For the longest time, I have been pondering how to embed a theme in a novel. Isn’t it enough to have a premise, to have plenty of action and to develop each character’s arc? But while preparing the final revision … Continue reading Finding Your Novel’s Theme
One of the main things slowing down our writing speed while drafting is the infernal, internal editor. Here are three ways to override the need to write everything correctly the first time. Continue reading Why Writing Fast & Author Voice Go Together
5 ways to use setting to add depth, emotion, and character development to any story Continue reading 5 Ways to Make Your Setting Work for You
No matter what we write, doing background research will make it better.. Here are some research ideas for novelists. Continue reading Research Ideas for Fiction Writers
In character-based plotting, two or more characters with opposing goals and mindsets are set loose in a setting and must find their way to a satisfying conclusion.
Continue reading Brainstorming a Plot through Character Interviews
Power Charge Your Language by Joan Koster provides a zillion ways to add vividness to your writing. Continue reading Powerful Prose
GMC or Goal, Motivation, and Conflict provide a framework for brainstorming a strong plotlines and character arcs. Continue reading Brainstorming Your Plot Using GMC
If you are a writer, you love words. I know that I do. Word Storms are a writer’s way to play. They stir up creativity. They help you work through problems. They help you write your story. Continue reading Using Word Storms to Plan Your Novel
Inspiration for a story can come from the luck of the draw. Get a free set of Brainstorming Cards and learn how to use them. Continue reading Brainstorm Your Novel Using Brainstorming Cards
Storyboards are a quick, fluid way to plan a novel. It is a way to see how your story events flow together, how they match up with the plotting template you choose to use, and where there are plot holes. Continue reading Storyboard Your Novel
Are you a visual person? Do you hate outlining? Then mind mapping is for you. It is also a powerful tool for any writer.
A mind map is a visual representation of connected ideas. This makes it perfect for playing with different elements of a story. Continue reading Mind Mapping Your Story Ideas
All the motivation and energy in the world will not produce a finished novel. We first need ideas. Focused brainstorming is one way to inspire them. Continue reading How to Brainstorm Your Novel into Existence
Writing is an adventure with a destination. To write freely and creatively a writer needs to have a clear mind, inner joy, and a path to travel. Here are some steps to take on your trip.
One way to create a believable fictional reality is by doing extensive background research for your book’s setting. Continue reading Research Makes Your Setting Real
Both fine art and writing require creativity and hard work. They also require an understanding of structure and principles. Surprisingly, the same principles used by an artist can inspire excellent writing as well. Continue reading What Can a Writer Learn from the Principles of Art and Design?
Creating amazing characters is key to writing a story readers will remember and return to again and again. Continue reading Build Amazing Characters from the Inside Out
Do you have trouble maintaining your focus while writing? Are you easily distracted by things around you? Try the habit-changing Magic Jar. Continue reading Improve Your Focus: Try the Writer’s Magic Bowl
Working within limitations actually forces our brains to solve problems more creatively. Continue reading A Creative Focus for 2021
Three revision tips based on what I learned doing NaNoWri. Continue reading 3 Revision Tips and a New Book
Do you want to write faster and enjoy the process while doing so? Check out Fast Draft Your Manuscript and Get It Done.
Continue reading Fast Draft Your Manuscript: It’s NaNoWri
ZARA WEST'S JOURNAL 