Traci M. Sanders's Blog, page 43
February 6, 2016
Tip #38: More is not always better (using superfluous words in writing)
Today’s post centers around the use of unnecessary words in writing. So far I’ve offered tips on better verbs to strengthen your writing, correct comma usage and placement, and correct usage of quotation marks (among [...]
Published on February 06, 2016 21:01
February 5, 2016
Tip #37: Helping verbs OR hindering verbs?
After publishing a couple of fiction books of my own and editing a few for others, I have learned some interesting things about verbs–especially helping verbs. These types of verbs are designed to … well, [...]
Published on February 05, 2016 21:04
February 4, 2016
Tip #35: It just makes sense (improving your writing through your senses)
One way to make your writing stand out is to incorporate descriptive words (a.k.a. adjectives). But, they are not all created equal. Boring adjectives can read like a driver’s license or birth certificate. Here are [...]
Published on February 04, 2016 21:01
February 3, 2016
Tip #35: Even verbs can be moody (tips on using subjunctive verbs)
Did you know that verbs can convey mood? I’m not talking about words like “spit” or “smile” or “cry”. Yes, those words provide actions to reflect mood, but I’m talking about a different class of [...]
Published on February 03, 2016 21:01
February 1, 2016
Tip #33: You-nique writing styles (specialized ways to write dialogue and narration)
Hello, all! I hope you guys are enjoying, and benefiting from, the tips I’ve offered in this segment thus far. Today, I am going to discuss unique writing styles. As we all know, professional writing [...]
Published on February 01, 2016 21:01
January 31, 2016
Tip #32: Be positive before you use appositives!
Today’s tip centers around commas in appositives. These can be quite tricky since appositives can be found anywhere within a sentence. Some are restrictive, and others are non-restrictive. First, let me clarify what an appositive [...]
Published on January 31, 2016 21:01
January 30, 2016
Tip #31: Oops, your human side is showing! (connecting personally with fans)
Today’s post is all about getting personal with your readers. As an avid reader and author, I have to admit, I get a bit star-struck when my favorite authors connect with me on a personal level. It makes me feel [...]
Published on January 30, 2016 21:01
Inside Heaven
Inside Heaven ©Traci Sanders 2016 I stepped through your ivory gates today. You met with my eyes and walked my way. Your arms wrapped me in a warm embrace as you welcomed me to your special place. You led down [...]
Published on January 30, 2016 00:41
January 28, 2016
Tip #29: Ready for your close-up? (capitalizing on media appearances)
Today’s post is all about using media appearances to market your books. A good friend of mine, top Amazon reviewer and well-respected author—Gisela Hausmann–has written several books about how to promote yourself on television and radio stations. She’s appeared as an [...]
Published on January 28, 2016 21:01
January 27, 2016
Tip #28: Creating calls to action (for books and blogs)
Today’s post is about creating a sense of urgency with your readers. Authors and bloggers need to establish what is known as a Call to Action. This is a statement found at the end of a writing piece, usually involving a link to more [...]
Published on January 27, 2016 21:01


