• writing prompts, writing sprints

    Writing Sprints: What They Are, How to Do Them, and Why You Should!

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    There are two writing woes that affect our writing more than than anything else—writer’s block, and editing when we should be freeform writing. Sometimes writing prompts can help infuse life back into a dry spell, but the newest writing trend is an activity called writing sprints (also known as word sprints), and they can actually help with both writer’s block and taming our inner editors. What Are Writing Sprints? Writing sprints are short bursts of focused writing time that can be done alone or with a group. Twitter and Instagram are also growing in popularity for writing sprints. Anyone can…

  • twitter hashtag for writers

    5 Twitter Hashtags Every Writer Is Using Right Now

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    If you haven’t hopped on Twitter yet, you are seriously missing out on some wonderful connections in the online writing community. The key to successfully benefitting from Twitter is engagement, and hashtags make finding your tribe even easier—if you know where to look! Here are five trending hashtags to help you get inspired, find writing tips, and connect with readers and other authors. 1.) #WritingTip or #Writetip This is pretty self-explanatory, but there are some real gems under this tag. Writers are using this to share everything from inspirational quotes to practical advice about evolving and refining their craft. 2.)…

  • Gather Ye Rosebuds: What Stubborn Weeds and Good Writing Have in Common

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    Many authors believe that only bad writers need editing and revision. I can assure you, that idea is false. Every author needs editing; savvy writers actually get it. Here’s why: The process of writing is quite a bit like having a big backyard. I can plant beautiful, bountiful blooms. I can water them. I can watch with delight as those seedlings break ground into grand, gorgeous displays. But around those blooming plants leaves will fall from the trees above. Naughty weeds will sprout in and try to camouflage themselves as if they belong amongst my flowers. Birds will drop twigs, rabbits will…

  • best books to read,

    The Best Books to Read for Summer 2016

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    Do you know what’s synonymous with summer vacation? Summer reading. No, not the boring list you received from your high school English teacher that you needed to complete before returning to school in September. I’m talking about no-obligation, fun, summer books that are meant to be enjoyed by a pool, on the beach, or in a cabin tucked high in the mountains. If the community pool is your summer refuge, have no worries. The best books to read for summer 2016 are here, and they can transport you to any vacation locale your heart desires! So, what makes a great summer read…