Writing 101: Author Shorthand

I didn't know it, but authors have their own secret language. I've been exposed to this recently because I've been making a big effort to be more involved in writer forums. And I'm happy to report that I have cracked the code, and I'm going to share it. You'll look like a pro when you master author shorthand.

Writer Abbreviations 

Author shorthand doesn't just look impressive, it probably also saves a lot of time. Whether or not you plan to use it, I've found that it's good to know what all the different acronyms mean...because that saves a lot of time when it comes to reading the forums.LI - love interestMC - main characterWIP - work in progressQL - query letter (the letter authors send to agents/publishers to pitch a book)POV - point of viewMG - middle grade, young adult books for tweens FD - first draftNF - non fictionARC - advanced reader copyMS - manuscriptTBR - to be read/reviewedBS - it doesn't mean what you think it means. When authors use it, BS often means backstory (but you'll need to study the context to know for sure)GMC - goals, motivation, conflictThere are lots more author acronyms, not all of them so pleasant, but these are the ones you'll find most often. Now, at least you'll know what authors are talking about when you're reading the forums!