May/June2013 Issue
May/June Issue
Writer's Digest Magazine
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Website of the Week
Completed Multiple Manuscripts
Finishing your work isn’t the problem. You can write all day long when a story moves you. What you need is help taking the next step – getting your work published and into the hands of readers. You’ll learn how to do that and more here.
Your Essential Synopsis Checklist
Here are the essential specs for a successful synopsis. Bookmark this page and always cross-reference before sending out any synopsis.
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10 Synopsis Dos and Don’ts
Here are 10 keys to creating a successful synopsis. Read more
Your Guide To An Effective Novel Synopsis
Writers often find that the synopsis is the most difficult component of their novel submission package. Here we break it down for you so you can spend less time stressing and more time writing.
by Chuck Sambuchino and the Editors of Writer’s Digest Books
10 Query Letter No-Nos
Here are 10 common query letter mistakes that could get your idea rejected.
by Ann Rittenberg
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Basics of a Solid 3-Paragraph Query
Here are the tools you need to write a query letter that sets you apart from the pack.
by Ann Rittenberg
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Finish Your Novel in 4 Simple Steps
You need stamina to transform that out-of-shape first draft into a story with staying power. Use these 4 revision strategies to make your novel go the distance.
By Lin Enger
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Publishing Contracts 101 (Protect Your Work)
Make sure your agreement protects you—and your book. Here are 6 key terms/areas you need to address before signing on the dotted line.
by Paul S. Levine
Publishing 101: What You Need to Know
Here’s your step-by-step guide to the publishing process–how it works, why you need to know and how you can play an influential role in your book’s success.
by Jerry D. Simmons
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The 7 Biggest Myths of Publishing (Know the Truth)
A veteran author tells you, writer to writer, what getting published is really like—and confronts the seven biggest myths.
by Elizabeth Sims
5 Quick Tips for Writer/Agent Negotiations
Just because you’re excited someone wants to represent you doesn’t mean you should let them take advantage of you. Beware of these red flags when negotiating contracts with agents.
by Howard G. Zaharoff
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Query Clinic: Example of a Great Query Letter
Looking to switch agents? Here’s one author who succeeded with a gracefully written letter. Plus: her new agent’s insights on what made it work.
by Lori Perkins
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How to Build a Marketing Platform
Here are 10 simple steps that will take your visibility from zero to standout in a short time, while also giving you ample opportunities to flex your expertise, carve out your niche topic and connect with your audience.
by Christina Katz
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A Writer’s Guide to Social Networking
Find out how hopping on the social networking bandwagon can actually help you stand out to agents, editors and potential readers.
by the Writer’s Digest staff
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The Truth About Self-Publishing
It’s time to get real. Here is Writer’s Digest‘s take on self-publishing as we know it.
by Jane Friedman, Writer’s Digest Editorial Director and Publisher
The Reality of Self-Publishing: An Agent’s Perspective
Today, writers need to weigh their options carefully—and know what they’re up against.
by Andrea Hurst
What to Avoid When Marketing Your Writing
There really is such a thing as bad publicity. Here’s how to know just how far too far really is.
by M.J. Rose Read more
Directory of Self-Publishing Companies
Jump-start your search for a self-publishing company with our exclusive online directory. Explore your options the easy way, with company contact info, URLs, package details and rates. Read more
Does Free Pay?
Chris Anderson thinks you should consider giving your book away. Here’s why.
by Jordan E. Rosenfeld Read more
Why All Authors Need a Platform
Before you are in a position to land a book deal, you need to construct a platform that will build your future book’s readership, project your professionalism, and attract the interest of editors and agents. Read more
The Anatomy of a Writer’s Website
Whether you build it yourself or hire a designer, your website can do more than bring you into the 21st century—it can be an invaluable part of your marketing arsenal.
by Linda Formichelli Read more
A Killer Query
Composing a good query letter is vital to getting an agent hooked on a self-published book. Read more
28 Agents Who Want Your Work
Looking for an agent? Here are 28 reps willing to work with new writers and give your manuscript a fair shake. (Expanded Edition)
By Chuck Sambuchino Read more
10 Tips for Querying an Agent
Before you dive in, check out these essential tips on submitting your work to an agent.
by Chuck Sambuchino Read more
Does Your Screenplay Need a Treatment or a Synopsis?
A treatment or a synopsis can be an indispensable tool, both for writing and marketing a screenplay. In this article, we’ll look at the relationship between the treatment, synopsis, summary, logline, scene cards and coverage. A synopsis can be a story guide for writing your screenplay, or be written afterwards as part of your film’s press kit. So, how do you write a good synopsis? First you have to know the basics.
by Robin Rowe Read more
