Common Mistakes New Authors Make and How to Fix Them

TLDRThis video discusses four common mistakes that new authors make when starting a story and provides five quick fixes for these mistakes. It emphasizes the importance of starting at the beginning, limiting the number of characters, avoiding language that makes the reader feel dumb, and not starting with dialogue or backstory. The video concludes with a reminder to seek inspiration from real-life experiences.

Key insights

😄Starting at the beginning is crucial for a compelling story.

🔢Limiting the number of characters improves reader engagement.

🤔Using language that doesn't make readers feel dumb is important.

💡Avoiding starting with dialogue or backstory creates a more engaging opening.

🌟Seeking inspiration from real-life experiences can lead to unique and compelling stories.

Q&A

Why is starting at the beginning important?

Starting at the beginning allows readers to understand the context and follow the story more easily.

How many characters should I have in my story?

It's best to limit the number of characters to avoid overwhelming the reader. Focus on developing a few well-rounded characters instead.

What should I avoid in my writing to prevent readers from feeling dumb?

Avoid using overly complex language, jargon, or unnecessary details that might confuse or alienate readers. Write in a way that is accessible and keeps readers engaged.

Why is it not recommended to start with dialogue or backstory?

Starting with dialogue or backstory often lacks the necessary context and can make it difficult for readers to connect with the story. It's better to begin with a compelling scene or event that grabs the reader's attention.

How can I find inspiration for my stories?

Inspiration can come from real-life experiences, conversations, observation, or even personal reflections. Pay attention to the world around you and find unique angles or perspectives to develop compelling stories.

Timestamped Summary

01:22The video starts with a sponsored message from Pioneer Consulting.

02:05The video introduces four common mistakes new authors make when starting a story.

03:14Mistake 1: Starting before the beginning. It is important to start at the actual beginning of the story.

04:23Mistake 2: Introducing too many characters. Limiting the number of characters improves reader engagement.

05:55Mistake 3: Making the reader feel dumb. Using accessible language and avoiding complicated terminology is crucial.

06:55Mistake 4: Starting with dialogue, backstory, or other less engaging elements. It's best to start with a scene or event that grabs the reader's attention.

07:16The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of seeking inspiration from real-life experiences to create unique and compelling stories.