Writing exercises?

My biggest problem when writing is trying to "connect the dots" I can take any scene and develop it to the fullest- I also have several novel ideas that I would love to finish- but I just have trouble getting from start to finish. I call it my "what now syndrome"- I get the stage all set, but then trying to move forward for me seems awkward.

Does anyone have any suggestions, or know of some writing exercises where I can work on my problem?

Thanks in advance!

You don't need writing exercises, you need discipline. (Where's my whip?) Some writers do begin without a master plan, just going where their idea takes them, but that approach is the downfall of many, many beginners.

Before you write a single scene, create a master plan. The method doesn't matter. Use an outline, a detailed synopsis, index cards, a flow chart, whatever works for you. Know who all the characters are, what happens to each, what all of them are doing when they're "off camera," and what scenes it takes for your story or novel to have a beginning, a middle, and an end.

When you've planned that much, in detail, it's time to write. It's okay to deviate from the plan if you get a brilliant idea--but only if you've followed it through and planned the rest of the work if that idea is used instead of what you had originally.

Try it on one story. You'll be surprised how much easier it becomes.

Brain storming...

Buy writing for dummy's

Im taking writting classes right now
you have 3 ways to get a essay started.
1.brainstorming
2.outline ideas
3.cluster map

get your topic and do one of these 3 ways
write whatever you have in mind, then re-read it to see what you really want to talk about on your essay.

An essay has to be like take.

1.Main detail
a.minor detail
b.minor detail
c.minor detail

2.Main detail
a.minor detail
b.minor detail
c.minor detail

3.Main detail
a.minor detail
b.minor detail
c.minor detail

those are the 3 paragraphas
each one consistes of a main detail and 3 minor details of your main detail...
it's pretty easy doing this way....
when you are done, just make it in a essay

Yes.. when you come up with an idea for your story. Sit and take a few minutes to outline.. An outline is absolutely necessary. Take your first idea and then try to plot your next move with the story. Otherwise you will be all over the map.

arkpudel,

Start out by writing short stories. Pick out a scenario you are comfortable with and then figure out a situation or plot. You can be both sides of the argument don't forget. In dialogue, you are both people speaking. Say something for one character and then come back with an answer that you would actually use if you 'were' in this situation.

Let your characters find their own way. Your mind will gravitate to different levels as you write. A thought will come into your head so fast you'll be amazed. Now, follow through with that thought and ask yourself what YOU would do in this particular situation.

This is why it's good to start out with short stories first. Get used to how your mind works under certain pressure. Don't be discouraged if you stop because it went blank. Just quite for a few hours and go do something you enjoy. Let your mind relax before you go back to it. A lot of times while you're out enjoying yourself, you'll come up with the answer.

I wish you luck!

PJ M

There are several good books on plot on Amazon. But the first thing you need to understand is your protagonist's problem. Then you can figure out what has to be done to defeat the bad guy, or win the true love, or complete the journey. Even if he makes some mistakes along the way, he should arrive at a clever way to solve his problem (unless it's a tragedy).