Strong stories need a plot, a setting, and most importantly, engaging characters. Agents and editors will tell you that all stories are character-driven. However, if your characters are stereotypes, one-dimensional, or predictable, the reader will soon...

In fiction, plot is defined as the series of events (action) that make up a story. Most plots follow a structure known as Freytag’s triangle, which has five basic elements: Exposition/Introduction Inciting Incident Rising Action Climax Denouement...

For memoir to fully engage readers, it must give readers the sense that they are “right there,” experiencing life’s pivotal moments alongside the narrator. In this webinar, award-winning memoirist Julie Ryan McGue will offer techniques and share concrete...

There are many paths to success for authors beyond submitting your writing to publishers. Contests open the door to both publication and financial awards. Grants and fellowships provide financial support for your work, and residencies offer time to concentrate...

Madeline Sharples worked in the aerospace business (TRW and Northrop Grumman) as a technical writer and editor, web content writer, and proposal manager for almost thirty years – hiring in five times and retiring twice. She also worked for non-profits...

D. B. Jackson is the award-winning author of three novels: They Rode Good Horses, Unbroke Horses, and Small Moving Parts, as well as several short stories. His screenplays include the television series adaptation of They Rode Good Horses, the feature...

Have you ever thought of entering a writing contest but stopped because the rules were complex, and you didn't want to spend that much time preparing. Is winning a contest worth the time and effort? Yes, winning a contest can be worth the time and effort...

Science fiction, or sci-fi, is a popular genre. It’s one of the broadest genres in terms of theme, and is characterized by numerous sub-genres. Sci-fi also connects with a wide audience, from stories for the youngest readers to women and men of all ages...

If you've been writing for any time at all, you've probably heard about writing competitions. These are events created by all sorts of publications, universities, publishers, writer groups, and other miscellaneous associations. The idea behind the...