Set aside regular time for writing - sometimes inspired, sometimes not.

Measure writing in time.

Read one hour for every hour writing.

Establish Mindset first, before writing. Write from feeling.

Using outlines is KEY.

The outline should end in what the reader feels/does as a result of the piece.

Better writing activates multiple senses - VAK

Use metaphors, analogies, frames of mind, to activate the senses. Use metaphors to create depth of understanding.

Combine words in new and unexpected ways. writing as art.

Storytelling

1) Set up 2) Conflict/uncertainty 3) Resolution/punch line

It was a bright and sunny day, but all was hopeless. Gina didn't even have enough money for coffee, so she stole it.

The resolution becomes the next set up:

1) Barista saw her and 2) ran after her but 3) Gina was too fast.

Open Hooks and Foreshadowing

Bleary-eyed and drunk, Dave was struggling to make it home. The road was a scene from a fun house in front of him. Turning to cross the train tracks, the fun house suddenly transformed into a house of terror. A train was plunging into Dave's passenger side.

When we were young, Dave and I always dreamed of being famous......

Rhythm

Write with a rhythm that matches the emotion you are trying to convey. IDENTIFY the emotion you want to convey ahead of time.

Identify the emotion for each stage of the article.

Revision

All the writing is in the revision - this is what determines if it's good or not.