So, Judging will start on the cliches contest. You can go read the entries here: [link]

If your deviation isn't there, it has been removed because it either wasn't in the time limits of the contest or it lacked a link back to the contest journal or news article.

So, we should have come to a consensus in a few days.

PS, sorry I spaced out on the tips. I've been busy.

here is a picture of her:

Tip #3: Momentum

Keeping momentum when writing counts two fold: 1) actually getting the words on paper, and 2) keeping your readers hooked with plot momentum.

When it comes to actually getting those words down on paper, a lot of us sit there with the cursor flashing or our pen still on the page. The best advice I can give for this is to force yourself to write something, even if it's bad. That's what editing is for. So don't worry about it. Allow yourself at least an hour a day where you sit down and write. Worry about editing when the story is done.

With plot momentum, the art of story telling is what's important. It doesn't mean one big scene after another. You need to have variation, and a building story arc that eventually boils into a climax. If the reader can feel that building sensation, they'll keep reading. Other things that keep readers focused are interesting characters, intrigue, and surprises. But them most important thing I can tell you about momentum, is to STAY FOCUSED. If a scene isn't absolutely necessary, delete it, find another way to do that characterization that doesn't take us on a 50 page flashback that detracts from the story. Remember not to distrupt the flow of your story, how ever you can figure out to do so, and you will keep your reader.

(this obviously deserves a full deviation, so perhaps in the future)

Tip #2: Using Your Senses

Many beginning writers barrel on into their story, only providing minimal visual description. They say: The basement was dark. I was scared. Boring, right? That's because it's one dimensional. When you walk into a room, you do more with your senses that you may realize. A more experience writer might say: The furnace rattled in the darkness. It choked the air with hot, putrid smoke, but somehow the cement surface of the basement floor was cold on Jessica's bare feet. Not the best example, but I think you get the point. All five senses were used, or four since smell and taste are linked in many cases. The total sense immersion of the reader draws them into the story, and makes them want to know what Jessica was doing in the basement (for starters), because it brings more immediacy.

So as an exercise, I want you to try to use all your senses to describe a scene. And a good way to practice for this is to open up your senses when you're out and about the town. Try to mentally describe how that restaurant smells or the cool air at that open air market. Collect information wherever you go. This can help give texture to your writing.

This is the beginning of a series of journals on things I wish people had told me when I started writing. If you have any questions, requests, or contributions, please note me.

Tip #1: Never Give Up, Never Surrender

Writing is like a sport. Some of us do it for fun; a proud few do it for a living. Many aspire to be those few and find themselves wondering how these few blessed people did it. In writing, as in sports, some seem like they were are born special. Not everyone is built like Micheal Phelps, and not everyone can write as fast as Stephen King. But there is one thing these two have in common: they practiced!

The first thing Stephen King wrote most certainly was not of publishing quality. Yet many beginners (myself among them) are crushed to learn their first story is anything but brilliance. What I have to say to this is: you're not alone. And what you need to do is harness this frustration into practice. Learn to criticize your own work, but also learn to let yourself free to write. Find your weaknesses. Play with your style. And don't forget to read. Most of all, don't let yourself get discouraged by what others say; never stop writing.

I'll leave you with two platitudes...well, the second is actually more of a joke.
1. Rome wasn't built in a day.
2. People ask me how ot get to Carnegie Hall. I say, practice, practice, practice, and take a left.

The tips will be updated daily here: deviated on demand.

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PS, I got a puppy! Pictures tomorrow!