6th Annual International Plot Writing Month

Tomorrow begins International Plot Writing Month and you are joyfully invited! Visit the Plot Whisperer blog here everyday throughout December to revision the plot of your story.

Every December for the past five years, I've dedicated the Plot Whisperer blog to helping writers ready for a major revision and for those who simply wish to improve the plot of their stories. Follow daily exercises to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.

On your mark. Get set...

See you tomorrow!

To familiarize yourself with the basic plot terms we'll be using throughout December, see resources below. 

*****SPECIAL OFFER

Give yourself the gift of deepening your plot and your understanding of your story, your characters,  and who you are as a writer. Sign-up for the virtual Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops to get you writing smarter and faster and more joyfully with a deeper understanding of plot.

~~~~~
The following resources help you prepare for PlotWriMo:

1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.

4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube.

For more tips about how to use plot in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

Finish Your Story in a Month with a Flourish

Resist the temptation to rush through writing the end just to finish your story. Use wisely the few days that are left to you this month (keep in mind you can continue writing in December to finish your fast draft all the way to the end while at the same time taking part in PlotWriMo).

The beginning quarter of your story informs the end and the end informs the beginning. Forget all you've written of the middle for now. Focus on the how the beginning and the end thematically support  each other, how the beginning foreshadows the end and how the end satisfy the intent you established when writing the beginning of your story.

Examine who the character is portrayed to be in the beginning. What could she not do then and what she must do now at the end? How has who she presented herself to be in the beginning changed or transformed and into what?

See you December 1st and the beginning of PlotWriMo to re-vision your story.

NaNoWriMo Schedule:
11/22 -- 11/28 Write the End 1/4
11/27 -- Write the Climax
11/28 -- Write the Resolution
11/29 -- 11/30 Catch-up

***Give yourself the gift of deepening your plot and your understanding of your story, your characters,  and who you are as a writer. Sign-up for the virtual Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops beginning January 2014 to get you writing smarter and faster and more joyfully with a deeper understanding of plot.  
~~~~~

 PLOTWRIMO begins in 5 days and 18 hours. Dig out that old story you threw in the bottom drawer of your filing cabinet. Finish up the draft you're fast writing now. Come with a wisp of a story idea. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.

Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources help you prepare for PlotWriMo:

1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.
4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube
5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.
For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

Benefits of Pre-Plotting

A writer just tweeted that because of the pre-plotting she did, she was able to complete NaNoWriMo one entire week early! Great news. Who knows what she'll find during PlotWriMo? The important thing is she has a rough draft of her novel completed. Cause for celebration!

A pre-plot is simply a rough plot plan with key scenes mapped out for both the character emotional development plot and the dramatic action plot with some thematic elements identified and including perhaps the romance plot. The more scenes you imagine and pre-plot on a Plot Planner or whatever system works for you, the clearer your story becomes.

Eager to begin writing a new story in 2014? Join literary agent and publishing insider, Jill Corcoran, and me in one of our small group (maximum 8 writers) 4 week online video chats to pre-plot your novel, memoir, screenplay (you can begin writing at the same time you're pre-plotting).

Weekly homework is assigned from The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories.

Week One of the 4-week Pre-Plotting Workshop during our 2.25 hour online video chat beginning January 7th in the evening and January 9th during the day, we'll check in on your homework, which for the first week is to begin establishing three of the most important elements in your entire story:

1) how the protagonist transforms at the end
2) what dramatic action in the middle and the end of the story causes that transformation
3) what the interaction between the action and the character change means to the story overall

We'll also cover:
What is a Book Concept?
What are the three most important considerations in choosing what book to write?
Does your voice match your genre?
How can make your manuscript stand out in the sea of books in the marketplace?
How is your story the same and different from all other stories in your genre?
Is your protagonist the very best representation for your concept?

Each writer receives feedback on your concept and has the opportunity to ask general questions during the Q&A Discussion.

Understanding the overall arc of your story, helps you better determine how best to write every scene and successfully bring your story vision  to life .
~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 1 week and 2 days to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.
Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of

The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets&Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing

for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.

4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube

5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.

For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

Bookstore Book Launch Party Idea

Want a sure way to entice book lovers to attend your bookstore book launch party? Promise cake (a thematically-true cake). They will come!

I learned this tip from my friend and writing coach Teresa LeYung Ryan. She brought a flat cake to every bookstore on her first book tour. Friends and fans left with a book(s) and a full stomach of cake.

I took her idea one step further and decorated the flat cake with a fondant cover of the book I was promoting -- first for the The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master and followed in the same way with the The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories and then the The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing Any leftovers I offered to the bookstore staff who always seemed so grateful!

NaNoWriMo Schedule:
11/21 -- Write the Crisis (For additional help plotting and writing the Crisis, attend from the comfort of your own home a Writers Store plot webinar: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood))
11/22 -- 11/28 Write the End 1/4
11/27 -- Write theClimax
(For additional help plotting and writing the Climax, attend from the comfort of your own home a Writers Store plot webinar: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood))
11/28 -- Write the Resolution
11/29 -- 11/30 Catch-up

***For help writing the 2 toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)

***Sign-up for the virtual Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops beginning January 2014 to get you writing smarter and faster and more joyfully with a deeper understanding of plot.    

~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 2 weeks, 1 day and 17 hours to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.

Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.
4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube
5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.
For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

2 1/2 weeks into Writing a Fast Draft in a Month

By now, you have written the Beginning 1/4 of your story, the End of the Beginning scene, and are now firmly in the exotic world of the of the Middle.

Yesterday, you wrote the Recommitment scene and today you started in on writing the 2nd 1/2 of the Middle

The exotic world of the middle is controlled by antagonists. Create and use as many antagonists as you can to interfere with her forward progress and challenge her long-held beliefs.

NaNoWriMo Schedule:
11/21 -- Write the Crisis (For additional help plotting and writing the Crisis, attend from the comfort of your own home a Writers Store plot webinar: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood))
11/22 -- 11/28 Write the End 1/4
11/27 -- Write theClimax
(For additional help plotting and writing the Climax, attend from the comfort of your own home a Writers Store plot webinar: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood))
11/28 -- Write the Resolution
11/29 -- 11/30 Catch-up

***For help writing the 2 toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)

***Sign-up for the virtual Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops beginning January 2014 to get you writing smarter and faster and more joyfully with a deeper understanding of plot.    

~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 2 weeks, 1 day and 17 hours to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.

Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.
4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube
5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.
For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

We Have a Winner!

In honor of launching The Plot Whisperer Workshop Series for writers, we raffled off a free copy of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-Step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories, the basis of the 4 four-week workshop intensives.

In January 2014, literary agent Jill Corcoran brings her expertise in publishing and I bring what I know about plot. The program is powered by an innovative interactive video chat platform that allows you to participate with us directly--as though you're in the same room (think Skype on steroids! Jill likes to say. I'll be trying it out for the first time right along with you.)

You'll have homework, time to share your plot concerns and ask questions live from the comfort of your own home. The workshops are limited to 8 writers.

The winner of the raffle for The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-Step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories is Terri Makolonda. Congratulations, Terri!

***For help writing the 2 toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)

***Sign-up for the virtual Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops beginning January 2014 to get you writing smarter and faster and more joyfully with a deeper understanding of plot.  
~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 2 weeks, 3 days and 19 hours to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.
Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.
4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube
5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.
For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

The "So-What" Test

"Does it pass the "so what" test? Do I really have something that's important enough to put down on paper? I want to get a handle on this plot and see if the plot's worth investing in."

Difficult to answer until we proceed deeper into the consultation.

She's frustrated because she's tried everything in the The Plot Whisperer books -- slapping up banner paper on the wall, buying post-it notes of all colors, creating a plot planner and every time she attempts to plot out the story, she has to keep changing everything. She's already invested so much time and is pretty sure the plot isn't worthy enough, so why bother?

First, the time she spent pre-plotting her story developed into, in my estimation, a terrific middle grade plot with likable characters, good tension and conflict, a worthy character arc and powerful thematic potential (development of this potential gives this story great promise).

Second, writing is an act of discovery. Yes, a pre-plot is helpful and yes, developing a pre-plot can take time. Writing is an act of creation. No matter how much or little time you spend pre-plotting, the words you write determine the outcome. Let me say that again: the words you write determine the outcome.

"What has been zapping my energy is until you get the Universal Story right your story fizzles."

What I hear over the course of the plot consultation is what's zapping her energy is her fear that she's going to waste her time with an unworthy story. That what her imagination has created isn't good enough. That she isn't good enough.

Writing is an act of discovery. Write the story and see what happens. You'll discover lots of things about yourself and your story. Trust that you're worth the time and effort to write a story with a plot from beginning to end.

***Win a free The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories Sign up HERE.

***For help writing the 2 toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)

***4 Virtual Plot Intensives begin January 2014 to get you writing smarter and faster and more joyfully with a deeper understanding of plot. Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops  
~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 3 weeks, 5 days and 19 hours to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.

Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.
4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube
5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.
For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

NaNoWriMo Plot and Writing Schedule & Resources for 11/13

Social media and the internet are so quiet. Shhhh, I can hear you writing.

The idea of thousands and thousands of writers writing, each of us writing and plotting our own stories and at the same time all of us writing together as one is sublime.

Many of you will use the support of other writers to keep us writing. Others will take daily walks. Some will plot as you write. Others have detailed Plot Planners at the ready as you write, every word a joy. I give thanks for journey we travel together.

NaNoWriMo Schedule:

11/1 - 11/7 -- Write the Beginning 1/4 of your story
11/7 -- Write the End of the Beginning scene
11/8 -- 11/14 Write the 1st 1/2 of the Middle
11/14 -- Write the Recommitment scene
11/15 --  11/21 Write the 2nd 1/2 of the Middle
11/21 -- Write the Crisis (For additional help plotting and writing the Crisis, attend from the comfort of your own home a Writers Store plot webinar: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood))
11/22 -- 11/28 Write the End 1/4
11/27 -- Write theClimax
(For additional help plotting and writing the Climax, attend from the comfort of your own home a Writers Store plot webinar: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood))
11/28 -- Write the Resolution
11/29 -- 11/30 Catch-up

***To win a free The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories sign up HERE.

***For help writing the 2 toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)
  ~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 3 weeks, 5 days and 19 hours to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.

Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets and Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.
4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube
5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.
For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

A Path to Publishing Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshops

I delight in how a passing comment, a sentence fragment, a sigh can grow from nothing into something. In this case, that something is A Path to Publishing featuring The Plot Whisperer Workbook Workshop Series.

Like a story, what began as an idea has blossomed into 4 four-week workshop intensives based on the PWWorkbook. My literary agent Jill Corcoran brings her expertise in publishing and I bring what I know about plot. The program is powered by an innovative interactive video chat platform that allows you to participate with us directly--as though you're in the same room (think Skype on steroids! Jill likes to say. I'll be trying it out for the first time right along with you.)

You'll have homework, time to share your plot concerns and ask questions from the comfort of your own home. The workshops are limited to 8 writers.

In honor of the new plot series, we're holding a free give-away of The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories. You better your chances of winning each time you play in the special Rafflecopter giveaway.

How to Write in the Zone for a Fast Draft

One of the greatest predictors of successfully pre-plotting and writing a novel or memoir in a month is the ability to write in the zone. When you’re in the flow of your writing, words and ideas come to you effortlessly. You don’t second-guess yourself. You’re not timid and paranoid about your ability to persevere.

Writing fast encourages writing the zone. Lose yourself for one month and then you’re free for the rest of your life with an entire first draft of your story to shape. (Join me December 1st for PlotWriMo to re-vision your words into a story with a plot.)

Being in the zone means your ego-driven mind disappears, your mind quiets and your imagination is free to flow onto the page. Your awareness shifts from your fears and worries, your to-do lists and the who-do-I-think-I-am-to-take-all-this-time-to-write-a-story? stories in your mind and your negative beliefs about your writing. No longer in the cramped and squeezed space under a heavy burden, writing in the zone means giving your story your complete and full concentration and attention.

The more challenging your writing, the more energized and focused and emotionally gratified by your writing you become. When you’re in the zone whether for hours or for minutes, the quality and intensity of the writing are at their greatest and you write mostly by feel and intuition and heart.

17 Tips for Slipping into and Staying in the Zone
1) Regular exercise
2) Good diet Plenty of sleep
3) Drink lots of water
4) Establish a daily writing routine
5) Clear an entire month on your calendar -- no appointments or errands or outside demands (as much as possible)
6) Give yourself a clear and realistic daily writing goal -- push yourself to write longer every day 7) Decide where and when you’ll write daily with a minimum of distractions and interruptions.
7) Every thirty minutes stand up and stretch and breath deeply. Then sit down to write again
8) Give yourself at least a half an hour to get into the flow. Then, if you find your energy slipping switch to writing the next scene (If you’re stumped about what scene to write next, refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing (all the way to the end).
9) Keep your pre-plot Plot Planner in sight and often refer to the handy guide.
10) Take risks with your writing. Be bold. Stretch yourself in your daily practice and continue studying the craft of writing.
11) Acknowledge when a limiting belief swamps your mind and ask yourself what you are most afraid of. Ask yourself what your writing would be like unconstrained by insecurity, anxiousness and fear Continually and intentionally direct your thoughts back to your writing in a one-pointed focus of attention to the scene in front of you
12) Write regularly to create a writing habit
13) Rather than concentrate on what isn’t working in your story or look too far into the future with the story, direct your attention to what you have just written. Ask yourself, because that happens, what does your character do next?
14) Each day, focus on one or two scenes and up to four scenes only and no further.
15) Write each day with no judgment. Your goal is to get the first draft written.
16) Acknowledge that, as the habit of daily writing solidifies, as the month proceeds the challenges of writing a first draft from beginning to end intensifies.
17) Stay with writing every day until you have achieved your daily word count. Congratulate yourself daily for your productivity.

You know you’re in the zone when time stops and you’re completely immersed in your story with full concentration. Good luck. See you December 1st for the 6th Annual International December is Plot Writing Month after you’ve successfully pre-plotted and written a novel or memoir in a month. (originally hosted by: Brian Klems at The Writer's Dig)

For help writing the 2 toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)
  ~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 1 Month and 15 hours to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.
Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of

The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets&Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing

for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.

4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube

5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.

For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.

Prepare for NaNoWriMo

Way back on January 1st of this year I invited you to join me in writing a new story, one prompt at a time in honor of my then new book, The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Then I was writing all about beginnings and, with the help of the prompts, slipped easily into the exotic world of the middle.

I stopped writing shortly before the crisis scene in my story. No surprise there.

Now, an urgency to finish cries out and I'm inspired to use November to finish what I started earlier this year. Now, there's not enough time to daily follow only one prompt at a time. To finish my story in one month with the help of the prompts, I'll need to determine where I left off and how many prompts are left.

I invite you to write with me, beginning November 1st. Start writing from the very beginning of a new story, drag out and resuscitate an old story you never quite wrote all the way to the end or simply finish the story you've been working on all year.

If you're following along and wish to comment or ask questions, please use Twitter and be sure to include @plotwhisperer and #pwprompt to catch my attention.

For more about how to write the toughest scenes of your story, join me from the comfort of your home for this 1 1/2hour plot webinar hosted by The Writers Store: Writing Strong Crisis and Climax Scenes: The Two Keys to Screenplays That Connect with Audiences (and Hollywood)
  ~~~~~

Take the PLOTWRIMO Pre-Challenge:

You have 1 Month and 1 day to get a draft written in time for PlotWriMo. Beginning December 1st, follow the exercises on the Plot Whisperer blog to re"vision" and redefine the plot arc of your story. PlotWriMo is custom designed to ensure your success even during the busiest time of the year.
Begin 2014 ready for a powerful rewrite.
~~~~~
The following resources support you in your pre-challenge:
1) Plot your story step-by-step with the help of

The Plot Whisperer Workbook: Step-by-step Exercises to Help You Create Compelling Stories

2) Read The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master
named BEST BOOKS FOR WRITERS by Poets&Writers. The author provides insight on how to create works of fiction with powerful stories and focuses on how to devise a Universal Plot, plot lines and subplots, compelling scenes, and character transformation.
 
3) Refer to The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing

for writing prompts for scene #1 to the very The End, one prompt at a time.

4) Watch the Plot Series: How Do I Plot a Novel, Memoir, Screenplay? on YouTube. Scroll down on the left of this post for a directory of all the steps to the series. 27-step tutorial on Youtube

5) Watch the Monday Morning Plot Book Group Series on YouTube. Scroll down on the right of this post for a directory the book examples and plot elements discussed.

For more tips about how to use plot and the Universal Story in your novel, memoir or screenplay, visit:

Blockbuster Plots for Writers
Plot Whisperer on Facebook (we hope you "like" it)

Plot Whisperer on Twitter

Plot Whisperer on Pinterest 

***** Knowing what to write where in a story with a plot reinforces daily writing practice and allows for more productivity in your writing. Whether writing a first draft or revising, if you falter wondering what comes next in a story with a plot, follow the prompts in The Plot Whisperer Book of Writing Prompts: Easy Exercises to Get You Writing.

Today, I write.