If you’ve ever had your writing critiqued, chances are someone has told you to ‘avoid passive voice’. English teachers and editors often discourage it because it can make sentences feel wordy, unclear, or detached. So, what exactly is the passive voice, when should you use it, and how does it differ from the active voice?…
Stories rely on narrators to guide readers through the plot, reveal characters’ motives, and shape the narrative. But what happens when you can’t fully trust the narrator? That’s where the concept of the unreliable narrator comes in – a literary technique that adds intrigue, complexity, and often a little deception to storytelling. It adds a lot…
From Atticus Finch to Katniss Everdeen, iconic names stand out because they reflect personality, background, and sometimes even the plot itself. More than any other element, characters are what readers connect with the most, which is why they stay in their mind long after finishing a novel! But creating an iconic name that sticks with your readers…
Writing is one of the most versatile forms of human expression, capable of capturing the imagination and distilling complex ideas into something tangible. Yet, the age old question remains: is writing an art or craft?! In this blog, I’ll explain the distinction between writing as an art and craft and explain why embracing both is…
For many aspiring writers, the hardest part of writing isn’t coming up with ideas – it’s sticking to a routine. Developing a writing habit isn’t just about discipline; it’s about creating a system that makes writing feel natural, enjoyable and sustainable. Whether you dream of writing a novel, growing your blog, or building your writing…
Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page – it’s about structuring those words so they flow logically and keep your reader engaged. How you organise your writing can make all the difference between a piece that has a natural flow and one that’s hard to follow. Whether you’re telling a story, building an…
Every writer knows the importance of having a dedicated writing space – a place that minimises distractions, encourages creativity and makes it that little bit easier to complete your writing goals. Whether you’re working on the next great novel, editing a blog, or journaling your thoughts, the right environment makes all the difference. And no,…
When it comes to writing, few choices are as important as point of view (POV). The perspective from which you tell your story shapes how readers experience it – what they see, how they feel, and how they connect with your characters. Get it right, and the POV can pull readers into your world, making…
A writing style is what gives your writing its own character and largely depends on the audience you’re targeting and the purpose of your work. Across the millions of writing works from novels and poems to news articles and academic essays, each piece can generally fall into one of four main styles. Understanding these styles…
Creative nonfiction is an exciting genre that blends storytelling with real life, allowing writers to tell personal stories, historical events, or cultural reflections, all with a narrative flair. But sometimes, finding a place to start can be challenging or you’ve hit the dreaded writer’s block. That’s where these prompts come in. A good prompt can…