Phase 01 · Novice

Core Writing Principles

Scene vs. Sequel. Show Don't Tell. Drafting Mindset. Click any card to expand. Free to use, no credits.

Module 04
Core Writing Principles
Three foundational tools every draft is judged against.
Pacing
Scene vs. Sequel
Balance active plot progression with character processing.
The trap

Pacing the story too fast or lingering too long in one place.

The check

Does the scene end with a cliffhanger or decision, and does the sequel allow the character to process the emotional aftermath before acting again?

Fix

Ensure high-intensity action scenes alternate with slower, reflective aftermath scenes.

Sensory Anchor
Show, Don't Tell
Replace summaries with visceral, sensory descriptions.
The trap

Explicitly telling the reader an emotion (e.g., "She was terrified").

The check

Can you replace an adjective or summary statement with an action or sensory detail?

Fix

Evoke emotion by anchoring it in a visceral, physical reaction.

Process
Drafting Mindset
Separate the drafting phase (exploration) from the revision phase (precision).
The trap

Trying to edit and write at the same time, which stops the flow.

The check

Are you judging the words as you type them, or just letting the story pour out?

Fix

Complete the first draft without looking back. Save architecture and precision for the revision.