Can't get a clear answer on how many scenes should be in a chapter? Here's how to calculate the answer for your book.

Looking for great writing exercises for fiction writers? We've got you covered with prompts to inspire story, character, and more.

Want to learn the secret of how to get rid of writer's block? You've got to get to the root of the problem. We can help with multiple angles to clear the clog and get you writing again.

Not sure how to describe clothing writing? It's easier (and more fun) than you might think. Here's everything you need to know.

Want to learn how to write exposition that's not so explainy? Divulge compelling backstory using these tried-and-true tips.

Need original character questions to inspire your work in progress? Dig deep with these one-of-a-kind character interview questions.

Why does character motivation matter? Find out why a thrilling plot is not enough and how to design motivation that resonates with readers.

Here are sixty-five character development questions, plus tips on how and when to interview your characters. Get inspired and get unstuck!

Need character ideas for your next story? Find a ton of original ideas and brainstorming questions right here!

The Seducer/Seductress archetype can help you craft unforgettable villains and surprisingly sympathetic anti-heroes. Learn how.

The Orphan archetype makes for both inspiring heroes and unsettlingly sympathetic villains. Learn how to use this archetype in your story.

The caregiver archetype is more than a saint. Learn how to craft a fascinating, flawed, and deep-souled caregiver for your story.

Get to know the Innocent archetype, from Buddy the Elf to Andy Dwyer. Learn how to write this lovable (and sometimes chaotic) character.

What is the Jester archetype? Find out what you need to know to give your funniest character true purpose and depth.

What is the hero archetype? From epic heroes to anti-heroes, here's everything you need to know about crafting a compelling hero.

What is three-act structure? Learn why this story structure is so effective and whether it can help you plot your novel.

The Hero's Journey is a classic story structure. Learn why it's so popular among writers and how to apply it to your own storytelling.

Learn about Dan Harmon's Story Circle—what it is, how it can help you plot your novel, and whether it's right for you.

Learn how to write a children's book with this ultimate guide and template for designing a story that resonates with young readers.

Learn how to write a book synopsis that gets the attention of agents and publishers. It's easier than you think.

Learn how to write a book in this ultimate guide. Plus find editing tips, map out a publishing journey, & download a free outlining template.

Unsure of how to start writing? This easy guide and checklist will help you turn your writing dreams into a reality.

Scene and sequel create the current that carries your reader through the story. Here’s how to use these tools to craft a page-turner.

The answer to how to write a sci-fi novel is not as an intimidating as you might think. Here's everything you need to know to delve into the world of science fiction.

Who reigns supreme in the Dabble vs. NovelPad debate? Tough call. Both of these programs boast brilliant features that make the writing life way easier. Here's everything you need to know to figure out which one is better for you.

If you know how to convey emotions in writing, you know how to draw your reader in, hold them captive, and make them remember you forever. Here's how you can inspire all the thrills, chills, swoons, and more.

What is middle grade fiction? You mean, other than being the single greatest source of childhood joy? Here's everything you need to know about the books that inspire a lifelong love of reading.

Desperate to know how to write with a full-time job? Look no further. This guide has all the tips you need for finding time, staying on track, and avoiding burnout. Get ready to crush your writing goals!

Trying to decide where you stand on the subject of Dabble vs. Plottr? It’s not an easy choice. At least, not at first glance. But stick with us. We'll walk you through the pros and cons of each so you can decide which one is your perfect plotting tool.

Learn how to write a mystery that chills, thrills, and gets your readers begging for a series.

Wondering how to find your writing style... or why you'd even need to? Here's everything you need to know to discover, define, and rock your one-of-a-kind voice.

Character fears drive conflicts, motivate character behaviors, connect with readers, and make a character arc feel more victorious and satisfying. Here's how to harness the power of fear to write a captivating story.

When you’re finding a character’s voice, you’re basically Dr. Frankenstein trying to source the electricity that will bring the monster to life. Here's how to turn a pile of character traits into a living, breathing being.

Not sure how to write a theme? Struggling to even think of a theme? Check out this guide to building a story that means something.

All book launch ideas have one goal: to connect you with readers who will love your book. Here are some of the best methods for reaching the right people in the right way at the right time.

How do you create a fantasy world? Where do you find ideas? When do you know you're done? We've got all those answers and more right here.

Discover the best writing tools for everything from brainstorming and organizing to drafting, revising, and managing your time.

Making money with e-books is not a far-fetched fantasy. But it does take strategy and commitment. Here’s how to make it happen.

Seems like everybody has an opinion about what defines a great book. If you're eager to cut through the philosophizing and drill down to some clear standards that will help you shape a powerful novel, this checklist is for you.

Five types of internal conflict, endless story possibilities. Learn how to weave a compelling inner battle into your next novel.

You want to know how to write an adventure story—the kind of heart-pounding saga that keeps readers up until the wee hours, whispering, “Just one more chapter,” until their eyes dry out. Well, this is how it's done.

The eight-point story arc is a versatile novel-planning structure that's both pantser and planner friendly. Here's how you can use it to write your next book.

Learn how to start a writing schedule you won't abandon within a month! This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from finding your most productive writing time to persevering through writer's block.

Struggling to dream up fantasy writing ideas that haven’t been done? Let these brand-new, totally original prompts spark your imagination.

It’s Dabble vs. Scapple, the throwdown of the century! No, just kidding. These are both great writing tools, and there’s room for all of us in our vast writerly world. The question here isn’t which one is better; it’s which one is better for you. Let's figure it out together.

Here's everything you need to know about how to edit your first draft. Sure, it's a daunting task. But with the right perspective and some solid strategy, you'll make it to draft two in no time.

"Don't let it bother you" is terrible advice for overcoming your fear of rejection as a writer. Here's how to approach this fear instead... and how even the most sensitive writer can boldly pursue their dreams in the face of potential rejection.

Our three-act structure worksheet makes it easier than ever to plot a novel with this classic story framework.

Looking for some good villain motivations to drive your evil-doer's dastardly deeds? Find inspiration here... as well as some great tips for creating a compellingly wicked Why.

Not sure what tense you should write in? Opinions about, but only you know best. This article will help you choose the best tense for your story.

Knowing how to end a chapter means knowing how to keep readers engaged and hungry for more. Power up your writing with these must-know tips and get inspired with 16 chapter-ending ideas.

Is submitting a manuscript to a publisher without an agent a good idea? Will it lead anywhere? And how does it work? We've got those answers for you right here.

Interested in writing middle grade fiction? Then you gotta learn how to think like a kid. Check out this comprehensive guide to creating a story that keeps them up past their bedtime.

Want to create a disturbingly compelling negative character arc? The secret is to make your character's downfall feel plausible—even inevitable. Here's how.

On the prowl for writing hacks? We've got you covered. Whether you hope to write more, write faster, or write better, these tips are sure to help you conquer your goals.

Secondary characters make your fictional world complete and give your protagonist something to care about. But how do you develop these compelling side players without overshadowing your main character? Here's what you need to know.

Is it hard to write a novel in a month? Oh, you betcha. But it's a goal worth pursuing, and with these strategies in place, you can definitely pull it off.

Supporting characters often become the best loved, least forgettable players in a novel. But how do you create supporting characters that are interesting enough to be adored without overshadowing the protagonist? Here's what you need to know.

Oh hey, look at this! It's a free, downloadable character arc template to help you craft fascinating journeys for your characters. Plus, learn what it takes to create an arc-worthy character and how to weave their arc into your plot.

Planning to self-publish your novel? Then you need to know how to make a book cover. Here's everything you need to know about catching your reader's eye and getting them to click "buy."

How do you write a good inciting incident? And what makes it good? These nine, easy-to-follow tips will help you devise a story catalyst that captivates your readers and launches an unforgettable adventure.

The best writing advice inspires, challenges, and invites you to look at your craft in a whole new way. Here are our favorite tips from famous writers (plus a few of our own).

Why should you learn how to write a novella? Because a novella can be a great tool for building an audience, mastering your craft, and even introducing a series. Here's everything you need to know to get the most out of this focused style of storytelling.

Looking for the ultimate worldbuilding guide? You found it. From mapping worlds to dodging Worldbuilder's Disease, this how-to covers it all.

The third-person limited point of view is extremely popular in novels of all genres. Learn why and how to master this narrative style yourself.

If you plan to publish your novel traditionally, you need to learn how to write a query letter to an agent. Here's everything you need to know to snag the attention of your future rep.

The journey to becoming an author is long, challenging, and deeply rewarding. Ready to leap into the adventure of authorship? Here's everything you need to know.

Want to learn how to write a depressed character realistically and respectfully? Hoping to avoid bad clichés and harmful stereotypes? We can help.

Author's tone is an abstract, slippery concept. But once you've mastered this skill in your writing, you'll have a powerful tool for captivating readers.

Sci-fi worldbuilding might be a huge task, but it's also insanely fun. And this guide will help you set some parameters so you don't get lost in the depths of your wildest imagination.

Should you use a first-person narrative in your novel? What are the benefits? And how do you do it well? Find the answers right here.

No clue how to find beta readers? Don't sweat it. As it turns out, potential beta readers are everywhere. Here's how to track them down.

Studying the best first lines of books not only helps you write your own brilliant opening, it also sharpens your writing skills overall. Here are some of the best first lines ever written, plus some great tips for nailing your own.

Realistic dialogue makes your readers feel like they're peering in on the private lives of strangers. Creepy? Maybe. But it's also the secret to writing a story that connects and resonates. Here's how to write dialogue that feels real.

You know you have to research historical fiction if you want to write historical fiction. But how do you learn about your chosen time period? And how do you know when you're done researching? Here's what you need to know.

Need a few character motivation examples to get those wheels turning? Or even to just get a better grip on what character motivation is? You can find 'em right here.

Creating character arcs isn't for the faint of heart. You've got to be ruthless. You've got to be strategic. And it also helps to read this step-by-step guide.

Not sure how to become a successful author—or if it's even possible? Learn exactly what it takes to make it as a writer.

Let's talk about how to brainstorm a story—how to conjure an absolute thunderfest of brilliance using only flashes of inspiration and the genius hidden in the deepest recesses of your subconscious. Here are our best tips for dreaming up and organizing great ideas for your next masterpiece.

Trying to decide between Dabble vs. Google Docs before starting your next novel? Both of these writing programs are quick to learn, easy to use, and great at what they do. But they're not interchangeable. Here's how decide which one is best for you.

Writing abused characters requires humility, empathy, and a lot of research. Here’s how to portray these experiences authentically and with care.

Looking for Scrivener alternatives that suit your specific writing needs? We can help. Here are some of the best-loved writing programs, plus all the insights you need to decide which tool works best for your process.

Snag this free, downloadable character development worksheet, designed to help you craft compelling characters and write an unputdownable story.

There may not be one universal answer to how many scenes should be in an act. But this guide will help you find the right answer for your novel.

How long does it take to get a book published? And is there anything you can do to control the timeline? Here's everything you need to know to set realistic expectations and prepare for a smooth(ish) publishing process.

These free Don't Tell worksheets will help you perfect your prose and write a story that feels real for your reader. Learn how to stir emotions and communicate theme without all the clunky explanations.

Want to learn how to write a flashback? Consider this your comprehensive guide to recreating your character's backstory for the reader. Discover tricks for doing it well... and deciding whether it makes sense to write a flashback in the first place.

Here's everything you wanted to know about all the types of characters in fiction. Learn how to define and write tertiary characters, protagonists, foils, and everything in between.

Knowing how to pace a story is absolutely mandatory if you hope to write an unputdownable novel. The tricky part? The formula isn't the same for every book. Use this guide to learn how to pace your one-of-a-kind tale.

Knowing how to write a prologue is about more than putting all the right parts in the right order. You also need to know why you're writing one so you can use this storytelling guide to its fullest potential. This guide will help.

The protagonist vs. antagonist relationship is what makes your story a story. Learn how to craft each of these characters brilliantly and create conflict your readers will keep thinking about long after "the end."

Which of the three major publishing processes matches your vision for your author career? How long do they take? Which is most profitable? You'll find all those answers right here.

Looking for a sad story idea that will absolutely destroy your readers (in a good way)? Here are 50 ideas you're free to steal, plus a few bonus tips on getting your audience to feel those feels.

The Nice Guy trope: it's gotten increasingly controversial in the last few years, but it is it all bad? What defines this trope and how do authors adapt it for the modern world? We've got those answers right here.

Want to write a book pitch that snags an agents attention, intrigues publishers, and gets readers clicking "buy"? Here's everything you know about composing the perfect sales pitch for your novel.

Feeling a little lost, discouraged, or stuck in your writing career? The stories of these inspirational authors are sure to reignite your create passion and spark new ideas.

There's never been a better time to create an audiobook. But how do you do it? More importantly, how do you make sure your self-published audiobook is a quality product? Here's everything you need to know.

You've heard it before: becoming an author is a terrible get-rich-quick scheme. But what about bestselling authors? Aren't they rolling in it? Here's everything you wanted to know about the earnings of the elite few.

If you're looking for a guide to literary agents, this one has ev-er-y-thing. Get all your questions answered, including how to find an agent, how to work with one, how much you have to pay them, and much more.

Ready to get inspired by some of the best opening lines in literature? Here are some of our favorites, why they're so brilliant, and how you can write a stellar first line that draws readers into the world of your story.