Then I experienced being edited. I honestly don’t remember any specific changes that editor made to any of my pieces, but I do know they got shorter, clearer, and less inside my own head. Even though I didn’t realize it then, I think that’s when I decided (somewhere in the deep recesses of my brain) what I wanted to do. But was it writing or was it editing? And what was the difference?
Read MoreThe amount of energy, time, sweat, stress, prayer, and research that goes into writing a book will often go a long way toward helping its author craft a great talk. Writing a book and giving a talk are different skillsets, to be sure, but they both require clarity, a willing audience, and creative delivery.
Read MoreThe reality for every author is that writing a book is hard work. And the best way to tackle hard work is with a plan. Here are six cures for the inevitability of writer’s block.
Read MoreMost conversations that involve more than three people and that last longer than five minutes experience a notable lull.
Read MoreReaders assume authors have a certain amount of credibility. With few exceptions, authors must be experts on the topics they write about. By “expert” I mean that they have put in the time/energy/effort to know whereof they speak.
Read MoreLast week someone asked me: “Randall, what would you say an acquisitions editor does?” I gave an off-the-cuff five minute answer… here’s my more thought-out version.
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