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Original video:
Writing is a craft that takes time and practice to master. Whether you're just starting out or have been writing for a while, it's important to be aware of common mistakes that can hinder your progress. In this article, we'll delve into 22 of the worst amateur writing mistakes and provide insights on how to overcome them.
Introduction
In a video transcript, author Alexa Dunn discusses a range of writing mistakes that are commonly seen in novice and beginning-level writing. These mistakes span various aspects of storytelling, from tense shifting and info dumping to character development and pacing issues. Dunn emphasizes that while these mistakes are fixable, awareness is key to identifying and rectifying them.
1. Tense Shifting
Tense shifting refers to inconsistent usage of verb tenses within a paragraph or page. This can confuse readers and disrupt the flow of the narrative. To maintain consistency, writers must choose a tense and stick to it throughout their work.
2. Info Dumping
Info dumping occurs when excessive information, context, or backstory is provided in a concentrated manner. This can bog down the story and pull readers out of the action. Effective information dissemination involves integrating details seamlessly into the narrative.
3. Excessive Dialogue Tags
Using dialogue tags excessively, such as "he said," "she replied," can become distracting. Dialogue should flow naturally, and tags should be used sparingly to avoid interrupting the conversation's rhythm.
4. Overly Complicated Dialogue Tags
Using overly descriptive or flowery dialogue tags, like "whispered," "shouted," or using action tags as dialogue tags, can be distracting. Simplify dialogue tags to maintain clarity and focus on the conversation.
5. Repetitive Sentence Structure
Repetitive sentence structures, especially those starting with a noun-verb construction, can make the writing feel monotonous. Varying sentence structures and using fragments can add excitement and depth to your prose.
6. Melodrama
Melodrama involves exaggerated emotional scenes that don't align with the overall tone of the story. These over-the-top moments can disrupt the reader's engagement if not supported by consistent character traits and narrative style.
7. Redundant Writing
Excessive use of past perfect tense and redundant phrasing can weaken sentences. Avoid unnecessary words and descriptions that don't contribute to the story's strength.
8. Grammar and Usage Errors
Persistent grammar, punctuation, and usage errors can hinder reader comprehension. While perfection isn't necessary, addressing common grammar mistakes is crucial for maintaining readability.
9. Filler Scenes and Excessive Description
Including filler scenes with unnecessary dialogue and excessive description slows down pacing. Every scene should advance the plot, develop characters, or contribute to the story's overall purpose.
10. Poor Pacing
Balancing pacing is crucial to maintain reader engagement. Avoid dragging out scenes or rushing through important plot points, and ensure there's a dynamic ebb and flow throughout the story.
11. Clunky Exposition via Dialogue
Exposition through dialogue can feel forced and unrealistic. Instead, integrate information naturally into the narrative, allowing readers to uncover details through character interactions and actions.
12. Word Counts Out of Whack
Stories with word counts drastically higher or lower than genre conventions can disrupt reader expectations. Research typical word counts for your genre and aim to align your work accordingly.
13. All A Plot, No B Plot
Focusing solely on the main plot without subplots can lead to pacing issues and a lack of complexity. Introduce subplots that enrich the story and provide depth to characters and world-building.
14. Flat Characters
Neglecting social world building can result in flat, unrealistic characters. Develop characters with distinct personalities, motivations, and backgrounds, creating a layered and immersive reading experience.
15. Excessive Capitalization
Overusing capitalization to highlight important terms can distract readers and disrupt the flow of the narrative. Apply capitalization judiciously, adhering to genre conventions and maintaining consistency.
16. Head Hopping
Switching between multiple character perspectives within a scene can confuse readers and disrupt immersion. Stick to a single character's perspective per scene to maintain clarity and avoid head hopping.
17. Telling
Excessive telling instead of showing can distance readers from the story and characters. Prioritize showing scenes through sensory details, actions, and emotions to create a vivid and engaging experience.
18. Poor Story Logic
Lack of internal logic within characters' actions and motivations can weaken the narrative's coherence. Characters' decisions should align with their backgrounds, traits, and experiences, maintaining consistency and realism.
19. Purple Prose/Overwriting
Using overly flowery and elaborate language can bog down the writing and make it feel convoluted. Prioritize clear and direct language, focusing on conveying meaning effectively rather than impressing with vocabulary.
20. Stiff, Formal Writing
Avoid overly formal and unnatural dialogue that lacks contractions. Strive for dialogue that mirrors natural speech patterns and enhances the characters' relatability and authenticity.
21. Too Many Characters
Cramming an excessive number of characters into a story can overwhelm readers and dilute character development. Prioritize essential characters and allocate sufficient space for meaningful interactions and growth.
22. Perfect, Passive Characters
Creating flawless, passive characters with no agency or flaws can lead to uninteresting narratives. Challenge your characters with obstacles and allow them to make choices that impact the plot, promoting growth and engagement.
Conclusion
By being aware of these amateur writing mistakes and actively working to overcome them, writers can elevate their storytelling skills and produce more engaging and polished narratives. Each of these mistakes is a stepping stone toward growth, and addressing them systematically can result in more immersive, dynamic, and impactful writing.