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Goodreads asked Susan Sloate:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Susan Sloate Write, and keep writing! Every idea you have, put it down.

Learn the tools of your craft--good usage, spelling, grammar, all that stuff you hated in English class. You need to know how to use words well. (This is not just my opinion; Stephen King feels strongly about this as well, which should make you think.)

Learn classic three-act story structure. Knowing where you're going is a big help in getting you there, and will save you years of frustration.

Take a little time to plan where you're going. Having notes, if not an outline, will keep you moving in the right direction.

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