NaNoWriMo Series: Writing Tip #7

When I first started writing, all of my characters seemed to be living in a blank void. It was the top note I got for years. My writing teacher would tell me how much they loved my story and was disappointed when they couldn't picture the world in their mind. As writers, it is our job to transport our readers into our worlds as seamlessly as possible. This means we must take the time to add in those details about the dusty chandelier that hangs in the dining room or the muddy footprints that have been tracked down the velvet carpet. The birds that won't let your main character sleep or the smell of freshly baked cookies. Write about the sticky glue that covers the hands of the main character as they build their science model for the science fair. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help you get started:

1. Which of the six senses do you tend to write about the most (sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste, that special 6th sense of the divine and unexplained)?

2. Which one do you use the most in your own life?

3. Which one do you use the least?

4. Which of the senses would benefit my story the most and immerse the reader?

If you want to learn more NaNoWriMo tips, check out the 30 Days of Tips that will unfold this month. Can't wait? Then check out my mini-course on The Basics of Storytelling that's available for $1. I look forward to seeing you in whatever form I appear. Until next time.

About the Author

Crystal Cabrae is a storyteller who specializes in writing dystopian, romantic, and adventurous worlds for animation and fantastical fiction. She is a proud graduate of Full Sail University, AMDA, and New World School of the Arts. Her six years of acting training in New York and Miami gives her a unique perspective when approaching her characters. She has a passion for sharing how to create stories with the world and inspiring the storyteller that lives within all of us. Follow her on IG or Pinterest to know the latest.