StorytimeWednesday

Keep track of your progress Watch as your numbers update in real time based on your writing activity. Set your manuscript goal and see your daily targets adjust accordingly. Some writers use an app on their phone or laptop to monitor their writing sessions. I on the other hand use my brain. On Sundays, I write down what number i should be at each day and use that as my monitoring system. If I go over the allotted time for a day of writing, I adjust accordingly. Don't become distracted by anything that could distract you like notifications from Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, or some other annoying site you follow. Stay focused with a site blocker Don't let distractions get in the way of your writing routine.  Schedule block sessions in advance and monitor your productivity each day. Learn how to establish a strong writing routine In just 10 days, discover how to change your habits to better support your writing goals. Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty y...

  Set a schedule with achievable goals   Let's talk about setting up a writing schedule that works for you. To make progress on your book, it's important to set realistic word count goals for your writing sessions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned writer, having a plan in place can help you stay on track and finish your book in a timely manner. For beginners, aiming for 500-750 words per day, 1,500-2,500 words per week, and 6,000-10,000 words per month is a good starting point. If you're looking to write your book quickly, consider setting higher goals like 1,500-2,000 words per session, 9,000-15,000 words per week, and 35,000-50,000 words per month. Remember, it's important to find a writing routine that works for you. Take advantage of your free time, productivity patterns, and other responsibilities to create a schedule that helps you reach your writing goals without burning out. And most importantly, don't forget to prioritize your mental health thr...

  First Draft of Manuscript Let's talk about writing a book. Plot, story, and theme are like the layers of an iceberg, hidden beneath the surface but crucial to the overall structure. While some may focus on flashy style, the real key to writing an amazing book lies in substance. Your plot, characters, conflicts, and themes should be the main focus. Avoid filler and prioritize killer content. Every sentence should reveal character or advance the action. Watch your pacing and cut down on excess description. Consider using tools like Hemingway to streamline your prose. Remember to keep your readers in mind and write with them in focus. Create a persona of your ideal reader to tailor your book to your target audience. By focusing on substance over style and keeping your readers at the forefront, you can craft a compelling and engaging book that will resonate with your audience. Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those yea...

  Opening Sentence  Let's dive right into the writing process and tackle that first draft head-on. Crafting the beginning of your book is crucial! The opening pages can truly make or break your story. If they don't hook the reader from the start, you risk losing their interest for good. Start strong with an attention-grabbing hook that captivates your audience. Take a cue from successful bestselling authors like J.K. Rowlings, James Stuart, Ernest Hemingway, David Baldacci, and others. With every one of their books, the first line draws you in immediately and encourages you to keep reading.  Maintain momentum by raising the stakes and driving the plot forward. Develop your main characters with depth and purpose, ensuring readers become emotionally invested in their journey. Experiment with different approaches to find the perfect opening for your story. If you need guidance and support, consider enrolling in a writing course to help you complete your manuscript in just 3 ...

  Writing that Outline Alright, so you've got this killer idea for a book, right? Well, before you dive headfirst into writing, you gotta get yourself an outline. Think of it as your trusty roadmap for the journey ahead. No need to make it super fancy or anything, just a basic structure will do. But trust me, having that outline will be a lifesaver when you hit those inevitable roadblocks along the way. And let's face it, every writer gets stuck at some point. So, how do you go about crafting this all-important outline? Well, there are a ton of different approaches you can take. Maybe you're into mind maps, or maybe you prefer a more detailed chapter breakdown. Experiment and see what works best for you. Make sure you've got a clear beginning, middle, and end mapped out. And don't forget about the juicy conflict that's gonna keep your readers hooked. Oh, and spend some time getting to know your characters too – trust me, it'll pay off in the long run. The ou...