Writing Coach Podcast 135: Constrain for focus

WCP135 Constrain for focus

Every editor says to read their publication before pitching. When I coach writers, we put this research step first-get to know their stories, angles, and readers, before developing a story idea. Some writers prefer to avoid this essential step because they associate it with overwhelm.

Every editor says to read their publication before pitching. When I coach writers, we put this research step first: get to know their stories, angles, and readers, before developing a story idea.

Some writers prefer to avoid this essential step because they associate it with overwhelm. Many writers find researching publications online in particular to be a rabbit hole that’s dark and unending. One of my coaching clients felt swamped when trying to evaluate the New York Times online. Not too surprising when you consider their archives date back to the 1800s.

Let’s look at how constraint and intention can help with decision making, focus, and a better understanding of who you’re writing for.

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What should you include in a pitch to an editor?  

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