11 Fiction Writing Tips

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  • Опубліковано 26 лип 2024
  • 11 Fiction Writing Tips
    Want to write better fiction? After 40+ books, I’ve learned a lot about the craft of writing. In this video, I pass a few of those secrets along.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 171

  • @AuthorLevelUp
    @AuthorLevelUp  5 років тому +24

    What's your top fiction writing tip?

    • @frankhardyjr1213
      @frankhardyjr1213 5 років тому +2

      Author Level Up just learning about fiction I think it’s amazing!!!!

    • @twilightgardenspresentatio6384
      @twilightgardenspresentatio6384 5 років тому +8

      Author Level Up you are not your book

    • @Willgking
      @Willgking 4 роки тому +2

      What's your favorite fiction novel?

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  4 роки тому +4

      Fahrenheit 451 or Jurassic Park.

    • @mathiasblack
      @mathiasblack 3 роки тому

      You are not your book may be my new favorite - so true!!

  • @raydoherty7154
    @raydoherty7154 2 роки тому +3

    For m, with writing my first novel, my biggest battle is not only with getting the story in the way you want it, but the battle within yourself to get there.

  • @lawrencetrujillo65
    @lawrencetrujillo65 2 роки тому +4

    “I’m well into the land of my next book when I find out.” Genius. My brother, this says it all. Thank you for helping me do become a story teller and not just a writer.

  • @JasonsWeirdReads
    @JasonsWeirdReads 6 років тому +37

    This video is so full of gold nuggets! Great work!

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  6 років тому +3

      I’m really glad to hear you enjoyed the video. Thank you!

  • @nancyandaharon
    @nancyandaharon 6 років тому +13

    playing g-d and lying for money!! love it!

  • @BoWhitten
    @BoWhitten 5 років тому +9

    "You can't tell me how to write! Your not my mom!"
    Thanks for the good vid. Not new advice for me, but always good to hear it again.

  • @brettcarter5954
    @brettcarter5954 2 роки тому +2

    11 Fiction Writing Tips
    1. Forget everything you know.
    2. Fiction writing = Magic
    3. Write with the five senses
    4. Word choice = characterization
    5. Keep track of details
    6. Study cliffhanger endings
    7. Give readers cookies
    8. When in doubt, think ahead
    9. Experiment (a lot)
    10. You are NOT your book (seriously)
    11. Have fun

  • @matthewpettipas8233
    @matthewpettipas8233 5 років тому +28

    I have never been one to follow trends. I write the story I want to tell, regardless whether or not the material has been done a thousand times over (example, I love elves, and love writing stories about them, and we all know how many times elves have been done haha). I think writers should focus less on what's selling right now, and more on what stories are burning inside them. I would rather write a story that I have a passion for and it doesn't sell, than write a story I could care less about and have it be a bestseller.

    • @Musicienne-DAB1995
      @Musicienne-DAB1995 4 роки тому

      Great comment. After all, there is nothing new under the sun.

    • @zeratai2465
      @zeratai2465 3 роки тому

      Amen. Personally, I like to only focus on concepts which I have added a unique twist to. For example, there's too many time-travel fictions, so I would only consider making one if I have something unexpected to add to it. Using what you know is always best, but mixing it with something which is never associated with it can make all the difference. For one, I don't think many fantasy worlds dare to ignore, or fully remove humans as a race.

    • @hepsiprem
      @hepsiprem 2 роки тому

      Your right very true 😊

  • @cristydlcMN
    @cristydlcMN 2 роки тому +4

    Really loved your tips here. My first book was nonfiction but I'm eager to start "playing" with fiction as I've been cooking some stories on the back-burner. Tip #11 was my favorite. We get to write! What a privilege. We might as well approach it with a spirit of play rather than work. Thank you!

  • @anthonyryan9954
    @anthonyryan9954 3 роки тому +8

    I heard a really interesting tip yesterday that seemed like something you’d say, and wanted to tell you because you may like it and suggest it to others. “Before you edit a chapter, rewrite it with only ten sentences”. It wasn’t about seeing how much you remember which is another helpful use for it but it was so that when you actually go to edit it, your refocused on the key reasons of the chapter’s importance. Thought you may find it interesting! Thanks for everything always

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  3 роки тому +2

      Very interesting indeed! Thanks for sharing!

  • @colehosteroo7222
    @colehosteroo7222 3 роки тому +2

    My favorite tip was the one about cookies - When I read bestselling authors' books I see them do this, and it really keeps things interesting

  • @shemekaadams1457
    @shemekaadams1457 5 років тому +10

    I loved the advice on taking a familiar trope and twisting it 😍

  • @yoranthium
    @yoranthium Рік тому +1

    I got to love an author with humor about their own books. Like veggies take over the universe.

  • @bigphilly7345
    @bigphilly7345 6 років тому +8

    Time again we all read awesome books -- even award-winning or best-selling -- that break every rule.

  • @carolseymour1105
    @carolseymour1105 Рік тому

    I've read so many comments where people force themselves out of bed early in the morning and write, write , write. That never resonated with me, because I know I have obgilations to meet once I get up in the morning. This is a turnoff for some writers. I want to write for the pleasure of it and to find my true self. Micheal I enjoyed this presentation and I especially like the idea of reading the ending of chapters and mirror that in my own book. Thanks for your efforts.

  • @laasyakannepalli6929
    @laasyakannepalli6929 4 роки тому +5

    Can I just say that you are one of the best writing mentors out there! I am going through a rough patch writing my first novel! And you are helping me through this.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  4 роки тому

      Thank you. :) You got this!

    • @vtori71
      @vtori71 Рік тому

      Carry on...I have just finished my first book!!!! A real marathon, never a sprint....

  • @jazzauthor
    @jazzauthor 4 роки тому +2

    Just catching up on your older videos. Love this, especially your honesty. Keep it up!

  • @Lucid_zzz_Dream
    @Lucid_zzz_Dream 6 років тому +5

    Number 11 is amazing. I listened to it three separate times to let it sink in. Your videos are great man. Thank you.

  • @SpeakWritePlayinEnglish
    @SpeakWritePlayinEnglish 3 роки тому +1

    Fiction and creative writing are the best combination.

  • @sarahogden453
    @sarahogden453 3 роки тому +1

    Really loved this! Well done.

  • @Rakykia
    @Rakykia 5 років тому +1

    I LOVED all of your tips :D Thank you for making this video.

  • @groundedlifestyle88
    @groundedlifestyle88 2 роки тому

    "Lying for money"
    10/10. Gold. 👏

  • @latanyapalmer7252
    @latanyapalmer7252 6 років тому +3

    THANK You Michael, ALL your tips are helpful for me.

  • @brendenshouse5807
    @brendenshouse5807 4 роки тому +1

    There is so much good information packed in here.

  • @tjjordan8994
    @tjjordan8994 4 роки тому +1

    Excellent advice. Thank you.

  • @janicerouton8963
    @janicerouton8963 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks for making this video. I was amazed at your quality of your tips. I learned more from your tips than some of the big-name writers!

  • @kokomiko102
    @kokomiko102 6 років тому +2

    I just found your videos, I love them. Thank you so much!

  • @LordRichard987
    @LordRichard987 3 роки тому

    the rain example is actually very helpful to me right now, one of my characters wakes up in a hotel room while its raining outside.

  • @mikebassett3897
    @mikebassett3897 4 роки тому +2

    These are some of the best tips I have ever come across.

  • @mgewton
    @mgewton 6 років тому +2

    Great tips, thank you for the video!

  • @authorrobinshackleton296
    @authorrobinshackleton296 3 роки тому +1

    Such great inspiration, thank you! I don't know anyone else who has such inviting, engaging content by just talking into the camera - no tricks needed!

  • @kithallows7125
    @kithallows7125 6 років тому +1

    Thank you, your videos are always packed with invaluable tips!

  • @42Nnawty2
    @42Nnawty2 4 роки тому

    Thanks for the fantastic tips!

  • @freedomthroughspirit
    @freedomthroughspirit Рік тому +2

    Such EXCELLENT advice. Thank you! 🎉😊 Loving your channel. And website.

  • @alannahdunstan3415
    @alannahdunstan3415 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for the helpful tips. This was really helpful and also very engaging!!!!

  • @gingerwench396
    @gingerwench396 5 років тому +2

    I really like what you had to say. I've been writing for so long and and getting no where. Many of your tips made sense to me. Truly I appreciate your video.

  • @HeatherDeweyPettet
    @HeatherDeweyPettet 5 років тому +3

    Just found you through a Joanna Pen video this evening. I've already watched about three of your videos... Nicely done!! Lots of great tips!

  • @n.bronze4377
    @n.bronze4377 6 років тому +1

    Great advice, this was something I needed today. Thank you!

  • @mathiasblack
    @mathiasblack 3 роки тому +1

    Fantastic advice - so relevant and useful. Thanks so much for sharing!

  • @rileymorrisonauthor9201
    @rileymorrisonauthor9201 6 років тому +2

    Great tips! Thank you.

  • @wiseauserious8750
    @wiseauserious8750 4 роки тому

    Huge help thanks man!

  • @nikkireigns
    @nikkireigns 6 років тому +1

    Another great video! I had to leave a comment because the image at 12:09 cracked me up 😂. You are fantastic.

  • @SuperSanjuro
    @SuperSanjuro 5 років тому

    Hello! Thanks for this wonderful set of tips. I'll have to think about it for a while before I can pick a favorite, but I wanted to let you know that I really appreciate your advice. Great presentation!

  • @antoniobifulco623
    @antoniobifulco623 Рік тому +1

    "You get to lie for money"... well, that created a few issues down the road of history when it wasn't addressed on the cover of the book XD

  • @francesfletcherson9227
    @francesfletcherson9227 5 років тому +1

    Thank you, Michael. Every tip resonated with me; (notice the semi-colon) however, tip number one hit home the most. At this point in my writer's journey, I am learning to unlearn most of what I learned. You have provided a practical way that I can use the tools I learned for better effect. Thank you!

  • @patriceduval1722
    @patriceduval1722 3 роки тому

    Thank you, Very interesting and helpful

  • @terrifarley9045
    @terrifarley9045 Рік тому

    What resonated most? Not just one thing. Cliffhanger chapter endings was obvious and wow, I forgot about it. Thank you for reminding me. Also I loved that you are well into your next world journey when bad news comes about a past project. You are indeed not your book. Thanks for the survival tips. These will really help me press on.

  • @healmagick
    @healmagick 4 роки тому +2

    I"m working on my first fiction novel and your video really helped to put things in perspective for me. Thank you 😊

  • @chrisedwards945
    @chrisedwards945 3 роки тому

    Thank you the tips great videos.

  • @manymusings
    @manymusings 6 років тому +2

    Thanks for the awesome videos. I love reading and writing effective sense filled content.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  6 років тому

      Me too. Makes for a much better experience, especially if you’re listening to an audiobook.

  • @taliagreene6303
    @taliagreene6303 6 років тому +2

    This was really helpful. Thanks again

  • @ellyloughlin2058
    @ellyloughlin2058 6 років тому +2

    Good tips. Thanks!

  • @cubflyer1940
    @cubflyer1940 3 роки тому +1

    Such a refreshing take on writing. I’ve subscribed and look forward to your videos. Well done sir!!

  • @DuluthTW
    @DuluthTW 6 років тому +2

    All were great. Thanks!

  • @basicenglishgrammar3651
    @basicenglishgrammar3651 3 роки тому +1

    So nice to listen the tips for writers. It is amazing Thanks a lot

  • @annmanzo
    @annmanzo 4 роки тому +1

    Loved this video, I so needed it. I watched with a serious pain in my neck from writing. It is the journey and I try to stick with rule #1--I watched and read so much advice on writing do's and don'ts and then read a best seller that breaks all of them-like using the word , This, and words that end in ly, and Heard and Looked. Oh and Feel. I gave up and am writing what I want. We'll see.

  • @n.bronze4377
    @n.bronze4377 6 років тому +3

    Love tip # 2.

  • @barter56
    @barter56 3 роки тому

    I love the 5 senses thing, I’ve been doing it subsconscioisly and never really knew it was a thing.

  • @Book-Gnome
    @Book-Gnome 5 років тому

    Great stuff

  • @matthewakian2
    @matthewakian2 5 років тому +3

    The advice here is invaluable. 'The 11 Commandments'.

  • @jodiburnett6211
    @jodiburnett6211 3 роки тому

    Thanks for these wonderful ideas. I’m going to read a lot of those last few sentences of chapters now.

  • @masonmiller6371
    @masonmiller6371 5 років тому +1

    Thank you for this video. I found this video on your website.

  • @whyamiwatchingthis5331
    @whyamiwatchingthis5331 5 років тому +1

    I'm going to sub. This is probably the best writing channel on youtube. Thank you for your hard work.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  5 років тому

      Thanks for subscribing. Welcome aboard!

  • @qaswedfr1234
    @qaswedfr1234 5 років тому +5

    Great video and advice and
    no high pitched sqeaky hysterical screaming

  • @DMM-cv5fh
    @DMM-cv5fh 5 років тому +1

    New subscriber to your channel, I have been trying to write my first novel, a historical fiction about the Revolutionary War in the South Carolina backcountry. I have found that the writing into the dark method is really the only thing that keeps me interested in the story. Part of that however is making sure the passage of time is indeed consistent, and hence your tip number 5 is very handy. It’s simple, yet I never though to do it. Thank you so much for your content.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  5 років тому

      Thank you. It’s definitely a good one when you’re writing historical fiction. Good luck with your first novel!

  • @mikephillips8406
    @mikephillips8406 6 років тому +2

    It's good to be reminded that most rules are more like suggestions. Another great video. So glad you didn't get hit by that bus.

  • @561851
    @561851 5 років тому

    Thank you very much for the advice. Honestly, I am about to rewind the video so your suggestions will sink into my subconscious.

  • @Musicienne-DAB1995
    @Musicienne-DAB1995 4 роки тому

    A great reminder of what counts. My favourite parts were twisting tropes and having fun. Despite the fact that I love writing, I just realised that I make excuses for not writing as soon as I can in the morning, whereas it takes no provocation to scroll through emails and UA-cam when I wake up and right before bed. This is because I have problems with overthinking my writing and so that makes me afraid to begin. I need to get the joy-- and keep it. Thanks for the ideas!

  • @Andrea-nom
    @Andrea-nom 5 років тому +3

    How do you only have 11k subscribers

  • @freestardeath
    @freestardeath 3 роки тому

    You're a good man. I wish you all the success in the world.

  • @Sofia_Lazzaro
    @Sofia_Lazzaro 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you for the amazing advice.
    I painted a wall in my condo with chalk paint. I write my characters' names, important events, dates, etc. because I find that I will forget these small details after a few chapters. Plus, it's fun to write on the wall. :)

  • @TheBorgfelder
    @TheBorgfelder 6 років тому +2

    Excellent tips, Michael! BTW, I am also a big fan of Dean Wesley Smith. Keep on with your great work, greetings from Germany!

  • @Nerdcoresteve1
    @Nerdcoresteve1 5 років тому +1

    I like these tips but my absolute faves are "There are no rules" and "Have fun". 🙂👍

  • @GrooveAudioBooks
    @GrooveAudioBooks 5 років тому +1

    100% agree with the information in this video because i discovered this on my own and it set me free as a writer.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  5 років тому

      That’s awesome! Glad this video validated what you learned. :)

  • @etarascurry1925
    @etarascurry1925 5 років тому +1

    Have a reason to help the reader keep turning the page and separating yourself from your writing. I found you when you plugged yourself on ten ALLI podcast. Checked you out and wasn’t disappointed. Thank you so much for your generosity is sharing your wisdom and experience.

  • @JakesCookery
    @JakesCookery 4 роки тому +2

    This video has concrete advice that I can actually follow. Write as if you're inside your character's skull, cliff hanger chapters to keep people reading. Troups are the seasoning of your story-stew. Too little seasoning and it's bland. Too much seasoning and it's garbage.

  • @eileenglass5396
    @eileenglass5396 6 років тому +1

    Great video!

  • @myscrappeduplife9119
    @myscrappeduplife9119 4 роки тому +1

    Thanks!

  • @BPRINC1
    @BPRINC1 5 років тому +1

    #8 and #9 were words I definitely need to hear.

  • @conanedigawa9860
    @conanedigawa9860 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for your videos. I really appreciate then. It helps me out a lot. I am a brand new author and honestly have no idea what I'm doing, but I love getting my imagination out on paper and am learning how to do it properly. When I get the money I'm going to try and join ALLY.

  • @tarquinnff3
    @tarquinnff3 6 років тому +2

    I've been learning to think ahead lately. I skipped a difficult scene in my WIP and I've been blazing through the story since then. Plus, once I have a clearer understanding of where the story is going I can go back to that scene and it will probably be much easier to write.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  6 років тому +1

      Sounds like you’re thinking about this right way. Good for you. That’s awesome!

  • @charlottehardwick5728
    @charlottehardwick5728 4 роки тому

    Thank you.

  • @heatherharris847
    @heatherharris847 5 років тому +2

    My favorite writing tip is to write. Even if you feel like all you are writing is trash. Write. The more words on the page, the less there are bouncing around in your head making you question your sanity...at least that is the way I feel at times. **shrugs** Anywho, have a great day/night.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  5 років тому

      Couldn’t agree more!

    • @EzeICE
      @EzeICE 4 роки тому +2

      That's basically the method right there! Plain and simple. The idea is that you find your groove/inspiration/story etc is that you have to just write it out!

  • @lexysartworld
    @lexysartworld 4 роки тому +1

    THEY ARE SO HELPFUL! Thank goodness I click on this!

  • @mattleatherwoodjr.
    @mattleatherwoodjr. 6 років тому +2

    Great video, will tweet. P.S. Heard you reference Dean Wesley Smith so much, I enrolled in a few of his online courses at WMG Publishing. Thanks.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  6 років тому +1

      Fantastic. You won’t be disappointed. Take lots of notes.

  • @frankhardyjr1213
    @frankhardyjr1213 5 років тому +2

    I just listening to one of your voice on here, u got a interesting about some things you were saying about writing.... will like to know more
    About that...!!! Hope I will hear about from you on here.

  • @web97224
    @web97224 4 роки тому +1

    I like your videos.

  • @vtori71
    @vtori71 Рік тому

    That's pretty cool being a creator. ..oh man! I have created people in my world and I wonder if there is a real version of that person.
    Brilliant stuff!!!

  • @warhorse2034
    @warhorse2034 5 років тому

    Great video! Do you have any tips for newbies on finding an editor?

  • @regret_this_already
    @regret_this_already 3 роки тому +1

    My favorite is tip one. It turns out I'm a natural at it. lol

  • @nathanrao4500
    @nathanrao4500 5 років тому +2

    Thank you Michael, this is one of the most engaging and helpful videos I have seen. Great advice, beautifully delivered and inspiring. Glad I came across this!

  • @madhatyr
    @madhatyr 2 роки тому +1

    You remind me of a young Andre Braugher. It’s awesome.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  2 роки тому +1

      I get that all the time.

    • @madhatyr
      @madhatyr 2 роки тому

      @@AuthorLevelUp oh I’m sure! It’s a good look though, he’s a talented guy. Also, thanks for these awesome videos sir!

  • @destinyforreal9744
    @destinyforreal9744 4 роки тому +1

    Smart guy I like him

  • @arianamaria_
    @arianamaria_ 3 роки тому +2

    harry potter is a testament to the fact that your main character doesnt have to be likable

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  3 роки тому

      Those are fightin' words! LOL

    • @arianamaria_
      @arianamaria_ 3 роки тому +1

      Author Level Up its a hill I’m willing to die on

  • @gabrielabianchi1809
    @gabrielabianchi1809 5 років тому +1

    Hi, new follower here from Puerto Rico.

    • @AuthorLevelUp
      @AuthorLevelUp  5 років тому

      Hola, Gabriela! Welcome aboard!

    • @gabrielabianchi1809
      @gabrielabianchi1809 5 років тому +1

      @@AuthorLevelUp Thanks! Have a good day.
      God Bless, take care + happy writing :)

  • @iWookie911
    @iWookie911 3 роки тому +1

    If YOU don't love your book, nobody else can either.

  • @dragonchr15
    @dragonchr15 4 роки тому

    People should write to entertain. If you are not entertained by what you wrote, then it is highly unlikely that others will be.
    At the very least, try to have a theme weaved in there so your writing is not completely vapid and you have something to fall back on.

  • @leahmason-virgin
    @leahmason-virgin 5 років тому +1

    Thank you for your insights. (P.s. sorry for the typo 😳

    • @leahmason-virgin
      @leahmason-virgin 5 років тому

      I was running and listening to several of your videos. I shouldn't run and type 😁🏃‍♀️

  • @meditation-bagdad3462
    @meditation-bagdad3462 4 роки тому

    I liked too much the idea that to write for the pleasure, to have fun, (enjoy your self), we have a chance to write and to communicate, so enjoy it and , let us enjoy these and to think about mony

  • @havocboy1989
    @havocboy1989 3 роки тому

    Any tips for an amateur writer... my issues is that I can clearly see the scene , characters and the mood in my mind... but I find it hard to translate my "mind's eye" to the page... I find I either don't give enough detail or I give too much and risk losing the attention of my reader