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May/June 2012 Issue
May/June Issue
Writer's Digest Magazine
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Website of the Week
Writing Website of the Week
Published author Roz Morris' website covers a lot of topics about writing--some serious, some for fun. Either way, it's a site that's worth a few minutes of any writer's week. (I recommend following her on Twitter too.Nail Your Novel 
*Not affiliated with our 101 Best Writing Websites feature.
Questions and Quandaries
Brian Klems’ Questions & Quandaries Blog
Online editor Brian A. Klems has been writing for Writer’s Digest since 2003. He covers the most pressing grammatical, ethical, business and writing-related questions—and often does it with a bit of humor.
Since vs. Because
Are “since” and “because” interchangeable or is there a difference between them? This quick explanation will help you put this hot-button issue to rest once and for all. Read more
What is a Poetry Chapbook?
Cindy N. asks writing expert Brian A. Klems “What is a poetry chapbook, and how is it different from a regular book?” Here he gives a detailed explanation. Read more
Which Sample Chapters Should You Send to Agents?
When agents ask for sample chapters, which chapters should you include? If your strongest chapters fall in the middle, is it OK if I send those? The answer is different for fiction and nonfiction. Read more
Into vs. In To
Using “into” and “in to” interchangeably is a very common grammar faux pas—heck, my sister commits this grandiose error in e-mails at least twice a day and, despite my attempts to sick the grammar police on her, she continues to write recklessly. But if you understand their individual definitions, it’s easy to pick the right word to convey your true meaning and avoid the grammar police altogether. Read more
Is a Freelancing Career Feasible?
Q: I want to quit my day job and freelance full time, but I’m nervous that I won’t be able to make enough money to pay my bills. Can I really make … Read more
How Long Should Novel Chapters Be?
When dividing a manuscript into chapters, how long should each chapter be? Are there any requirements on length? Find out here. Read more
How Do First North American Serial Rights Work?
What are First North American Serial Rights, how do they work and what does it mean for you when trying to get your writing published? Find out here. Read more
Should You Use a Non-AAR Literary Agent (& What Does That Mean)?
There are plenty of things writers should worry about—writer’s block, plagiarism, memoirs by the cast of “Jersey Shore”—but an agent who isn’t a member of the Association of Authors’ Representatives shouldn’t be high on the list. Here’s why. Read more
How Many Sample Chapters Are Necessary?
When submitting your work to an agent for consideration, how many sample chapters should you include in your proposal? Writer’s Digest online editor Brian A. Klems explains. Read more
Is it E-mail or Email?
Everywhere I turn I see “email” (or is it “e-mail”?) punctuated differently. Can you tell me which is correct? —Kate T. WD online guru Brian A. Klems says that punctuating “e-mail” with or without a hyphen is … Read more
