The Writer

Since 1887 The Writer has provided the motivation, writing techniques, expert tips and compelling author insights that turn good writing into great writing. We’ll help you become a better writer, find markets for your work, understand the business of writing, follow industry news and trends, reach your goals, and more!

FROM THE EDITOR

The Writer

This month on writermag.com

MARK THE SPOT • You’ve been using that tattered Costco receipt as a bookmark for far too long. Consider this your intervention.

DIGITAL BOOKMARKS • On the digital side of things, here are the latest sites for writers we’ve added to our browser bookmarks:

Five hundred stories, three times a year; three tips for your short stories • Some advice from this side of the editor’s desk.

Cracking the code • What I learned about story writing my first game.

Announcing the winners of our 100-WORD CONTEST • READ ALL OF THE TOP ENTRIES FROM OUR FIRST-EVER 100-WORD CONTEST.

INTERVIEW

REACH READERS WITH A NEWSLETTER • Authors share stories of community-building by subscription.

MORE NEWSLETTERS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

By any other name • THE CHALLENGE OF NAMING CHARACTERS.

VICES & VIRTUES, COMPLEXITIES & CONTRADICTIONS • AUTHORS SHARE THEIR BEST TIPS ON FINDING THE IDEAL PROTAGONIST FOR YOUR STORY.

TIPS FROM THE PROS

PUBLISHING FROM A TO Z • Before we can walk the walk, we need to learn how to talk the talk. Here’s our guide to all the jargon, misconceptions, and pitfalls aspiring authors need to know to navigate the modern publishing industry confidently.

DO I REALLY NEED AN AGENT?

CRACKING THE SECRET CODE OF BOOK DEAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY “FORMATTING ERRORS?”

JOURNALISM JARGON • Magazines, newspapers, and other periodicals have a language all their own.

Sky Island Journal • Submissions to this free international journal are evaluated on merit alone – no cover letters and bios allowed.

Kanab Writers Conference • Capped at 150 attendees, this intimate three-day conference in Southern Utah offers writers a beautiful setting to write and learn.

Group work

Gigi Will Know • Have a query about craft? Need some clarification on an aspect of the publishing industry? Looking for career advice? Email your queries to tweditorial@madavor.com with the subject line “Advice Column.” We can’t wait to read your questions!