Don’t Be Afraid to Cut
In a recent blog post, Tiffany Yates Martin examines how writers can find the courage to cut their work. "It’s terrifying to make big,...
The End of the End
In another of their final podcasts of 2024, the Writing Excuses hosts continue their discussion about how to integrate the lessons learned over the...
Focus on Your Hero’s Special Skills
In a post on Writers Helping Writers, Lucy Hay says giving your protagonist a special talent or skill can help you set her apart...
Less is More With Backstory
In a post on Writer Unboxed, Barbara Linn Probst offers advice on using backstory, the less the better. "When we meet someone for the...
Is Your Hero’s Morality Fixed?
In a post on Writer Unboxed, Heather Webb says that which holidays your character celebrates - and how - can reveal a lot about...
Complex Plot Structures
In the final episodes of the 2024 season, the Writing Excuses hosts continue their discussion about integrating the advice from previous episodes into your...
Lessons from Birdman
In a post on the Stage 32 blog, Ashraf Nahlous shares what writers can learn from studying the award-winning film Birdman or (The Unexpected...
Actions Create Waves
In a post on Writers Helping Writers, Lisa Poisso says that showing the consequences of your characters' actions can help weave your plot and...
Finding the Trouble Spots Around Your Crutch Words
In a new post, Janice Hardy suggests some simple edits that can strengthen your writing. Hardy suggests looking for weak or filter words in...
The Romance in Every Story
As they look back on their year of podcasts, the Writing Excuses hosts talk about using elements of romance in your story, even if you...
