• Module 01: Introduction to Prose          

Novels can be written in prose. Prose can be defined as ordinary spoken or written language without the regular structure found in poetry or verse.

• Module 02: Adjectives and Adverbs           

Learn what adjectives and adverbs are, how to use them and when not to use them at all to avoid purple prose.

• Module 03: The Active and Passive Voice                      

Both active and passing writing can be used depending on the meaning that you want to convey.

• Module 04: Special Punctuation           

Learn how to use the colon, semi-colon, ellipses, hyphen, n-dash and m-dash correctly.

• Module 05: How to Write Numbers           

Learn how to write small, large, and fractional numbers properly, as well as dates.

• Module 06: Unnecessary and Fancy Words          

How to avoid unnecessary words and how to choose a simple word over a complex word.

• Module 07: Absolutes and Overgeneralisations            

This is a common feature for new writers, authors tend to make sweeping statements, so we look at how to change these.

• Module 08: Clichés and Overused Words                      

We hear and repeat them every single day which is the first reason why the reader does not want to find clichés in your novel.

• Module 09: How to Use Interjections                      

These are words that are not strictly part of a sentence structure. The overuse of interjections can erode its flow and readability.

• Module 10: Vague Writing and Initial Coordinating Conjunctions             

Your writing should be decisive, not tentative or vague. An Initial Coordinating Conjunction is when a sentence is started with a “But” or an “And”. We look at the best way to handle their use.

• Module 11: How to Add Variety            

Look at the importance of variety in your prose. You will learn how the sentence, chapter and paragraph length affects prose. The correct mix of action, description and dialogue is an important aspect of all fiction.

• Module 12: Conclusion

Tips on editing and applying the rules learnt in this course