WEBVTT
00:00:06.160 --> 00:00:09.279
Welcome to the Write for Reason podcast.
00:00:09.359 --> 00:00:10.720
My name is Janet Wilson.
00:00:10.800 --> 00:00:15.199
I'm a publisher of Christian fiction for kids and teens with Dernia Publishing.
00:00:15.439 --> 00:00:28.800
If you're a Christian and new to writing stories for kids and teens, stay tuned for encouragement, creative writing tips, and actionable strategies you can implement immediately to become a better writer and get your books out into the world.
00:00:29.039 --> 00:00:34.000
During the summer, for my email list, I sent five quick writing tips every Monday.
00:00:34.159 --> 00:00:39.439
It wasn't anything detailed, so a bit like some of the proverbs in the Bible perhaps.
00:00:39.600 --> 00:00:44.640
But I thought it would be really useful to put them into a quick podcast.
00:00:44.880 --> 00:00:50.960
So here we are with 25 very quick writing tips in a nice neat place for you.
00:00:51.119 --> 00:00:58.320
And I hope that at least one of these, two of these, maybe three or four, you will find useful and it will help you with your writing.
00:00:58.479 --> 00:00:59.520
So here we go.
00:00:59.759 --> 00:01:05.040
Number one, write every day if you can, even if it's only 10 to 15 minutes.
00:01:05.200 --> 00:01:10.239
The reason for this is that it will keep your story flowing and always top of mind.
00:01:10.560 --> 00:01:14.159
Number two, write rubbish if you need to to begin with.
00:01:14.400 --> 00:01:18.959
You can always improve something you've written, but you can't edit an empty document.
00:01:19.200 --> 00:01:24.560
Number three, write at the same time every day if you can, so it becomes a habit you won't miss.
00:01:24.799 --> 00:01:27.760
If you tie it to another habit, it helps to cement the action.
00:01:27.920 --> 00:01:32.000
For example, after making your breakfast coffee, you sit down to write.
00:01:32.159 --> 00:01:34.959
Tip four, write at other times too.
00:01:35.200 --> 00:01:40.959
Enjoy the flexibility and a bit of extra time whenever you can grab those minutes or hours.
00:01:41.200 --> 00:01:43.519
Sometimes you can really get into the flow then.
00:01:43.760 --> 00:01:44.799
Tip number five.
00:01:44.959 --> 00:01:48.640
Have your own writing space where you can write without distraction.
00:01:48.959 --> 00:01:54.719
It doesn't have to be a desk, make it your own space where you feel comfortable and at peace with your story.
00:01:54.959 --> 00:01:57.439
Apparently Mark Twain wrote in bed.
00:01:57.680 --> 00:01:58.719
Tip number six.
00:01:58.959 --> 00:02:03.760
Keep a journal to hand to write down anything you think of while away from your desk.
00:02:04.079 --> 00:02:10.319
Jot down ideas for dialogue, characters, setting, chapter headings, anything that comes to mind.
00:02:10.560 --> 00:02:13.599
That way you won't forget these great ideas.
00:02:13.919 --> 00:02:16.240
Tip number seven, be observant.
00:02:16.400 --> 00:02:30.960
Look out for tips from real life, snatches of conversation you hear on the bus, the way a child shrinks from a stranger, the joy as a dog runs up to its owner, the grinding of the brakes on the bus, all these things are useful for a writer.
00:02:31.039 --> 00:02:33.520
And if you write them when they're fresh, it will help.
00:02:33.759 --> 00:02:34.639
Tip number eight.
00:02:34.879 --> 00:02:36.240
Use strong words.
00:02:36.400 --> 00:02:38.080
Keep a thesserist to hand.
00:02:38.240 --> 00:02:40.800
Did your character walk into a room?
00:02:41.120 --> 00:02:46.719
Could they run, skip, march, sidle or creep instead?
00:02:46.960 --> 00:02:48.080
Tip number nine.
00:02:48.240 --> 00:02:50.800
Avoid adverbs most of the time.
00:02:50.960 --> 00:02:55.840
Find a show not tell way of bringing life into the action if you possibly can.
00:02:56.080 --> 00:02:56.960
Tip number ten.
00:02:57.439 --> 00:03:02.000
Don't have too many characters, especially similar ones, it can get confusing.
00:03:02.240 --> 00:03:06.719
Confused readers tend to put the book down and may not pick it back up again.
00:03:06.960 --> 00:03:08.159
Tip number 11.
00:03:08.400 --> 00:03:11.840
Free write your first draft before going back to edit.
00:03:12.000 --> 00:03:15.520
Make sure you get to the end of your story before going back to the beginning.
00:03:15.680 --> 00:03:23.360
You have no idea how much difference this will make to the flow of your story, the speed that you write it, and the way that you will be able to get it finished.
00:03:23.520 --> 00:03:27.439
Honestly, I have done this many times and it really does work.
00:03:27.680 --> 00:03:28.960
Tip number 12.
00:03:29.199 --> 00:03:32.560
Show, don't tell as much as you possibly can.
00:03:32.800 --> 00:03:39.759
Take your readers right there to the action so that they can see what's taking place, rather than you simply giving your readers the information.
00:03:40.000 --> 00:03:42.560
Tip number 13, do a writing course.
00:03:42.800 --> 00:03:47.280
As long as you pick a reputable one, you will learn so much more than you could possibly imagine.
00:03:47.439 --> 00:03:50.080
I'd love to see you in the Write for a Reason Academy.
00:03:50.319 --> 00:03:52.719
Tip number 14, join a writers' group.
00:03:53.039 --> 00:03:58.400
We all have blind spots in our writing, and other writers can help us sort those out before we get too far.
00:03:58.719 --> 00:04:01.919
Online or in-person groups can be equally brilliant.
00:04:02.159 --> 00:04:04.400
Find one that suits you, or even both.
00:04:04.560 --> 00:04:06.639
I run a writers group on Zoom.
00:04:06.800 --> 00:04:08.879
It's called Writers for a Reason Unite.
00:04:09.039 --> 00:04:11.919
You can find more about it on the website, of course.
00:04:12.159 --> 00:04:17.519
Tip number 15, and I know you know this, read, read, read and keep reading.
00:04:17.680 --> 00:04:24.000
Every day if possible, even if it's only one chapter of a book or even one page if you can't manage a chapter.
00:04:24.240 --> 00:04:27.360
It's good for us to turn off all our screens before we go to bed.
00:04:27.519 --> 00:04:30.399
So that's an excellent time to put this one into practice.
00:04:30.639 --> 00:04:34.639
Tip number 16, use all the senses in your story.
00:04:34.800 --> 00:04:44.800
Don't just describe what the scene looks like, but add colour, scent, and odours, sounds and touch to, plus add a bit of atmosphere.
00:04:45.040 --> 00:04:46.639
Is it dark and creepy?
00:04:46.879 --> 00:04:48.560
Or dark and peaceful?
00:04:48.879 --> 00:04:51.439
Take your readers right there with you.
00:04:51.680 --> 00:04:53.040
Tip number 17.
00:04:53.279 --> 00:04:57.199
Check your grammar and spelling and make sure your manuscript is neat and tidy.
00:04:57.279 --> 00:04:58.480
I know it sounds obvious.
00:04:58.720 --> 00:05:02.560
Make sure your punctuation is perfect too before you pass it on.
00:05:02.800 --> 00:05:04.079
Tip number 18.
00:05:04.319 --> 00:05:10.560
Reading your story out loud will help you see when the flow of your sentences isn't quite right.
00:05:10.800 --> 00:05:13.199
It will help you with lots of other things too.
00:05:13.439 --> 00:05:14.480
Tip 19.
00:05:14.720 --> 00:05:18.480
Leave your phone in another room while you write so you don't get distracted.
00:05:18.720 --> 00:05:21.040
We all know what that's like, don't we?
00:05:21.279 --> 00:05:22.240
Number 20.
00:05:22.560 --> 00:05:25.920
Plan your story carefully before you start writing.
00:05:26.160 --> 00:05:30.480
The more planning you do, the easier and quicker you will write your book.
00:05:30.639 --> 00:05:35.360
Knowing what the end will be means you'll always be writing towards that finale.
00:05:35.680 --> 00:05:37.040
Tip number 21.
00:05:37.279 --> 00:05:39.120
Include animals in your stories.
00:05:39.279 --> 00:05:43.920
I know I've said this so many times, but they really can add lots of fun and kids love them.
00:05:44.079 --> 00:05:49.439
It doesn't matter if it's unicorns, bears, dogs, parrots, it's up to you.
00:05:49.600 --> 00:05:52.399
But they do definitely add a little something.
00:05:52.639 --> 00:05:53.680
Tip 22.
00:05:53.920 --> 00:05:55.759
Keep up the pace of your story.
00:05:55.920 --> 00:06:03.120
You will need slower moments and times when you need to pick up the pace a bit, but make sure your story never gets dull.
00:06:03.439 --> 00:06:04.560
Tip 23.
00:06:04.800 --> 00:06:09.680
Get good at social media so you'll have a platform ready for when your book is finished.
00:06:09.920 --> 00:06:11.040
Tip 24.
00:06:11.199 --> 00:06:14.319
Don't let imposter syndrome stop you from writing.
00:06:14.560 --> 00:06:22.720
If you feel the Lord has called you to write, better get on with it because someone is waiting for the story that only you can write.
00:06:22.959 --> 00:06:24.319
Tip number 25.
00:06:24.560 --> 00:06:26.879
Write for one precious child.
00:06:27.120 --> 00:06:30.800
A grandchild, niece, nephew, or the child next door.
00:06:30.959 --> 00:06:35.040
That way, you won't get overwhelmed about having to get a publishing contract.
00:06:35.199 --> 00:06:40.720
You can always get your story spiral-bound and give it to them, and if it blesses that one child, wouldn't it all be worth it?
00:06:40.879 --> 00:06:44.079
And of course it might lead to something bigger.
00:06:44.560 --> 00:06:49.360
So there you go, one nice neat list of 25 quick writing tips.
00:06:49.519 --> 00:06:54.000
If I get round to it, I'll add to it another time, or perhaps you can think of something that's helped you.
00:06:54.240 --> 00:06:56.560
Do send me any ideas that come to you.
00:06:56.720 --> 00:06:58.399
I always love to hear from you.
00:06:58.639 --> 00:07:03.199
If you'd like lots more free creative writing tips, hop on over to WriteforReason.com.
00:07:03.279 --> 00:07:09.839
You'll find lots more resources and encouraging to help you write excellent, relevant, fun novels and get them into your readers' hands.
00:07:10.079 --> 00:07:15.040
If you haven't yet done my free course, Gripping Beginnings, you can sign up and start immediately.
00:07:15.279 --> 00:07:20.879
This will help you grip your readers from the very first page of your story, which of course is essential.
00:07:21.040 --> 00:07:26.319
And don't forget I mentioned the Right for Reason Academy and the membership group, they're also on the website.
00:07:26.480 --> 00:07:27.839
I'd love you to join us.
00:07:28.000 --> 00:07:30.079
So my friends, don't put it off.
00:07:30.240 --> 00:07:32.800
Today is a gift to use wisely.
00:07:32.959 --> 00:07:38.800
Only you can write your book, and if you've been called to write, someone is waiting for it.
00:00:06.160 --> 00:00:09.279
Welcome to the Write for Reason podcast.
00:00:09.359 --> 00:00:10.720
My name is Janet Wilson.
00:00:10.800 --> 00:00:15.199
I'm a publisher of Christian fiction for kids and teens with Dernia Publishing.
00:00:15.439 --> 00:00:28.800
If you're a Christian and new to writing stories for kids and teens, stay tuned for encouragement, creative writing tips, and actionable strategies you can implement immediately to become a better writer and get your books out into the world.
00:00:29.039 --> 00:00:34.000
During the summer, for my email list, I sent five quick writing tips every Monday.
00:00:34.159 --> 00:00:39.439
It wasn't anything detailed, so a bit like some of the proverbs in the Bible perhaps.
00:00:39.600 --> 00:00:44.640
But I thought it would be really useful to put them into a quick podcast.
00:00:44.880 --> 00:00:50.960
So here we are with 25 very quick writing tips in a nice neat place for you.
00:00:51.119 --> 00:00:58.320
And I hope that at least one of these, two of these, maybe three or four, you will find useful and it will help you with your writing.
00:00:58.479 --> 00:00:59.520
So here we go.
00:00:59.759 --> 00:01:05.040
Number one, write every day if you can, even if it's only 10 to 15 minutes.
00:01:05.200 --> 00:01:10.239
The reason for this is that it will keep your story flowing and always top of mind.
00:01:10.560 --> 00:01:14.159
Number two, write rubbish if you need to to begin with.
00:01:14.400 --> 00:01:18.959
You can always improve something you've written, but you can't edit an empty document.
00:01:19.200 --> 00:01:24.560
Number three, write at the same time every day if you can, so it becomes a habit you won't miss.
00:01:24.799 --> 00:01:27.760
If you tie it to another habit, it helps to cement the action.
00:01:27.920 --> 00:01:32.000
For example, after making your breakfast coffee, you sit down to write.
00:01:32.159 --> 00:01:34.959
Tip four, write at other times too.
00:01:35.200 --> 00:01:40.959
Enjoy the flexibility and a bit of extra time whenever you can grab those minutes or hours.
00:01:41.200 --> 00:01:43.519
Sometimes you can really get into the flow then.
00:01:43.760 --> 00:01:44.799
Tip number five.
00:01:44.959 --> 00:01:48.640
Have your own writing space where you can write without distraction.
00:01:48.959 --> 00:01:54.719
It doesn't have to be a desk, make it your own space where you feel comfortable and at peace with your story.
00:01:54.959 --> 00:01:57.439
Apparently Mark Twain wrote in bed.
00:01:57.680 --> 00:01:58.719
Tip number six.
00:01:58.959 --> 00:02:03.760
Keep a journal to hand to write down anything you think of while away from your desk.
00:02:04.079 --> 00:02:10.319
Jot down ideas for dialogue, characters, setting, chapter headings, anything that comes to mind.
00:02:10.560 --> 00:02:13.599
That way you won't forget these great ideas.
00:02:13.919 --> 00:02:16.240
Tip number seven, be observant.
00:02:16.400 --> 00:02:30.960
Look out for tips from real life, snatches of conversation you hear on the bus, the way a child shrinks from a stranger, the joy as a dog runs up to its owner, the grinding of the brakes on the bus, all these things are useful for a writer.
00:02:31.039 --> 00:02:33.520
And if you write them when they're fresh, it will help.
00:02:33.759 --> 00:02:34.639
Tip number eight.
00:02:34.879 --> 00:02:36.240
Use strong words.
00:02:36.400 --> 00:02:38.080
Keep a thesserist to hand.
00:02:38.240 --> 00:02:40.800
Did your character walk into a room?
00:02:41.120 --> 00:02:46.719
Could they run, skip, march, sidle or creep instead?
00:02:46.960 --> 00:02:48.080
Tip number nine.
00:02:48.240 --> 00:02:50.800
Avoid adverbs most of the time.
00:02:50.960 --> 00:02:55.840
Find a show not tell way of bringing life into the action if you possibly can.
00:02:56.080 --> 00:02:56.960
Tip number ten.
00:02:57.439 --> 00:03:02.000
Don't have too many characters, especially similar ones, it can get confusing.
00:03:02.240 --> 00:03:06.719
Confused readers tend to put the book down and may not pick it back up again.
00:03:06.960 --> 00:03:08.159
Tip number 11.
00:03:08.400 --> 00:03:11.840
Free write your first draft before going back to edit.
00:03:12.000 --> 00:03:15.520
Make sure you get to the end of your story before going back to the beginning.
00:03:15.680 --> 00:03:23.360
You have no idea how much difference this will make to the flow of your story, the speed that you write it, and the way that you will be able to get it finished.
00:03:23.520 --> 00:03:27.439
Honestly, I have done this many times and it really does work.
00:03:27.680 --> 00:03:28.960
Tip number 12.
00:03:29.199 --> 00:03:32.560
Show, don't tell as much as you possibly can.
00:03:32.800 --> 00:03:39.759
Take your readers right there to the action so that they can see what's taking place, rather than you simply giving your readers the information.
00:03:40.000 --> 00:03:42.560
Tip number 13, do a writing course.
00:03:42.800 --> 00:03:47.280
As long as you pick a reputable one, you will learn so much more than you could possibly imagine.
00:03:47.439 --> 00:03:50.080
I'd love to see you in the Write for a Reason Academy.
00:03:50.319 --> 00:03:52.719
Tip number 14, join a writers' group.
00:03:53.039 --> 00:03:58.400
We all have blind spots in our writing, and other writers can help us sort those out before we get too far.
00:03:58.719 --> 00:04:01.919
Online or in-person groups can be equally brilliant.
00:04:02.159 --> 00:04:04.400
Find one that suits you, or even both.
00:04:04.560 --> 00:04:06.639
I run a writers group on Zoom.
00:04:06.800 --> 00:04:08.879
It's called Writers for a Reason Unite.
00:04:09.039 --> 00:04:11.919
You can find more about it on the website, of course.
00:04:12.159 --> 00:04:17.519
Tip number 15, and I know you know this, read, read, read and keep reading.
00:04:17.680 --> 00:04:24.000
Every day if possible, even if it's only one chapter of a book or even one page if you can't manage a chapter.
00:04:24.240 --> 00:04:27.360
It's good for us to turn off all our screens before we go to bed.
00:04:27.519 --> 00:04:30.399
So that's an excellent time to put this one into practice.
00:04:30.639 --> 00:04:34.639
Tip number 16, use all the senses in your story.
00:04:34.800 --> 00:04:44.800
Don't just describe what the scene looks like, but add colour, scent, and odours, sounds and touch to, plus add a bit of atmosphere.
00:04:45.040 --> 00:04:46.639
Is it dark and creepy?
00:04:46.879 --> 00:04:48.560
Or dark and peaceful?
00:04:48.879 --> 00:04:51.439
Take your readers right there with you.
00:04:51.680 --> 00:04:53.040
Tip number 17.
00:04:53.279 --> 00:04:57.199
Check your grammar and spelling and make sure your manuscript is neat and tidy.
00:04:57.279 --> 00:04:58.480
I know it sounds obvious.
00:04:58.720 --> 00:05:02.560
Make sure your punctuation is perfect too before you pass it on.
00:05:02.800 --> 00:05:04.079
Tip number 18.
00:05:04.319 --> 00:05:10.560
Reading your story out loud will help you see when the flow of your sentences isn't quite right.
00:05:10.800 --> 00:05:13.199
It will help you with lots of other things too.
00:05:13.439 --> 00:05:14.480
Tip 19.
00:05:14.720 --> 00:05:18.480
Leave your phone in another room while you write so you don't get distracted.
00:05:18.720 --> 00:05:21.040
We all know what that's like, don't we?
00:05:21.279 --> 00:05:22.240
Number 20.
00:05:22.560 --> 00:05:25.920
Plan your story carefully before you start writing.
00:05:26.160 --> 00:05:30.480
The more planning you do, the easier and quicker you will write your book.
00:05:30.639 --> 00:05:35.360
Knowing what the end will be means you'll always be writing towards that finale.
00:05:35.680 --> 00:05:37.040
Tip number 21.
00:05:37.279 --> 00:05:39.120
Include animals in your stories.
00:05:39.279 --> 00:05:43.920
I know I've said this so many times, but they really can add lots of fun and kids love them.
00:05:44.079 --> 00:05:49.439
It doesn't matter if it's unicorns, bears, dogs, parrots, it's up to you.
00:05:49.600 --> 00:05:52.399
But they do definitely add a little something.
00:05:52.639 --> 00:05:53.680
Tip 22.
00:05:53.920 --> 00:05:55.759
Keep up the pace of your story.
00:05:55.920 --> 00:06:03.120
You will need slower moments and times when you need to pick up the pace a bit, but make sure your story never gets dull.
00:06:03.439 --> 00:06:04.560
Tip 23.
00:06:04.800 --> 00:06:09.680
Get good at social media so you'll have a platform ready for when your book is finished.
00:06:09.920 --> 00:06:11.040
Tip 24.
00:06:11.199 --> 00:06:14.319
Don't let imposter syndrome stop you from writing.
00:06:14.560 --> 00:06:22.720
If you feel the Lord has called you to write, better get on with it because someone is waiting for the story that only you can write.
00:06:22.959 --> 00:06:24.319
Tip number 25.
00:06:24.560 --> 00:06:26.879
Write for one precious child.
00:06:27.120 --> 00:06:30.800
A grandchild, niece, nephew, or the child next door.
00:06:30.959 --> 00:06:35.040
That way, you won't get overwhelmed about having to get a publishing contract.
00:06:35.199 --> 00:06:40.720
You can always get your story spiral-bound and give it to them, and if it blesses that one child, wouldn't it all be worth it?
00:06:40.879 --> 00:06:44.079
And of course it might lead to something bigger.
00:06:44.560 --> 00:06:49.360
So there you go, one nice neat list of 25 quick writing tips.
00:06:49.519 --> 00:06:54.000
If I get round to it, I'll add to it another time, or perhaps you can think of something that's helped you.
00:06:54.240 --> 00:06:56.560
Do send me any ideas that come to you.
00:06:56.720 --> 00:06:58.399
I always love to hear from you.
00:06:58.639 --> 00:07:03.199
If you'd like lots more free creative writing tips, hop on over to WriteforReason.com.
00:07:03.279 --> 00:07:09.839
You'll find lots more resources and encouraging to help you write excellent, relevant, fun novels and get them into your readers' hands.
00:07:10.079 --> 00:07:15.040
If you haven't yet done my free course, Gripping Beginnings, you can sign up and start immediately.
00:07:15.279 --> 00:07:20.879
This will help you grip your readers from the very first page of your story, which of course is essential.
00:07:21.040 --> 00:07:26.319
And don't forget I mentioned the Right for Reason Academy and the membership group, they're also on the website.
00:07:26.480 --> 00:07:27.839
I'd love you to join us.
00:07:28.000 --> 00:07:30.079
So my friends, don't put it off.
00:07:30.240 --> 00:07:32.800
Today is a gift to use wisely.
00:07:32.959 --> 00:07:38.800
Only you can write your book, and if you've been called to write, someone is waiting for it.
