How to Get Published

The question is not whether famous writers are free to break the rules, but do publishers allow new writers the same freedom? The answer to this question is a resounding 'no.' Learn why famous authors can break rules and why new writers should abide by the rules if they want to sell books to publishers.

Editor's Point Of View

Editors never assume that new writers break the rules on purpose. They always assume that it is just a mistake. Breaking the rules is the number one reason most books are rejected. Passive voice, writing in a grammar style that deviates from the genre norm, head hopping, author intrusions, changing the story arc, using a different character arch type and other common errors usually result in a form rejection letter.

Publishers Point Of View

Publishers are in the business of making money. To do that they need to release a marketable commodity that consumers will pay for. This is done by following the rules. The rules are the rules because following them increases a book's chances of finding a large audience.

The common use of the term The Craft of Writing is a loose set of rules that, when followed, produces a book that will satisfy the expectations of the mass market or popular fiction market.

The Writer's Point Of View

The common use of the term The Craft of Writing is a loose set of rules that, when followed, produces a book that will satisfy the expectations of the mass market or popular fiction market.

The best way to learn these rules is by taking a good course. Finding a good course is not difficult. Avoid courses taught by book shops or authors who only have one or two books published. They can only tell you how 'they' became published and what 'they' learned. Instead, look for courses taught at writer's conferences, or taught by multi-published authors, editors, and publishers. These courses will give you a broad view of the writing industry.

My answer to students who ask if they can break the rules is simple, Study the Craft of Writing. The better you understand the craft, structure, rules, and trends, the easier it is to break the rules and still write a great book.

You will find more informative articles on the craft of writing by following the threads in this series.