Writer Tips and Tricks

Every other week or so, I collect bits of helpful advice culled from the blogosphere about the process of writing, publishing and marketing. So, without further ado, here's the latest batch.

ON WRITING

From the Writer Beware blog (sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America) comes some thoughts on self-editing, or as E.B. White allegedly said, "All good writing is rewriting."

Crime fiction author and blogger Martin Edwards talks about something near and dear to my own heart, and I suspect, the hearts of writers everywhere, namely—time management.

Mary Jaksch posed the question "What helps YOU to be a better writer?" and got enough good responses she compiled a listing of 73 Ways to Become a Better Writer.

Editor Erin Healy says you should always keep one thought in mind:  Who is your reader?  She notes that a successful story is one that communicates author vision in such a way it satisfies the reader's desire.

How many times have you been told to get rid of the adverbs and most of the adjectives in your writing?  Here's one defense of modifiers.

Mystery: What is it and Why does it Matter?  Some nice thoughts from author Courtney Foley.

ON PUBLISHING

Lit agent Janet Reid often offers up some of the annoying (and deal-breaking) things she receives in queries from authors. One of her favorite pet peeves is "over-writing."

Need another reason to nail your pitch paragraph? Pub Rants has just the very thing.

A cautionary tale about the author background check from Publetariat. (Hint: potential agents and editors use Google, too.)

Chip MacGregor of the MacGregor Literary Agency gives advice on how to study the market and get to know the industry.

Agent Noah Lukeman tackles the issue of whether your agent should let you know which editors and/or publishers have read your work and also provide you with copies of any rejection letters.

ON MARKETING

If you're new to the book marketing business, here are 6 1/2 things to think about in planning your book launch.

Almost all writers hate self-promotion, but it's a necessary evil if you want to succeed as a published author. Bestselling author Bob Mayer helps you sort through the issues and understand why self-promotion is so important.