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How to start a scene: 5 ways to reel readers in (+ Examples)

If you know where your scene is headed but can’t figure out how it should start, you’re not alone.

The first few lines of a scene set the tone and establish important context — a big task for a short bit of text. This is your chance to get readers on the hook for the rest of your scene or chapter, so it’s critical to get it right. Luckily, we’ve assembled a list of the 5 best tips that great writers use to hook their readers from the second the curtain goes up.

How to Write a YA Novel: Tips to Engage Teens

A relatable teenage protagonist, coming-of-age themes and a hopeful ending — learn what makes a successful YA novel.

What is Prewriting? With 5 Prewriting Strategies to Try

Learn how to develop your story ideas with these prewriting strategies and tips.

How to Describe Characters + 16 Character Description Examples

In this article, we'll look at essential character description techniques as well as some illustrative examples from literature, TV, and movies to give you some inspiration for how to write multi-dimensional characters yourself.

How to Start a Chapter: 7 Ways to Hook Your Reader

It’s not just chapter one that needs to draw your reader in. Here are 7 ways to hook your reader at the start of any chapter.

5 Unconventional Ways to Find Writing Motivation

No matter whether you’ve just started your writing journey or have been crafting stories for years, motivation can be unpredictable. Here are five non-traditional tips to help you keep on writing if popular strategies just aren't working for you.

How to Rewrite: 7 Tips for Stronger Revisions

Forget the myth that great writers produce their best work in strokes of unedited genius — the real art of writing lies in rewriting. Here’s how to get the most out of your own revisions.

5 Tips to Choose Themes for Stories (+ Exercises)

In this post, we’ll break down different ways you can figure out the perfect theme for your story, making it both engaging and memorable!

The 6 Parts of a Story: A Complete Guide

Learn about the 6 key elements that work together to engage readers and create an immersive experience.

How to Write a Sequel That Readers Will Love

Writing a sequel may delight fans of your standalone book — it's an opportunity to build on story arcs, characters, and the world you've already created. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to write a fan-favorite follow-up.

Manuscript Evaluation: What Is It? And Where to Get One

A manuscript evaluation is a type of edit that delivers big picture feedback on your novel’s strengths and weaknesses — helping you refine your work before you take the next step forward in the publishing process.

How to Write a Main Character: Tips for the Perfect Protagonist

Is your protagonist in danger of becoming a side character in their own story? The best main characters are the ones that are captivating and relatable — after all, if you want your readers to spend over three-hundred pages with your protagonist, they need to be compelling. This post will walk you through four handy tips to take your main character from two-dimensional to a fully-fledged protagonist worth reading.