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Language usage, Showing vs. Telling

Writing Lesson 2.24 – There’s, um, like, this really important thing you should know

By Lynn Dean, on March 4th, 2011

Filler words are distracting…not to mention annoying.

In speech, they crop up when we don’t know quite how to communicate what we’re trying to say. Filler words crop up in writing for the same reason and have the same effect. Annoying distractions, they muddy the message and communicate almost nothing.

Exercise: Look for these [...]

Editing, Language usage

Writing Lesson 2.23 – More About Homonyms

By Melinda Evaul, on February 25th, 2011

In my previous lesson, we looked at homonyms or homophones. In particular, we focused on contractions. Let’s look at more misused words. This section contains words that sound alike but have an entirely different meaning—more homonyms to confuse the English language.

Alter (to change) Altar (a table used for a holy rite)

Example: For [...]

Writing Lesson 2.22 – Banning those Floating Body Parts

By Naomi Musch, on February 18th, 2011

Duck! Before one hits you!

Okay, I’m just being funny, but that’s because I’m going to talk to you about Floating Body Parts or FBPs. I shall explain, but before I start, I have to admit that I am not entirely against FBPs in every single writing instance. However, most editors are, and it’s [...]

Editing, Language usage, The Writing Industry

Writing Lesson 2.20 – Back to Basics

By Melinda Evaul, on February 4th, 2011

Today, let’s talk about . . .

Homonyms

Huh? Sounds like grammar. <Pause here for groans>

Yes! Creative writing is a LOT more fun than grammar drills, but if you intend to submit your writing for publication, Rule #1 is that it must be “clean”–properly punctuated with no misspellings or inappropriate word choices.

You [...]

Characterization, Dialogue, Editing, Language usage, Pacing, Plotting, Showing vs. Telling, The Writing Industry, Writing in Active Voice

Writing Lesson 2.16 – Write Better-Read & Review

By Naomi Musch, on December 17th, 2010

You may have heard it said that good writers are those who read. Chances are you already love reading. Each of us has our own tastes and preferences when it comes to reading. Some love action books, others prefer a sweet romance. And within each book genre there are many flavors, so that one [...]