Announcing the Reference Books winners of the 17th Annual Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Awards

Whether you write fiction or nonfiction, for children or adults, history textbooks or science fiction space operas, you know there’s a difference between correct writing and good writing. By learning and practicing these creative writing techniques, you can elevate your writing to the next level.

by Stephenie Steele and Joe Stollenwerk

Showing & Telling author Laurie Alberts discusses writing, the publishing industry, writing groups, contests and more. 

The best ideas can start out running wild—but you’ll need to train them onto the page if you want to write that novel you have inside of you. Here’s how.

by N.M. Kelby

Nothing is more exciting than the promise of a story in your head, but in order to get it on the page you need to figure out exactly what you need to do to make it work. Here are 4 steps to help you build the framework of your story.

by N.M. Kelby

In this extended interview, discover how Daryl Pinksen, the winner of our 17th Annual Self-Published Book Awards, created a great independent offering—and how you can, too. Plus: Read an excerpt from his book, Marlowe’s Ghost.

by Zachary Petit

This is an excerpt from the book Marlowe's Ghost, winner of our 17th Annual Writer's Digest International Self-Published Book Awards.

In the March/April 2010 issue, entrepreneurial writer Chris Guillebeau shared his secrets for making your passion make money for you. The key is to find the convergence between your passion and what people want—and then deliver just that.

by Chris Guillebeau

Elizabeth Berg’s real career highlight came long before Oprah came calling (though that was nice, too). Here’s why she says writing is the best kind of creative free fall.

by Jessica Strawser

Explore how scenes create emotional connections with a reader and work to forward plot.