This week, I’m talking about mistakes writers make when it comes to story structure. Story structure is vital. It gives our stories shape and ensures we are keeping readers hooked and entertained throughout. Given that reality, you might be expecting me to talk about structural issues, and yes, those definitely happen, but there’s a deeper issue holding writers back: misusing or misunderstanding story structure from the start. Too often, writers try to turn story structure systems into something they aren’t. In this episode, I’m offering a new way to think about structure while avoiding the biggest structure/mindset mistakes.

You’ll hear:

• The three mistakes writers make when thinking about structure
• Why sticking to strict percentages could be holding you back
• The myth that there is one universal structure that applies to all stories
• A new framework for thinking of story structure holistically, not rigidly
• And more!

Resources mentioned:

• Save the Cat Writes a Novel by Jessica Brody
• The Heroine’s Journey by Gail Carriger
• Anatomy of Story by John Truby
• The Writer’s Journey (hero’s journey) by Christopher Vogler
• The Virgin’s Promise by Kim Hudson
• Subscribe to the Better Writer Weekly newsletter here
• Follow me on Instagram here

For a full transcript of the episode, please visit oliviahelpswriters.com/bwp/12

Welcome to the Better Writer Podcast! The first official episodes drop on December 8th. In the meantime, you can get my best writing insights by joining the Better Writer Newsletter! Each Tuesday, you'll get writing advice and my best tips for building a better life!

Links

• Subscribe to the Better Writer Weekly newsletter
• Learn more about my editing and coaching services

Transcript

Welcome to the Better Writer Podcast. My name is Olivia Bedford. I'm a former high school English teacher turned developmental editor and author accelerator certified book coach. And I'm here to help you become a better writer. If you want to write great books, books just like the ones you've been reading and falling in love with all your life, the Better Writer Podcast is here to help.

As an editor and coach, it's my job to help fiction writers ditch the confusion and overwhelm so they can write the best books possible. And now I'm bringing everything I've learned about writing fiction to you in podcast form. On this show, we'll explore what it really takes to write a book that readers can't put down, whether that's mastering craft fundamentals, revising like a pro, or building a writing process that fits your real life, not someone else's Instagram perfect writing routine.

My mission in life is to help fiction writers unlearn all the misguided, one-size-fits-noone advice out there and replace it with strategies that actually make your stories work. If you're an aspiring novelist who's ready to finally write an amazing book and maybe even get paid for it someday, you are in the right place. Welcome and happy writing. The Better Writer podcast officially launches on December 8th. So don't forget to hit subscribe and be the first to know when our first episodes drop.

Thank you and I hope you'll join me and become a better writer one episode at a time.

I talk about crafting a great experience for readers ALL THE TIME. But what does that even mean? In this episode, I’m breaking down three things fiction writers need to do to craft a great experience for their readers: meet their genre’s expectations, make readers care, and immerse us in the story.

Links Mentioned:

• Have questions? Reach out on Instagram, I’d love to help!
• Subscribe to the Better Writer Weekly here

For a full transcript of the episode, please visit oliviahelpswriters.com/bwp/11