The Writer’s Glossary: From A to Z

Action beats are brief actions or gestures that accompany dialogue, used instead of dialogue tags like "said" or "asked." They help convey a character’s emotions and add depth to the conversation.

Example:
Instead of: “I don’t know,” she said.
Try: She looked down, fidgeting with her bracelet. “I don’t know.”

A word that describes or modifies a noun or pronoun, providing more information about its attributes, such as size, color, or quantity.

The target audience for these books is adults. Adult books will have complex and mature themes and plotlines.

In Traditional Publishing, an advance is a negotiated amount of money a publisher sends an author to buy the rights to publish their manuscript.

An unpublished copy of a book distributed to readers for free in exchange for an honest review.

A word that modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb, providing more information about how, when, where, or to what extent something happens.

An early reader of a manuscript who provides crucial feedback on plot, characters, and themes.

An online retailer popular for purchasing books in all formats (i.e., print, digital, audio).

Categories on Amazon separate books into sections, similar to a physical bookstore. The requirements to be a #1 seller in a category vary. Some categories may require selling a hundred books, while others may only need two.

Words or phrases shoppers use to find books. Keywords are competitive and depend on the target audience. The goal is to identify keywords with the highest search volume and lowest competition that are still relevant to the book.

A unique identifier for products listed on Amazon.

A professional organization supporting libraries and library workers in the U.S.

A style guide used primarily in social sciences for citation and manuscript structure.

A collection of works, often poetry, essays, short stories, or excerpts from larger works, compiled into one volume. This can feature one single author's work or the work of multiple authors. See Collection.

The attribution of human traits, emotions, or intentions to non-human entities or objects. (See Zoomorphism)

A universally recognizable character, symbol, or motif that recurs across stories, cultures, and media. Archetypes embody fundamental human experiences and characteristics, serving as foundational elements in storytelling. They represent typical roles or patterns of behavior, like the Hero or Villain, making narratives familiar and relatable to audiences.

Written for magazines, newspapers, or online platforms, covering news, analysis, or informative content. 500 to 2,000 words

The book's intended readership with specific demographic information.

A platform for creating audiobooks, connecting authors, narrators, and producers.

The person who writes the literary work.

A brief description of an author's background, achievements, and qualifications used to establish authority.

A subgenre of fiction that blends reality and imagination, often involving fictionalized versions of the author's life.

The section at the back of a book that includes elements like author bios, acknowledgments, and additional resources.

The text on the back of a book or dust jacket, intended to pique interest. It may include a summary or teaser of the book's contents, author information, reviews, or other details to encourage purchase and reading.

Events occurring before the main story begins. This may include the history or experiences of characters or entire populations and can be explained through flashbacks, dialogue, or exposition.

A chain bookstore selling a wide selection of ebooks and physical books for adults and children.

A list of books that have sold the most copies, with varying requirements for inclusion.

An individual who receives a nearly-final manuscript for feedback. They evaluate character development, dialogue, pacing, and overall readability, aiding in refining the manuscript before publication.

A detailed account of a person's life, either written by someone else (biography) or by the subject themselves (autobiography). 50,000 to 100,000 words

A brief promotional description or summary of a book, usually found on the book cover or in marketing materials.

Durable books typically made with cardboard, designed for infants and toddlers ages 0-3.

A group of readers who discuss a particular book, which can be in-person or virtual.

The visual design of a book cover, including images and typography, crucial for marketing.

A commercial event focused on selling books, often including signings, sales, and promotions. Authors may or may not be present.

An event celebrating books, authors, reading, and literature. Authors may sell and sign books at booths, and there may be readings, Q&As, and other literary activities.

The layout of a book's pages, including font, font size, and overall composition, affecting the reader's experience.

A series of events leading to the release of a new book. It can include a social media campaign, launch party, signings, tours, interviews, press releases, and promotional events, aimed at creating interest and driving sales.

The process of creating physical copies of written content for publication. Steps before printing include editing and typesetting to ensure quality.

A detailed document presenting the content of a potential book to an agent or publisher. It typically includes an overview, content summary, author's platform and credentials, outlines, and market analysis. Proposals are often for nonfiction works.

A series of events where an author travels to promote their book, including readings, signings, and discussions. Can be in-person or virtual.

A video promoting a book, similar to a movie trailer. It aims to generate interest and excitement about the book's release.

A retail business where books are the main merchandise. Bookstores may be independent or part of a larger chain.

The process by which an author makes themselves known and differentiates from others. It includes how the author presents themselves, messaging, author voice, logo, tagline, and other strategies.

A line at the top of a magazine or newspaper article stating the author's name, possibly including additional information like the author's title or qualifications.

A prompt encouraging readers to take a specific action, such as buying a book.

A distinct section or division of a book or other written work, typically marked by a number or title. Chapters help organize the content into manageable parts, allowing the narrative or information to be presented in a structured and coherent manner.

Books for young readers transitioning from picture books, with short chapters and often illustrations.

A more detailed analysis or outline of each chapter's structure, including major plot points, character developments, and thematic elements. It often serves as a guide for understanding the chapter's composition and flow.

A brief overview of the main events, themes, or points covered in a chapter. It usually includes key plot developments or important information.

The process by which a character undergoes change throughout a story, representing their transformation or inner journey by the end.

Books specifically written for children, featuring themes and illustrations suitable for young readers, aimed at entertaining and/or educating.

A metric measuring the effectiveness of keywords, ads, and other promotional materials, calculated by dividing the number of clicks by the number of times the ad is shown (clicks/impressions = CTR).

A narrative device where a story or chapter ends with suspense, leaving readers eager to find out what happens next.

Types of collaborations include co-authorship, ghostwriting, and contributor collaborations.

A compilation of works by a single author, often poetry, short stories, essays, or excerpts. See Anthology.

Books similar to the one being proposed, used to demonstrate the market potential and positioning of the book. Comparative titles help agents and publishers understand the book's place in the market.

Specific and tangible details used to support and enrich writing. They help create vivid images and enhance the reader's experience by providing clear and precise information.

A word that connects words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence, such as "and," "but," or "because."

Software for creating and managing digital content without coding, like WordPress and Wix.

Written content used in advertisements, websites, and other media to inform, entertain, or persuade.

The process of reviewing and correcting a manuscript for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency before it is published.

A metric in online advertising where advertisers pay per click on their ad.

A metric denoting the price of 1,000 ad impressions. Also known as Cost Per Thousand.

The text on the cover of a book, including the title, subtitle, and author name. It is designed to attract readers and provide a glimpse of the book's content.

A letter sent with a manuscript or book proposal to introduce the work and provide context. It typically includes a brief synopsis, the author's credentials, and why the book is a good fit for the publisher or agent.

A genre that combines factual content with creative writing techniques to tell a true story in an engaging and compelling manner.

An evaluation or analysis of a manuscript, focusing on strengths and weaknesses. Critiques can be provided by beta readers, critique groups, or professional editors.

The process of providing feedback on a manuscript, focusing on various aspects such as plot, character development, and writing style.

A method of raising funds for a project or book by soliciting contributions from a large number of people, typically via online platforms.

The act of making false statements about someone that damage their reputation. In writing, it's important to ensure that all statements about real people are accurate to avoid legal issues.

A new work based on or derived from an existing work, such as a sequel, adaptation, or transformation of the original work.

Developmental editing addresses major structural and content issues in a manuscript. It involves substantial revisions to the overall structure, plot, character development, and narrative flow. This type of editing aims to enhance the manuscript's coherence and effectiveness by reorganizing content and improving the overall structure, usually done early in the editing process.

Words or phrases used to indicate who is speaking in a conversation within a story. Examples include "she said" or "Jane said." These tags help clarify dialogue and maintain the flow of the narrative.

The choice of words and style of expression used by an author. Diction affects the tone, clarity, and overall style of a piece.

A term for when a reader stops reading a book before finishing it.

Advertising conducted online through platforms.

The process of finding new books or authors. It includes methods and tools readers use to discover books, such as recommendations, searches, and advertisements.

The process of getting books from the publisher to the reader. This includes the logistical aspects of delivering physical copies to bookstores, online retailers, and other outlets.

The various routes through which books are distributed to retailers and consumers. Channels can include physical bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and direct sales.

Self-directed approaches to tasks, including aspects of book creation and promotion.

A very short piece of fiction consisting of exactly 100 words. It often focuses on a single idea or event.

A platform for self-publishing and distributing eBooks and print books.

A digital version of a book that can be read on electronic devices such as e-readers, tablets, and computers.

The process of reviewing and revising a manuscript to enhance its clarity, coherence, and overall quality. This involves correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling, as well as reorganizing content and refining style. Editing prepares the manuscript for publication. There are different types of editing including developmental, copy, line and proofreading.

A critical evaluation of a book or other work, written by a professional reviewer, critic, or expert, analyzing content, style, and overall quality.

A digital eBook format supporting flexible text and multimedia.

A brief, persuasive speech that summarizes a book's main selling points and captures its essence. It's called an "elevator pitch" because it should be concise enough to deliver during a short elevator ride.

A recommendation or testimonial from a notable person or expert endorsing a book. Endorsements can enhance the book's credibility and appeal to potential readers.

An extensive and often grand-scale narrative, usually involving complex plots, a large cast of characters, and detailed world-building. Over 110,000 words

A concluding section at the end of a book that provides closure or additional information about the characters or story after the main events have concluded.

A popular digital book format compatible with many e-readers and devices. EPUB stands for "Electronic Publication."

A short piece focused on a specific topic or argument, often personal or reflective. 500 to 5,000 words

The part of a story that introduces background information such as setting, characters, and the main conflict. It helps establish the context for the narrative.

The main character who is female.

The initial version of a manuscript, written with the understanding that it will undergo multiple rounds of revision and editing before reaching its final form.

A narrative perspective where the story is told from the viewpoint of the narrator using "I" or "we."

Short, focused stories that often emphasize a single scene or moment. 100 to 1,000 words.

A narrative technique where the story shifts to an earlier time to provide background or context to the current events.

A narrative technique where the story jumps ahead to future events, often used to show outcomes or consequences.

The rights to publish and distribute a book in countries outside the author's home country. These rights can be sold or licensed to foreign publishers.

A literary device where hints or clues are given about events that will occur later in the story.

A short introductory section written by someone other than the author, usually someone of note, that provides context or background to the book.

The physical or digital structure of a book, including hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.

Working independently on a project-by-project basis rather than as a permanent employee. Freelancers in writing and publishing handle tasks like writing, editing, and design, and manage their own business aspects.

The sections of a book that appear before the main text, including the title page, copyright page, table of contents, foreword, preface, and acknowledgments.

The process of handling, packaging, and shipping orders to customers. This can include inventory management and order processing.

A pre-publication version of a book used for final proofreading and review before printing.

The person responsible for overseeing the editing process and ensuring the manuscript meets quality standards.

Fiction written for a broad audience without focusing on niche markets or genres.

A category of literature characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter. Common genres include fiction, nonfiction, mystery, romance, and science fiction.

Terms and concepts that are unique to a particular genre of literature, such as "hard science fiction" or "cozy mystery."

The practice of writing content on behalf of someone else, who is credited as the author. Ghostwriters are often used for autobiographies, business books, and novels.

Books designed to be given as gifts, often with special themes, high-quality binding, and attractive illustrations or packaging.

Books combining visual art with narrative, often telling complex stories.

The inner margin of a book where the pages are bound together. Proper gutter size is important for readability and ease of use.

A physical printed version of a document or book, as opposed to a digital version.

A book bound with rigid protective covers, often with a dust jacket. Hardcover books are typically more durable and prestigious than paperbacks.

A writing technique where the narrative shifts between the thoughts and perspectives of multiple characters within a single scene or chapter.

A professional photograph of an author used for promotional purposes, such as on book covers, websites, and marketing materials.

A narrative structure where the hero embarks on an adventure, faces challenges, transforms through trials, and returns home changed, often bringing something valuable back to their world.

A compelling opening or element in a book that grabs the reader's attention and encourages them to continue reading.

A publishing model that combines elements of traditional and self-publishing. Hybrid publishers offer authors a mix of services, providing more support than self-publishing while allowing authors to retain more control and a higher share of royalties compared to traditional publishing.

A unique identifier for books, allowing for easier cataloging and sales tracking. ISBNs are assigned to each edition and variation of a book.

A psychological pattern where an individual doubts their accomplishments and fears being exposed as a "fraud," despite evidence of their competence.

A publisher that operates independently of the major publishing houses. Independent publishers often focus on niche markets or specific genres.

An association supporting independent publishers and self-published authors.

The process of creating an index, a list of terms and references used in a book, to help readers find specific information.

A large amount of information provided all at once, often in a way that feels unnatural or overwhelming to the reader. It can disrupt the flow of the narrative.

A publishing platform that offers print-on-demand and distribution services to authors and publishers.

Legal rights protecting creations of the mind, like literary works.

A word or phrase that expresses emotion or exclamation, often standing alone, like "Wow!" or "Ouch!"

Rights to publish, distribute, and sell a book in countries other than the author's home country.

A unique identifier for books, aiding in tracking and cataloging.

A conversation where an author discusses their book, writing process, and other related topics. Interviews can be conducted by media outlets, bloggers, or other authors.

Specialized terms or language used by a particular group, often difficult for outsiders to understand.

A personal record of thoughts, experiences, and reflections, often kept regularly by writers for inspiration and practice.

Amazon's self-publishing platform that allows authors to publish and sell ebooks and paperbacks directly to readers.

Metrics used to measure effectiveness and success, such as book sales or website traffic.

Amazon's e-reader device and app, used for reading ebooks purchased through the Kindle Store.

An event to celebrate and promote the release of a new book. It can be held in person or online and often includes readings, signings, and other activities to attract readers.

The arrangement of text and images on a page. Good layout design ensures readability and aesthetic appeal in both print and digital formats.

A valuable resource offered for free in exchange for a reader's contact information, often used to build an email list. Examples include eBooks, checklists, and exclusive content.

A unique identifier for cataloging books in libraries.

A detailed editing process that focuses on improving the clarity, flow, and overall quality of writing at the sentence and paragraph level. It addresses issues like syntax, word choice, and pacing.

A professional who represents authors in negotiations with publishers and helps manage their careers. Agents often provide guidance on manuscript preparation and submission strategies.

Publications that focus on literary works, including fiction, poetry, and essays. They provide a platform for both established and emerging writers to showcase their work.

A graphic symbol or emblem that represents a brand, company, or author. Logos are used in marketing materials to create a recognizable identity.

The primary character around whom the story revolves. The MC is often the protagonist who faces the main conflict and undergoes significant development.

A list where agents and editors share the types of manuscripts they are currently seeking. Authors can use these lists to target their submissions more effectively.

The central character around whom the story revolves.

Fiction that appeals to a broad audience and is not confined to a specific genre. It often deals with contemporary themes and issues.

The main character who is male.

The original text of a book before it is edited and published.

Lists by agents or editors specifying the types of manuscripts they are interested in.

The process of promoting and selling products or services, including market research, advertising, and public relations. In publishing, this includes strategies to increase book sales and author visibility.

Books produced for wide distribution, often in smaller, more affordable paperback formats. Mass market paperbacks are typically found in supermarkets, airports, and other non-specialty retailers.

Various channels of communication, including television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms, used to reach a wide audience. Media coverage can help promote books and authors.

A nonfiction account of the author's personal experiences. 20,000 to 80,000 words

Information about a book that helps with its discovery and categorization, including title, author, genre, keywords, and description. Good metadata is crucial for online visibility and sales.

A literary device where the text self-consciously addresses the nature of fiction, often by breaking the "fourth wall" and acknowledging the reader or the fact that it is a work of fiction.

Extremely short stories, often under 100 words, that tell a complete narrative. Microfiction requires concise and impactful writing.

Books aimed at readers aged 8-12, featuring themes and characters appropriate for this age group.

A narrative technique where characters or situations reflect or parallel each other, often used to highlight themes or character development.

An organization providing guidelines for writing and citation in the humanities.

The structured story or account of events or experiences, whether true or fictional. It encompasses the plot, characters, and settings within a book.

The shape that a story takes as it progresses from beginning to end. It includes the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

An event encouraging participants to write a 50,000-word novel in November.

Fiction targeting readers aged 18 to 30, exploring early adulthood themes.

A major newspaper known for its influential journalism and bestsellers list.

A contract restricting the disclosure of confidential information.

Literary works based on factual information. Nonfiction includes genres like biographies, memoirs, essays, and self-help books.

A full-length work on a particular subject, such as history, science, self-help, or true crime. 50,000 to 110,000 words

A word that represents a person, place, thing, or idea. Nouns serve as the subject or object in a sentence.

A full-length work with multiple characters, subplots, and a more intricate narrative structure. 50,000 to 110,000 words

Longer than a short story but shorter than a novella, allowing for more character development and subplots. 7,500 to 20,000 words.

More complex than a short story or novelette, with a more developed plot and characters, but not as expansive as a full-length novel. 20,000 to 50,000 words

A website where books are sold. Examples include Amazon, Barnes & Noble online, and independent bookstores' websites.

Provisions in a publishing contract that give the publisher certain rights, such as first refusal for the author?s next book.

Single lines of text left at the top of a page, separated from the rest of the paragraph. They can disrupt the reader's flow and are typically avoided in typesetting.

The process of planning the structure of a book before writing. An outline helps organize ideas and plot points.

The perspective from which a story is narrated. Common POVs include first person, second person, and third person.

Authors who write by the "seat of their pants," without a detailed outline. They often discover the story as they write.

Books with a flexible paper cover, produced using offset printing. They are usually more affordable than hardcovers.

A rhetorical device that appeals to the reader's emotions, often used to evoke feelings of sympathy, sorrow, or passion.

An advertising model where advertisers pay per click on their ad.

A fictitious name used by an author instead of their real name. Authors might use pen names for various reasons, such as privacy or branding.

An individual providing administrative support to manage tasks for professionals.

Using one's own life experiences as material for writing. This can add authenticity and relatability to the narrative.

A detailed article or segment about an individual's life, character, and achievements, often used in magazines and newspapers to highlight public figures or authors.

Books primarily intended for young children, with a large emphasis on illustrations and simple text to tell the story.

A brief description of a book's concept, typically used to attract the interest of agents, publishers, or readers.

The practice of using someone else's work or ideas without proper attribution. It is considered unethical and can lead to legal consequences.

The author's presence and influence in their field, including their online following, speaking engagements, and media presence.

The sequence of events that make up a story, including the conflict, climax, and resolution.

Writers who plan their stories before starting to write. Plotters create detailed outlines and develop characters, settings, and plot points in advance, as opposed to "pantsers" who write by the seat of their pants and discover the story as they go.

An audio program available for streaming or download, often in a series format. Authors may use podcasts for promotion or to share their expertise.

A promotional strategy where authors appear on multiple podcasts to discuss their book, similar to a book tour but in audio format.

A literary form that uses rhythmic and aesthetic qualities of language to evoke meanings and emotions. It often includes elements like meter, rhyme, and metaphor.

A word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and other words in a sentence, often indicating location, direction, or time.

A collection of materials provided to the media to promote a book or author. It usually includes a press release, author bio, book cover images, and sample chapters.

An official statement issued to the media to announce something newsworthy, such as the release of a new book.

Printing technology for producing books as orders are received.

An introductory section of a book or play that provides background information or sets the stage for the story that follows.