5 Writing Lessons I Learned from Being an Editor

In January, I started my own short story zine. Ever since, I’ve been reading my way out of a steady pile of submissions. What’s more, I’m reading these stories with a new perspective—while I usually read for pleasure, as an editor, I now have to make judgments about each story. What makes a story good? Which will… Read more »

4 Ways Blogging Will Make You a Better Writer

Today’s guest article comes from Dan Blank, Founder of WeGrowMedia.com. Dan was one of the people instrumental in helping me turn DIY MFA into what it is today. Dan especially helped me find my direction for DIY MFA and organize the online presence, including the blog. Dan works with writers at all stages of their… Read more »

Business Writing: Two Important Lessons

It’s been a while since I’ve shown my face at DIY MFA, and that is because I have been full-time, honest-to-Zeus employed – as a writer. No, I’m not getting paid to spin tales of whimsy and fantasy (yet). I’m a content writer and editor for a small business in San Diego. Switching gears to business writing was… Read more »

The Rewrite Rules!

In April of 2011, I hit a wall in my book. This was not a “I need a break” or “I’m tired” or “this is hard” wall. Writers don’t get breaks. We’re always tired. And writing is never not hard. This was a “this is not working” wall. There was a fundamental flaw in my… Read more »

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Why Writers Should Be On Pinterest

When I first saw the site, I didn’t understand why writers should be on Pinterest. Nonetheless, I joined with the best of intentions. It wouldn’t help my writing, but I would dress like a model without spending a dime. My apartment would look like a spread in Good Housekeeping. I would feast every. Single. Day. That… Read more »

Use a Mood Board to Boost Your Writing

In a past  life (i.e. my early 20’s), I studied graphic design and worked as a toy developer. I designed hundreds of toys in those few short years and in the process learned a lot of techniques that would help my writing later on. When you work in a creative industry like toy design, you… Read more »

Start Here: Being Your Own Muse

Once you hit your creative flow, working on your manuscript can be a blast. But sometimes, the muse just doesn’t want to come. Well, forget the muse–you can get the creative juices flowing all on your own. I’ve spent five years in the creative industry, and when a client deadline hits, you need something to show them whether… Read more »

Q&A With An Editor: The Acquisitions Process

In December, I had the opportunity to attend the Random House Open House. It was a fabulous event, providing valuable information to writers and readers alike. One of the highlights of the open house, though, was a panel discussion with Ballantine publishing team behind Justin Cronin’s bestselling book THE PASSAGE–and now the sequel THE TWELVE. This… Read more »