I realize this is going to sound a bit crazy, but the next time you find yourself stumped in your writing, grab the nearest dictionary, open it to a random page, pick a random word, and work it into your writing. (Yes, this has worked amazingly well for some of my students, especially lately.)
You’ll more than likely be left with something you need to edit out of your writing, but at least you’re writing, and potentially learning a new word in the process.

Posted by Rebecca as Writing Prompts at 7:57 AM EST

No Comments »

One of my goals on my secret to-do list is to take an improv class, or at the very least, sit and watch one rehearse. I always thought it would be a great way to work on improving my writing because it would hopefully get me into the mindset of reacting in the moment and riffing on something.
It turns out that another writer is doing the improv scene and has found something useful for writers- a game called, “Yes, and…” Actually, she’s found a handful of improv techniques that can help writers, but I really liked the game. She suggested it as a reminder of accepting what’s thrown at you and building from there, but I think as a writing prompt on its own, it could be fairly useful. You write out something, get stuck, and then say “Yes, and…” instead of “What now?”

I think this could be a great way to work through difficult scenes and writer’s block. Just remember it’s only a draft and you can change things later when you’re editing.

Posted by Rebecca as Writing Prompts at 8:39 AM EST

No Comments »

I thought John Hewitt’s advice on revising the first draft of a novel came at the perfect time- right as thousands of people were finishing up National Novel Writing Month.

I have my own way of navigating the revising and editing processes, but these tips might be perfect for you if you’re just looking at your first or second manuscript, and asking yourself what to do next.

Posted by Rebecca as Resources at 7:45 AM EST

No Comments »