Helping Writers Become Authors

For a writer, one of the most exciting explorations of archetype can be found within specific archetypal character arcs--or journeys.

Why are archetypal stories so important and what does this mean for you as a writer attempting to channel these deep patterns of existence?

It is not too simplistic or idealistic a statement to say that storytelling--and therefore story theory--is a quest for meaning.

Pairing the Karpman Drama Triangle and the Empowerment Triangle offers a fantastic tool for creating archetypally solid character arcs.

Life creates art, but life also devours art. Learn how important it is for committed artists to take steps to protect creativity.

What's the problem with omniscient POV? Why are so many authors confused about it? And why are so many editors delivering digital hand slaps because of it?

Did you know a full understanding of the Key Event, its role in story structure, and its timing will help you write stronger First Plot Points?

Is your narrator killing subtext by inferring other characters' thoughts too accurately? Find out in this latest of the Most Common Writing Mistakes!

One of the stickiest questions any writer is likely to face is: What's the difference between a reactive protagonist and a passive protagonist?

Can you identify the five most important factors in creating weight and substance in stories that matter?

When your story's Midpoint properly facilitates the all-important shift in the middle of your story, your conflict is sure to progress in a powerful way.

Discover four types of unnecessary scenes that may be sinking your book - and three ways to find them and kill them.

Take a look at how poor prologues sap stories, how no prologue can strengthen stories, and how to determine if your story is one of the exceptions.

Here's what my daily writing process looks like when using Scrivener for my first drafts.

Today, I'm offering a sneak peek under the hood of my writing process when using Scrivener - and how you can use Scrivener to up your writing game.

The Climactic Moment is the reason your story is even being told in the first place. Needless to say, it's pretty important you get it right. Find out how!

What are pinch points? Of all the important moments in your story, they are most likely to be neglected. But they're crucial to your story structure.

The trouble with identifying the Inciting Event is that the term is applied rather wildly to half a dozen different moments in the story. Which is right?

Today, I'm excited to put an end to the guessing about the "Big Secret" and unveil a new resource for authors. The official Story Structure Database.

The ironic thing about about complex characters in fiction is that the essence of what makes them so wonderfully complicated is actually incredibly simple.

In the time it takes to write two words, you might distance readers from your narrative. Luckily, this one of our common writing mistakes is an easy fix.

Discover how a good story premise can help you eliminate structural weaknesses and create a valuable tool for outlining and pitching your novel.

The length of the timeline is an important factor in any story. Take a moment to consider just how much time your story should cover.

What makes a great climactic setting? Consider five important techniques for making the most of the setting in your story's climax.

One of the easiest writing mistakes to fall into in your book endings is actually one that has much to do with book beginnings--and, indeed, the entirety of your book.