Category Archives: Writing Resources and Craft

May 22

You may or may not know that these existed, but some are certainly very useful.

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You may or may not know that these existed, but some are certainly very useful. (I wish more authors would use the “definition” feature to make sure they’re using the right word, for example.)

Originally shared by Laura Gibbs

I knew about these features already, but it is very good list! These are the reasons why I really like Google Docs. 🙂

http://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/google-docs-tips#sm.0000uhismuknidnmyri1rdusm3urb

(and yes, there’s a cat)

May 19

Pre-writing rituals seem to work not so much by anything inherent to whatever ritual you choose as by increasing…

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Pre-writing rituals seem to work not so much by anything inherent to whatever ritual you choose as by increasing your mental engagement.

http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/literally-psyched/can-what-you-do-before-you-write-improve-your-actual-writing/
May 12

I’ve shared this before, but it’s been a while, and I just had occasion to refer to it. It bears re-reading.

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I’ve shared this before, but it’s been a while, and I just had occasion to refer to it. It bears re-reading.

(By one of the screenwriters for Leverage, and if you don’t know why that’s a recommendation, go immediately to Netflix and watch Leverage.)

http://io9.com/why-you-should-never-write-action-scenes-into-your-tent-511712234
May 07

When Characters Argue

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Originally shared by MJ Bush

When Characters Argue

Punctuate with action. Like leaving.

Don’t let it get drawn out and flimsy.

DO something.

A drawn out argument loses punch, and makes us wonder why neither is putting their foot down or compromising. It makes the positions look weak and the emotions seem insincere.

Action solidifies a position and makes us believe they mean it. Makes us believe they feel it.

Not open to negotiation? Leave.

Ready to fight? Throw a punch.

Bonus: Give them attitudes and multiple things to argue over, then let subtext reign. Even if it lasts longer, this adds substance and keeps the exchange from seeming flimsy and insincere.

#writingtips  

May 04

What I like about outlining is that I can use it to time-shift my creativity.

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What I like about outlining is that I can use it to time-shift my creativity.

Take today. It’s chilly, a grey, depressing Auckland overcast. The cats have deactivated themselves until the sun comes back out, or until dinner, whichever is the sooner. Creativity is at a low ebb.

But I have stuff outlined that I can work on, and I know if I do I’ll be able to make some progress.

May 01

A few people have asked me, after I’ve read their books and pointed out issues that their editors missed, whether I…

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A few people have asked me, after I’ve read their books and pointed out issues that their editors missed, whether I take editing clients myself. 

Up until now, the answer has been “no”, but that’s just changed. At least for the month of May, my wife and I are taking on a few select clients. If you’re interested in being one of them, take a look at what we offer.

(Signal boost appreciated, especially if you can personally attest to my skill at spotting punctuation errors, homonym issues and the like.)

http://csidemedia.com/editing/