How to Write More Concisely: Why Fewer Words Make Your Writing Stronger

From Edie: Lilka Raphael shares how to write more concisely by cutting unnecessary words, strengthening scenes, building tension, and keeping readers engaged from beginning to end.

How to Write More Concisely: Why Fewer Words Make Your Writing Stronger

by Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael

As to the adjective, when in doubt, strike it out. ~Mark Twain

As authors, our mission is to convey a message or make a point that is clearly understood. In theory, the more words that we write should provide additional insight to the reader. However, in an era of shorter attention spans and micro messages, we are often most effective when we are prudent with our words. To catch and maintain our readers’ attention, more isn’t always better. The knack of maximizing influence through deliberate and concise word choices is a skill suited for writers of any genre.

When God Surprises Writers with Unexpected Opportunities

From Edie: Julie Lavender shares how God can surprise writers with unexpected opportunities, even while other doors remain closed, and why trusting His timing matters.

When God Surprises Writers with Unexpected Opportunities

by Julie Lavender @JLavenderWrites

“Whatcha writing about now,” my mom questioned after we completed her errands. Somehow, even with actively-progressing macular degeneration, my sweet, 86-year-old mom manages to read everything I write.

So much so that she scolded me the other day because I failed to tell her about a 250-word blurb I’d contributed to a much-longer piece in Guideposts Magazine. To her dismay (or should I say mine?), her Sunday School classmate’s friend’s brother who used to live in our hometown saw it first and dared to call the sister who called the friend who called my mom’s Sunday School classmate.

When Writers Feel Overlooked: Why Faithfulness Matters More Than Recognition

From Edie: Heidi McGill helps writers discover why faithfulness matters more than recognition, rankings, followers, or success—and what God truly values.

When Writers Feel Overlooked: Why Faithfulness Matters More Than Recognition

by Heidi Gray McGill @HeidiGrayMcGill

Your metrics do not impress God. He is looking at something else entirely.

I am a connector. It is not on the spiritual gifts list, but it is mine as surely as any gift I can name. In the business world, I delegated, spotting where people shone and matched them to work that fit. In the author world, I am both the boss and the employee, so delegation is mostly off the table. But connecting? That I can still do.

Finished Your First Draft? What Writers Should Do After “The End”

From Edie: Cindy Sproles shares what writers should do after “The End,” from editing and polishing your manuscript to embracing what comes next.

Finished Your First Draft? What Writers Should Do After “The End”

by Cindy K. Sproles @CindyDevoted

I just typed those wonderful last words—THE END. It’s been months of work. Writing, rewriting. Character development, names, and name changes. I’ve even been known to scream upon occasion when I can’t get a scene to work, or even when a scene works perfectly. Either way, once a writer hits those last six letters that turn into two huge words, folks seem to think the work is done.

When Writers Want to Quit: Don’t Punt on First Down

From Edie: From Larry Leech: When writers want to quit, perseverance matters. Discover how to push through discouragement, find clarity, and keep writing until you reach “The End.”

When Writers Want to Quit: Don’t Punt on First Down

by Larry J. Leech, II @LarryJLeechII

Steve Martin, that wild and crazy guy, back in the 1970s uttered some famous words on an album (yeah, those things made out of vinyl) that I have never forgotten: “Punt on first down.”

Those who understand football know that is just plain old crazy talk. No team in its right mind would punt on first down. That’s just giving up without trying. Quitting without any effort.

Yeah.

Kinda like we feel sometimes while working on a project. Grab a towel and throw it in. Curl into a ball and cry until eternity. Whatever works for you.

How Writers Can Adapt to Change in the Publishing Industry

From Edie: Martin Wiles shares how writers can adapt to changes in publishing, editing, style guidelines, and AI while staying flexible, informed, and focused on their writing goals.

How Writers Can Adapt to Change in the Publishing Industry

by Martin Wiles @LinesFromGod

Paper was my world. Plastic? Not so much. 

At fourteen, I began bagging groceries at a local grocery store. At the time, plastic bags were only someone’s dream. We used paper bags. I could pack many items in a bag if they weren’t too heavy. The bags stood up nicely when we bagboys packed them tightly. They also stacked nicely in the trunk of the customer’s car. 

How to Rediscover the Joy of Writing When You Feel Discouraged

From Edie: Beth Vogt shares encouragement for writers feeling discouraged. Discover practical ways to rediscover the joy of writing, reconnect with your why, and find the motivation to keep going.

How to Rediscover the Joy of Writing When You Feel Discouraged

by Beth K. Vogt @BethVogt

Earlier this month, I chatted with another writer, who shared a disappointment with me. A frustration. A concern.

I can hear you thinking, “Pick a word already, Beth.” 

Each of these words apply to what my writer-friend shared. What was she so disappointed, frustrated, and concerned about?