ProActive Writer: Helping you become a better writer.

How to Get the Most From Your Professional Book Edit

by Gary Smailes | Book Editing

So you’ve had your book professionally edited, and you are faced with the task of turning the feedback into something that lifts your book to the next level. This article will help you do that

Five Grammar Rules Every Writer Should Know

by Gary Smailes | Book Editing

This article contains the five most common grammar and punctuation mistakes I come across on a daily basis.

How to self-edit your book [pre-edit checklist]

by Gary Smailes | Book Editing

If you are going to successfully self-edit your own novel then it is essential that you take one important step: stop thinking like a writer.

Show, Don’t Tell [Become a Better Writer]

by Gary Smailes | Book Editing

Show don't tell is a key concept for writers. Discover show don't tell examples and why you need to use them today.

The Adverb Problem and Why Authors Should Care

by Gary Smailes | Book Editing

In this article, I will set out to explain why so many famous authors (Stephen King being perhaps the most vocal) warn other authors against the use of adverb

How to format dialogue [quick & dirty guide]

by Gary Smailes | Writing

Do you know how to format dialogue in a novel? Discover the step-by-step secrets how to format dialogue like a pro.

How to get your novel made into a film

by Gary Smailes | Traditional Publishing

Discover the steps a novel must go through in order to be made into a film

Self-publishing vs traditional publishing [which is best for you?]

by Gary Smailes | Self-Publishing

In this article, you’ll discover the pros and cons of both self-publishing, traditional publishing, and even hybrid publishing.

A guide to book advances and royalties

by Gary Smailes | Traditional Publishing

In this article, you will learn about royalties and advances, you will discover what is usual for a book publisher to offer and you will find out how the publishing world is changing the way it provides advances and royalties.