
Novels & Screenplays: What’s The Difference?
In this post, we look at the differences between novels and screenplays. We look at collaboration, costs, and choices, and we answer your question: Should

Janet Burroway’s 4 Aspects Of Narrative Time
What is Narrative Time? In this post, we look at how time works in a story through Janet Burroway’s 4 aspects of narrative time.

Traditional Publishing – Part Two
Last week we began our discussion about traditional publishing. This week, Mia Botha continues her interviews with Pan Macmillan South Africa, who answer our questions.

30 Excuses Not To Write Your NaNoWriMo Novel
In this post, our blogger takes a comic look at NaNoWriMo and includes 30 excuses not to write your NaNoWriMo novel.

Forewords, Prefaces, Prologues, & Introductions – What’s The Difference?
What’s the difference between forewords, prefaces, prologues, and introductions? We explain what they are, when to use them, and tips for writing them. We also

Traditional Publishing – Part One
In this post, we begin our video series on traditional publishing. Mia Botha interviews Terry Morris, MD of Pan Macmillan South Africa, who will answer

Horror Masters: 3 Spooky Tips To Write Like Lovecraft, Poe, & King
If you’re writing a scary story, there are no better writers to imitate than the masters of the horror genre. In this post, we’ve included

Self-Publishing – Part Four
In this post, we end our video series on self-publishing as an option for authors. This is part four, with the fourth video on self-publishing.

Billy Collins’s 6 Pleasures Of Poetry
Do you want to capture your reader’s attention? In this post, we explain how Billy Collins’s 6 pleasures of poetry will help you become a

50 Verbs That Will Strengthen Your Writing Immediately
People tell us to use strong, descriptive verbs, but what does this mean? In this post, we look at 50 verbs that will strengthen your

What Is A Timeline? How Using A Timeline Can Help You Plot Your Novel
What is a timeline in writing? Learn how using a timeline can help you plot your novel, track events, and create a more organised story.

Things That Make Me Want To Write
Sometimes I do things that make me want to write. Other times, they remind me that I should be writing. Here are a few things

7 Really Good Reasons To Write A Memoir
In this post, we explore seven simple reasons why you should write a memoir and why your life story matters and is worth telling.

The Ultimate Checklist For Writing A Memoir
Writing a memoir? Use this checklist to review your story, strengthen your writing, and make sure your memoir is ready for readers.

How To Find Your Story’s Theme In 3 Simple Steps
What is a theme? Learn what a story theme is and how to find it. Use these three simple steps to uncover the deeper meaning

Why Embracing Your Inner Madness Makes You A Better Writer
You don’t have to be crazy to be a writer, but embracing your inner madness can definitely make you a better writer.

What Is A Story Goal? The Secret To A Strong Plot
What is a story goal in fiction writing? Learn how a concrete story goal helps writers create stronger plots, build conflict, and structure novels that

45 Ways To Avoid Using The Word ‘Very’
Good writers avoid using words like ‘very’ and ‘really too often. Use these 45 alternatives to ‘very’ to make your writing stronger, clearer, and more

What Is Tone? 155 Words To Describe An Author’s Tone
What is tone in writing? Learn the definition of tone and discover 155 words that can help you describe an author’s tone, analyse literature, and

What Is Direct & Indirect Characterisation? & Which One Should I Use?
In this post, we define characterisation, look at direct characterisation and indirect characterisation, and ask which one authors should use.