Want to give your best pitch?

Learning to write a good logline is the best way.

Do you write that logline before or after you’ve written that novel? First and you’re ready to go when the time comes to share your novel. But everyone has their own system.

I think it’s important to write it first. And then put it on a post it note where you can see it every day. Sort of like a guiding sign post. 

I use my logline, my elevator pitch if you will and to stay on target. Sometimes I might need to revise, rewrite or tweak it a bit. Like I’m doing today. But as long as I can see it, I can keep writing.

It helps me to get back to the basics. Not to get bogged down in explaining so much too soon. 

Giving that elevator pitch to ourselves every day, reminding us what the end game is, helps keep the story on track and avoids a lot of story derailment. 

If you’re looking for a formula to help read – Writing a Killer Logline.

Also,  JAMES BURBIDGE gives 10 TIPS FOR WRITING LOGLINES

Remember a logline gives the gist of your story in one or two sentences.

Doesn’t give everything away and doesn’t mention names.

How to write a logline.

I’d love to read some of your loglines. Please share with us in the comments section.

Here’s the logline on my post it note.

“In a small nowhere town, a young girl finds a strange book, and soon learns the true meaning of be careful what you wish for.”

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Look for me on Twitter @jeancogdell and on Facebook at jean.cogdell! And don’t forget, pay it forward with a click and share this post with your Twitter peeps and Facebook fans.

 

Are you still searching for the perfect gift?

Tryouts for Ben may not be perfect, but it’s damn good if I do say so myself!

And there is still time to get this book before Christmas!

There is nothing better than a book that encourages a kid to succeed.

Buy Tryouts for Ben Today!

Add it in a stocking hung over the mantle with care, give it to a teacher for her library, a nephew, niece, or neighbor – please share!

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Buy and review this writer will be eternally grateful! Click on Ben and order!

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Please Tweet and share on Facebook!

Don’t forget you can find me on Twitter @jeancogdell and jean.cogdell on Facebook.

 

It’s the happiest time of the year!

Are you busy buying gifts yet?

Bet many of you will get busy with a long list this weekend.

If you’re searching for ideas for your writer friends, check out the following links. I mean, who would’ve thought about a way to capture those thoughts in the shower! 

22 Gifts for Writers That Are Way Better Than a Boring Old Notebook By

The Top 20 Most Original Gift Ideas for That Fucking Writer You Know

Popular items for gifts for writers

Another great gift for your writer friends is to buy their book.

If you’ve already bought it, write a review for Amazon or Goodreads. That would be a terrific gift! This kills 2 birds with one stone.

Buy the book (gift to the writer) give the book away to kids, teachers (teachers are always in need of more books) or friends who love to read.

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Happy shopping!

I’d be much obliged if you would follow me @jeancogdell on Twitter or jean.cogdell on Facebook!

Don’t forget, pay it forward with a click and share this post with your Twitter peeps and Facebook fans.

 

How to find the right theme

What do you want your reader to get from your story?

What is your theme?

Do you know the idea, insight or lesson that you want to convey?

Is your theme universal? Will it work for a different story?

Can the them apply to me, you or anyone?

Theme is a message, a proverb, and is all inclusive.

Will one of these proverbs fit the story you’re writing?

The 50 most important English proverbs.

The subject of your book might be love, friendship, wisdom, or hate, but you still need a universal theme that expresses the subject.

Check out this list of proverbs by subject.

Not enough? How about 101 English proverbs?

Maybe you’re wondering why I’m talking about all these various themes. Well, I’ve been reading a great book on story plot and apparently theme is important to the plot.

Plot Perfect by Paula Munier

Ms. Munier gives step by step charts and explanation on how to find your universal theme.

I highly recommend her book to help you develop richer characters as well as a deep plot connected with subplots.

Leave a comment and tell me what you think. Let’s learn the latest writing tips together, and join on Twitter @jeancogdell and jean.cogdell on Facebook!
Don’t forget, pay it forward with a click and share this post with your Twitter peeps and Facebook fans.