Writing About Writing

Written by Rachael Lammie, November 16, 2023. Updated April 8, 2024.

November is often called writing month. As a writer, it is challenging to carve out space to write consistently. As with many creative pursuits, various factors affect writing quality and quantity. Many talented writers have shared their tricks and secrets to making this craft work for you when you want it to (not just when the muse decides to show up).

A tremendous amount of writing advice is widely available (check out Writer's Digest for great inspirational writing quotes). So, I am not about to present an exhaustive list of writing advice. However, I will summarize some critical writing points that are working for me during my current writing phase. Check out the status of Book Two by signing up for my newsletter!

Writing for 15 minutes per day is a long time.

Ironically, many authors don't spend the majority of their time writing. It's hard. The time spent writing compared to preparing the time to write continually varies and often seems out of our control. I scoffed when someone first advised me to write for 15 minutes a day. It seemed like a minuscule amount of time. I need hours to write. Not minutes. However, in the absence of hours, minutes do count. And sometimes, the less time we have, the more productive we are. So lately, I have been abiding by the 15-minute-per-day suggestion, and I am super happy with the results! I take the time to set myself up and focus for 15 minutes on the piece, chapter, or plot point I am trying to describe, and the words seem to flow. If you feel the flow, 15 minutes could quickly turn into more time. However, having manageable and tangible writing goals can go a long way to quality writing sessions.

Plotting is still writing.

Many authors suffer from imposter syndrome. It is so easy to feel discouraged! What makes a person a writer? It is not the number of published books nor their writing credentials. Think about how many books were published before specific degree programs even existed! You are a writer when you write. It is that simple. To avoid the feeling of imposter syndrome, I remind you that any form of writing is writing. Plot structures? Character summaries? Grocery list? Free writing sessions? This is all part of the writing process and makes you a writer. Writing is a form of communication. And any of the 'extra' forms of writing sets you up for success when you finally write with intent. It took me a year to plot out my first novel, Simon's Time. It took me only three months to write it.

We need plot points to drive action in our stories, and we need to believe we are writers to write. Writing paralysis is a common experience when we feel stumped. There are so many good quotes about not being able to edit blank pieces of paper. So when it comes down to it, ready or not, we must write.

How do we avoid writer's block in the first place?

Some authors have turned to AI programs to help beat writer's block. And that is a whole other blog post. But considering the pen-to-paper, keyboard-tapping writing process, you must complete a draft. I have been using what people call a skeleton draft instead of writing my second novel linearly. Don't get me wrong, linear writing is acceptable when it works! There is no wrong way to write. But I often feel overwhelmed during a chapter if I don't have all the pieces ready to get down on paper. So, I have been taking a bird's eye view while getting the main points down, knowing I will go back later to deepen the dialogue, character motivations, etc. Writing a novel is like working with puzzle pieces, and I continually switch views while writing. But having a working skeleton draft of my book seems to take the edge off the writing paralysis. Now I have my structure, and I don't have to think about what happens next as I write because I already know. I must go in and elaborate, which feels more manageable to do in the safety of the draft.

Writing alone can be lonely.

Writing has always appealed to me because I can sit with my thoughts before sharing them. The process, even if you are co-writing with another writer, is inevitably an independent task. Writing is literally the process of bridging what we can visualize in our heads to what happens on the page. The easy and fun parts are often the more enjoyable aspects of writing: this is most often the 'thinking about writing' and the final product. Writing can often feel challenging and empty when it does not go how we want.

Sometimes, there is flow. But we need inspiration for that to occur. And often, we get bored or frustrated, leading to dread when we finally think about sitting down to write. So, in honour of writing month, I give a shout-out to NaNoWriMo. This is an excellent platform for writers to connect. Scheduling in-person or online group writing sessions can help keep the creative flow. We must remember to share our writing journey via social media or a phone chat with a good friend. Please remember to make your writing process more solidified by staying connected to the world around you.

And if you still feel stuck, just jot down whatever notes come to you so they will be there when you are ready to write. I have finally identified this subtle fear that creeps in when I am not writing. It's a "what if I forget" type of fear. But I have come to believe that what hasn't been written yet cannot be lost. It will be there when we are ready.

How much control do we have over the creative process?

We are more than our work. But our work takes on a life of its own. It extends beyond ourselves. We have little control over what happens once it is "out there." But more than that, I am starting to learn that when we loosen our control over the outcome, it helps guide the writing process into an enjoyable act once again. As authors, we are the writing tools. We guide the process; the actual craft is from the muse or our maker.

(Edit to add): While the writing process is creative in terms of how we construct and present ideas, writers have a responsibility to ensure accurate, inclusive, and sensitive portrayals of the world around us. Since writing is a dynamic process, it involves a connection to readers and their experiences. Writers must be aware of what these experiences might be and how their writing might impact people in different ways. The following blog post provides writers a good reference for ensuring their writing is sensitive and appropriate in the context of the reader’s voice, particularly those voices that have been marginalized: https://www.websiteplanet.com/blog/sensitive-writing-guide/. This mindfulness can go a long way to making sure readers feel safe and heard.

On a practical side, we must balance the creative setup with meeting deadlines. So, even when I'm not feeling super inspired, I still sit down and write something. This is where breaking the writing into manageable chunks helps. That way, the setup is established to allow room for the creative flow. This delicate balance between ebb and flow is a continually shifting experience. What works one day might not work the next. So, our job is to show up daily and see where it leads.

And remember to read! If we are disconnected from life around us, we will run out of things to write about. Thanks for reading, and happy writing.

Writing Resources:

Alliance of Independent Authors: Association For Self-Publishing Authors. https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/

30 Writing Tips to Make Writing Easier. Grammarly. https://www.grammarly.com/blog/writing-tips/

72 of the Best Quotes About Writing. Writer's Digest. https://www.writersdigest.com/whats-new/72-of-the-best-quotes-about-writing

How to Become a Better Writer: 11 Steps for Success. Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-become-a-better-writer

Ink Quotes. Good Reads. https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/ink

NaNoWriMo. https://nanowrimo.org

On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. Stephen King. https://a.co/d/aZimzqt

Sensitive Writing Guide. Website Planet. https://www.websiteplanet.com/blog/sensitive-writing-guide/

Check out your local library’s and university's writing resources!

Traditional or Self-Publishing: What’s Right for You?

What is self-publishing, and why do I need to know about it? Written by Rachael Lammie, April 17, 2023. Last updated August 2, 2023.

Self-publishing has been around for a long time, but it has become increasingly popular in recent years because of technological advancements and the rise of digital publishing platforms.  Indie publishing, or independent publishing, is any publication process that doesn’t rely on a Big Five publisher. While this term is used to describe publishing a book through small presses, it now also means self-publishing by a single author. And there are a lot of authors choosing to publish this way. In this case, indie publishing means that the author is in control of all aspects of publishing their book. They can publish the book immediately after completing it and will retain all rights to the work (as opposed to sharing them with a publisher and literary agent).

For Authors

Indie publishing is a growing path for writers to become published authors without needing money for an agent. It gives authors more control over their work and to publish it without the help of an established press. They can edit, produce, distribute, and market their own books. Some pros of self-publishing include faster publication, higher earning potential, and more control over the outcome. Self-publishing also allows authors to retain full ownership of their work and make all editorial and production decisions. This can be considered a pro as well as a con because it is a time-consuming process.

There are some other cons to consider. Self-publishing can involve financial risk as all costs are upfront and at the author's expense. There may also be less exposure and distribution compared to traditional publishing. And like I said, it is time-consuming to be the sole production person…and perhaps harder to develop synergy that comes from working with others. Additionally, self-published books may not meet the same quality standards as traditionally published books. But that doesn’t have to be the case! Many self-published authors have established their own business process and contract out the editing, proofreading, formatting, and cover design of their books. So, if an author can do all this themselves, what’s stopping them?

What about Traditional Publishing?

Traditional publishing is when a publisher offers an author a contract and, in turn, prints, publishes, and sells their book through booksellers and other retailers. The publisher essentially buys the rights to publish the author's book and pays them royalties from the sales. The publisher handles the marketing, distribution, and warehousing of the book. However, authors are often expected to contribute to this process. This is the type of publishing that comes to mind when readers think about what books they want to buy the next time they are at their favorite bookstore. However, with advancing technology and increasing online shopping, this may not be the mainstream publishing model for much longer.

Some pros of traditional publishing include access to resources and networks, increased credibility and exposure, and no upfront costs from the author. Traditional publishers also have more industry connections that can help to sell more books. But there are some cons. Traditional publishing can involve long wait times and limited control over the outcome of the book. Authors may also have less creative freedom and lower royalties compared to self-publishing. And it’s a competitive market, and just plain hard to break in. Why not start to self-publish your own work, just to get started? Who knows where it might lead.

What about Hybrid? Author Beware the Vanity Publisher.

Hybrid publishing is a publishing model that combines elements of traditional and self-publishing. In this model, authors pay a publishing company to publish their books to ensure professional quality and services. The company has editorial, design, and marketing teams. The author and the publisher both assume responsibility for some or all aspects of book production, distribution, and sales. The financial arrangements and the percentage of royalties vary from company to company.

But is it too good to be true? Hybrid publishing is supposed to be an alternative to self-publishing, where authors don't have to hire all the services they need separately. It is also an option for authors who are uninterested or unable to publish with a traditional publisher. At least, that’s what internet blogs tell me. But every time I try to locate and read about an actual hybrid publisher, the term “vanity” publisher seems to emerge instead. These types of publishers, and arguably some “self-publishers” and “hybrid” companies, can fall into this group and often sell authors on the idea that their team will edit, design, and promote their books. For a sizeable fee, of course. And while the package may look enticing and professional, companies like these make their money from the authors who pay them to publish their books, not from the book sales themselves.

So authors may have luck in finding a legitimate hybrid publisher to work with while not having to seek out contracts for the whole process (from editing to marketing and everything in between). However, they will need to be cautious when considering hybrid publishing. As with any industry, some companies may not have the author’s best interests in mind. It’s essential to thoroughly research any company before entering into a publishing agreement with them. Authors should also be aware of the financial risks involved and consider whether hybrid publishing is the right choice. And some author friends of mine even suggest that a legitimate publisher should never ever ask authors to cover upfront costs, which leaves me wondering where this places hybrid publishers.

You need to do what's right for you, and there may be some good options for hybrid publishing. Many authors seek to procure a professional imprint plus control over one's production process; it may be the best of both worlds. And if you have the budget for it and want to have your book professionally published, a vanity publisher could be just the thing. Just make sure to read the fine print. Some companies may hold the rights to the first 5000 copies of your book, so you won't see a dime until you sell over that amount.

What Do Readers Think?

Some readers may prefer books from big publishing companies because they trust the quality and credibility of the books they produce. Others may choose books from indie authors because they enjoy discovering new voices and supporting independent creators. According to a survey by Written Word Media, 14% of readers said they prefer a series, 26% said they prefer standalone books, and 60% said they have no preference. This suggests that readers are more concerned with the content of the book rather than who published it. And this is definitely good news for indie authors.

Within an ever-increasing digital age, readers and authors have a plethora of books and sources at their fingertips. Amazon and Kindle Direct Publishing make it easy for indie authors to self-publish and bring great quality books direct to readers. It is also reassuring that these services offer print-on-demand: Environmentally friendly reading while ensuring the art of reading hardcopy does not fall by the wayside.

Are you an author? Which publishing model is right for you? Happy writing. And thanks for reading.

References:

Alliance of Independent Authors: Association For Self-Publishing Authors. https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/

What Readers Want from Writers in 2022 — Alliance of Independent Authors (selfpublishingadvice.org)

Pros and Cons of Self Publishing. A detailed look at one side of the .... https://writingcooperative.com/pros-and-cons-of-self-publishing-66fa938ba3f9

Self Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: Pros & Cons. https://gatekeeperpress.com/self-publishing-vs-traditional-publishing/

What is Hybrid Publishing? Here Are 4 Things All Writers Should Know. https://www.writersdigest.com/self-publishing-by-writing-goal/what-is-hybrid-publishing-here-are-4-things-you-should-know

Why Should You Self-Publish? Pros and Cons - Inscript Publishing. https://www.inscriptpublishing.com/self-publishing-pros-and-cons/

17 Great Indie Author Websites: The Self-Publishing - EditionGuard. https://www.editionguard.com/learn/17-great-indie-author-websites/

17 Pros and Cons of Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing. https://www.writersdigest.com/getting-published/17-pros-and-cons-of-traditional-publishing-vs-self-publishing   

Copy Editing vs. Proofreading: The Importance of Being Human

Written by Rachael Lammie, February 27, 2022.

Copy editing and proofreading are two critical steps in the publishing process. So what is the main difference between copy editing and proofreading? Why is proofreading so important in business? I explore the answers to these questions in this blog post. I will also describe why you should never rely solely on a computer to edit your most essential documents; another pair of human eyes is needed!

Copy Editing vs. Proofreading: The Main Difference

Copy editing is the process of checking for mistakes in accuracy, clarity of meaning, and formatting. On the other hand, proofreading is the process of correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling in a given text. Proofreading is typically the final step toward completion, and often occurs after a round or two of copy editing. While proofreading is inherently part of the copy editing process (editors cannot help themselves), a “final proof” should always be given once all content and copy editing revisions are made.

Why is Proofreading Important in Business?

Proofreading is essential in business because it ensures that your documents are error-free. This makes you look professional and trustworthy to your clients. If you submit a document with errors, it can reflect poorly and may even cost you the contract. A business document, or any sort of important communication, should go through much more than a simple spell check before being sent to a client. Editing is a skill set. Editors are thrilled to take on the challenge of perfecting your document so that you can focus on your own set of skills and abilities.

What is the Main Purpose of Proofreading a Paper?

The primary purpose of proofreading a paper is to correct any mistakes so that the text is error-free. This allows the reader to understand the article's content without being distracted by errors. The writing process itself is often a source for creativity. During the writing process, many academics and business professionals generate new ideas as the words flow. While the creative process shouldn't be interrupted, a final proofread is essential when getting ready for publication or distribution. Academic research and business writing are high-stakes and documents get rejected due to residual grammatical errors or if the meaning is at all unclear.

What is the Main Action a Writer Takes When Proofreading?

When proofreading, a writer's main action is to read through the text carefully and identify any mistakes. They then correct these mistakes using the appropriate tools (i.e. grammar checker, spellchecker, etc.). Often this is performed by the writer themself. However, hiring a professional proofreader and copy editor will ensure your final product is both error-free and appropriately communicates your intended message. The type of editing you need will depend on the importance of your document. Hiring a professional for copyediting and proofreading is often a critical step that should not be skipped.

Are Online Plagiarism Checkers Trustworthy?

Many online plagiarism checkers are not trustworthy because they often produce false positives. This means they will report plagiarism even when it is not present in a text. Examples are common sentences or clauses used frequently but not specific to the text at hand. Furthermore, these checkers are not 100% accurate, so it is always best to proofread your documents yourself.

Another reason to watch out for online plagiarism checkers is that they only look for semantically identical phrases and structures. Artificial intelligence software programs can take an entire document and change exactly enough words to pass a plagiarism checker with only the click of a button. However, if it is still content that has been copied and duplicated; it's just different enough to pass a computer algorithm.

Do Artificial Intelligence Programs Proofread as Well as a Human?

No, artificial intelligence programs do not proofread as well as a human because they cannot identify all errors. For example, they may miss small grammar mistakes or typos. Furthermore, they cannot provide the same level of feedback and guidance as a human. However, suppose all you need is simple spellcheck, or your document's importance is low. In that case, you'll be fine with whatever program you use.

If however, your document requires context, culture, or nuance to be factored into its meaning, or if it is a high-stakes piece of writing that could affect your future or your business, then you need a human brain to consider it in its entirety.

This is why it is always best to have your documents edited and proofread by a professional copy editor or proofreader.

Reasons Not to Rely Soley on a Computer to Edit Your Most Important Documents

There are several reasons why you should never trust a computer to edit your most important documents:

• Computers cannot identify all errors.

• They can produce false positives, which means they will report plagiarism even when it is not present in a text.

• Artificial intelligence programs are getting better at copying and duplicating texts. However, they still do not proofread as well as a human.

• If you need a document to be contextualized or nuanced, then a computer will not be able to do this for you.

• A computer cannot provide the same level of feedback and guidance as a human.

How Do You Know When Your Document is Proofed and Ready?

While there is overlap in the editorial process, copy editing vs. proofreading is an important distinction to make when polishing your writing or when seeking an editor’s assistance. It is important to know what stage of the writing process you are in so that you know how to move forward. Computers should only be used as supplements to human judgement - never substitutes!

So how do you know when your document is ready?

It is a deliberate and intuitive process regarding the flow of syntax during the final read-through. It is much easier to determine when my clients' writing is successful in comparison to my own. The second pair of eyes is crucial to the writing process. Clarity, context, and voice are important aspects of writing that can be overlooked when relying solely on AI technology for editing purposes.