Writing Tips

1. Decide what genre you want to write in and study other novels in this category. Open a file and write ‘Chapter One’! Now you’ve started.

2. Research some 'how to write' books. (See recommended reading).

3. Plot your novel--a loose idea of beginning to end if you can.
4. Decide on viewpoint – whose story is this? Whose voice will the reader hear?

5. Create character biographies: name, age, hair colour, eye colour etc. (include as much information as you can). This helps to get to know your character. In fiction, characters need a problem to make a good story! Get inside your characters’ heads.
6. Have a dramatic opening line or hook that will immediately grab your reader's attention – someone’s response to threat. Change is where the story starts. Never duck conflict!
7. Show don't tell...don't overuse narration; let your reader see, hear and feel the story.

8. Use realistic dialogue--read your work aloud to ensure it sounds believable.
9. Try to write every day or at least visit the page and read over your work. This helps keep the story alive in your head.
10. Don't be afraid of criticism or rejection--this is what develops a writer. Plan – control, discipline and channel your imagination; write and fix.
11. Enjoy your writing, have fun and be passionate about your work! Remember you can't expect your reader to enjoy your story if you don't enjoy it yourself!

12. Write with passion in your heart but edit with ice in your veins! (Thank You Patricia Scanlan for this excellent tip).

13. Treat yourself to a good writing workshop. Inkwell in Wicklow host excellent fiction workshops.
14. Good luck!