#16 — Misplaced modifiers Misplaced modifiers modify the wrong part of the sentence instead of what they intend to. They are fun to read though because they can sound silly. It makes more sense in practice, so here are some examples: Running away from me, I stumbled after my dog. Running away from me is … Continue reading Common writing mistakes #16
Tag: sentence
Why fragment sentences are okay
In school, we learn that fragments are incomplete sentences and wrong. This can carry over into adulthood. I've had a few betas recently tell me to fix a sentence or add words to my story because I had one. However, as an editor, I don't fix fragments all the time. Everything that exists has a purpose, … Continue reading Why fragment sentences are okay
Common writing mistakes #15
#15 — No sentence variation Sometimes, sentences start to stack up. When that happens, they can feel as if they're too similar to each other. In those spots, it's good to check how those sentences differ. Because if you're not careful, they can all sound the same and feel bland. See what I mean? I've … Continue reading Common writing mistakes #15
Common writing mistakes #14
#14 — Misusing commas I've done one of these on commas before. I had talked about using commas to continuously add information to a sentence. But I haven't talked about when to use a comma and when not to. Commas are complicated. What tends to get overlooked with them though is independent clauses and dependent … Continue reading Common writing mistakes #14
Common writing mistakes #13
#13 — Dialogue tags vs. action beats Dialogue tags can be tricky. But they're easy to understand after knowing the difference between them and action beats. Dialogue tags show who's speaking and how they're speaking. These can include but are not limited to: Begged Exclaimed Grumbled Muttered Mumbled Said Screamed Shrieked Snapped Whispered Yelled Dialogue … Continue reading Common writing mistakes #13
Common writing mistakes #11
#11 — Different types of dashes In writing, there are three main dashes you come across: a hyphen (-), an en dash (–), and an em dash (—). I've seen writers confuse them all the time. However, these are easy fixes. It's all about understanding the difference between them. A hyphen (-) is the most … Continue reading Common writing mistakes #11
Tips from a literary agent
I attended a Reedsy livestream that featured a literary agent. I got to see the agent go through query letters before my eyes! I decided to take what I learned and share it with y'all. Hope you enjoy! How to start your query If you are a debut author, he suggested going straight into talking … Continue reading Tips from a literary agent
Common writing mistakes #10
#10 — Adding too many details with commas Lately, I've had a few authors use commas to add detail after detail onto a sentence. But they don't realize how jam-packed the sentence becomes. Here are two fictional examples: Laurence came through the door, looking for answers, looking for something to turn his path around, and … Continue reading Common writing mistakes #10
Random quotes I heard from writers
It has been a while since I have done a fun post, so here you go. As I took notes during AWP this year, I ended up writing down random sentences writers said that stuck out to me. These sentences sound strange but fun out of context. They also almost sound like writing prompts. Here … Continue reading Random quotes I heard from writers
First lines given – #6
Welcome to First Lines Given! If that sentence confuses you, here's a link to where I explain what this is. Today's first line is by Danny Beattie! He said: I like the tone of this one. Here's the result: Of course Marko would say that. He always does. But that was the thing about Marko: … Continue reading First lines given – #6
Robin LeeAnn 