Writing While Distracted

Character Arcs: The Key to Relatable Stories

Welcome to "Writing While Distracted," the podcast dedicated to helping writers harness their creative energy amidst distractions. I'm Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach, and in today's episode, we delve into a topic that often confounds new writers: the difference between character arcs and story arcs.

Join us as we unravel the complexities of character development, exploring how characters grow and change throughout a story. We'll discuss the importance of establishing character arcs not just for protagonists but for all significant characters, ensuring a rich and engaging narrative.

Discover the nuances of showing character growth, from the inciting incident to the climax, and learn how to avoid common pitfalls like stereotypes. Whether you're working on a single novel or a series, this episode provides valuable insights to make your characters authentic and your stories compelling.

Stay tuned for tips, resources, and inspiration to polish your characters and keep your readers hooked. Happy writing!

Show Notes WWD Season 2 Character ARCs

Sign up for my newsletter for free resources for Writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

Follow me on my socials for quick tips and updates: https://www.instagram.com/writinghwhiledistracted/

Struggling with character development? Check out my free character building workbook: https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

Here is the free resource 60 Ways to Show Character Arc:https://dl.bookfunnel.com/xjcaam4085

This podcast is all about structure: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-ckhgh-167fd45

Eileen Cook’s Build Better Characters:  https://eileencook.com/non-fiction/

Debra Dixon Goal Motivation and Conflict: http://www.debradixon.com/index.html

Save the Cat: https://savethecat.com/books

Writing While Distracted Blog on Story Structure/Story ARC https://blog.writingwhiledistracted.com/?p=2295

 

Mastering Novel Pacing: Keep Your Readers Hooked!

Are you a writer whose mind is a whirlwind of creativity and distraction? Hello and welcome back to Writing While Distracted, the podcast that helps you transform your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. I'm your NeuroSpicy writing coach, Brenda Murphy.

In this episode, we delve into the magic of novel pacing—a crucial element that keeps your readers engaged and eager for more. Discover how the speed of your story impacts the reader's experience, making them feel breathless, cozy, or even bored if the pacing is off. Learn the tools of the trade, from sentence length to scene length, and how they contribute to the overall flow of your narrative.

Whether you're writing a thriller, cozy mystery, romance, or fantasy, understanding your audience is key to mastering pacing. Brenda shares insights on how to sprinkle information throughout your story, avoiding the dreaded info dump that can overwhelm readers. We also discuss the importance of revisions and how to use them to perfect your pacing.

Tune in to discover practical tips and strategies that will help you maintain a seamless narrative flow, ensuring your readers can't put your book down. Don't forget to check out the show notes for additional resources and links to helpful guides.

If you've enjoyed today's podcast, please subscribe and leave a review. It really helps get the podcast in front of more folks. Join us next time as we continue to unravel the mysteries of the writer's mind. Until then, keep writing, keep wandering, and embrace the distractions that fuel your creativity. Stay tuned, stay inspired!

Show Notes:

Free resources for writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

Here is the link for the free PDF about pacing: https://BookHip.com/RXVGPCX

This podcast is all about structure: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-ckhgh-167fd45

Follow me on my socials for quick tips and updates: https://www.instagram.com/writinghwhiledistracted/

Struggling with character development? Check out my free character building workbook: https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

Jordan Rosenfeld's book: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Scene-Revised-Expanded-Powerful/dp/1440351414/

Mastering the Revision Process: Transforming Your First Draft into a Masterpiece

Welcome to Writing While Distracted, the podcast that helps you transform your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. I'm your host, Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach. In this episode, we dive deep into the first part of the revision and editing process after completing your rough draft.

We'll discuss the importance of creating a reverse outline to get a clear view of your story's structure, ensuring your novel has a coherent beginning, middle, and end. Learn how to identify missing scenes, combine scenes for better pacing, and ensure your character development aligns with your plot.

Discover techniques to maintain reader engagement through effective storytelling, character arcs, and plot development. Whether you're a pantser or work from a loose outline, this episode offers invaluable tips for refining your manuscript and making your story compelling and readable.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of the revision process and help you shape your wobbly first draft into a polished novel. Stay tuned, stay inspired, and keep writing!

Show notes WWD Season Two Episode Two

Sign up for my newsletter and get a free character workbook https://dl.bookfunnel.com/ofxxsx32dj

My podcast about revisions and editing:  Mastering Revisions: Turning Rough Drafts into Polished Gems https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-xhk2p-167fa2b

Sandra Gerth’s fantastic book Show Don’t Tell:  https://www.amazon.com/Show-Dont-Tell-descriptions-characters-ebook/dp/B01LXFJ0AC/

 

Revisions and Editing Steps

To recap the process, I use to get my rough as hell draft to a finished product to send to an editor, publisher, or out on submission is:

• Round1: Revisions: structure, pacing, character arcs, genre conventions, continuity, and attending to items that require research.
• Round 2: Language: word choice, refining prose, pacing, dialogue, scene descriptions, character descriptions, continuity. *At this point I send it to my beta readers.
• Round 3: Proofing: Suggestions from Beta readers, grammar, spelling, punctuation, copy edits, line edits formatting for submission or publication. Copy edits, line edits.
• Round 4: Final proofing read through before submission or publishing.

 

 

 

 

Mastering Revisions: Turning Rough Drafts into Polished Gems

Welcome to Writing While Distracted, the podcast that transforms scattered thoughts into literary brilliance! I'm Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach. In this episode, we'll delve into the exhilarating world of revisions and editing, the 'fun part' of writing.

Discover how to organize your revision process, from structuring your story and refining your prose to the final proofing stages. I'll share my personal workflow and steps to help you polish your rough drafts into submission-ready manuscripts.

We'll also discuss the vital roles of beta readers, copy editors, line editors, and proofreaders in perfecting your work. Plus, I'll provide tips for staying focused amidst the chaos, especially for those dealing with distraction and mental health issues.

Join us as we navigate the winding roads of creativity and embrace the distractions that fuel our writing. Until next time, keep writing and stay inspired!

Free resources for writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

Sign up for my newsletter for writers and those who want to be here https://dl.bookfunnel.com/d3lfzojpcl 

Show Notes Revisions and Editing

To recap the process, I use to get my rough as hell draft to a finished product to send to an editor, publisher, or out on submission is:

• Round1: Revisions: structure, pacing, character arcs, genre conventions, continuity, and attending to items that require research.
• Round 2: Language: word choice, refining prose, pacing, dialogue, scene descriptions, character descriptions, continuity. *At this point I send it to my beta readers.
• Round 3: Proofing: Suggestions from Beta readers, grammar, spelling, punctuation, copy edits, line edits formatting for submission or publication. Copy edits, line edits.
• Round 4: Final proofing read through before submission or publishing.

 

Jane Friedman has a great article on hiring a developmental editor here (https://janefriedman.com/before-you-hire-a-developmental-editor-what-you-need-to-know/) Her newsletter is one of my favorites and always contains helpful information and links.

 

Embrace the Chaos: Your First Draft

Join Brenda Murphy, your neuro-spicy writing coach, on an inspiring journey to transform your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. In this episode of "Writing While Distracted," Brenda delves into the essence of the first draft—what it is, what it isn’t, and how to navigate through the chaos to complete your manuscript.

Discover practical tips to stay focused, learn the importance of embracing imperfection, and find out how to avoid the common pitfalls that prevent many writers from finishing their books. Whether you write every day or in short bursts, this episode offers valuable insights to help you keep moving forward, overcome creative blocks, and celebrate your accomplishments.

Stay tuned, stay inspired, and remember: creativity thrives in the midst of chaos.

Show Notes for First Draft

Free resources for writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

Links to podcasts

https://writingwhiledistracted.podbean.com/e/mastering-novel-writing-11-essential-steps-for-neurodivergent-writers/

Links Character workbook  https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

Link for Writers Block Workbook  https://BookHip.com/ZBMGLLR

 

Mastering Character Creation: A Guide for Distracted Writers

Welcome to "Writing While Distracted," the podcast designed to help writers harness their creativity amidst life's chaos. I'm Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach. This episode delves into the fascinating and sometimes daunting task of character creation. Learn how to develop authentic, relatable characters that drive your story and keep readers engaged.

We'll explore various methods for character development, from checklists and backstories to understanding internal and external goals, motivations, and conflicts. Discover how to portray characters outside your lived experiences accurately and respectfully, and the importance of using sensitivity readers.

Additionally, I'll share my favorite resources, including Eileen Cook's "Build Better Characters" and Deborah Dixon's "Goal, Motivation, and Conflict," along with practical tips on organizing character information. Whether you're a plotter or a pantser, this episode provides invaluable insights to help you craft three-dimensional characters that resonate with readers.

Tune in to learn how to transform your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance and keep your story moving forward, even when distractions loom large. Happy writing!

Free resources for writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

Here at all the resources I spoke about

Show Notes Episode 10 Feel the Fear

Links to podcast

https://writingwhiledistracted.podbean.com/e/mastering-novel-writing-11-essential-steps-for-neurodivergent-writers/

Links Character workbook https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

These are some books and classes I recommend as excellent resources for character creation.

1. Build Better Characters: The Psychology of Backstory & How To Use It In Your Writing to Hook Readers by Eileen Cook. {https://books2read.com/u/mgP2Px} This is the book I wish I had when I was first started writing. Eileen is an award-winning (use her bio) author, and this book explains how to construct characters and, more importantly, get at the root of their motivations, fears, and behaviors—filled with exercises that will help you figure out how to build characters that are believable and relatable.
2. Debra Dixon’s Goal, Motivation, and Conflict {https://books2read.com/u/4ARJRe} is also a go-to for me. At the heart of any story are your character’s goals, their motivation for achieving those goals, and the obstacles in their way—a must-have, in my opinion, for any writer’s bookshelf. Her simple explanations and worksheets are the most helpful in understanding how character arcs work.
3. Hal Ackerman’s Screenwriting Class. {https://www.creativelive.com/class/screenwriting-the-art-of-the-first-draft} This class is offered on Creative Live and can be purchased through them. Hal’s explanation of how characters’ behaviors drive plot is excellent and well worth the price. If you buy the class, you can download it for rewatching whenever you need a refresher. I use his method of plot outlining for all of my stories. Knowing what a character will do/sacrifice to achieve their objective is vital in creating compelling plots that will have readers turning pages.
4. Angela Ackerman’s and Becky Puglisi: Emotional Wound Thesaurus, Positive Character Traits Thesaurus, Negative Character Traits Thesaurus, The Conflict Thesaurus Volumes 1 and 2. {https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZH6WS6C?binding=kindle_edition} I use this collection of books in two ways. If I am starting to noodle a book and am casting about for plot ideas and conflicts that will power my story, I thumb through these books for ideas. If I already have a rough idea of the conflict at the center of my story, I will use these books to define how that will play out in the story. Please don’t skip the introductions in these books as they explain the concept each explores in depth and are well worth your time. They fit into Debra Dixon’s Goal Motivation and Conflict framework perfectly.

How to use this information

After reading and rereading and putting into practice recommendations from the above sources, (full reveal, I credit Eileen Cook’s Build Better Character’s book for my Goldie Win), I came up with a form that helps to organize the information I find most helpful to know about each of my characters. You can find a downloadable version here as a fillable PDF workbook.

Disclaimer: While it might be helpful as a standalone workbook it will make so much more sense if you read Debra Dixon’s Goal Motivation and Conflict and Eileen Cook’s Build Better Characters, along with the other references listed above.

Link for Workbook: https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

 

 

 

 

Transforming Chaos into Creativity: The Art of Pre-Writing

Are you a writer struggling to harness your creativity amidst distractions? Welcome to "Writing While Distracted," the podcast that turns your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. Hosted by Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach, this episode offers invaluable advice for staying focused and using your unique strengths to craft your story.

In this episode, Brenda delves into the importance of pre-writing, or as she calls it, "outlining for the outline impaired." Learn how to create a basic framework for your novel, from making a scene list to understanding your characters' desires and motivations. Discover how to navigate the "swampy middle" of your manuscript and keep your narrative on track, even if you're not a natural outliner.

Whether you're just starting your book or stuck mid-way, Brenda's practical tips will guide you through the process. She emphasizes the importance of knowing your genre, setting realistic deadlines, and understanding your characters' arcs. Plus, get insights into using tools like scene cards and software applications to organize your thoughts visually.

Join us as we explore how to turn chaos into creativity, making the writing journey less daunting and more enjoyable. Embrace the distractions that fuel your creativity and keep writing!

 

 Show notes Season One Episode Nine

Free resources for writers

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

 

Link to Free Character Workbook https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

Link to my newsletter just for Writers https://BookHip.com/ZBMGLLR

Link to my blog for deeper dives into Writing While Distracted content https://blog.writingwhiledistracted.com/ 

Here is the link of for the Milanote App https://milanote.com

Here is the link for Scrivener https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/overview

Sandra Gerth’s book:  Point of View: How to use the different POV types, avoid head-hopping, and choose the best point of view for your book (Writers’ Guide Series) 

https://books2read.com/u/mgDWlz

 

Jordan Rosenfeld’s book Make a Scene Revised and Expanded Edition: Writing a Powerful Story One Scene at a Time 

https://books2read.com/u/3LLzgw

Dustin Lance Black’s Writing Process https://youtu.be/vrvawtrRxsw?si=KaKtbpGmpJPrAOOi

 

 

 

 

Mastering Your Novel: Evaluating Fiction Premises

Are you a writer whose mind is a whirlwind of creativity and distraction? Welcome to Writing While Distracted, the podcast that helps you transform your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. I'm your host, Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach. Join us as we kick off the first episode in the "Steps to Writing a Novel" series, focusing on how to evaluate a fiction premise.

In this episode, we delve into the importance of examining your novel's idea before you start writing, particularly for genre fiction. Discover how a strong premise can prevent the dreaded mid-manuscript slump and keep your story on track. Learn practical techniques like mind mapping and the "what if and then" method to expand your premise into a compelling narrative. Whether you're a discovery writer or a meticulous plotter, these strategies will help you plan and sustain a novel-length work.

Tune in for insightful advice, creative exercises, and tips on breaking down your writing tasks into manageable chunks. Embrace the chaos, harness your creativity, and find your story's beginning, middle, and end with confidence.

Free resources for writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

 

Expected lengths of fiction

• Mainstream women’s fiction: 90,000–100,000 words
• Thriller: 90,000–100,000 words
• Romance: 65,000–80,000 words
• Mystery: 80,000 words *cozy mystery is usually a bit shorter, 70-60,000 words
• Science fiction: 100,000–120,000 words
• True Crime: 90,000–100,000 words
• Historical fiction: 100,000–150,000 words
• Memoir/Bio: 70,000–90,000 words
• Literary fiction: 80,000–100,000 words
• Young Adult: 70,000–80,000 words
• Middle Grade: 40,000–50,000 words
• Novella 17,500-40,000 words
• Short story 1000-15,000 words

 

Link to the Mind Map Site for the app that I use  https://www.mindnode.com

This is a learning guide from the University of Adelaide on mind mapping. https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/sites/default/files/docs/learningguide-mindmapping.pdf

Link to first podcast in the series: https://writingwhiledistracted.podbean.com/e/mastering-novel-writing-11-essential-steps-for-neurodivergent-writers/?token=72a0651efad2ce3ec216d8cf14b90496

Novel Writing: 11 Steps for Writers

Are you a writer whose mind is a whirlwind of creativity and distraction? Welcome to Writing While Distracted, the podcast designed to help you transform your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. I'm your host, Brenda Murphy, your NeuroSpicy writing coach. In this episode, we dive into the 11 essential steps to writing your novel, offering practical advice tailored for neurodivergent writers.

From harnessing your initial idea and expanding it, to pre-writing, drafting, and revising, we break down each step with actionable tips. Learn how to manage your research time, develop compelling characters, and navigate the intricacies of editing and formatting. Whether you're aiming to submit your work to publishers or self-publish, this episode provides a structured roadmap to guide you through the process.

Join us as we explore techniques to stay focused amidst the chaos of your mind, celebrate your milestones, and prepare for your next writing project. With valuable resources and links available in the show notes, this episode is your starting point for turning your creative whirlwind into a finished novel. Tune in, stay inspired, and keep writing!

Show Notes Season One Episode 6

Full disclosure: Some of these are affiliate links and I get a small commission if you use the link, it does not affect the price you pay for the item or service.

Free Resources for writers:

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/

 

Here is the link for the list of Steps for Writing a Novel:  https://BookHip.com/VRGFVSR

Here is the link for the Character Workbook  https://BookHip.com/HDPNDMX

Goal, Motivation, and Conflict by Debra Dixon.

(https://books2read.com/u/mq7Rg8)  Conflict is story, and Debra Dixon’s Goal Motivation and Conflict is one of the best writing books I have ever read. She offers free tools on her website that will get you started with knowing your characters on a deeper level, and crafting story arcs that will keep your readers turning pages.

Scrappy Rough Draft by Donna Baker. (https://books2read.com/u/mvLRo) This book is the one to read if you are struggling with getting yourself to start. Full of great ideas and motivation treat yourself to this book that feels like your bestie is right there beside your chair cheering you on as you write.

Build Better Characters by Eileen Cook. (https://books2read.com/u/bMAvRk)  Compelling characters and their change/growth are an essential part of fiction. Elaine’s book helps you get to the nuts and bolts of why your characters do the things they do. Chock full of helpful worksheets and ideas, this book is well worth your time.

Make A Scene by Jordan Rosenfeld. (https://books2read.com/u/mgDvE7)  This book radically changed how I develop my storylines. A book is a collection of scenes and this book lays out how to string your scenes together to have your readers anxious to read what comes next. The best book in my opinion if you are struggling with the infamous “show don’t tell” writing advice. For those of us who are freaking out at the idea of writing an entire book (all those words!), working scene by scene helps with perspective. On those days I struggle overwhelm, I can remind myself I can move the novel forward one scene at a time.

 

Creative Penn https://www.thecreativepenn.com/resources-new/ This site is full of free and useful information about writing and self-publishing.

Ingram Spark (https://www.ingramspark.com/how-to-self-publish-a-book)  Check out this concise list of how to publish your book.

The Creative Academy for Writers is loaded with free information about writing and publishing your book.  https://creativeacademyforwriters.com

Scrivener (https://www.literatureandlatte.com/)  I love Scrivener. It has a learning curve but it also has multiple tools that help me keep track of all my scattered thoughts and ideas that eventually become a book. It has helped my process more than anything else I have invested in since I started writing.

Learn Scrivener Fast (https://murphy.krtra.com/t/6hyUmVf9MYlF)   The best investment I have made in my writing career. This course helps you get the most from Scrivener and Joseph’s teaching style is wonderful.

 

I hope you will find some or all of these resources helpful.

 

Finding Your Way Back: Restarting Your Writing Project After a Break

Are you a writer whose mind is a whirlwind of creativity and distraction? Welcome to Writing While Distracted, the podcast that transforms your scattered thoughts into literary brilliance. Hosted by Brenda Murphy, a best-selling, award-winning author and NeuroSpicy writing coach, this episode focuses on how to restart a writing project after a long break.

Brenda shares her personal experiences of stepping away from writing due to project conflicts, family events, illness, or mental health struggles. She emphasizes the importance of letting go of negative energy and shame associated with taking breaks. The episode delves into strategies like reading pre-writing notes, creating a reverse outline, and simply starting to write again.

Discover practical advice for staying focused amidst chaos, utilizing your strengths, and reigniting your passion for your story. Whether you're dealing with shiny new idea syndrome or questioning the worth of writing in the age of AI, Brenda offers insights and encouragement to help you finish your manuscript.

Tune in to learn how to navigate the winding roads of creativity, embrace distractions, and keep writing. Remember, writing is a marathon, not a sprint. Give yourself grace, and find your way back to your narrative with renewed inspiration.

You can check out my free resources for Writers here

https://brendalmurphy.com/resources-for-writers/