John Porter (PhD)
Fiction Writing

Course Details

This course focuses on the basics of writing a compelling fiction short story, with an emphasis on proper grammar and punctuation. Currently, there is a high demand for good fiction writers in both the Gaming Industry and for novels for the general public. Throughout the course, students will learn tips to structure their writing, discover their writing style, write with clarity, incorporate power words and sensory language, master transitional words and phrases, understand what makes a strong introduction, and the process of carrying out re-writes and edits and asking for criticism. Students will learn how to develop characters, backstories, plots, and sub-plots that stand out to readers. We will work on creating a story source database for each student to help them market to their end users. Homework will consist of creative writing assignments of varying lengths.
To Outline and Develop a Story Line To Develop Plots and Sub-Plots Transitional Words and Phrases The Key to a Strong Introduction Power Words & Sensory Language How to Create a Story Source Database To Develop Characters and Their Backstories How to Market to End-Users Re-writes and Edits How to Ask for Criticism Grammar & Punctuation How to Develop Your Brand How to Find and Win Writing Contests How to Get Published Across Different Platforms How to Handle Word Count Parameters Types of Characters The Traditional Outline Method Compensation Expectations and Dealing with Rejection
The Fiction Writing course focuses on the basics of writing a compelling Fiction short story, with an emphasis on character development story line development, and proper grammar. The participant will learn the skills and techniques to write substantial and entertaining works of fiction for short stories

Lessons

1
Chapter One: Outlining and Designing a Story Line

In this lesson, we will cover different strategies for designing and outlining a storyline, including the Traditional Outline Method.

2
Chapter Two: Character Development

In this lesson, we will discuss the importance of diverse characters and complexity in character descriptions as well as creating backstories, arches, and unique traits for compelling characters.

3
Chapter Three: Develop Plots and Sub-Plots

In this lesson, we will cover how to plot your novel and plan your story development including details on subplots, character development, and more.

4
Chapter Four: Marketing to End Users

In this lesson, we will develop a database of all of the different sources in which to send your story, and discuss other writings as well as getting published on various platforms, compensation, writing contests, and accepting rejection with grace.