12 Ways to Write Better Sentences for Creative Writers Ellen Brock 2022-12-14 | 12 Tips for Writing Better Sentences as a Creative Writer: 1. Avoid confusingly complex sentences2. Set the Tone with word choices3. Avoid passive voice4. Remove Filtering 5. Set the pace with sentence length 6. Avoid body parts taking action7. Reduce "was -ing" construction 8. Keep the wording natural9. Cut unnecessary similes10. Use vocabulary level strategically 11. Avoid starting actions12. Cut out unnecessary wordsThe Hemmingway Editor: hemingwayapp.comHelp support the channel on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
The Character Arc meets Story Structure Ellen Brock 2024-03-21 | This video covers how the character arc is structured. Story Structure Series: youtube.com/playlist?list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO&si=b5swAcAqILdZsG4-How to Write the Character Arc (components of the arc): youtu.be/GG5cFar-Wio?si=kogNMOSu-iBOWwJrIf you want to help support the channel, my Patreon is: patreon.com/EllenBrock
How to Get a Literary Agent | Interview with Lucinda Halpern Ellen Brock 2024-01-29 | Literary agent Lucinda Halpern answers your questions on how to query an agent, how to find an agent, what agents look for in the first few pages, and much more. Preorder Get Signed: getsignedbook.com/bonusesLearn more at lucindaliterary.com or download Lucinda’s free author training: lucindaliterary.lpages.co/free-training Follow Lucinda Halpern on Instagram: instagram.com/lucindahalpernTwitter: http://twitter.com/lucindabluIf you want to help support my channel: Patreon.com/EllenBrock
How to Improve as a Fiction Writer in 2024! Ellen Brock 2024-01-11 | Helpful Links: Writing Process The Four Types of Novel Writers (playlist): youtube.com/playlist?list=PL30t62w5RC2uJyBlpfthGYWbqcR_7QoKC&si=1-ZdYUivSmi9B5XQ Strong Sentences 12 Ways to Write Better Sentences: youtu.be/N70D6xP0aQo?si=qZreNDI6loFbZ0UCCohesive Paragraphs5 Ways to Write Better Paragraphs: youtu.be/xP_vXBvEboA?si=WxZhyrQFUarwibqO 5 Ways to Write Better Descriptions: youtu.be/WbbEJ6ziCjo?si=EwOyCjcZYS2zneX4 5 MORE Ways to Write Better Descriptions: youtu.be/WbbEJ6ziCjo?si=EwOyCjcZYS2zneX4 Line Editing Demonstration 1: youtu.be/xk5nv0IvKfs?si=m6TAy_dy_uz4S38b Line Editing Demonstration 2: youtu.be/q5S2pg3zgNE?si=PxI-n-ORD4HWsptA The Character Arc How to Write the Character Arc: youtu.be/1JEBfmAJ1YI?si=SXxbc9BOM2Cg9smk Story Structure Story Structure (playlist): youtube.com/playlist?list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO&si=6jhzFPBbjILbjxDyScene StructureScene Structure (playlist): youtube.com/playlist?list=PL30t62w5RC2vl_JtqaqsjwlIt0_IXu9ax&si=ntETi0DLBQqDWzM7Support me on Patreon! patreon.com/EllenBrock
How to Write the Character Arc Ellen Brock 2023-11-10 | The Four Components of the Arc1. The Motivation: This is the character's deepest desire (commonly for: love, power, safety, belonging, etc.) 2. The Goal: This is a tangible external objective. This is the thing the character wants, the thing their motivation drives them to strive for. 3. The Belief: This is something the character believes about themselves, other people, or the world. This belief can be true or false, it can be positive or negative, depending on the type of arc.4. The Lesson: This is an alternative perspective that contradicts the belief. The character may or may not accept this lesson in the end, and the lesson may be positive or negative depending on the type of arc. The Four Types of Arcs 1. The Positive Arc: In this arc type, the belief the character starts with is negative and the lesson they're presented with is positive and they accept that lesson. The character grows and becomes a better person. The ending is positive. This is by far the most common type of arc.2. The Negative Arc: In this arc type, the belief the character starts with is positive and the lesson they're presented with is negative and they accept that lesson. The character become a worse person. The ending is negative. 3. The Flat Arc (light version): In this arc type, the belief the character starts with is positive, the lesson is negative, and they stick with their positive belief. The character stays a good person. The ending is positive. 4. The Flat Arc (dark version): In this arc type, the belief the character starts with is negative, the lesson is positive, and they stick with their negative belief. The character stays a bad or flawed person. The ending is negative. Help support the channel on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
Lets Edit Ep. #2: Invisible POV Character Epic Fantasy Novel Editing Demonstration Ellen Brock 2023-09-21 | Editor demonstration of novel editing. Let's Edit, Ep. #1: youtu.be/q5S2pg3zgNE?si=pgpDRABGLIDQdxBWSupport the writer Will RafalkoInstagram: instagram.com/will.rafalkoDiscord: FranklinBluth Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
Should You Hire a Freelance Novel Editor? Ellen Brock 2023-08-16 | 00:00 Intro02:06 Part 1: Should you hire a freelance editor? 05:18 Is a freelance editor worth the money? 18:26 Part 2: What type of editing is right for you? 19:11 Should you hire a developmental editor? 26:12 Should you hire a line editor? 33:54 Should you hire a copyeditor? 37:21 Part 3: When should you hire a freelance editor? 45:01 What should you do before hiring a freelance editor? 51:25 Part 4: What should you do if you can't afford a full freelance edit? 55:23 What should you do if you can't afford freelance editing at all? Book Recommendations to Teach Yourself Novel Writing & Editing: The 38 Most Common Fiction Writing Mistakes by Jack M. BickhamWriting the Breakout Novel by Donald MaassThe Anatomy of Story by John Truby Story Engineering by Larry Brooks Videos To Teach You Line Editing: Let's Edit! Ep. 1 (line editing demonstration): youtube.com/watch?v=q5S2pg3zgNE5 Ways to Write Better Descriptions: youtube.com/watch?v=kHnJdWNUfus5 (More) Ways to Write Better Descriptions: youtube.com/watch?v=WbbEJ6ziCjo&t=778s5 Ways to Write Better Paragraphs: youtube.com/watch?v=xP_vXBvEboA&t=1846s12 Ways to Write Better Sentences: youtube.com/watch?v=N70D6xP0aQo&t=808sVideos To Teach You Developmental Editing: How to Write the Status Quo in Your Novel: youtube.com/watch?v=o3sTkl7MUcg&t=2sHow to Write the First Quarter Debate: youtube.com/watch?v=HTe7julef5k&t=1674sHow to Write the Second Quarter: youtube.com/watch?v=RkfAouZXj2M&t=555sHow to Write the Third Quarter: youtube.com/watch?v=FWEC_VJ-xwI&t=1851sHow to Write Your Novel's Climax: youtube.com/watch?v=1Fkfx70_l_kHow to Fix a Bad Scene: youtube.com/watch?v=A74l8Qdj3n8How to Start Editing Your Novel: youtube.com/watch?v=WEFC5Oz_DcoSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
Lets Edit! Ep. #1: Fixing a Boring Scene YA Fantasy Ellen Brock 2023-07-06 | Let's edit a scene together! Several people have asked what I mean by "glue" holding the paragraph together. I forgot to mention that I have a video that goes over writing strong paragraphs as well as two videos on writing strong descriptions. Sorry about that! These videos give an in-depth explanation of most of the concepts I'm applying in this video. Writing stronger paragraphs: youtube.com/watch?v=xP_vXBvEboA&t=1846s Writing stronger descriptions part 1: youtube.com/watch?v=kHnJdWNUfus Writing stronger descriptions part 2: youtube.com/watch?v=WbbEJ6ziCjo&t=778sSupport our volunteer Cabrielle HoldenInstagram: @cabrielleholdenWebsite: www.cabrielleholden.comSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
5 MORE Ways to Write Better Descriptions in Your Novel Ellen Brock 2023-05-18 | If you missed the first video in this series, check it out here: youtube.com/watch?v=kHnJdWNUfus5 More Tips to Write Better Descriptions in Your Novel:1. Group Descriptions of the Same Thing Together2. Avoid Repeating Distinct Adjectives3. Use Descriptions to Express Characterization4. Choose Meaningful Adjectives5. Describe Things in Order of ImportanceSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
5 Ways to Write Better Descriptions for Creative Writers Ellen Brock 2023-04-12 | 5 Tips for Writing Better Descriptions for Creative Writers This is part one of a two part series on how to write better descriptions of characters, locations, physical sensations, etc. Please subscribe so you don't miss the next video! Help support the channel on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
5 Ways to Write Better Paragraphs (for creative writers) Ellen Brock 2023-02-15 | How to write better paragraphs for novelists and other creative writers. Hint: It has a lot to do with voice, perspective, POVHelp support the channel: patreon.com/EllenBrock
Why you cant stick with a single novel (and keep starting new ones) Ellen Brock 2022-10-19 | Sticking with a novel idea and finishing your story can be really difficult. Let's talk about how to avoid jumping to new ideas or projects. Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockWriter Types Series: youtube.com/watch?v=eryQEZImm6Y&list=PL30t62w5RC2uJyBlpfthGYWbqcR_7QoKC
How to Write Your Novels Climax | Fourth Quarter Story Structure Ellen Brock 2022-09-14 | How to structure your novel's fourth quarter & climax.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockWatch the previous story structure videos: youtube.com/watch?v=o3sTkl7MUcg&list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO
How to Structure the Third Quarter Ellen Brock 2022-07-20 | How to structure your novel's third quarter, including the midpoint, dark night of the soul, and second plot point. Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockWatch the previous story structure videos: youtube.com/watch?v=o3sTkl7MUcg&list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO&index=1&t=0s
How to Write Your Novels Second Quarter Ellen Brock 2022-04-08 | Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockWatch the first two story structure videos: youtube.com/watch?v=o3sTkl7MUcg&list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO
How to Write a Novel Without Plotting (Intuitive Pantser) Ellen Brock 2022-03-16 | Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockBrainstorming QuestionsWhat does this character want more than anything else?What would most motivate this character to take action?What would stop this character from taking action?What is the worst thing that could happen to this character?What is the best thing that could happen to this character? Who or what is stopping this character from getting what they want? What does this character need to learn in order to be happy? Love, Hate, Indifferent Editing Technique: youtube.com/watch?v=WEFC5Oz_DcoStructural Series: youtube.com/watch?v=o3sTkl7MUcg&list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO
What is the First Quarter Debate? | Story Structure Pt. 2 Ellen Brock 2022-02-24 | This is the second video in my advanced story structure series, which focuses on the sections in-between the major plot points to better explain how to construct a novel or screenplay. First Video: youtube.com/watch?v=o3sTkl7MUcg&t=860sSupport me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
Novel Writing Guide for the Methodological Plotter Ellen Brock 2022-02-08 | DescriptionTips and tricks for the methodological plotter.Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockThe Four Writing Typesyoutube.com/watch?v=eryQEZImm6Y&t=381sStory Structure LinksMy New Series on Structure: youtube.com/playlist?list=PL30t62w5RC2tbc7AMvq8nwQ2jD1dqqBhO27 Chapter Story Structure: livingwriter.com/blog/27-chapter-method-made-easyBlake Snyder's Book Save the Cat: amazon.com/Save-Last-Book-Screenwriting-Youll/dp/1932907009/ref=asc_df_1932907009?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=79852087642111&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583451663503089&psc=1Save the Cat Writes a Novel: amazon.com/Save-Cat-Writes-Novel-Writing/dp/0399579745/ref=pd_lpo_3?pd_rd_i=0399579745&psc=1Blake Snyder's Online Movie & Book Breakdowns: savethecat.com/beat-sheetsBlake Snyder's 10 Story Types: savethecat.com/get-started#1565320976960-801b8d68-8842Larry's Brook's Book: amazon.com/Story-Engineering-Larry-Brooks/dp/1582979987Story Structure Template (beat sheet) examples: jamigold.com/2012/02/how-to-revise-for-structure-part-twocreativindie.com/plot-outline CharacterizationBig Five Personality Traits: verywellmind.com/the-big-five-personality-dimensions-2795422Myers-Briggs Personality Types: 16personalities.com/free-personality-testScene Structureyoutube.com/watch?v=K9NfAOllKos&list=PL30t62w5RC2vl_JtqaqsjwlIt0_IXu9ax&index=2&t=55s
How to Write the Status Quo in Your Novel Ellen Brock 2022-01-20 | This is the first video in a new series on story structure and construction. This video covers the status quo and the disruption of the status quo (sometimes called the catalyst or inciting incident).Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
A Guide to Novel Writing for Intuitive Plotters Ellen Brock 2022-01-06 | This video is a novel writing guide with tips and tricks for the intuitive plotter.Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockFour Writer Types: youtube.com/watch?v=eryQEZImm6Y&t=381sOneNote: microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/onenote/digital-note-taking-appThis video may also be of help with plotting: youtube.com/watch?v=v-I9N5LsvPM
The Methodological Pantsers Guide to Novel Writing Ellen Brock 2021-12-08 | This video is a novel writing guide with tips and tricks for the methodological pantser. Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockFour Writer Types: youtube.com/watch?v=eryQEZImm6Y&t=381s27 Chapter Story Structure: livingwriter.com/blog/27-chapter-method-made-easyBlake Snyder's Book Save the Cat: amazon.com/Save-Last-Book-Screenwriting-Youll/dp/1932907009/ref=asc_df_1932907009?tag=bingshoppinga-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=79852087642111&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583451663503089&psc=1Save the Cat Writes a Novel: amazon.com/Save-Cat-Writes-Novel-Writing/dp/0399579745/ref=pd_lpo_3?pd_rd_i=0399579745&psc=1Blake Snyder's Online Movie & Book Breakdowns: savethecat.com/beat-sheetsBlake Snyder's 10 Story Types: savethecat.com/get-started#1565320976960-801b8d68-8842Larry's Brook's Book: amazon.com/Story-Engineering-Larry-Brooks/dp/1582979987My Story Structure Playlist on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=1OMDq_WKNuc&list=PL30t62w5RC2voj2y5buqhN1SRZ-297z57Story Structure Template (beat sheet) examples: jamigold.com/2012/02/how-to-revise-for-structure-part-twocreativindie.com/plot-outline Scene Structure Series: youtube.com/watch?v=K9NfAOllKos&list=PL30t62w5RC2vl_JtqaqsjwlIt0_IXu9axHow to Fix a Bad Scene: youtube.com/watch?v=A74l8Qdj3n8
How to Fix a Bad Scene | Novel Writing Ellen Brock 2021-11-23 | I created a flow chart to diagnose bad scenes. The chart will help you to identify the problems with your scenes and provide possible solutions. This is perfect for when you know something is wrong with a scene in your novel but you're not sure exactly what's going wrong or how to fix it.Download the Flow Chart Here: ellenbrockediting.com/?p=8485Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrockTimestamps 01:23 Does the scene move the plot forward? 02:37 Does the reader need to see the scene happen? 04:18 Is there a conflict?05:44 Is it obvious to the reader that the scene pushes the plot forward? 06:56 Does the character experience an emotional shift? 08:16 Is the scene still not working? 10:57 Does the scene contain vital information? 11:35 Do you like and want to keep the scene? 12:23 Does the part you like require an entire scene? 13:53 Does the information require an entire scene? 15:27 Is it possible to move the information to another scene? Story Structure Resources: [websites]: margielawson.com/using-story-structure-to-build-a-novel-quarter-by-quarterhelpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/secrets-of-story-structure-pt-1-whythefriendlyeditor.com/2013/07/18/story-structure-rowling-potter[Books:]Story Engineering by Larry Brooks: amazon.com/Story-Engineering-Larry-Brooks/dp/1582979987Save the Cat! Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody: amazon.com/Save-Cat-Writes-Novel-Writing/dp/0399579745/ref=pd_lpo_2?pd_rd_i=0399579745&psc=1Writer Types: The Four Types of Novel Writers
The Four Types of Novel Writers Ellen Brock 2020-01-31 | Knowing what type of writer you are can help you to find strategies that best utilize your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. SHOW NOTES & TIMESTAMPS02:20 Plotter vs. PantserPlotter: A writer who plans their story before writing the first draft. Pantser: A writer who "flies by the seat of their pants" when writing the first draft (doesn't plan). 06:20 Intuitive vs. Methodological Intuitive: A writer who bases their story and edits on their gut feelings and instincts. Methodological: A writer who bases their story and/or edits on techniques, methods, and theories. 11:23 The Basics of the Four Types 11:51 Intuitive Pantser - A writer who has better results when NOT plotting or planning the first draft. They are able to intuitively sense the flow and rhythm of a story as they write and edit. 13:47 Intuitive Plotter - A writer who needs to plan before the first draft but does so based on intuition or gut feeling rather than following a specific method or structural system. 15:38 Methodological Plotter - A writer who needs/utilizes both a strong grasp on methods or techniques as well as thorough planning before writing. 17:56 Methodological Pantser - A writer who needs a strong grasp of methods or techniques yet they tend to have a vision that grows and develops as they work so they also need the freedom of pantsing or a less rigid planning system.Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/EllenBrock
How to Start Editing Your Novel: A Technique for Gaining Perspective Ellen Brock 2019-12-06 | Developmental or big picture editing can be very challenging. In this video I go over a technique that works well for many writers and that can help you gain perspective and start to develop a plan for revisions. SHOW NOTES[00:43] Three main challenges for writers when it comes to big picture (developmental) editing: 1. Getting distracted by smaller elements or details.2. Getting overwhelmed with how much there is to do. 3. Losing perspective or not being able to see the big picture. [03:44] Editing Strategy: Make three columns (love, hate, indifferent) and categorize all of the major elements of your novel into these categories based on how you feel about them. [05:19] Major Elements to Include: • Major plot points (up to ten) • Major characters • Side characters (that are in at least two or three scenes) • Theme • Backstory • Character arc • Significant concepts • Significant objects [06:53] Add a "lost" column Identify the things you really wanted to include in your novel but that didn't make it into this draft for whatever reason. [08:07] What does this exercise tell you? 1. It identifies the things you love and want to keep.2. It tells you what you would need to change to love your novel. 3. It will show you areas where you can improve as a writer. 4. It will show you where you can make obvious cuts. 5. It will reveal placeholder elements that need to be replaced.6. It will show you where you lost your vision. [12:45] Identify the core of your novelWhy did you want to write this story? What matters to you most? What do you most want to convey? [13:48] Look for incompatible elementsGo through the lists you've created and search for things that are incompatible with your vision or that contradict the things you love and get rid of them. [18:00] Indicate "cut," "strengthen," and "replace" for each item in your "Hate" and "Indifferent" columnsGo through and figure out what you definitely want to cut, what needs to be strengthened, and what needs to be replaced. Use parentheses (or whatever method works for you) to indicate what type of change needs to be made or the reason you want to make that change (for example: Strengthen: because it's incompatible with my vision). [20:01] Ask yourself what would need to happen for you to move each item to the "love" categoryThis can help you to identify the underlying problems and can assist if you get stuck and aren't able to figure out how to improve an element of the novel. [22:36] Next StepsI recommend that from here, you use a scene list or outline to assist you in the editing process. This can save time and make your editing more efficient. Video on editing using a scene list: youtu.be/_190lk7nP0E*Stay tuned until the end for a rare sighting of Toby (my dog). Thanks so much for watching, liking, sharing, and for your support!
How to Emotionally Connect with a Character | Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2019-11-22 | Are you struggling to emotionally connect to a character? Or maybe you don't like your character or don't understand them? In this video, I go over the signs and problems associated with not connecting to a character, explain what's really causing this problem, and some solutions, tips, and tricks you can try.SHOW NOTESProblems caused by a lack of connection to a character: 1. Their voice isn't distinct. It always sounds different or never sounds truly authentic to the character. 2. The character doesn't have anything to do in scenes or gets "lost" in scenes/conversations. 3. The character is unemotional, melodramatic, or expresses emotions arbitrarily or inconsistently. 4. You don't enjoy writing them. A common reason for a lack of connection is under development in a few key areas of characterization: 1. Their motivation - The emotional driving force behind their goal. This may be the desire to shift from one "state" to another: from powerless to powerful, from lonely to loved, etc. 2. Their false belief - Something the character believes about themselves, other people, or the world that is harmful. For example, "the only way to be powerful is to put yourself above others." This is what changes to create the character arc (if an arc is present in the story). 3. Their key traits - Positive traits built from the motivation and negative traits built from the false belief. These are tangible/identifiable traits that impact their actions and interactions with others. In other words, the outward manifestations of their motivation and false belief. Solutions to try: 1. Write out the motivation, false belief, and key traits. Start with the information you know and then brainstorm or extrapolate what you don't know. 2. Write out two key emotional scenes - the scene of backstory that created their false belief and the scene within the novel that has the highest level of emotion associated with the false belief or motivation. 3. Look at photographs that emotionally resonate with you to help establish a connection to the character, then redo the previous two exercises. 4. Make the character more similar to you by giving them a false belief or motivation that you find easier to relate to.
What To Do When Youre Too Attached to a Character | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2019-11-15 | Loving a character (especially the protagonist) too much can cause issues with clarity in your novel due to a lack of distance between yourself and the character. In this video I go over the signs that you have a strong attachment to your character and writing tips and tricks that you can try right now to improve your novel and overcome this potential issue. SHOW NOTESHow can you tell if you are too close to a character: 1. You just know you love them and can't easily distance yourself. 2. Beta readers can't connect to, don't like, or don't understand your character.3. You feel like something is missing from scenes or emotions aren't hitting the way you want them to.4. You over justify their flaws by providing too much backstory or explanations for "bad" behaviors/actions. Solutions/activities to try:1. Ask beta readers specific but non-leading questions about their impressions of the character. 2. Make sure you're conveying the emotional beats of the scene (motivation behind goal, feeling about obstacle, feeling/reasoning behind their response to obstacle).3. Give the character a trait, flaw, motivation, or belief you don't relate to. 4. Fall in love with a different/new character to help create some distance. Writing advice videos that may provide additional help with this issue: Scene Structure Writing proactive scenes: youtube.com/watch?v=K9NfAOllKos&t=55sWriting reactive scenes: youtube.com/watch?v=KQgHdAaXLqQMy original scene structure series: youtube.com/watch?v=TMYfWpjEYk0&list=PL30t62w5RC2vl_JtqaqsjwlIt0_IXu9ax Characterization 7 reasons readers don't love your characters: youtube.com/watch?v=nTUXlvOzgfgHow to write a character flaw: youtube.com/watch?v=lrtvEYVmA9E&list=PL30t62w5RC2s4sqyD8NcIumtMWbW8_kO9&index=6Thank you so much for watching and for your support!
Screenwriter Subscription Box Unboxing & Review [Across the Page] Ellen Brock 2019-02-27 | I hope you enjoy the unboxing and review of the Across the Page writer's subscription box. Click here to subscribe to Across the Page: https://subscribe.acrossthepage.club/Use code "ELLENBROCK" to get 10% off! My editing website: ellenbrockediting.com My Twitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrock
How to Write a Query Letter - Part 2 Ellen Brock 2018-08-31 | In the last video we went over how to write the plot summary of your novel for your query letter. Today I'm going to go over comparison titles, your biography, and personalization. I recommend watching the previous video first: youtube.com/watch?v=uM65RsSRFko SHOW NOTESPersonalization: Include any personal connection you have to an agent, such as having met them at a convention. Alternatively, include a specific reason that you're querying them that goes beyond their submission guidelines to demonstrate you've truly done your research. Personalization is optional. Housekeeping (basic information): The title of your novel, the word count, and the genre are required and should be included at either the beginning or the end. In this section, you can optionally include comparisons to novels that have a similar target market, and you can optionally convey themes, subgenre, or the style of your novel. Don’t editorialize by adding judgments about the quality of your novel (for example, describing it as "riveting" or "fascinating" or "heartwarming"). The bio: The bio is optional but many agents prefer at least a sentence about you (such as where you live and your interests). Don't linger on unimportant details. Be specific about your writing credits (title, dates, etc.). If you have multiple credits, just list a couple of your most notable accomplishments and indicate that there are more ("My publications include" is an option for phrasing). Website: ellenbrockediting.com Twitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write a Query Letter (with examples of real successful queries) Ellen Brock 2018-08-29 | Query letters can be daunting! Today I'm going to break the query down into three sections to create an easy template/format you can use to write your own query. I'm also going to demonstrate how this template plays out in successful query letters. SHOW NOTESIt's easiest to think about the query in three sections. These sections should be roughly between 100 and 300 words in total. Section One: -The problem (what the character wants or doesn't want)-The hook (something compelling about the story)-The inciting incident (the disruption of the status quo) Section Two: -The action (what the character does in response to the inciting incident)-A turning point in the plot Section Three: -(Optional) Another turning point in the plot-The stakes (what the character will lose if they fail)-The action (what the character must do to succeed) Check out all of these queries in their entirety: http://ellenbrockediting.com/examples-of-successful-query-lettersWebsite: ellenbrockediting.com Twitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Plot Your Novel FAST | Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-27 | Today I'm going to walk you through my process for quickly plotting a novel. I have a few other videos about plotting, but in this video I wanted to explain how to reason your way to a plot outline based on what you already know about your idea. SHOW NOTESSteps for Plotting a Novel: • Summarize your basic idea for the novel and list out the information you already know you want to include in the plot. • Ask questions about what you don't know, especially questions that focus on why each element would be relevant to the plot and characters. • Create a synopsis (a summary of the plot) that answers the questions you've posed. • Make a list of all the scenes you know should be included in the plot based on your synopsis.• Go back into your outline to add scenes and flesh things out (over and over) until you have a full story. Website: ellenbrockediting.com Twitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Use Chapter Titles in Your Novel Ellen Brock 2018-08-24 | Chapter titles are totally optional, but can be useful in a few different situations. In this video I go over why and how you might use chapter titles.SHOW NOTESReasons to Use Chapter Titles: • They hook the reader with clues about what will happen next. • They create a sense of nostalgia or an old-fashioned or traditional feel to the novel. • They can indicate nonlinear order. You Can Use Chapter Titles to: • Raise mystery about what the chapter will contain. • Keep the reader turning pages (by presenting a title they can't resist). • Promise information the reader is already curious about. Website: ellenbrockediting.comTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write Chapter Openings | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-22 | Strong chapter openings can make it harder to put the book down. In this video, I go over chapter openings from published novels and different techniques you can use to open your chapters. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
Scribbler (writer subscription box) Unboxing & Review Ellen Brock 2018-08-21 | Scribbler is a subscription box for writers. It can be purchased here: www.goscribbler.com Unboxing starts at: 1:10Review starts at: 5:35Toby makes an appearance at: 5:26Bloopers: 10:23This is a bonus video I've been working on for a while. It is not replacing one of the Novel Boot Camp videos. :) Twitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write Chapter Endings | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-20 | There are many different ways you can end the chapters in your novel. In this video I go over several techniques that help to pull the reader through the story. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write Reactive Scenes | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-17 | Reactive scenes focus on an issue or conundrum and how the character decides to move forward. In this video I use examples from published novels to demonstrate the structure of reactive scenes. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write Proactive Scenes | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-15 | Strong proactive scenes are an important element of an engaging novel. This video is mostly about demonstrating how proactive scenes play out in published novels. For more information about the details of how to write proactive scenes, check out my previous video series: youtube.com/watch?v=TMYfWpjEYk0&list=PL30t62w5RC2vl_JtqaqsjwlIt0_IXu9axFree Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Use Foreshadowing in Your Novel Ellen Brock 2018-08-13 | Foreshadowing can be a great way to pull the reader through potentially boring scenes with the promise of something exciting on the horizon. In this video I go over published novels and how they use foreshadowing to keep the reader engaged. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Describe Characters | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-10 | Character descriptions can often feel boring or awkwardly inserted into the story. But describing both physical traits and personality traits can be done in a way that fits seamlessly into the story. In this video I use published novels to demonstrate how to make your character descriptions engaging. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How Backstory Can Improve Your Novel | Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-08 | Writers are often advised to use as little backstory as possible, but sometimes nonessential backstory can actually enhance a scene. Backstory can convey the novel’s themes, clarify the character’s feelings, or give a better sense of the character’s current actions.Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write Flashbacks | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-06 | Flashbacks can be an engaging way to convey backstory, but flashbacks must be both important to the story and entertaining. I discuss flashbacks in published novels, why they work, and how you can apply the technique to your own fiction.Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/08/06/novel-boot-camp-first-page-critique-workshopTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write a Prologue | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-03 | Prologues are easy to get very wrong. Let's go over some published novels and talk about why the prologue works and how you can write a strong prologue for your own novel. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/07/13/novel-boot-camp-2018-update-scheduleTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Use Multiple Opening Hooks | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-08-01 | Hooks should either engage the reader with something unique or raise an intriguing question. I use published novels to demonstrate how authors use multiple hooks to suck the reader into the story.Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/07/13/novel-boot-camp-2018-update-scheduleTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
How to Write the Inciting Incident | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2018-07-30 | Two different approaches to the inciting incident and how to use both approaches effectively. Examples from published novels. Free Workshop (scroll towards bottom of post): ellenbrockediting.com/2018/07/13/novel-boot-camp-2018-update-scheduleTwitter: twitter.com/EllenMBrockContact me: ellenbrockediting.com/contactTip Jar: paypal.me/EllenBrock
5 Tips for Editing Your Novels Characters Ellen Brock 2017-08-30 | Characters are so important to a strong novel, but editing characters can be tricky. In this video I go over five things to look for to strengthen your characters while editing your novel, including character arcs and personality traits.
How to Edit a Novel Using an Outline Ellen Brock 2017-08-29 | I recommend you watch my previous video on editing first: youtube.com/watch?v=6xS8LykRUj0Working through each scene of your novel (I recommend using an outline to do this) is a great early step in the editing process. It can help you to grasp the necessary large-scale changes and it can help pinpoint where you need to brainstorm new ideas. As always, start with the big picture and then work your way to smaller details.
How to Edit Your Novel | Advice from an Editor Ellen Brock 2017-08-28 | Editing a novel is a daunting process. This is the first of three videos on editing and revision. In this video I go over the two tools I recommend to assist in your editing: the outline and the revision plan. TWITTER: twitter.com/EllenMBrock
How & Why to Skip Time in Your Novel Ellen Brock 2017-08-24 | Skipping time is often necessary when writing a novel. You might need to convey different stages of your characters' lives or you might want to jump over the time your character spends in a boring situation. In this video I go over how and why you might need to make minor and major jumps in time. If you have any questions about skipping time, let me know in the comments. TWITTER: twitter.com/EllenMBrock
How to Make Thinking & Talking Scenes Interesting | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2017-08-23 | Scenes that involve the character thinking or talking (reactive scenes) have a tendency to become boring or meandering. In this video I go over how to structure your reactive scenes to keep them engaging.
How to Structure the Middle of a Novel | Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2017-08-22 | When we talk about the middle of a novel, it often seems like we're talking about one continuous lump of time, but the middle of the novel actually has two distinct parts. Understanding and utilizing the differences between these two parts can improve the pacing and help demonstrate your character's growth. QUERY WORKSHOP: ellenbrockediting.com/2017/08/21/query-letter-critique-workshop-novel-boot-campTWITTER: twitter.com/EllenMBrock
How to Fix a Saggy Middle | Novel Writing Advice Ellen Brock 2017-08-21 | Novels have a tendency to sag in the middle. After the setup and before the climax, writers often feel as if they're simply filling up space with incidental conflicts or meandering characters. This is the first of two videos about strengthening the middle of the novel with stronger structure. QUERY WORKSHOP: ellenbrockediting.com/2017/08/21/query-letter-critique-workshop-novel-boot-campTWITTER: twitter.com/EllenMBrock
