What is Worldbuilding?
Every story we read will take place in a world and readers need to be immersed in it. Here are the elements of worldbuilding—no matter what genre you write.
May 14, 2024
Showing, Not Telling, Backstory
Backstory may be necessary to fill readers in on the history of a character. Victoria Sherrow shares how to include it in ways that show and don’t tell.
April 30, 2024
How to Show Your Characters’ Emotions
To show emotions, we need words and phrases that help readers feel what the characters feel. This post will teach you how to show your characters’ emotions.
April 16, 2024
Less Filtering = More “Show, Don’t Tell”
When writing fiction, we want to reduce the distance between reader and story. One good way “show, don’t tell” is to eliminate filter words.
April 2, 2024
Revision: Why Writers Need Objective Feedback
If you want to be published, objective feedback is essential for your revisions. Instructor Sue Ford shares different types of feedback to improve your writing.
March 19, 2024
Revision: The Importance of a Critique
We type “the end” and are so excited, but the truth is no draft is perfect. Here’s why getting a manuscript critique is crucial to getting your work published.
March 5, 2024
Up Close and Personal: Writing Inside Viewpoints
One of the first things a reader looks for in a story is the viewpoint. Here are the benefits and drawbacks of using different points of view in your story.
February 20, 2024
Word by Word: Make the Most of Your Writing Choices
Writing involves choices. Word by word we can harness the power and magic of words. Let’s make the most of our writing choices with today’s post.
February 6, 2024
3 Ways to Target Submissions
Writing stories and articles is the fun half of the job. The other half is submitting your work to good markets. Here are 3 ways to target submissions.
January 23, 2024
What Writers Need to Know About Time Management
The beginning of the year is a perfect time to evaluate time management for writers. Here are 5 tips to help you—and your writing—be successful this year.
January 9, 2024
How to Write a Contemporary Romance First Page
In the world of contemporary romance fiction, the first page sets the tone for the emotional journey that lies ahead. Here’s what you need to know.
December 26, 2023
Busting Myths About Writing & Publishing
There are a lot of preconceived notions about writing and publishing. Dive in as Jamie K. Schmidt busts 5 popular myths about writing and publishing.
December 11, 2023
5 More Strategies for Revising Your Work – Part 2
Today, we explore 5 more ways to revise your story or article with IFW Instructor Susan Ludwig. Try one or more of these strategies for a stronger final piece.
November 28, 2023
Strategies for Revising Your Work – Part 1
Today, we explore four ways to revise a piece of writing with IFW Instructor Susan Ludwig. Try a new way of revising and see your work in a whole new light!
November 14, 2023
What is Revision? Revision vs Proofreading
Revision and proofreading are two very different steps on the way to publication. Which one should you use and when? Read on for all the details!
November 1, 2023
Writing New Adult: Bridging the Gap Between YA and Adult Romance
New Adult romance bridges the gap between Young Adult and adult romance. Lynne Smith gives tips on writing New Adult. Come see if this genre is a fit for you!
September 19, 2023
Betwixt and Between: New Adult Romance
New Adult is a bridge between Young Adult and adult romance. How does it differ from YA? Here’s what you need to know to write in the emerging genre.
September 5, 2023
Take a Writing Course as Your Back-to-School Adventure
There’s no time like now to sign up for a writing course. Institute for Writers writing courses are particularly easy to jump into. Let’s take a look!
August 22, 2023
5 Ways to Start Fresh as a Writer During Back-to-School Season
Back-to-School season is the perfect time to reset and reevaluate your writing schedule and get a fresh start as a writer. Here are 5 ways to get started.
August 6, 2023
How to Recycle Your Nonfiction Writing Research
Writing research takes time and energy. Fortunately, writers can develop new projects from unused material or even recycle what was used. Let’s find out how!
July 25, 2023
