In addition to writing speculative fiction novels, I enjoy writing articles on the subject. You can find most of my articles and essays right here, on the Cornett Fiction website. Below, I’ve handpicked a few you might like.
On Fiction Writing
Writing a Sci-Fi Short Story
In a short story, you don’t have the creative space for a slow-burn introduction, a prolonged climax, or a denouement that ties up loose ends. You have to get right to the good stuff. Here’s how to do it.
How to Start Writing a Novel
You have the basic idea for a novel. But how do you actually start writing it, based on those bits and pieces floating around in your head? Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you going.
Writing a Novel With a Full-Time Job
Thousands of writers have found a way to complete a novel while also working a “day job,” and I happen to be one of them. Here are some tips and strategies to help you finish a book while working full-time.
5 Way to Make a Novel Longer
This has become one of the most popular articles on the Cornett Fiction website! Apparently, a lot of writers struggle with “underweight” novels. Here are five ways to add pages without sacrificing quality.
Breaking Up Action and Dialogue
Action and dialogue are two of the main components of a story. Dialogue is people talking; action is people doing things. This article explains how to break up action and dialogue to improve the overall flow of your story.
Starting Your Novel With Dialogue
Starting a novel with dialogue can be tricky, even for experienced writers. When done well, it can bring characters to life and propel the story forward. When done poorly, it can leave the reader confused or frustrated. So let’s talk about how to do it right!
How to Write a Science Fiction Novel
This article started as a simple project, to offer a few tips and suggestions for aspiring science fiction writers. It grew into a 3,000-word behemoth with advice on 10 key aspects of novel writing. So you’re bound to find something useful here.
7 Sci-Fi Writing Mistakes to Avoid
Excessive info dumps. Scientific or technological inconsistencies. Highly technical, convoluted concepts that soar over the average reader’s head. These are some of the most common mistakes committed by first-time science fiction writers. Here’s how to avoid them.
Tips for Writing a Sci-Fi Thriller
The sci-fi thriller gives readers the best of two worlds. It delivers the big ideas and futuristic concepts associated with science fiction, plus the pulse-pounding excitement and high stakes of a thriller. What’s not to love? Here are some tips for writing one.
How to Start a Sci-Fi Story
When it comes to fiction writing, beginnings are crucial. If you don’t engage readers and pull them into your world within the first few pages, you risk losing them altogether. In this article, we’ll explore some of the ways you could start a sci-fi story or novel.
Sci-Fi Horror Ideas for Writers
Do you enjoy the intersection of science fiction and horror as much as I do? Are you a writer looking for fresh story ideas to blend these two genres? I’ve got you covered. Here are 196 possible ideas for your next short story or novel.
5 Tips for Writing Sci-Fi Horror
Are you ready to enter the thrilling intersection between science fiction and horror, with your own story or novel? This article is a good place to start. It offers five tips and suggestions for beginner and veteran writers alike.
Writing Post-Apocalyptic Fiction
The world as we know it has ended, and something dark and dangerous has risen in its place. What do you do? Grab your pencil or fire up the computer. It’s time to write some post-apocalyptic fiction!
Post-Apocalyptic Story Ideas
Are you eager to write your first post-apocalyptic story or novel? Need some ideas to get your creative juices flowing? This article is for you. It explains common apocalyptic scenarios used in fiction today and how you might innovate to create something new.
Creating Believing Characters
Writers of science fiction, fantasy and horror have to work extra hard when developing their characters. When you write within these genres, you are delving into a world of unbelievable things. But your characters need to be believable for the reader.