Though this step can be done at the end of the uploading process, you might as well get it out of the way when you first create your account at Kindle Direct Publishing. In fact, when you set up your account, sometimes KindleDP sends you directly to the page where you would enter this information.Continue reading “Entering Author, Payment, and Tax Information at Kindle Direct Publishing”
Category Archives: Craft of Writing
Sharpen Manuscript by Using Stronger Verbs
Your manuscript boasts interesting characters, an action-packed plot, and descriptions of fascinating places, and yet the story still feels a bit flat and vanilla. The problem likely is your verb selection. Verbs are the words in your sentences that that show an action (such as “ran”), occurrence (“develop”), or state of being (“exists”). Every sentenceContinue reading “Sharpen Manuscript by Using Stronger Verbs”
Give Depth to Story by Using an Allusion
One way to add depth to your story is to use an allusion. An allusion is the reference to a character, setting or object from another writing in your own. The reference usually is not overtly stated but layered into the story. One good example of an allusion is the opening line of J.D. Salinger’sContinue reading “Give Depth to Story by Using an Allusion”
Add ‘Big Scenes’ to Give Story Some Oomph
Does your story’s plot feel flat, as if there’s not enough build-up to the final, fateful act? The story probably lacks big scenes. A big scene occurs when the story’s drama – which occurs because it is central to the theme – is powerful. Because of this, a big scene is more than just flashContinue reading “Add ‘Big Scenes’ to Give Story Some Oomph”
How to Construct a Scene in a Story
All stories are constructed of smaller parts, known as scenes, in which the main character attempts to resolve a primary, central problem. This overarching problem is what set the story in motion, and the main character’s resolution of it essentially marks the tale’s end. In each scene, the main character must address a different aspectContinue reading “How to Construct a Scene in a Story”
Identify Elements of Good Diction
The most interesting character facing a significant moral decision in a fast-paced plot and exotic setting will appear bland if the words used are wrong. The vocabulary choices and ways they are arranged to create a sense of style is known as diction. Consider the diction in this passage: At first, they thought it wasContinue reading “Identify Elements of Good Diction”
Make Use of Local Dexterity
One of the kindest things writers can do for their readers is employ “local dexterity.” This occurs when images, sentences, paragraphs and scenes are pleasurable to read because of their vividness. To achieve the descriptions, imagery and symbolism in your story must work in concert with all of the other techniques discussed so far inContinue reading “Make Use of Local Dexterity”
Develop a Sense of Voice
What is “The Craft of Writing”?
“Writing is easy. All you do is cross out all the wrong words.” – Mark Twain You’ve written an action-packed plot full of great twists. It’s got fascinating characters who grow and develop. You’ve maintained a consistent point of view, provided incredible descriptions of the setting, and even offered a profound message. Yet, every timeContinue reading “What is “The Craft of Writing”?”
Show Don’t Tell Characters’ Emotional States
One area of exposition that novice writers often overlook is emotional states during character descriptions. Describing a character’s gestures and body movements allows the reader to infer that emotional state while adding a level of detail to the text that helps the reader better imagine the scene and become more engaged in the story. So ratherContinue reading “Show Don’t Tell Characters’ Emotional States”