In this article, we’ll talk about the different facets of testimonials for writers. If you’re ready for a career boost, read on!

          What Are Testimonials for Writers?

          Testimonials for writers are a third-party review of you and your work. While they’re often shared through a written statement, testimonials can take various forms such as:

          • Short video statements 
          • Quotes posted on website
          • Social media posts 
          • Interviews

          How Testimonials Help Writers

          Whether you ask clients to write up a brief endorsement, share about their experience on social media, or engage in an interview, testimonials are foundational for building credibility. 

          If testimonials for writers are such a crucial factor, how do they actually contribute to your ongoing success? There are many ways testimonials help, but below are the top three reasons you should start collecting them today.

          Personalize Your Audience

          Consider the following situation: You launched your book a year ago and have some traction. You wish you had more reviews, but you’re happy with your growing platform and newfound traffic to your author website. 

          What if when potential readers come to your site, testimonials greeted them on your home page? As soon as your site loads, they see real readers who love your book and want to share how much they enjoyed it. In this way, testimonials personalize your audience.


          Create Authentic Hype

          With so many marketing resources today, almost anyone can create a good deal of buzz around their product or service. However, testimonials for writers take this buzz to an authentic level. Yes, people have used the word authentic so much that it’s a buzz word all on it’s own, but this is because individuals appreciate authentic reviews. 

          The more testimonials you have from readers with names and lives, the more authentic your hype will be. What usually makes you want to purchase a new book more: The author tweeting how awesome their book is, or a reader telling you they couldn’t put it down?

          Provide Resources

          Particularly if you offer paid services such as editing or marketing, potential clients want to know you’ve been vetted and are worth the price point. Testimonials, for writers in particular, are a helpful way to provide the credibility future clients need.

          If individuals can see a list of clients you’ve helped, look them up, and perhaps even reach out to them for a referral, they will feel much safer hiring you.

          How To Get Testimonials

          If testimonials for writers are this important, the next question to answer is how to get them. Your first testimonials will likely be the most difficult, but don’t worry. With a few well-crafted sentences you’ll be well on your way. 

          Offer the possibility to current clients 

          Many clients are focused on their project and getting it done well. Leaving testimonials for writers is simply not top of mind. When I’ve asked for testimonials, I’ve found offering the possibility to a client is all they need to write a review. Most clients are happy to help but don’t realize how much power their few sentences wield. 

          Ask for testimonials from previous clients 

          If you have worked for clients in the past but didn’t realize the value in testimonials for writers, a simple email can help you. Write up a brief template thanking the client for working with you. Ask them to write a sentence or two of review if they enjoyed the collaboration and are comfortable. 

          Write a draft to send to clients 

          If you work with bigger name clients who may not have time to craft their own testimonial, you can treat testimonials similarly to blurbs. Write a sentence or two describing how you imagine the client felt about their experience working with you. 

          Then follow a few steps: Email them asking for a testimonial. Include that you wrote an outline to make it easier for them. Allow them to edit as they see fit.

          Tip: You can legitimize testimonials by including first and last names if possible, or first name and last initial. Asking for clients to include where they work or what they are known for is also a helpful way to add detail that builds rapport. 

          Examples from Real Writer Websites

          What about writers who have done this well? Let’s start with the bestselling author of Atomic Habits, James Clear. When you visit the book page on his website you immediately see a sentence or two of testimonials from other professionals.

          Clear highlights Mark Manson’s testimonial, another bestselling author. He also includes one from Arianna Huffington, Founder of Huffington Post and Thrive Global. 

          Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic has inspired creatives in innumerable ways. Despite the massive success of her book, she too includes a testimonial on her book page. 

          If you’re not a bestselling author yet or offer services, testimonials are still tremendously helpful in your success. The freelancer behind Hear Ye Writing includes numerous testimonials on her website.  

          Testimonials For Writers: Parting Tips 

          While there is no right or wrong way to include testimonials, there are a few steps you can take to help them stand out. Testimonials that include the following will help legitimate both your testimonials and your product or service: 

          • First and last name of client
          • The client’s credibility 
          • Where they work 

          Consider the following testimonial examples: 

          Example one: “I loved working with Jane Smith. Her turnaround time was impeccable and her quality was just what I was looking for.” 

          Example two: “I loved working with Jane. Her turnaround time was impeccable and her quality was just what I was looking for.” —John Smith, CEO of Fake Business Name and author of Book Title

          Do you see how adding these three small factors levels up the testimonial? Always be sure to ask clients if they are comfortable for you to include their name and credentials prior to posting. 

          Additionally, if you write a template testimonial for past clients, receive the okay before publishing it live on your website. 

          For Those Starting From Scratch 

          If you’re just getting started and haven’t worked with clients before, there is still a place for you. Testimonials for writers can apply to unpaid coaching services, feedback, beta reading, and more. When posting these type of testimonials, be clear about what you offered. 

          For instance, if someone from your writing community asks you to beta read their book, consider asking for a testimonial. Use the template below to inspire your request: 

          “I’m a new writer and asked [your name] to beta read my book. He was more than happy to provide great feedback. I’m thankful for his insight on my manuscript!”  

          It can feel intimidating to start out, but take your first step boldly. The first request is usually the most difficult. It only gets easier! 

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          • Accusative Case: 2 Great Ways To Quickly Upgrade Writing

            Accusative Case: 2 Great Ways To Quickly Upgrade Writing

            When you sit down to brainstorm your next book, you may not ponder the accusative case and how it could influence your story. However, the accusative case is a hidden gem for great writing. Who knew English class could help you up your chances at hitting that bestseller list? 

            In this article, we’ll review what accusative case is as well as when you should use it and when you shouldn’t. Examples are included especially for visual learners. 

            What is Accusative Case?

            Accusative case is used to indicate direct receivers of an action. If you were to label the following sentence, ask yourself which word is receiving the action: I wrote a novel. 

            I is the subject. Wrote is the verb. A novel is the direct object, or the part of the sentence receiving the action.

            A tip for finding direct objects is to ask “what?” after the verb. 

            • I made scones for a snack
            • She ran five miles
            • He studied history.

            Can you find the direct objects? Alright, now that our brief review is over, let’s discuss when to use the accusative case in your writing. 

            When to Use Accusative Case

            Whether you write fiction or nonfiction books, chances are high that you use the accusative case throughout your chapters. In fact, you are bound to include the following in your work-in-progress:

            • Active voice
            • Passive writing
            • Fragments
            • Run-on sentences 
            • Accusative case 
            • Various points of view 

            Each of the above points is an important part of the English language. As students, we learned how to define each part. Now that we are writers, it’s crucial to learn how to apply these foundational principles to our writing.

            When used with purpose, the various elements of the English language (such as the accusative case, can greatly influence your writing). So when should you use it? 

            Let’s say that you want to specify what’s going on in a particular scene of your novel. Consider our tip—asking “what?”—when trying to find the accusative case. 

            Now write your scene. After you finish your first draft, read through it once more. Can you answer the question with clarity? Could your readers? If the answer is yes, you’ve likely used the accusative case just as it’s intended to be! 

            When Not to Use Accusative Case

            What if you write thrillers or are sharing your memoir? Maybe you don’t want to directly answer the question. Perhaps you want to leave your readers hanging just enough so they turn the page to find out for themselves. 

            If you find yourself in this situation, you should pay close attention to the accusative case in your writing. For instance, consider the following sentence: After so long, I truly hoped that… 

            This sentence is a fragment and does not answer the “what” question. This style should be used sparingly, but it does have its place in modern writing. 

            Now that you have a grasp of the accusative case and a few ideas on when to use it versus when not to use it, let’s get into some concrete examples. 

            Examples of Accusative Case: Used and Cut Out

            For these examples, we’ll look at some published works. The originals will be noted and the changes I make for sake of example will also be clear. 

            We Were Liars

            E. Lockhart’s New York Times bestseller includes the following on page one: “It doesn’t matter if one of us is desperately, desperately in love. So much in love that equally desperate measures must be taken. We are Sinclairs. No one is needy. No one is wrong. We live, at least in the summertime, on a private island off the coast of Massachusetts.” 

            This first page includes great scene setting, backstory, and a fantastic set-up to the rest of the story. However, what if I changed it, cutting out:

            • Some of the description 
            • Some of the answers to “why” 
            • Some of the scene-setting

            With my edits in place, look at the following (my version):

            “It doesn’t matter if one of us is desperately, well… We are Sinclairs. No one is needy. No one is wrong. We live, at least in the summertime, on a private island off the coast of—actually, nevermind where we live.” 

            Notice how the tone changes, and the narrator takes on completely different characteristics. Suddenly, whoever is speaking seems a bit secretive, even untrustworthy. Pay attention to how you can cut the accusative case from your writing when you need a certain level of ambiguity. 

            The One Thing

            “After these experiences, I looked back at my success and failures and discovered an interesting pattern. Where I’d had huge success, I had narrowed my concentration to one thing, and where my success varied, my focus had too.” 

            Gary Keller (with Jay Papasan) wrote this Wall Street Journal bestseller. One reason I believe the book did so well, and continues to sell today, is due to Keller’s straightforward answers. 

            Rather than state that he had experiences, discovered a pattern, and then moving on, he shares his secret. He answers the question “what” with precise, researched, simple yet extraordinary results. Let’s break these few sentences down.

            • “After (what?)
            • these experiences, 
            • I looked back at (what?)
            • my success and failures 
            • and discovered (what?)
            • an interesting pattern. 
            • Where I’d had (what?)
            • huge success, 
            • I had narrowed (what?)
            • my concentration to (what?)
            • one thing” 

            Notice just how clear he is in two simple sentences. Six times he answers his readers’ potential questions with a straightforward answer. 

            In today’s age of clickbait and need for views, followers, and likes, it’s easy to walk around the answer or to literally cut the accusative case from our answers. For nonfiction especially, it’s vital to provide your readers with the answers they opened your book looking for. 

            One Parting Tip

            Have you ever clicked a video on YouTube and had to wait for an ad that goes for several minutes? You have the Skip Ahead button, but their opening got you hooked. Oftentimes, these ads target a need of their ideal customer (likely you, a creative writer or freelance writer) and draw you into a narrative. 

            By the end of the video, they’ve stated your need, or pain point, in a variety of ways but they never provided you with the answer. This is frequently because they want you to respond to their call to action at the end. For ads, this is the norm and acceptable.

            In writing, this leaves readers hanging. As a writer, your call to action is to keep readers turning pages. As you tread the line between asking enough questions and providing the sufficient amount of answers, remember the accusative case.

            If your readers can’t answer their questions at different points throughout your story, they will likely close your book. Yes, include setups and leave them hanging, but don’t forget to include payoffs too. And at the end of your book, fiction or nonfiction, include a resounding, satisfying, question-answering ending. 

            This will leave your readers satisfied and eager for more—two factors important for writing success! 

            TWL. CTA. Book Outline Template
          • How To Become An Audiobook Narrator: 5 Vital Skills

            How To Become An Audiobook Narrator: 5 Vital Skills

            Becoming an audiobook narrator can open an array of opportunities and take you places you haven’t considered possible. For example, imagine narrating for one of your favorite authors or being paid to read books aloud!

            If you dream of working as an audiobook narrator you’ve come to the right place. In this article we’ll cover the equipment you need to do the job and review five key skills to develop as you begin your journey. Lastly, you’ll find options for finding your first audiobook narrator job. Let’s get going! 

            Equipment Needed

            When deciding to become an audiobook narrator it’s crucial to determine if you want to work as a freelancer or for an audiobook publisher. If you work for a publisher, they should provide much of the equipment necessary. All you need to be responsible for is being prepared to narrate. 

            If you decide to work as a narrator as an independent contractor, then creating an industry standard recording room is crucial to ensure quality. Here are a few of the basics:

            • Microphone and laptop
            • Sound booth and workstation
            • Stand for the device or pages from which you will be reading

            When creating your sound booth make sure that outside noise such as traffic cannot be heard in your recordings. For more in-depth information, read the article, how to record an audiobook on your specific budget. 

            Audiobook Narrator: 5 Skills Needed

            Now that you know some of the equipment you will need, it’s time to discuss the soft skills that help set you apart from other audiobook narrators. 

            Public Speaking

            Public speaking is often viewed as a “public” career—after all, it is in the name. However, public speaking is an immeasurably helpful training ground for the private career of audiobook narration. 

            The more opportunity you have to speak in public, the better you will be able to articulate your words under pressure. 

            Voice, Tone, Inflection

            Just as the speaking voice, chosen tone, and the various inflections you choose impact how others perceive you in conversation, the same is true for audiobook narration. 

            Imagine reading a thriller in a happy, comedic tone. Your voice would not reflect the content you are reading. Mastering these three aspects is crucial to lasting success as an audiobook narrator. 

            Acting Classes 

            With the idea of inflection in mind, think back to the last time you heard someone read aloud. Did they impersonate the characters they read with their tone? If they were reading a narrative, did they speak softly in appropriate parts and raise their voice in others? 

            As much as acting is about gestures and facial expression, much of the subtext in our favorite movies comes from tone. Consider the following dialogue: 

            “I would love to take you on a date tomorrow evening.”
            “Would you?”
            “Well yes, of course.” 

            These three lines could be read as a joke, sarcasm, or genuine. Audiobook narration is acting without facial expression. 

            Self-Awareness

            I took a speech class in college and the feedback I received most was to slow down my speeches. I talked too fast and although people enjoyed my content, they struggled to understand me because of my pacing. 

            Self-awareness is a valuable asset, particularly for audiobook narrators. If you are aware you are speaking too fast, too slow, or not adding enough inflection then you can make the necessary changes. 

            Research Skills 

            Have you ever been reading and stumbled across an unfamiliar word? This is an audiobook narrator’s nightmare. Honing your research skills can help you proactively avoid these issues. When choosing to become an audiobook narrator, invest in educating yourself on a myriad of topics, particularly concerning the genre you would like to record. 

            Even if you plan to be an audiobook narrator for sports memoirs, familiarizing yourself with a variety of topics will help your recording process run smoothly. You never know what illustrations or examples a writer may use!

            Platforms to Find Narration Jobs

            Now comes the fun part—finding your first audiobook narrator job. There are many ways to land your first job, paid or unpaid, and every session you book helps equip you for your future as well.

            Reading for Children

            Volunteering to read at a school, local library, or even if you babysit young children, all act as a platform to find jobs. Libraries can be a particularly helpful place to practice reading due to the type of people who come in: 

            • Aspiring writers
            • Published authors
            • Readers

            You never know who you may meet and network with.

            Reading for the Visually Impaired 

            Reading for the visually impaired or blind is a great way to help your community while at the same time gaining invaluable practice for your dream job. When reading for those visually impaired, how you use your inflection and tone will dramatically influence how they experience the story. 

            Search for Online Writing Groups 

            For your first paid job, you may want to start by researching online writing communities. Facebook, Twitter, and Medium are a few places to start your search. If you have your own recording equipment, you can offer your services to these writing groups. 

            Offer Your Services to a Self-Publishing Company

            If you hope to bring in more steady work as an audiobook narrator, you might want to consider reaching out to self-publishing companies and querying your services to them. When querying, be sure you have an updated website for future clients to contact you, or at the very least, a Facebook page describing your services. 

            Take Advantage of Online Job Sites

            Open to your favorite job site and type in the keyword audiobook or audiobook narrator. Sometimes landing your first job is all it takes to start you on the path to booking yourself on a regular basis. If a job site helps you in this journey, all the better! 

            Next Step: Spend More Time on Your Phone (really!)

            Now that you have concrete steps to improve your speaking voice and you know places to look for jobs, it’s time to practice. 

            If you have a smartphone, open your recording app and begin reading one of your favorite stories. After you read for several minutes (enough time to get comfortable), play your audio and review it. 

            Take notes on what you did well and areas you could improve. Create your own constructive criticism by asking the following questions: 

            • Was my voice monotonous or did I use inflection? 
            • What speed did I speak? Too fast, too slow, or just right?
            • Did I stumble over anything? 

            During your practice sessions, don’t worry if you hear background noise. The purpose is to pay attention to your strengths and weaknesses. The more you listen to your audiobook narration practice sessions, the more self-awareness you instill. 

            It may feel like a waste of time to read into your phone (or whatever recording device you have), but even just a few minutes of practice in a stress-free environment can draw your attention to nuances you may have otherwise missed. 

            The key is consistency over time. Rather than cram three hours of reading in over the weekend, try to practice for five or ten minutes a day. Track your progress, and let us know when you book your first audiobook narrator job!

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          • Passive Voice Misuse: 4 Steps To Fix This Rookie Issue

            Passive Voice Misuse: 4 Steps To Fix This Rookie Issue

            If you’ve ever wondered what exactly qualifies as passive voice misuse you’ve come to the right place. Passive voice is an issue many new writers face. In fact, I didn’t know there was a “right way” to write until I was in college.

            As a new writer, I thought great writing came down to the idea and the adjectives used to describe that idea. Point-of-view, voice, and tense were not major factors in my writing. Thankfully, once I began training in creative writing I quickly learned that I had a lot to study. 

            Passive voice misuse can set writers apart as novices or as experts who know how to wield writing rules with power. In this article, I define what passive voice misuse is, why it’s a no-no for new writers, and give four steps to fix passive voice misuse. Let’s get right into it! 

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            Defining Passive Voice Misuse 

            While there is a time and place for this type of voice, passive voice misuse occurs when the subject should be performing the action. 

            Passive voice is simply when the subject of a sentence is acted on by the verb. Can you spot the use of passive voice in the previous sentence? You can make a sentence active by focusing on the subject as the one doing the action. 

            Passive: Passive voice is simply when the subject of a sentence is acted on by the verb.

            Active: Passive voice is simply when the verb acts on the subject of a sentence.

            In this active sentence, the verb is doing the action rather than the subject being acted upon. Many writers unconsciously use passive voice throughout their stories. 

            Why Passive Voice Is A No-No

            The reason writers frown on passive voice is due to its unnecessary wordiness and lack of clarity. For newer writers, writing to just “get the story down” is perfectly acceptable. However, passive voice easily creeps in. Several issues can result: 

            • Protagonists feel reactive 
            • Confusion overrides clarity
            • The writing lacks strength 

            It’s easy to write passively. It takes forethought to write in an active voice. So how do we fix this issue?  

            4 Steps To Fix Your Voice

            One of the best ways to combat passive voice is to simply change your mindset in writing. If the mindset shift doesn’t work, there are some concrete steps you can take to further help. Let’s start with a mindset shift.

            Move Action Forward With Purpose

            At the core of writing lies an advancement of the plot. Consider the classic example of the hero’s journey: The protagonist sets off on a journey (literal or figurative) with an endpoint, or goal, in mind.

            Whether it’s Frodo Baggins taking literal steps toward Mordor or Peter Rabbit hopping out of the garden and toward home just in time, these beloved characters feature a proactive mindset. 

            Personalize this mindset by focusing on the end of your story and proactively, rather than reactively, writing toward it. 

            Simple lines such as the following take on an entirely new meaning. For instance:

            Example 1: Professional figure skating was her dream. The Olympics was a real possibility if she put in the work. 

            Example 2: She dreamed of professional figure skating, and if she put in the work, she could make it to the Olympics.

            In the first example the reader passively takes in information. In the second, there is a sense of urgency. The protagonist is the one proactively dreaming. 

            Create An Active Protagonist 

            Your mindset also plays a role in how you describe your protagonist. Look through the following list and ask yourself how your protagonist would act or speak in the following situations: 

            • Planning a beach day but waking up to rain
            • Responding to a breakup 
            • Getting rear-ended 
            • Pursuing their dream job
            • Spotting a lost child

            In the first three examples, outside circumstances impact the protagonist: Rain, being broken up with, and someone hitting their car. The last two feature the protagonist as proactive, or with the possibility of being proactive. How you write them is imperative:

            • “It’s raining. I’ll go study at a coffee shop” Or, “It’s raining. I’ll have to stay in today.”
            • “He broke up with me. I’ll cancel my plans.” Or, “He broke up with me. I’ll go home and process.”
            • “That child looks lost. I wonder if his parents are around.” Or, “That child looks lost. I’ll go see if I can help.”

            Same situation, similar responses, but one features a passive protagonist and the other a proactive one. 

            Cut Being Verbs

            If the mindset shift isn’t quite doing it for you, try this concrete step: In point number two, look at the subtle difference in how I could write the opening sentence. In the sentence I used, I excluded being verbs. In the second example, I include being verbs.

            Sentence 1: Your mindset also plays a role in how you describe your protagonist. 

            Sentence 2: Your mindset can also be influenced by how you describe your protagonist. 

            In the first sentence, the subject (mindset) leads the sentence actively (plays a role). In the second one, the subject is acted on by the verb. 

            In the same way, if your protagonist must complete a task, how can you shift the focus from their response to circumstances to them impacting circumstances? Frodo makes the active choice to take the ring to Mordor, even though he appears to be the least equipped out of the nine. 

            Imagine Tolkien writing The Lord of the Rings passively. Instead of the iconic line, “I will take the ring. I will take the ring to Mordor!” We could read, “The ring will be carried by me. The ring will be carried by me to Mordor.” This is the difference between writing actively and passively.

            Try Present Tense

            If you’re willing to take action steps even further, I’ve found present tense as a shortcut to learning the power of active voice. In fact, I wrote an entire manuscript in present tense rather than past tense because I felt so stuck in my habit of passive voice misuse. 

            Past tense: I was going home when I was followed by a black car.

            Present tense: On my way home, I notice a black car following me. 

            For some reason, this shift dramatically helped me.

            Caveat: Know The Rules So You Know When To Break Them

            Now that we discussed several cons to passive voice misuse and how to combat it, it’s crucial to remember that there is a time and place to break writing rules. 

            Passive tense is not always, forevermore, and with no excuses, a no. For new writers, studying writing tips and how to write actively will aid their learning curve. However, writing passively is not always bad. 

            Learning how to write in an active voice helps you avoid passive voice misuse while also teaching you when you can use it. 

            Think of a painter: They know the brushes and what they are intended for, but sometimes they may choose a different brush, one that isn’t intended for a specific style, to help present their painting in a more nuanced way. 

            The same is true for tense. Learn the rules, and then enjoy (occasionally) breaking them!

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          • Best Notebooks For Writers: 7 Quality Paper Options

            Best Notebooks For Writers: 7 Quality Paper Options

            Before computers, notebooks were the primary tools needed to achieve writing dreams. We could go back to parchment and charcoal or jump ahead to a quill and ink, but as long as writing has been around, some form of capturing words has as well. Even today, notebooks for writers are popular and many writers prefer writing by hand to using digital writing software (at least for their first draft).

            In fact, involving your senses in learning can improve your retention. With this in mind, let’s discuss various notebooks for writers and some fun options to help fuel your creativity.  

            How to Choose Your Next Writing Notebook

            Writers are notorious for stacking up piles of unused notebooks (as well as unread books). There’s something so fun about going out to your favorite store, looking through the various notebooks, and deciding that you could use just one more.

            Speaking from experience, I could easily get lost in the leather journal section of Barnes & Noble. There’s something about purchasing a new notebook that just makes you feel like a writer. But how do you choose the best one for your specific needs? 

            There are two key questions to answer before making your next notebook purchase. When it comes to notebooks, knowing exactly what you need and why is key. 

            Hardcover or Softcover?

            Let’s say that you plan to go on a day hike but want to jot down notes about your work in progress. Because you won’t be writing at a desk you may want to choose a hardcover notebook.

            Similarly, if you’re flying overseas and your luggage is already full, choosing a soft cover notebook will likely make your life much easier than trying to cram a hardcover one into your overstuffed carry on.


            Lined or Blank? 

            The second main question to ask is if you want a lined notebook or a blank notebook. Some people prefer to color in the lines so to speak and others tend to lean toward the free spirit version of notebooks. There is no right or wrong answer, just what is best for you. With your answers in mind, let’s dive into notebooks for writers! 

            Whether you are a lefty or right-handed, looking for a spiral bound notebook or something small to fit in your pocket, look through the list below for inspiration on your next notebook purchase.

            Moleskin

            According to Writerly Sage, the Moleskin has a heritage going back to the era of Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. As far as notebooks for writers are concerned, Moleskins are a great first place to look. They come in a variety of options:

            • Softcover
            • Hardcover
            • Lined
            • Graphed
            • Blank
            • Various sizes 
            • Variety of colors 

            This tried and true notebook is an essential because it covers a variety of writer needs. 

            Twin Sparrow

            For the earthy, flower-loving creatives among us, Twin Sparrow is a great choice. Their notebooks are perfect to pair with your current read or for taking notes on your next manuscript. 

            Additionally, each notebook is designed with an inspiration word on the front cover:

            • Inspire
            • Becoming
            • Hope
            • Abide
            • Explore

            Choose from even more options to personalize the purpose behind your notebook. Twin Sparrow has a few added reasons for making your next purchase with them. Their products are:

            • Sourced with the highest quality leather possible
            • Hand crafted in Northern California
            • Supplied in the USA

            Support your writing endeavors while supporting a quality business!


            Mead Cambridge

            You can’t find much more of a classic in notebooks for writers than when you stumble upon the Mead Cambridge selection. 

            Ruled pages, spiral bound, but still elegant, these notebooks have taken me through both college classes and writing conferences. Plus, this classic notebook comes in many formats and colors.

            Left-Handed Notebook

            Most notebooks for writers cater to the majority of the right-handed population, and understandably so. However, with this ruled, 48-page, soft cover notebook you can say goodbye to the days of flipping your notebook upside down as a lefty. 

            Specifically created with land-handed writers in mind, this notebook is minimal, small enough to slip in your purse or jacket pocket, and will make your note-taking so much easier. 


            Large Left-Handed Notebook

            Out of all the notebooks for writers in the world, this one has the spiral binding on the right-hand side. Why? It’s designed for lefties! If the compact notebook is just too small for you, consider adding this assorted-color, perforated, 8.5″ x 10.5″, 100 sheet notebook to your backpack. 

            You won’t have to awkwardly lift your arm while trying to take notes and the wide-ruled spacing gives you room to get creative. 

            Blank Journal

            Paperage is a blank notebook, much like the Moleskin mentioned above but for roughly 50% of the price, and comes in a variety of colors. Their premium paper includes the following attributes: 

            • Acid-free paper to help hold up over the test of time
            • Thicker paper than average notebooks (100 gsm)
            • Most pens, pencils, and even markers will not bleed through 

            If you love taking notes with markers or sharpies, this one’s for you! No more ink seeping onto the next page, acid free paper, and at a great price, this classic will keep your notes for years to come.


            Rustico Personalized Notebook

            Last, but certainly not least in our notebooks for writers is the Rustico, personalized, leather notebook. For those willing to invest, this notebook is both practical and can be used as a keepsake. 

            • Small size: 5.5” x 7.25” x 1.75”
            • 160 lined pages
            • Cream-colored, rough-cut paper
            • Hand sewn spine and a flap-tie closure
            • Made from top-grain cowhide leather 

            And bonus, you can personalize this notebook so if it’s tied closed, everyone knows who owns it simply by glancing at the front cover. This is a great notebook for tracking major wins in your writing journey, including key notes, or even collecting quotes from your favorite authors. 

            Begin Your Journey to Success Today

            If you’ve ever listened to a motivational speaker or worked with a personal life coach, you’ve likely heard that writing down your goals is an important step in the process of achieving them.

            When it comes to your writing dreams, the same rules apply. Using a notebook to track your progress is a fantastic writing strategy. While it may feel miniscule to put much thought into what type of notebook you purchase, choosing the best one for you will make you that much more likely to actually use it.

            Once you begin to use your notebook, you will see your dreams, goals, successes, and lessons you’ve learned compile. Over time your notebook can become a physical map recounting the highs and lows of your progress.

            When you feel discouraged, simply open your notebook and glance through how far you’ve come. Upon consideration, is there really any such thing as “just” notebooks for writers? Notebooks can play a key role in author success.

            As you’ve seen, the Moleskin is said to go as far as Hemingway’s era. Notebooks matter, and notebooks for writers can play a crucial role in the writing process. Which one will you choose to aid you on your writing journey?

            TWL. CTA. Book Outline Template
          • Writer’s Block: The 4 Answers You Need To Overcome It Once And For All

            Writer’s Block: The 4 Answers You Need To Overcome It Once And For All

            If there’s one issue that keeps writers from becoming successful authors, it’s writer’s block. Writer’s block, imposter syndrome, and simply not following through with finishing keeps many writers from achieving their dreams. However, today I’m going to give you four answers you can use to overcome this block once and for all.

            In this article I discuss what writer’s block is, if it even exists, different perspectives on the issue, and real solutions you can employ today.

            If you struggled with the writer’s block before, you are not alone. Some of the most successful authors struggle with imposter syndrome, or feeling like they will one day be found out for not being the creative writer they are known to be. Struggling with writer’s block is just another facet of the writing journey. With time and effort, it can be overcome.

            What Is Writer’s Block?

            Writer’s block is simply not knowing how to move forward in your work-in-progress. It is that sinking feeling of staring at the page and seeing the sentences you wrote yesterday but not knowing how to add sentences today.

            Writer’s block is sitting in the chair, listening to the clock tick, knowing you need to be writing, and having no idea what to write. It’s as if your fingers are frozen on the keyboard and your brain has no ideas left. Not a good feeling, to put it lightly!

            Of course, writers can experience this block in varying degrees. For some writers they may not know how to end their writing day, but are able to get back to it during their next writing session. 

            For others, this is not the case. They struggle for weeks, months, or perhaps years on end, not knowing how to add to their story. This is a massive problem because by definition, writers must write. But does writer’s block actually exist?

            Does It Exist? 

            The existence of writer’s block depends on who you ask, but I would argue that successful authors do not believe in its existence. My writing mentor used to say that if worker’s block does not exist then how can writer’s block? 

            He explained that if an employee can’t call into work saying they just don’t feel like working today, then writers should not be able to say they just don’t feel like writing today. While this may seem harsh, it actually brings freedom to many writers.

            Perspectives On Writer’s Block

            If we decide that writer’s block does not exist, we have a problem. Now we have to move forward as if we are in control of our writing journeys. For some of us, this may feel freeing. For others, this may feel like quite a bit of added pressure. Let’s discuss three different perspectives on this question.

            #1 – If It Doesn’t Exist, You Can Finish Your Book

            If writer’s block doesn’t exist, the good news is that you have the power to finish writing your manuscript. Whether you dream of publishing your memoir, your autobiography, or fiction work, writers block is no longer an excuse.

            Whether you know what to write or not, it’s up to you to get your word count down on paper, edit those words, and repeat the process until you reach the finish line. This is an empowering mindset and in itself, can help you keep going.


            #2 – If It Does Exist, You Are At It’s Mercy

            A second perspective is that if writer’s block does exist, you are at its mercy. This mindset often sees writers typing out hundreds of words when they feel inspiration strike, then going for days or weeks without writing, simply because they don’t feel that same passion.

            One of the main problems with this perspective is that you can never be quite sure if you will meet your writing deadline or not. If you don’t meet your deadline, your marketing will be off, your book release date will have to change, and your book launch will likely not be as successful as it could have been otherwise.

            #3 – Will You Choose The Victim or Victor Mentality?

            While choosing between these two perspectives may seem subjective, they essentially come down to one option—choosing to lead your dream or follow it. If you want to lead your dreams, you will embrace the perspective that writer’s block does not exist and you can finish your book. Writers are not the victims of writer’s block. There are real ways to take action steps against the feeling of uncertainty and move forward. 

            Real Writer’s Quotes/Solutions

            Ready for some answers? Let’s start with a quote:

            #1 – Twyla Tharp

            Twyla Tharp says, “Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is a result of good work habits.” 

            With this quote in mind, choose to make writing habitual. Write at the same time, in the same place, and for the same duration every writing session. This will help you become accustomed to the discipline. 

            #2 – Octavia Butler

            Likewise, Octavia Butler says it like this: “You don’t start out writing good stuff. You start out writing crap and thinking it’s good stuff, and then gradually you get better at it. That’s why I say one of the most valuable traits is persistence.”

            One of the best ways to beat writer’s block is to simply keep writing. One helpful tip I’ve learned over the years is to end my writing day in the middle of a sentence. This ensures that you know exactly where to begin writing the next day. Even if your writing is rough on day one, you can spend day two editing and bringing it up to standard. 

            #3 – William Faulkner

            William Faulkner doesn’t pull any punches: “I only write when I am inspired. Fortunately I am inspired at 9 o’clock every morning.”

            No matter what time you decide to begin writing on a given day, make sure you stick to that schedule. The routine will help you succeed and gradually, you will grow accustomed to feeling ready to write at the same time everyday.

            Every writer has off days, but it’s the writers who define themselves by their will to write, rather than pure inspiration, who ultimately succeed. 

            #4 – Charles Bukowski

            If you can’t quite embrace the perspective that writer’s block is more of an excuse than anything, consider what Charles Bukowski says: “Writing about writer’s block is better than not writing at all.”

            If you don’t know what to write about, simply write about not knowing what to write about. While this may feel counterintuitive, at least you will continue getting words on the page. You will likely delete them later, but you will have proven to yourself that you can in fact continue writing even when you feel a mental block. 

            Write Like Your Career Depends On It

            Especially in the early stages of starting your writing career, it’s important to write like your career depends upon it, because it does. 

            Many people dream of becoming writers, far less achieve their dreams. Success comes down to having a dream and following through with it. There are many excuses not to write. Take the one excuse to write—because you want to follow your dream. 

            TWL. CTA. Book Outline Template
          • Proven Writing Strategies: 12 Tips To Use Today

            Proven Writing Strategies: 12 Tips To Use Today

            Writing strategies are a fantastic way to provide a little structure to the subjective field of creative writing. Even famous authors use writing strategies, so it’s no wonder we should follow the example of those we respect. Let’s get straight into it! 

            Writing Strategies: Defined

            We can define writing strategies as a process creatives take to set a course of action that will help them meet their goals. As with health strategies, career strategies, and study strategies, what works for one person may not work for you, and vice versa.

            Below are twelve different writing strategies for you to try. See what works best for you—keep the tips that work and disregard those that don’t! 

            #1 – Read In Your Genre

            Reading in the genre you write is one of the best writing strategies out there. Not only does familiarizing yourself with your genre teach you about genre voice and tropes, but it also:

            • Shows you what plots work
            • Acts as a visual example of what sells
            • Portrays ideas you can use as inspiration 
            • Draws your attention to when to use (and break) writing rules 

            Read as many books in your genre as you can.

            #2 – Read Various Genres

            Along with reading in your genre, I’ve found that reading various genres helps me notice writing rules across not just the genre I write in but many others. How a writer uses a writing rule in romantic fiction will likely differ in a business book. Noting these differences gives depth of insight on various rules. 

            #3 – Take A Class

            Whether you enroll in a class at your community college, audit a class at a college nearby, sign up for an online program, or watch a free webinar, the more classes you can take on writing, the better.

            #4 – Memorize Writing Rules

            Show don’t tell, active versus passive, using one tense per book, employing the senses… When you understand these rules (and more) at a deep level, you will spot their proper and improper use in writing. This will help as you engage in edits later on.

            #5 – Understand Tense

            New writers often struggle to properly manage tense in their writing. One paragraph may include past and present tense, without them realizing it. The better grasp you have on tense, the more professional your writing will appear. 

            For example, consider the egg riddle that keeps people guessing: “I have 6 eggs, I broke 2, I fried 2, I ate 2. How many do I have left?” If you can spot two different tenses within the riddle, you’ll easily spot the answer. 

            #6 – Practice Voice

            Voice sets writers apart from each other, and each writer naturally has a unique writing style. Notice how you write emails, send texts, talk to your best friend, and then compare it to how others do. This is your unique voice. 

            Next, rather than impersonate the voices of other writers you respect, practice writing in your natural style. Continual, well-executed practice will help you become comfortable with your own unique writing voice. 

            #7 – Watch TV Shows 

            TV shows are a great way to continue your writing education on the weekend or after a long day at work. There are several aspects to pay attention to when binging your next series:

            • How do characters’ verbiage differ from each other 
            • What mannerisms make a character unique 
            • What is the tone of the show

            Then, consider these same questions about your own work-in-progress.

            #8 – Read A Script

            While a bit laborious, writing strategies that may bore you can result in tremendous benefits. Reading scripts shows the power of concise dialogue and the importance of cutting out every detail that doesn’t add to the story. 

            You can view some scripts online for free, make a purchase at Barnes & Noble, or search for your favorite movie and see if you can order it. Pay close attention to the dialogue and how many lines each character gets.

            #9 – Meet Your Daily Word Count Goal

            Since I began writing, my writing mentor stressed that many authors do not meet their deadlines. If you want to set yourself apart, set your writing deadline and meet it. This will help your marketing efforts run much more smoothly. 


            How do you meet your deadline? Start small by meeting your daily word count goals. Writing strategies matter, but no matter how great your strategy, if you can’t hit your deadlines…are they really that helpful? So just do your best to stay on track!

            #10 – Edit With Track Changes

            Editing can feel like chopping up your favorite piece of art. To encourage yourself to cut what needs cut and rephrase what needs changed, copy your manuscript and paste it into a separate document.

            Next, turn on Track Changes (in Microsoft Word). Of the above writing strategies, this one in particular will allow you to see your old and new version—in other words, your progress! Plus, if you find you liked the original better, you still have a copy in a separate document. 

            #11 – Print Off Your Work

            Reading my writing on a physical page helps typos stand out to me in ways that reading on a screen just doesn’t. Finding typos, and fixing them, is one area that sets good writers apart from great writers.

            Manuscripts can get long, so consider printing yours single-spaced, two-sided, and with smaller margins in order to fit more text on a single page.

            #12 – Mindset Matters 

            Of these eleven writing strategies, without a healthy mindset, you will likely progress slowly or not at all. Imposter syndrome, fear of failure, and something as simple as a busy schedule often keep wannabe writers from becoming successful writers.

            With a healthy mindset, you can go much further than you dreamed possible. View setbacks as opportunities for growth, writing block as an excuse to push forward, and success as something to be thankful for. When you have a healthy mindset, it’s much easier to have a healthy career.

            Writing Strategies To Use This Year

            Now that you have a list of twelve different writing strategies, it’s time to try them so you can determine which ones work best for you. It may take some time to find which writing strategies are best for you, so consider using the following template to get started:

            Month 1: Tip 1-3

            Read in your genre. Read various genres. Take a class. 

            Month 2: Tip 4-6

            Memorize writing rules. Understand tense. Practice voice.

            Month 3: Tip 7-9

            Watch TV shows. Read a script. Meet your daily word count goal.

            Month 4: Tip 10-12

            Edit with Track Changes on. Print off your work. Choose a healthy mindset. 

            Time To Get To Work

            Trying several strategies a month will help you familiarize yourself with them. Once you understand and are accustomed to using them, you can make a clear choice on which writing strategies work best for you. 

            While it may seem like a big time investment to spend four months dividing on which writing strategies you should use, consider the long-term benefits over your writing career. Take some time upfront, invest in choosing what’s best for you, and then commit to following through with it!

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