Penstricken
Andrew Ferguson – Author
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Mystery Clichés and How to Avoid Them
Posted on November 25, 2018 Leave a Comment
Mystery Clichés and How to Avoid Them #NewPost #fiction #stories #writing #writetip #writingtip #amwriting #genre #mystery
Fantasy Clichés and How to Avoid Them
Posted on November 18, 2018 Leave a Comment
Well, it’s been a while since I’ve done a series of posts on any subject so I decided it was about time for another one: this time focusing on all your favourite genre clichés and how to avoid them.
How To Write When Time Is Short
Posted on September 23, 2018 Leave a Comment
Good writing takes time. That’s why it’s so important to write frequently and regularly.
On Character Traits
Posted on August 26, 2018 Leave a Comment
Let your reader get to know Dave by experiencing Dave, not simply being told about Dave.
Juggling Multiple Writing Projects
Posted on August 19, 2018 Leave a Comment
You’re committed. Dedicated. Come what may, you’re getting this novel done, just by plodding along one word at a time.
Plod, plod… plod…
But then suddenly:
‘I say! Who’s that smokin’ hot piece of brand new idea?’
Pants, Plants and Plans: A Beginner’s Guide
Posted on August 5, 2018 Leave a Comment
If you’re struggling with whatever method comes naturally to you, it may be time to try a different approach. And so, what follows is my own concise analysis of each approach, comparing pros and cons as evenly as I can.
Not Sure Where To Begin With Your Story? Try Free Writing.
Posted on July 15, 2018 Leave a Comment
Free writing is a time honoured prewriting technique which works by encouraging the writer to write without fear of criticism or failure for a set period of time.
Theme: The Truth Behind the Tale
Posted on July 1, 2018 Leave a Comment
What fundamental truth(s) are you conveying in your idle fantasy? What aspects of real life are you exploring? And equally as important, how are you conveying that truth?
Writing a Second Draft When You’re a Plantser
Posted on June 24, 2018 Leave a Comment
It was my wife who finally reminded me: I’m a plantser. I begin with a rough plan, but it’s only when I write and let my imagination run wild that my plan starts to grow a bit of flesh and take on a life of its own. Why was it, then, that when I came to write my second draft that I felt so compelled to have a perfect plan in place before writing anything?
Writing a Good Character Description
Posted on May 20, 2018 4 Comments
Remember: a character is defined what they do and say, not by their physical appearance. Therefore, use physical descriptions to bring out their key traits. First ask yourself who this character is and what important details of their life and personality you wish to convey.
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