The golden rule in writing, as well as in speaking, is to stick to the basics. If you want to create a compelling story, it’s important to follow some simple rules.

Show don’t tell

Instead of telling the reader explicitly how someone feels, make it clear through their actions. The same principle applies to abstract concepts, which can be better presented by providing specific details that will portray an image of how it may look or feel.

Give the reader clues and let him draw the conclusion, you will make him more invested in your story.

Practice: Draft short descriptions to show how bravery, exhaustion, love or hunger might look like through someone’s behaviour.

Practice makes perfect

How do you develop confidence in your individual voice? 👉Daily writing practice

The more you write, the better you get. So, don’t be afraid, just start flexing that writing muscle:
✔️Keep a journal, even if you write only a phrase.
✔️Write by hand – it’s a different experience with a better link between body and mind
✔️Keep a notebook with you at all times for any ideas or quotes you might want to record on the spot
✔️Start writing in the middle or at the end; just start
✔️Read, read, read – different, varied styles
✔️Refresh you mind – take a walk in a park, go hiking, dance, visit a museum

Don’t get hung up on perfection, every effort is perfect because making that first step is so brave.

What’s your point?

You need a narrative statement, otherwise known as an elevator pitch. When someone asks, you should be able to say in one simple phrase, what the story is about. Just think of George Orwell’s novel, Animal Farm and its statement – all men are created equal. This is what you need to help you get into focus. Consequently, all the information must be relevant to the story, characters should serve the plot and have a purpose.

Practice: As you write, keep editing, cut and edit your draft, but don’t throw everything away. Something that is irrelevant now could be a missing piece to fit your story in another place, later.

What’s happening next?

Curiosity keeps your reader glued to your story. What can you do to keep the reader reading?

✔️Don’t overshare

✔️Don’t deliver all the information at once

✔️Don’t lose momentum with redundant information

✔️Make the reader work for it, get him engaged

Read, write, edit, rewrite. Complicated and simple all at the same time.