The WHY Question

The #1 question that should be in the back of your mind as you write: WHY?

WHY is your character pouring themselves a cup of coffee? Are they thirsty? Tired and looking for a boost? Do they have a caffeine addiction? Can they not go a single morning without their cup of coffee? WHY are they pouring that cup of coffee?

The WHY question is especially important when it comes to your protagonist/main character. The story is theirs. Readers need to know the reason behind their every action, thought, emotion, etc. It’s essential to show the audience who they are.

Without the WHY—the reason—behind everything your character does, you will leave your readers confused and disconnected from your character(s) and even the story.

✨ PUT THE WHY ON THE PAGE ✨

Worrying about the WHY while writing your first draft isn’t a big deal, but it will make the revision process a heck of a lot easier if you have it in the back of your mind while you’re drafting.

Go forth and give all the WHYs! 🖤

Xo,
Ashley

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Dialogue Tags vs. Action Tags