How to Write a Quality Fantasy Novel

Writing a fantasy novel is like creating a new universe - one full of magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. But amidst all the fantasy elements, a great fantasy novel still needs strong characters, a compelling plot, and an immersive world. Here are some key tips for writing a standout fantasy novel:

1. Create a Unique and Immersive World: Fantasy is all about the world-building. Whether it’s a magical kingdom, a post-apocalyptic realm, or an entirely new dimension, your world should feel rich and lived-in. Think about the rules that govern magic, politics, and society, and make sure your world feels consistent. The details - geography, history, customs - will help make your setting believable and immersive.

2. Develop Complex Characters: Your characters should be as intriguing as the world they inhabit. Give them depth, flaws, and motivations that drive them through the story. Readers need to connect with your protagonist and care about their journey, whether they’re a reluctant hero or a powerful sorcerer. Fantasy allows for some amazing character archetypes, but even your magical creatures should have humanity at their core.

3. Establish a Strong Central Conflict: Every fantasy story needs a compelling central conflict - whether it’s a battle against a dark lord, a quest to save the world, or an internal struggle with personal power. Ensure that the stakes are high, and that the conflict feels urgent. The most engaging fantasy novels balance their epic battles with personal stakes that make the reader care about the outcome.

4. Use Magic and Fantasy Elements Purposefully: Magic is one of the defining features of fantasy, but make sure it serves the plot. Avoid using magic as a quick fix for problems - consider the rules and limitations of magic in your world. Too much convenience can undermine the tension and the character’s growth. Also, think about the consequences of magic, both for individuals and society, to create deeper stakes.

5. Explore Universal Themes: Even though your world may be fantastical, the best fantasy novels often explore universal themes - courage, loyalty, love, sacrifice, and good vs. evil. Make sure your story has emotional depth, even as it takes readers on epic adventures. This balance between the fantastical and the human will keep your readers invested.

6. Pace Your Story with Balance: Fantasy novels can easily become overwhelming with world-building or side plots. Keep the pacing balanced between character development, world-building, and action. Make sure that each scene drives the plot forward and reveals something about the characters or their world. Don’t overload your readers with info dumps - sprinkle details naturally throughout the story.

7. Build Tension and Surprises: One of the joys of reading fantasy is the unexpected. Include twists and surprises that keep readers on their toes. Whether it’s a sudden betrayal, an ancient prophecy coming true, or a hidden power awakening, these moments can elevate your story and create lasting impact.

Writing a fantasy novel is about more than just magic and mythical creatures - it’s about building a world that feels alive, creating characters readers will root for, and telling a story that resonates beyond the page.

So, step into the world of imagination, and let your creativity soar. The possibilities are endless!

Understanding and Building a Strong Character Arc

One of the most powerful elements of storytelling is the character arc. It’s the journey your protagonist takes from the beginning to the end of the story, where they experience growth, change, and transformation. A well-developed character arc not only strengthens your narrative but also keeps readers emotionally invested in your protagonist’s journey.

But what exactly is a character arc? And how can you build a strong one for your hero?

Let’s break it down!

What Is a Character Arc?

At its core, a character arc is the evolution your protagonist undergoes throughout the story. It’s about how they change, learn, or grow from the beginning of the narrative to the end. Whether it’s overcoming a personal flaw, gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, or learning to face their fears, a strong character arc provides both structure and depth to your story.

There are three basic types of character arcs:

1. Positive Arc: The protagonist grows, learns, and becomes a better person. They start with a flaw or problem, but by the end, they’ve overcome it.

• Example: A timid person gains confidence and becomes a leader.

2. Negative Arc: The protagonist declines or falls, often due to their flaws or choices. They may start with good intentions, but their downfall is inevitable.

• Example: A well-meaning hero is corrupted by power and turns into a villain.

3. Flat Arc: The protagonist doesn’t change, but instead, they help change the world or the people around them. They remain strong in their beliefs throughout the story.

• Example: A character with unwavering conviction who remains the moral compass while others around them evolve.

The type of arc you choose for your protagonist depends on the story you want to tell. However, positive arcs are the most common, especially for protagonists we want readers to root for.

Building a Strong Character Arc

A great character arc isn’t just about change—it’s about meaningful change. Here’s how to craft one that feels earned and impactful:

1. Start with a Flaw or Deficiency

Every great character arc begins with a flaw, weakness, or something that needs to be overcome. This flaw should be something internal - a belief, a fear, or a character trait - that affects how the protagonist interacts with the world. It’s the thing they must face and overcome in order to grow.

• Example: Your protagonist might be overly self-reliant and distrustful of others, preventing them from forming meaningful relationships.

2. Establish the Stakes Early

Why does the protagonist need to change? The stakes of their journey should be clear from the beginning. What will happen if they don’t face their flaws or change? The external plot of the story often ties into this internal struggle - this is where the conflict comes from.

• Example: If your protagonist is too proud to ask for help, their refusal to trust others could cause them to fail at a critical moment in the story.

3. Set Up Key Moments of Conflict

Throughout the story, place your protagonist in situations that challenge their flaw or force them to confront their limitations. These key moments of conflict are the building blocks of their arc. The more they struggle with their flaw, the more compelling their eventual growth will be.

• Example: The protagonist might be forced to trust someone they’ve always doubted or be put in a position where they can no longer handle everything alone.

4. Allow for Incremental Growth

Change doesn’t happen overnight. Your protagonist should experience small victories and setbacks as they work to overcome their flaw. This makes their growth feel earned and realistic. Readers want to see that the character is trying - and sometimes failing - before they ultimately succeed.

• Example: The protagonist may initially make a major mistake when they try to trust someone, but through reflection and learning from that mistake, they gradually open up more over time.

5. The Climax: Overcoming the Flaw

The climax of the story should be the moment where the protagonist is forced to confront their flaw head-on. It’s the ultimate test of their growth. This is when they finally make the choice to change or fail at the last moment.

• Example: In a critical moment, the protagonist must choose between their old way of acting (self-reliance) and taking a leap of faith to trust someone and work together.

6. Resolution: Showing the Transformation

In the resolution, you want to show the reader that the protagonist has truly changed. The character’s arc should be clear and satisfying by the time the story ends. We should be able to look back at who they were at the beginning and see how far they’ve come.

• Example: The protagonist now has strong, supportive relationships and is better able to handle future challenges by working with others.

Tips for Building a Compelling Character Arc:

• Make the flaw relatable: Readers should understand the protagonist’s flaw and why it exists. It should be something they can empathize with or recognize.

• Tie the arc to the plot: The protagonist’s internal journey should align with the external plot of the story. One should affect the other, so the character’s growth feels organic to the narrative.

• Avoid making the change too easy: Growth is hard work. Your protagonist should be challenged and tested by their flaw throughout the story.

• Ensure the change feels earned: The character’s transformation should be the result of choices they made and the lessons they learned along the way—not just a quick fix or sudden realization.

A strong character arc doesn’t just make for a great protagonist—it gives your readers someone they can root for, care about, and follow on their journey of self-discovery.

To you and your book (and your characters!)!

Leaving a Legacy Through Your Story

Have you ever thought about the lasting impact your story could have? The stories we tell – whether they’re personal, fictional, or inspired by our families – carry the power to live on long after we’ve written them. As an author, you have a unique opportunity to not only entertain and inspire your readers, but to leave a legacy that can be passed down through generations.

Why Sharing Your Story Matters

Writing your story isn’t just about sharing your voice in the moment—it’s about preserving a piece of your identity, experiences, and lessons for future generations. Whether you’re writing memoirs, family histories, or even fiction inspired by your personal experiences, your words can become a bridge connecting generations to the past.

Here are a few reasons why it’s worth considering:

1. Honoring Your Legacy

Your family’s history is a treasure trove of wisdom, struggles, triumphs, and culture. By sharing those stories, you can ensure that your legacy is preserved for your children, grandchildren, and beyond. It’s a way to say, “I was here,” and make sure your story is not forgotten.

Example: A family memoir detailing your parents' immigration story or the adventures of your ancestors can become a powerful way to honor their legacy and keep their history alive for future generations.

2. Creating a Connection Across Generations

Your story – whether it’s personal or familial – helps others connect to the broader human experience. By sharing the intimate details of your life, you create a connection that transcends time, allowing future generations to understand what it was like for you or your ancestors. These stories can inspire, educate, and foster empathy in your readers, no matter their background.

Example: Writing a fictionalized account of your family’s struggles during a historic event, like the Great Depression or a world war, can give readers a sense of shared humanity across time and space.

3. Lessons for Future Generations

Our stories often contain important lessons learned from life experiences. By writing them down, you can pass on wisdom that could help future generations avoid mistakes, make better decisions, and better understand the world around them.

Example: The lessons from overcoming personal challenges or navigating complex family dynamics can serve as valuable guidance for those who come after you.

How to Get Started: Sharing Your Own Story or Your Family’s History

If you’re ready to preserve your story or that of your family, here are some steps to get started:

1. Reflect on What You Want to Share

What is the core message or theme you want your story to convey? Are you writing about personal growth, family heritage, resilience, or the challenges you’ve overcome? Take some time to reflect on the parts of your life or family history that are most meaningful to you.

• Personal Story: Write about a turning point in your life – whether it’s a career change, a move to a new city, or a personal challenge that shaped who you are today.

• Family Story: Interview older family members or dive into old letters, photos, and keepsakes to uncover family stories. Whether it’s your great-grandmother’s journey to the U.S. or your father’s war experiences, these stories have the potential to captivate and educate future generations.

2. Start Writing Early and Often

Don’t wait until “the right time” to start writing your story. Start small by jotting down memories or anecdotes. You don’t have to write a book all at once; the process of storytelling can unfold over time.

Tip: Set aside a regular time to write. Even just 15-20 minutes a day can help you build momentum and make steady progress.

3. Embrace the Power of Personal Details

Whether you’re writing your own story or your family’s, it’s the small, personal details that bring your narrative to life. Describe the smells, sounds, tastes, and feelings of the moments you’re sharing. This will make your story not only more memorable but also more relatable.

Example: Instead of just saying, “My grandmother made the best pie,” describe the warm scent of cinnamon filling the house, the way her hands moved as she rolled out the dough, and the joy you felt sitting around the table together.

4. Consider the Impact on Future Generations

As you write, think about how your story will impact future generations. What would you want them to learn? What would you want them to know about who you were and the times you lived through? You’re not just telling your story for today’s readers—you’re leaving something behind that will resonate long into the future.

Tip: Imagine your grandchildren or great-grandchildren reading your words. What would you want them to feel? Inspired? Grateful? Empowered?

The Importance of Preserving Family Histories

Beyond your own personal story, think about the power of preserving your family’s history. Family stories passed down through generations hold significant cultural and emotional value. By writing them down or recording them in any form, you create a living history that may one day be the foundation for future generations to build on.

Your words are powerful. They have the potential to transcend time and become a part of your legacy. Whether you’re sharing your personal journey, your family’s rich history, or a blend of both, you are creating something that can inspire and connect generations to come.

To you and your book!

Setting Good vs. Bad Writing Goals: A Quick Guide for Authors

As authors, setting goals is essential to keep us on track and motivated. But not all writing goals are created equal! The difference between good and bad goals can make or break your productivity and growth as an author.

Bad Writing Goals:

❌ "Write 5,000 words every day."

Unrealistic and unsustainable. Consistency is key, but this kind of pressure can lead to burnout.

❌ "Finish my novel in a month."

While it's great to have a target, focusing on completion at the expense of quality can lead to rushed, unfinished work.

❌ "Become a bestselling author – immediately."

Success takes time. It’s important to focus on the journey, not just the destination.

Good Writing Goals:

 ✅ "Write 500 words a day, five days a week."

Achievable and consistent. It allows for flexibility while keeping momentum going.

 ✅ "Complete one chapter a month."

Breaks the process down into manageable chunks and encourages steady progress.

✅ "Edit one page a day."

Focus on quality over quantity to refine your writing and strengthen your story.

Remember, good goals are realistic, specific, and motivating. They focus on the process and celebrate small wins rather than just the end result.

So, what’s your next writing goal? Let’s set some realistic and meaningful ones together! 📚✨

#WritingGoals #AmWriting #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #GoalSetting #WritersOfLinkedIn #AuthorTips

Creating Memorable Heroes and Villains

Crafting compelling heroes and villains is essential to any unforgettable story. Whether you’re creating a protagonist readers root for or a villain they love to hate (or maybe even sympathize with), the key is to make them real, dynamic, and memorable.

Let’s dive into how to build these iconic characters that will leave a lasting impression!

Creating a Hero Readers Will Root For:

Your hero doesn’t have to be perfect – in fact, they shouldn’t be! What truly resonates with readers is a hero who feels real, relatable, and multifaceted. Here are some tips to help you develop a hero who stands out:

1. Give them flaws. Perfect characters are often hard to connect with. Let your hero have weaknesses, doubts, and even moments of failure. It’s their journey toward overcoming these obstacles that makes their story so compelling.

2. Craft a unique motivation. Why does your hero fight? Is it for love, redemption, justice, or something else? Whatever it is, their motivation should be personal and powerful enough to drive them through tough challenges.

3. Make their growth visible. A great hero is constantly evolving. Show their growth through their decisions, interactions with others, and the lessons they learn. Readers should feel like they’ve been on a journey with them.

4. Create relationships. Heroes are defined by the relationships they build with others, whether with friends, mentors, or even rivals. These connections should reveal different facets of their personality and create emotional depth.

Building a Villain Who Steals the Spotlight:

A great villain doesn’t just oppose the hero – they challenge everything the hero stands for, and often, they believe they’re doing the right thing, too. Here’s how to make your villain unforgettable:

1. Give them depth. Villains aren’t evil for the sake of it. What makes them tick? What past experiences shaped their worldview? A well-developed villain has a backstory that gives them depth and complexity.

2. Align their goals with a twisted sense of justice. A memorable villain believes in their cause – even if it’s wrong. When their motivations are understandable, readers may even find themselves questioning whether the villain’s actions are justified.

3. Craft moments of vulnerability. Let readers see the cracks in your villain’s armor. A villain who shows hints of vulnerability or humanity is often more terrifying and relatable than one who’s purely evil.

4. Make them a worthy opponent. A hero without a strong antagonist is just on a casual walk in the park. A villain who challenges the hero’s strengths and weaknesses pushes them to become better – and the battle between them should feel like more than just a physical one.

The Hero and Villain Dynamic:

The relationship between your hero and villain is the heart of your story. Think about how they reflect each other: Do they have similar qualities but choose different paths? Does the villain challenge the hero’s values, forcing them to question their beliefs? When crafted well, this dynamic creates tension, conflict, and powerful emotional stakes.

Building memorable characters – both heroic and villainous – is all about balancing strength and weakness, clarity and complexity. So, the next time you’re drafting, ask yourself: What makes my hero stand out? What makes my villain unforgettable?

Keep writing and keep building those characters that will stick with your readers long after the last page.

To you and your book!

The Rollercoaster of Being an Author

Being an author is a bit like riding a rollercoaster – minus the fancy harness and the thrill of knowing you’re in a well-maintained amusement park. Instead, picture a rickety rollercoaster built in your backyard by someone who may or may not have passed a basic safety inspection. It’s a wild, unpredictable ride, but somehow, we all sign up for it willingly.

Let’s take a (lighthearted) look at the ups and downs of being an author. Buckle up – there’s bound to be some dramatic plot twists along the way.

1. The “I’m Going to Write a Book” Moment (The Dreamer Phase)

The journey starts with excitement. You’ve just had an epiphany. "I’m going to write a book!" you declare with the enthusiasm of a caffeinated squirrel. The world is your oyster, and the book you’re about to write will definitely be the next big thing. Maybe you’ll even get a movie deal out of it. Hollywood, here you come!

The reality: You stare at a blank screen for hours wondering what the heck you were thinking. Those creative ideas? They’re lost somewhere between the fifth cup of coffee and your third emotional breakdown of the day.

2. The Writing High (When the Words Flow Like Wine)

This is the best part: you’re in “the zone.” Words are pouring out of you like they’re on sale, and every sentence feels like a masterpiece. You write 50,000 words in two days and start casually Googling “book tours” and “how to deal with fame.”

The reality: You’ve written 3,000 words, and now you’re debating whether “a” or “the” works better in the opening sentence. Plus, you spent an entire afternoon rearranging the books on your bookshelf for no apparent reason.

3. The “Why Am I Doing This” Phase (The Slump)

Just when you think you’ve got this writing thing in the bag, doubt creeps in. Is anyone even going to read this? Will my mom buy a copy? What am I even saying in this book? The plot takes a nosedive, and suddenly your characters are arguing over trivial things like whether they prefer cats or dogs, and you’ve lost all sense of where the story is going.

The reality: You spend weeks rewriting the same two paragraphs, wondering why your characters seem to have developed an unholy obsession with tacos. Are you even good enough to finish this thing? Spoiler alert: You are.

4. The Editing Rollercoaster (The Emotional Whiplash)

You’ve finished your first draft. Congratulations! Now, the fun begins. Cue the sound of editors sharpening their pencils. You get your first round of feedback and suddenly feel like you’ve been hit by a bus. Your beautiful prose has been marked up with enough red ink to start a crime scene investigation.

The reality: You cry. Then, you go through your manuscript again and realize they’re right. That scene? Terrible. That character arc? Ugh. Maybe they’re just doing you a favor. Time to rewrite, again!

5. The Query Process (AKA The Rejection Gauntlet)

So, you’ve edited your manuscript, polished it to perfection, and now you’re ready to share it with the world. You send your query letters to literary agents, your heart beating in your chest like it’s trying to escape. You wait. And wait. And wait some more.

The reality: In a few weeks, you receive a form rejection. Then another. And another. And another. You even start thinking that perhaps your book has somehow offended the literary gods. But, as all writers know, it only takes one “yes” to change everything.

6. The "Oh My Gosh, I’m Published!" Moment (The Moment You Don’t Expect)

Finally, after what feels like a century of effort, your book is published. You did it. It's out there for the world to see, and now you’re living the dream, with books flying off shelves (or, okay, maybe gently trickling through sales channels).

The reality: You realize that writing the book was just the beginning. Now you have to market it. Social media posts, interviews, book signings... you’re living in a whirlwind of self-promotion and convincing strangers to buy a copy of your book without sounding like a walking advertisement.

7. The “Are You Sure This Is My Life?” Moment (When You Get an Unexpected Review)

The first time you read a glowing review of your book, it feels like you’ve just won a Pulitzer. “I knew I had it in me!” you think, grinning at your reflection in the mirror, practicing your acceptance speech for the next award show.

The reality: A few days later, you get a one-star review. You spend several hours overanalyzing the review, Googling “how to survive a bad review,” and making your friends read it so you can feel validated. Then, you remind yourself that the review probably came from someone who really likes cats, but not your book about dogs.

 8. The Never-Ending Loop (Repeat, but with More Coffee)

Once you’ve finished one book, you swear you’ll take a break. A nice, relaxing vacation. Maybe a little time off. But then, the writing bug bites again, and before you know it, you’re back at your computer, starting the cycle all over again—this time with the wisdom of knowing that, no matter how rough the journey gets, it’s worth it. 

The Final Verdict: It’s All Worth It (Right?)

At the end of the day, being an author is a wild, unpredictable ride. There are plenty of highs, plenty of lows, and probably a few moments when you wonder why you didn’t just take up knitting. But the joy of sharing your story, touching readers, and seeing your book in print (even if it’s on your own bookshelf for now) is enough to make it all worth it.

So, embrace the ups and downs. Celebrate the small victories (like hitting "send" on that query letter) and learn from the moments of doubt. Keep writing, keep pushing, and keep laughing through the chaos. After all, if we can't laugh about it, what’s the point?

Happy writing, and remember: You’re not alone on this rollercoaster ride. There are plenty of us screaming along with you.

To you and your book!

Understanding and Building a Strong Character Arc

One of the most powerful elements of storytelling is the character arc. It’s the journey your protagonist takes from the beginning to the end of the story, where they experience growth, change, and transformation. A well-developed character arc not only strengthens your narrative but also keeps readers emotionally invested in your protagonist’s journey.

But what exactly is a character arc? And how can you build a strong one for your hero?

Let’s break it down!

What Is a Character Arc?

At its core, a character arc is the evolution your protagonist undergoes throughout the story. It’s about how they change, learn, or grow from the beginning of the narrative to the end. Whether it’s overcoming a personal flaw, gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, or learning to face their fears, a strong character arc provides both structure and depth to your story.

There are three basic types of character arcs:

1. Positive Arc: The protagonist grows, learns, and becomes a better person. They start with a flaw or problem, but by the end, they’ve overcome it.

• Example: A timid person gains confidence and becomes a leader.

2. Negative Arc: The protagonist declines or falls, often due to their flaws or choices. They may start with good intentions, but their downfall is inevitable.

• Example: A well-meaning hero is corrupted by power and turns into a villain.

3. Flat Arc: The protagonist doesn’t change, but instead, they help change the world or the people around them. They remain strong in their beliefs throughout the story.

• Example: A character with unwavering conviction who remains the moral compass while others around them evolve.

The type of arc you choose for your protagonist depends on the story you want to tell. However, positive arcs are the most common, especially for protagonists we want readers to root for.

Building a Strong Character Arc

A great character arc isn’t just about change—it’s about meaningful change. Here’s how to craft one that feels earned and impactful:

1. Start with a Flaw or Deficiency

Every great character arc begins with a flaw, weakness, or something that needs to be overcome. This flaw should be something internal—a belief, a fear, or a character trait—that affects how the protagonist interacts with the world. It’s the thing they must face and overcome in order to grow.

• Example: Your protagonist might be overly self-reliant and distrustful of others, preventing them from forming meaningful relationships.

2. Establish the Stakes Early

Why does the protagonist need to change? The stakes of their journey should be clear from the beginning. What will happen if they don’t face their flaws or change? The external plot of the story often ties into this internal struggle—this is where the conflict comes from.

• Example: If your protagonist is too proud to ask for help, their refusal to trust others could cause them to fail at a critical moment in the story.

3. Set Up Key Moments of Conflict

Throughout the story, place your protagonist in situations that challenge their flaw or force them to confront their limitations. These key moments of conflict are the building blocks of their arc. The more they struggle with their flaw, the more compelling their eventual growth will be.

• Example: The protagonist might be forced to trust someone they’ve always doubted or be put in a position where they can no longer handle everything alone.

4. Allow for Incremental Growth

Change doesn’t happen overnight. Your protagonist should experience small victories and setbacks as they work to overcome their flaw. This makes their growth feel earned and realistic. Readers want to see that the character is trying—and sometimes failing—before they ultimately succeed.

• Example: The protagonist may initially make a major mistake when they try to trust someone, but through reflection and learning from that mistake, they gradually open up more over time.

5. The Climax: Overcoming the Flaw

The climax of the story should be the moment where the protagonist is forced to confront their flaw head-on. It’s the ultimate test of their growth. This is when they finally make the choice to change or fail at the last moment.

• Example: In a critical moment, the protagonist must choose between their old way of acting (self-reliance) and taking a leap of faith to trust someone and work together.

6. Resolution: Showing the Transformation

In the resolution, you want to show the reader that the protagonist has truly changed. The character’s arc should be clear and satisfying by the time the story ends. We should be able to look back at who they were at the beginning and see how far they’ve come.

• Example: The protagonist now has strong, supportive relationships and is better able to handle future challenges by working with others.

Tips for Building a Compelling Character Arc:

• Make the flaw relatable: Readers should understand the protagonist’s flaw and why it exists. It should be something they can empathize with or recognize.

• Tie the arc to the plot: The protagonist’s internal journey should align with the external plot of the story. One should affect the other, so the character’s growth feels organic to the narrative.

• Avoid making the change too easy: Growth is hard work. Your protagonist should be challenged and tested by their flaw throughout the story.

• Ensure the change feels earned: The character’s transformation should be the result of choices they made and the lessons they learned along the way—not just a quick fix or sudden realization.

A strong character arc doesn’t just make for a great protagonist—it gives your readers someone they can root for, care about, and follow on their journey of self-discovery.

Happy writing!

The Best Way to Do Research for Your Novel or Nonfiction Book

As an author, research is often a pivotal part of the writing process. Whether you’re crafting a fictional world or sharing real-world insights in a nonfiction book, research helps ensure your writing is accurate, authentic, and rich in detail. While it may seem overwhelming at first, effective research is about more than just gathering facts—it’s about immersing yourself in the material, understanding the nuances, and weaving that knowledge into your narrative seamlessly.

Here’s a guide on how to approach research in a way that supports your writing without becoming a distraction:

1. Define Your Research Goals

Before diving into the sea of information, take a moment to think about what you actually need to know. Are you writing historical fiction and need to understand a specific era? Or perhaps you’re writing a nonfiction book and need statistics, case studies, or expert opinions on a subject?

Be specific about the questions you’re trying to answer. Creating a list of research goals helps you stay focused and ensures that you don’t get lost in tangents or irrelevant information. Consider these common goals:

• Understanding setting or historical context (for fiction)

• Character development and psychology (for both fiction and nonfiction)

• Gathering data or expert opinions (for nonfiction)

• Verifying facts or anecdotes (for nonfiction)

The clearer your goals, the easier it will be to stay on track and avoid research burnout.

2. Start with Credible Sources

The quality of your research matters. Use credible, authoritative sources to ensure that the information you’re gathering is trustworthy. For historical fiction or nonfiction topics, academic journals, books by experts in the field, and reputable websites are great places to start.

• For fiction writers: If you’re writing about a particular culture, era, or profession, look for primary sources like letters, diaries, or interviews. Visiting museums or historical sites can also provide firsthand insights into your setting or subject matter.

• For nonfiction writers: Peer-reviewed journal articles, government publications, and industry reports are invaluable. But don’t forget about interviewing experts and conducting original research as well. A personal interview or firsthand observation can lend authenticity to your work that no secondary source can.

3. Use Multiple Research Methods

While reading and browsing the internet is the most common research method, there are many ways to gather information, and each can add a unique layer to your writing. Here are a few strategies:

• Interviews: Speaking directly with experts or people who have lived through the experience you’re writing about can provide invaluable insight. Whether for nonfiction or fiction, interviews add authenticity and depth to your characters and material.

• Observation: Depending on your topic, you may find it helpful to observe your subject in action. For example, if you’re writing about a specific job or environment, shadowing a professional or spending time in that setting can reveal nuances that books and articles may not.

• Surveys and Polls: For nonfiction, gathering opinions or statistics from real people through surveys can help you shape your argument, support your claims, and validate your ideas.

• Books and Articles: Reading widely, not just about your topic but related subjects, can help broaden your perspective and fill in gaps you didn’t know existed.

• Multimedia: Don’t limit yourself to just text-based research. Documentaries, podcasts, YouTube videos, and audio interviews can provide additional context and color to your subject matter.

4. Organize Your Research Efficiently

All those notes, articles, and books can quickly become overwhelming. Organizing your research is crucial to ensure that you can access the information you need when you need it.

• Digital Tools: Use digital tools like Evernote, Scrivener, or OneNote to capture, organize, and search your research notes. These tools allow you to easily tag, categorize, and store your information in a way that makes sense to you.

• Spreadsheet/Document Tracking: For nonfiction books that require citing numerous sources, a spreadsheet can help you keep track of where you found information, the relevance of each source, and the page numbers you’ll need for citations.

• Physical Organization: If you’re someone who prefers hard copies, consider using a system of binders, folders, or even index cards to keep your research organized by theme, chapter, or character.

5. Read Critically and Question Everything

Just because a source appears reputable doesn’t mean the information is flawless. Always read critically and cross-check details to ensure that what you’re reading is reliable and relevant. For nonfiction, especially, it's essential to verify statistics, studies, and quotes to avoid errors that could undermine your book's credibility.

For fiction writers, don’t simply take the information at face value. If you’re writing about a historical period or unfamiliar culture, dig deeper into the nuances and contradictions of that time or place. What are the common misconceptions? What is missing from popular portrayals? Challenge what you read and use it to create a more layered, authentic narrative.

6. Balance Research with Writing

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of research, but it’s important to remember that research is a tool, not a replacement for writing. A well-researched book won’t get written unless you make time to write it!

Set aside specific blocks of time for research and separate time for writing. Avoid the trap of endless researching in the hopes that you’ll find the “perfect” piece of information. When you have a solid base of knowledge, trust your instincts and start writing. Research can be revisited if you need to fill in gaps or check facts, but it’s important to keep moving forward with your project.

7. Integrate Research into Your Writing Seamlessly

The ultimate goal of research is not just to gather information, but to integrate it smoothly into your story or nonfiction book. Whether you’re describing a location in a novel or presenting data in a nonfiction work, make sure your research serves the narrative and doesn’t overwhelm it.

• For Fiction: Weave research into your story in a way that feels natural. For instance, if you’ve researched a specific time period, use descriptive details that bring that era to life without making the information feel like a lecture.

• For Nonfiction: Data, quotes, and facts should be presented in a way that supports your argument or thesis, not dominate the narrative. Avoid overwhelming your readers with too much information at once. Use storytelling techniques to make your research engaging.

8. Don’t Forget to Cite Your Sources

If you're writing nonfiction, citing your sources is crucial. Not only does it build credibility, but it also protects you from accusations of plagiarism. For fiction writers, while citations aren’t required, acknowledging your sources in your acknowledgments page can help give credit to experts who contributed to your knowledge.

Crafting the Perfect Title for Your Book

Choosing a book title can feel like one of the most daunting tasks in the writing process. It’s the first impression your book will make on readers, and it has to capture the essence of your story while sparking curiosity. A compelling title can be the difference between someone picking up your book or passing it by. So how do you find a title that resonates?

Let’s discuss tips and strategies for crafting the perfect book title that not only captures the spirit of your work but also entices readers to dive in.

1. Keep It Short and Memorable

A title that’s easy to remember will stick with readers. Short, punchy titles are often more effective than long, complicated ones. Think about how your title will look on a book cover or in a search engine. Can a reader easily recall it?

• Example: The Catcher in the Rye, Gone with the Wind, The Great Gatsby—all short, sharp titles that are easy to remember.

2. Reflect the Genre

Your title should give readers a hint of the genre they’re about to experience. If you’re writing a fantasy novel, your title should evoke that magical or adventurous feeling. If you’re writing a thriller, your title should hint at suspense or danger. A title can be a powerful way to set expectations.

• Fantasy Titles: The Name of the Wind, A Song of Ice and Fire

• Romantic Titles: Pride and Prejudice, Me Before You

• Thriller Titles: The Girl on the Train, Gone Girl

Make sure your title speaks to the genre’s core elements—whether it’s romance, mystery, science fiction, or historical fiction.

3. Evoke Emotion or Intrigue

A compelling title stirs something inside the reader. It might evoke curiosity, sadness, excitement, or even fear. Your title should tap into the emotional core of your story and make the reader feel something instantly.

• Example: The Fault in Our Stars—this title immediately evokes feelings of heartbreak and love, and it makes readers want to explore the story further.

4. Use Symbolism or Metaphor

Metaphors, symbols, and abstract references can make your title more layered and intriguing. These titles often give readers a glimpse into the deeper themes of your story, encouraging them to make connections and think more deeply.

• Example: The Bell Jar (Sylvia Plath) uses the metaphor of a bell jar to symbolize mental illness and suffocation, while also being a subtle hint to the book’s themes of personal struggle and confinement.

5. Consider Wordplay

A clever play on words can make your title stand out and catch the reader’s attention. Wordplay can add layers of meaning and make your title more memorable. Whether it’s through alliteration, puns, or a twist on a familiar phrase, playful titles are fun and engaging.

• Example: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy—a fun, quirky title that perfectly matches the tone of the book.

6. Test Your Title with Others

Once you have a few title ideas, test them with friends, family, or fellow writers. Getting feedback can help you gauge how others perceive the title. Does it spark curiosity? Does it make sense with the tone of your story? Do people remember it after hearing it just once?

• Tip: Consider using online groups or writing forums to run a poll or ask for feedback.

7. Avoid Generic or Overused Phrases

It’s easy to fall into the trap of using overused or generic titles, such as The Last Summer or The Secret Door. While these may sound appealing, they’re often vague and don’t offer anything unique or specific to your book. Try to find something that stands out and speaks directly to your story’s heart.

• Tip: Use a title generator to brainstorm, but make sure it’s original and true to your book’s unique voice.

8. Make Sure It’s Searchable

In today’s digital world, the right title can help your book get noticed online. A title that’s unique and easy to spell is important for discoverability. Readers should be able to easily search for your book without confusion.

• Tip: Before settling on a title, check if there are already books with the same or similar titles. If your title is too common, it could make it harder for your book to stand out.

Steps to Finding the Perfect Title:

1. Brainstorm Keywords: Write down words or phrases that relate to your book’s themes, genre, and key events. Think about the tone, mood, and imagery your story evokes.

2. Experiment with Combinations: Mix and match the words you’ve brainstormed to see what sounds good. Don’t be afraid to get creative—combine unexpected words, or tweak the phrasing to create something unique.

3. Play with Emotion: What emotion do you want to evoke in your readers? Focus on words that stir up that feeling. It could be excitement, fear, curiosity, joy, or mystery.

4. Get Feedback: Share your ideas with trusted friends, family, or writing groups. A fresh perspective can help you refine your options.

5. Shortlist Your Titles: Once you have a few strong contenders, shortlist them and imagine how they’ll look on your book cover. How do they sound when you say them aloud? Do they feel like a fit for your story?

6. Test It: Google the title to ensure it’s not already widely used, and check if a URL or social media handle is available (if you plan to use it for marketing).

Common Grammar Mistakes Writers Make and How to Avoid Them

Whether we’re penning a novel, crafting a blog post, or composing a business proposal, the goal is clear: to communicate our ideas as clearly and effectively as possible. And while storytelling and creativity are at the heart of writing, proper grammar is what ensures that your words resonate with readers in the way you intend.

I get a lot of grammar related questions, so I wanted to put together a list of common ones, as well as some tips for success:

1. Misusing Apostrophes

Apostrophes cause more confusion than they should, and many writers struggle with when to use them correctly. Here are the two primary cases:

• Possession: Use an apostrophe to show that something belongs to someone or something.

• Correct: The cat's toy (the toy of the cat).

• Incorrect: The cats toy (this would imply that there’s a plural subject, but no possession is indicated).

• Contractions: Apostrophes are used in contractions to replace missing letters.

• Correct: Don’t (Do not), It’s (It is).

• Incorrect: Its (possessive form of "it") vs. It’s (contraction for "it is" or "it has").

Tip: A helpful rule of thumb is that if you're indicating possession, the apostrophe typically goes after the s (e.g., the dogs' bones if it's multiple dogs), and if you're using a contraction, the apostrophe replaces the omitted letter(s).

2. Confusing Homophones

Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. These can be tricky, especially when writing quickly or in a rush. Some common examples include:

• There, Their, They’re

• There: Refers to a place.

• Example: I left my keys over there.

• Their: Shows possession.

• Example: Their house is beautiful.

• They’re: Contraction of "they are."

• Example: They’re going to the party tonight.

• Your vs. You’re

• Your: A possessive adjective.

• Example: Is this your pen?

• You’re: Contraction for "you are."

• Example: You’re the best writer I know!

Tip: When writing, slow down and double-check your homophones. Reading your sentence out loud can often help you identify whether you’ve used the correct one.

3. Sentence Fragments

A sentence fragment occurs when a sentence is incomplete and lacks a subject or a verb (or both). Sentence fragments can confuse readers and make your writing sound disjointed.

• Incorrect: While going to the store.

• Correct: While going to the store, I ran into an old friend.

To avoid sentence fragments, ensure that every sentence has at least one subject and one verb, and that it expresses a complete thought.

Tip: If your sentence leaves you wondering, “What happens next?” it’s probably a fragment.

4. Run-On Sentences

Run-on sentences happen when two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) are joined incorrectly. This can happen if you don’t use punctuation or conjunctions properly.

• Incorrect: I love writing books I have so many ideas.

• Correct: I love writing books, and I have so many ideas.

• Or: I love writing books. I have so many ideas.

Tip: If you find yourself out of breath while reading a sentence, you might need to break it up into smaller, more digestible parts. Always make sure your independent clauses are properly punctuated or joined by conjunctions.

5. Subject-Verb Agreement

Subject-verb agreement ensures that the subject and verb in a sentence agree in number (singular or plural). A common mistake happens when writers mix up singular and plural forms.

• Incorrect: The team are playing well.

• Correct: The team is playing well.
  (Note: "Team" is a collective noun and is treated as singular.)

• Incorrect: She don’t like coffee.

• Correct: She doesn’t like coffee.

Tip: Pay attention to whether the subject is singular or plural, and ensure the verb matches. If you’re unsure, always check whether the verb is in its singular or plural form.

6. Using "Less" vs. "Fewer" Incorrectly

"Less" and "fewer" are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t always correct in that context. The distinction is important, and here’s when to use each:

• Fewer: Use for countable objects or things that can be individually counted.

• Example: Fewer apples, fewer books.

• Less: Use for uncountable quantities or things that can't be divided into individual units.

• Example: Less water, less time.

Tip: If you can count the noun (like books, people, or ideas), use "fewer." If you’re talking about something that can’t be counted (like sugar, sand, or air), use "less."

7. Dangling Modifiers

A dangling modifier occurs when a descriptive phrase doesn’t clearly or logically modify the noun it’s supposed to describe, leading to confusion or a humorous, unintended meaning.

• Incorrect: Running to the store, the rain started.

• Correct: While I was running to the store, the rain started.

In the incorrect sentence, it seems as though "the rain" was running to the store. The correction clarifies that "I" was running.

Tip: Ensure your modifiers clearly describe the subject of the sentence. If in doubt, place the modifier as close to the noun it’s modifying as possible.

8. Incorrect Use of Commas

Commas are necessary for clarity and flow, but many writers misplace or omit them. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Incorrect: I went to the store and bought apples oranges and bananas.

• Correct: I went to the store and bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

• Tip: Use commas to separate items in a list. The last comma before “and” is optional (Oxford comma), but it can often add clarity.

• Incorrect: After the meeting we went to lunch.

• Correct: After the meeting, we went to lunch.

Tip: If a pause is needed in a sentence, that’s usually a sign you should add a comma.

To you and your book!

Megan