I want to make my characters stand out with vivid, memorable cues for readers. Character "tags" are distinct elements differentiate characters from one another, helping the reader identify them easily. How do I write character tags? Consider 9 types of...
I want to write characters with motivations that drive the story and the character arc. How do I develop character motivations? Consider 9 types of character motivations:
- Physiological needs – basic survival instinct (hunger, thirst, sleep,...
I want to write complex, layered characters that feel real and are interesting and memorable. How do I write layered characters? Consider 11 contrasts that create layered characters in fiction:
- External vs Internal – external actions,...
The flash fiction story "His Wounds Green" was written in the "Pantser" method, one of the 3 ways to develop an idea into a story. That is: by the seat of my pants, using no outline, making it up as I went along.
The story was inspired by this ...
I want to write well-rounded characters with quirks that makes them interesting and memorable. How do I write character quirks? Consider 9 types of character quirks in fiction:
- Physical - appearance and body habits, physical traits, features, mannerisms
- ...
I want to write a cozy mystery. What are the elements of the cozy mystery. How do I write a cozy mystery?
The 5 steps to write a cozy mystery are:
- Develop a great, memorable cozy detective – consider types such as the gifted amateur, the retiree, the...
To write great descriptions of body language, you must study the masters. Looking to examples set by great authors can help inspire you and provide direction for your writing.
Deliberate Practice is also critical in developing your skills. Take the time to analyze the...
I want to describe body language so that my characters come alive and convey emotions in a realistic and compelling way. How do I describe body language?
The 7 building blocks of body language are:
- Facial expressions
- Head movement and positioning
- Hands and arms
- Body movement and...
To write great character descriptions, you must study the masters. Looking to examples set by great authors can help inspire you and provide direction for your writing.
Deliberate Practice is also critical in developing your skills. Take the time to analyze the way authors...
I want to write well-rounded characters with realistic character flaws and weaknesses. Consider 9 Examples of Character Flaws and Weaknesses in Fiction:
- The 7 Deadly Sins – Pride, Greed, Wrath, Envy, Lust, Gluttony, Sloth
- Addictions ...
I want to add conflict in my story to dial up tension and suspense and raise the stakes. How do I add conflict in fiction? Consider 7 Types of Conflict in Fiction:
- vs. Self – internal struggle between a characters's thoughts, beliefs,...
I want to describe facial expressions so that my characters come alive and convey emotions in a realistic and compelling way. How do I describe facial expressions? Consider 5 steps to describe facial expressions:
- Zoom in on one facial...