More Writing Tips

            In my writing blog dated September 23, 2021, I promised as soon as I unearthed more writing tips, I would pass them on. Well, I’ve been doing some digging and here are the most recent ones I’ve extracted:

1. Establish the stakes for your main character. What do they stand to lose or gain? What is most important to him/her? What are the consequences if the main character does not overcome?
2. To provide an unsettled atmosphere in your novel, shift the context. E.g., playgrounds after dark, empty places usually full of people, such as schools and museums, empty buildings.
3. If your character is broken hearted, let them smile again; if he/she is a genius, let them get stumped now and then; if your character loses it all, allow him/her to find something.
4. If it’s boring to you, it will be boring to your reader.
5. Resist stereotypes in your writing and in real life.
6. Go for a walk. Do some gardening. Dance. Write about it. Never stop writing.
7. Story ideas don’t fall from the sky. You have to work for them.
8. If a character isn’t contributing to the story, cut them, or make them more important.
9. When writing a scene, drop the reader in late and haul them out early.
10. Tips on writing the first draft: a) Forget the rules of good writing b) Don’t worry about grammar, adverbs, etc. c) Immerse yourself in the story d) Follow your instincts.
11. Some physical flaws to add to your characters: a) Chipped nail polish on fingers/toes b) Constantly fidgets c) Has chin hairs d) Patchy skin/chapped lips e) Dirty, chewed finger nails e) Unwashed, straggly hair
12. Ways to describe sounds: grinding, muffled, plaintive, staccato, sonorous, ear-splitting, raucous
13. Words to use instead of “very”: a) Very calm --- Serene b) Very slow --- Sluggish c) Very exciting --- Exhilarating d) Very weak --- Frail
14. It’s wonderful when a character you create does something you don’t expect. Don’t stop them. Get out of the way.

         That’s it for now. I’d love to know if any of these tips gave you some ideas and/or inspiration. Your comments are welcome.