Four Critical Elements For Writing Like A Professional

I. Plot - No matter the definition, a plot is essentially the storyline, or sequences of events that makes up a story. All plots should include conflict, addressing an internal or external argument that deals with other people or events, either way it must be both original and interesting. How complex the plot or setting is presented, is a matter of personal taste.

Let's face it, no matter how you definition what a plot is, the object is to engage the reader with so much intensity that he/she simply could not put the book down. Simply put, write a great story.

2. Characters - The most intriguing element of any book is its characters. You must make the characters so vivid that they not only come alive in the reader's mind but the reader actually transform into them. Characters can range anywhere from short outlines to profound, detailed biographies, the emphasis placed depends on the value the character brings to the story. Obviously characters must be kept in the nature of the genre. Make your characters real by association. If the reader can associate with the character, he/she can become alive in his/her qualities.    

3. Style - The style you write in will become your trademark. It is what the reader will look for in your works. Be it adventure, romance or mystery, how you portray the storyline will define your novel. Is your writing well-organized and reserved or do your plots become complex and out of the ordinary? Is your vocabulary extensive or do you get right to the point? How many words are there and are they fitting to the character of the story? Do you write of romance or the deep mysteries of the mind? Each genre has a loyal reader following. People read for information or to escape into someone else. 

Stick to basic writing rules and limit the ue of adverbs when writing conversation. Fit the dialogue to the occasion. Use words suitable to their proper meaning and most important don't just tell, illustrate.

4. Length - Length is somewhat self explanatory. How long is your book? The length should be appropriate to the story. Keep the length practical so it can be read in an reasonable amount of time. Don't ramble, keep the reader engaged and energized. Sometimes less is more in writing. Stay on track and flow from start to end. Don't write to fill pages rather write to stir the imagination    
Books that are too long demonstrate the ego of the writer rather than the consideration of the reader. Rambling, lengthy stories are often a sign of a wandering mind by a writer who is more interested in showing intellect rather than consideration.

The same goes for novels that are too short, though this doesn't seem to happen as often. Sometimes when characters and settings are screaming for more detail they are cut short and become dry. Adding "bulk" is important to the tempo of a novel. If too much length is bad, so also is a book that's too short. Keeping the proper pace is important. Don't linger yet don't speed off. Like life, everything must come one event at a time and in order. Order keeps the reader from being confused and disenchanted.
What is the main object?

The main object is to keep the reader on the edge of his/her seat and glued to the story. Reach out, grab the reader and pull him/her into the story. The reader must be able to relate to your characters and feel their emotions as if they were their own. When they transform into your characters they become engaged in a personal experience of happiness, sorrow, anxiety and the other elements of your storyline. 

Bring the story to life.
Don't just tell a story, pull the reader in by persuading them they are living it. Make them feel what the characters feel. Send them on a journey they will remember forever.

Remember the pen is a mighty tool, communicate with your reader, touch their spirit and make your story a living experience. 

Happy Trails