May/June2013 Issue
May/June Issue
Writer's Digest Magazine
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Author Archives: James Scott Bell
7 Things That Will Doom Your Novel (& How to Avoid Them)
You can doom your debut from the start with these 7 (tongue-in-cheek) strategies for flailing, and failing—or, you can do just the opposite. Read more
Oh, You Can’t Learn to Write Fiction? Really?
Let author (and guest poster) James Scott Bell explain why learning the how-tos of writing fiction is not only important, but essential to getting published. Read more
The Geyser 5-Step Approach to Revision
Revising is a natural balance of creative eruptions and quiet analysis. Use this 5-step method to harness your story’s power and channel its flow to create a finished piece that will make a splash. Read more
The 7 Tools of Dialogue
My neighbor John loves to work on his hot rod. He’s an automotive whiz and tells me he can hear when something is not quite right with the engine. He doesn’t hesitate … Read more
5 Easy Tips to Strengthen Your Scenes
Here are some simple techniques for revising scenes so your edifice will stand the test of time.
by James Scott Bell
What is Plot, Anyway?
Read chapter 1, "What is Plot, Anyway?" of Write Great Fiction: Plot & Structure. Read more
Write Great Fiction: Plot & Structure
Techniques and Exercises for Crafting a Plot that Grips Readers from Start to Finish Read more
Raising the Stakes
To get your novels to that next level of stakes, train yourself to think of even deeper tribulations for your lead. Read more
Deepen Your Plot
Increase the staying power of your fiction by focusing on these four elements. Read more
Find the Passion
Emotional power is one of the most important components of a great story—and one of the most difficult to conjure. These five steps will help you to summon it, and make it work, every time. Read more
Jump Off the Page
These three characteristics are essential to bringing your protagonist to life. Read more
Grit, Wit and “It”
Work one or all three of these important traits into your lead character and create a hero worthy of remembrance. Read more
The Big Grab
Capture your readers’ interest at the very first paragraph. Read more
10 Disciplines for Fiction Writers
Good writing takes practice, and practice makes perfect! Use this disciplined approach to write your very best. Read more
