What I Wish I Knew

Posted by Rachel on September 18, 2015 in audience, characters, discovery, musings, writing, writing tips | ∞

I was brainstorming what to blog and thought putting together some writing resources might be helpful. Since I’m certain that’s been done before, the idea quickly morphed into more of a “what I wish I knew” when I was writing my first query-able novel. Hindsight is always 20/20, but maybe this post can help people learn what took me (and others) a lot longer to figure out. This post is definitely targeted towards writers seeking traditional publication, but I’m sure most points can be applied to all writers.

To start, here are some resources I’ve found helpful that I wish I had from day one.

Okay, this list details some of the things I wish I knew (as well as what some of what my CPs, betas, and writing friends wish they knew- shout out to all you lovely peeps for contributing!):

–Don’t write for the trends. The trends you see published are probably a year or two passed in the publishing world by the time you write them.

–Even if you’re pantsing the draft, definitely have an outline. Your structure and form will fall apart without a map to follow so at the very least pin-point major events– this video series is a great resource.

–Create a world building bible even if you’re writing contemporary. Keeping track of all the details in your world can be daunting, but having a solid list, dictionary, guidebook to look back on is invaluable.

–Read the genre you’re writing in before writing. There might be common themes or cliches you encounter that you can then consciously subvert or work out of your own story.

–Reading your genre will also help uncover comp titles to use in pitch contests or your query letter.

–There is no one way to write or one way to edit. Forget what you were taught in school or intensives about “the right way” and do what feels natural to you.

–Don’t compare yourself to other writers or their journey to your own. Everyone has a different path–we’re in this together, not competing against each other.

–If you and your CP/beta aren’t getting along, don’t continue the partnership. There are so many writers out there looking for readers, someone else is bound to be a better match. Maybe even your best friend.

–Don’t be afraid of conferences or workshops. While it might be expensive and scary, the networking is priceless and you’ll probably learn a whole lot (about writing, about other writers, about the industry), too.

–Try contests, they can be very helpful, but remember most writers are discovered from the slush pile.

–THE BOOK might not be this book. Keeping learning, keep writing and eventually you will get there.

–Embrace the writing community. Make friends, join groups, go to meet ups– do whatever it is you can to be involved and help yourself grow.

–Don’t send a query right after you’ve written it. Revise, edit, and have that sucker critiqued by as many eyes as you can get on it.

–When a CP or beta gives you feedback, listen to them. Even if you disagree, hear them out. You are too close to your writing to always see the problems and the things you might disagree with now could be the best edits you make later.

–Agents are people, too. They might seem like the rock stars of publishing, but they’re just like you and me. Don’t be afraid of them or idolize them– show respect and be kind like you would with anyone else.

–Take a break from writing. Once you’ve finished your draft, walk away. Work on a new project or take a break all together. It’s better to edit with fresh eyes.