Outline a Short Story in Seven Steps
The second edition of this story formula has more tips, more options, and further reading.
Latest in Storytelling
Episode 362: Meta Mysteries
Our main advice on meta mysteries is: don’t.
How to Keep Your Favorite Character From Ruining Your Story
The first step to fixing a candied character is recognizing them.
Q&A: How Do I Establish Backstory?
Submitted by Svend,
answered
How Writing Instructors Forgo the Most Vital Fiction Lesson
A gut feeling for stories isn't enough.
Q&A: How Do I Start My Plot?
Submitted by Murphie,
answered
Episode 360: Backstory
How much backstory should your story have?
Q&A: How Do I Give a Damsel Agency?
Submitted by Anonymous,
answered
Q&A: Can I Change the Hero’s Motivation?
Submitted by Imaginarian Darkstalker,
answered
Episode 358: Non-Violent Conflicts
When we say conflict, we do not necessarily mean physical violence.
Six Character Archetypes for Sidekicks
Secondary protagonists should be distinct and helpful, but not too helpful.
Keeping Readers Happy With Your Novel Series
If you want to hook readers, you'll have less freedom to make changes.
Episode 356: ANTS!
Is it a framework or is it a conceptual model or is it a theoretical model?
Does Your Villain Twirl Their Mustache?
Let's tackle the #1 problem with villains in manuscripts.
Q&A: How Do I Fill Time While My Characters Are Traveling?
Submitted by Anonymous,
answered
Episode 355: Developing Character Relationships
What if I just take most of my characters and replace them with animal companions?
Foreshadowing Reveals Is Easier Than You Think
Does your reveal have to be guessable or just plausible?
Episode 354: Making Mysteries Complex
Surprise, it was a red herring.
What’s the Best Way to Create an Opening Hook?
Spoiler: it doesn't include a prologue.
Episode 352: Making Your Story Dark
We're serious podcasters, and you should take us very seriously.
Anthony