#topic: grammar & punctuation

[yailtsv]

Chapter 1: Crossing the Line

ceo!paige pushes you past the unprofessional line

»»— warnings: smut, bad grammar, bad punctuation, i don’t know how to write smut, mention of y/n once, aftercare

»»— notes: tell me what to fix on the smut please 🙏 😭 i hope this meets everyone’s expectations and if not please tell me what i should change for the future. if you have ceo!paige ideas SEND THEM IN!!! (fluff or i’ll try smut again! just send in ANY ideas)

»»— word count: 2.1k

“miss. bueckers, you have a photo shoot today at 2 for GQ” you tell paige after she responds with a “come in” to your knocking

“alright, and i told you to just call me paige, didn’t i?” paige responded back - knowing she’s told you that a million times

“yes ma’am”

“so then why aren’t you doing that?”

“don’t want to be unprofessional ma’am” you reply back after a few seconds of silence “unprofessional huh?” paige responds back smirking a little

“you also have a sit down talk scheduled at 4 for an article connected with the photo shoot.” you replied back nervously after seeing her smirk - trying to change topics but only got more nervous when paige stood up and walked towards you

paige leans over you shutting the door and locking it, making your breath hitch

“anything else?” paige says standing really close to you - invading your personal bubble, and moving her hand to push back a piece of your hair that was in your face

“um you need to turn in the new shoe drop designs tonight by 10pm-“ paige then decided to move her hand again but this time put it on your waist, lightly rubbing her thumb in circles through your blouse “go on” paige says in a low raspy voice

“once you get those turned in, we need to post teasers on the PBKicks accounts” you reply breathlessly

“that it?” paige asks moving her hand that was on your waist down to your lower back and pushing you closer into her making you let out a small breathless gasp

you turned your head avoiding eye contact before nodding your head to her question, she clicks her tongue in disapproval before moving one of her hands to underneath your chin and lifting your head up to look her in the face “use your words”

“yes, that’s it” you whimpered out breathlessly, feeling like your stomachs doing cartwheels

“good girl” you have to lean closer to paige after she says that - your knees getting weak

she chuckles at that and leans in closer to your ear whispering - “seems like someone has a praise kink, huh?” you just make a small noise between a moan and a whimper, resting your forehead on paige’s chest, to hide your flushed face

paige just laughs and pulls you to her in office couch, sitting down and pulling you on to her lap “this is unprofessional mis- paige”

“says who?” paige responds teasingly rubbing her hands everywhere across your body “rules” you stammered out fighting the urge to grind down on her

“i’m the ceo baby, i make the rules.” paige said while gripping your hips hard and pushing you down on her thigh - moving you back and forth - making you moan out loudly

paige doesn’t say anything and just takes her tie off and shoved it in your mouth “but you do still need to be quiet my love, wouldn’t want to distract everybody from their work, now would we?”

you nod your head, now moving your hips on your own with paige just watching “there we go baby, doing such a good job for me huh?”

you just let out a muffled moan in response - trying to grind harder feeling your release building up “you gonna cum? hmm?” you just nod but quickly become disappointed when paige grips your hips - stopping you from moving and from your release

she doesn’t say anything and just pushes you down on to the couch and gets on top of you.

“you wanna do this?” paige asks, wanting your consent before doing anything else, you shake your head saying yes while also saying a muffled yes with her tie still in your mouth

she smiles a little bit taking the tie out of your mouth and setting it on the couches arm rest “words” paige says again

“yes i want to do this” you whine out in a needy tone, paige leans down and connects your guys lips together, making you moan into the unexpected kiss

while you both are fighting for dominance in the kiss, paige’s hand is exploring your body before stopping at your buttoned up blouse “can i take this off?” paige mumbles against you making you nod in response

she pulls away from the kiss and sits up, unbuttoning your shirt and pulling it off, throwing it across the office, her eye’s immediately raking over your upper body

“you’re so beautiful” paige says still checking you out before leaning down and pressing her lips to your neck. paige kisses all over your neck sucking gently in some places making you let out quiet breathless moans

paige slowly trails down your abdomen, when she reaches your stomach she moves her kisses back up to your breasts

she trails her kisses to the top of your boobs gently sucking there too before moving her hand behind your back - making you arch into her, so it can be easier for her to unhook your bra

she drags your bra off throwing it in the same direction as your blouse, immediately kissing all around your chest - giving both of your breasts attention, with you arching into her more

after a few minutes of paige just kissing and sucking your chest she moves down your stomach stopping at the waist band of your skirt “can i take this off?” she asks again

“only if you take some things off, you’re to clothed” you reply back breathlessly, she shakes her head amused before standing up from the couch and taking off her suit jacket, and unbuttoning her dress shirt and throwing both of them in the same direction as the other clothes leaving her in her bra

you don’t say anything and just unbutton your skirt as a way of saying that she can take off your skirt now - which she picks up on and immediately walks closer to you and puts her fingers in the waistband of your skirt - pulling it down and tossing it

she immediately gets back on top of you, bringing you back into a kiss

while you guys are fighting for dominance again, she runs her fingers over the wet spot on your panties making you moan into her mouth “this wet already?” paige moans against your lips

“mm fuck, i can’t wait anymore.” paige says moving down your legs with her fingers at your pantie line, looking up at you again - asking if she can take them off, which you nod at, once she got the green light she immediately pulled your underwear down and tossed them with the others

she moved her eyes up and down for a little, checking you out with no shame whatsoever, before she got impatient with herself and layed down between your legs

she slowly kissed around your thighs, with you groaning impatiently and trying to push her head to where you need her the most - that did not work, as her head didn’t budge and she just chuckled amused looking up at you

“impatient are we?” paige says with that low voice again “paige” you whine out “do something please”

“only cause you asked so nicely” she says before pushing her head down and immediately bringing your clit into her mouth, sucking on it

you moaned out loud, making paige reach up from her spot and grab the tie, shoving it back in your mouth - all while still circling her tongue around you

she moved her tongue down your slit, circling her tongue around your entrance before pushing in - you putting your hands in her hair, trying to push her closer

paige groans into you at the pressure on her head, the vibration making you moan louder through the tie.

paige then stop’s thrusting her tongue and moves up back to your clit and moves her fingers down to your entrance - taking over where her mouth just left

paige circles her middle finger around your entrance while sucking on your clit, before thrusting that finger in

you groan loudly over the tie making paige let out a little giggle against you, “how many can you take mama?” she mumbles against you, you don’t say anything but you hold up two fingers

she makes a small noise of acknowledgment and takes her middle finger out, before thrusting her pointer and middle finger in together

she takes her free hand and puts it over your mouth - the tie not muffling enough of your loud moans, so she took it out and threw it.

while she kept sucking on your clit and thrusting her fingers inside of you, you started moving your hips - trying to get closer to her mouth and fingers, making her chuckle into you

“paige” you whine out with her humming in response “fuck don’t stop, please” you can feel your release getting closer and so can paige, only making her speed up more

you swore you could see stars when your orgasm crashed through you, decreasing a little bit as paige worked you through your high

your whine was the thing that pulled paige away from you - seeing that your now overstimulated and don’t need worked through anymore.

paige leans up from between your legs and bringing you into a kiss - you tasting yourself on her tongue,

your still trying to catch your breath and paige still hasn’t said anything - but she grabbed you by the waist and turned you both over, so your now laying on top of her, with her holding your head to her chest

“what about you?” you say after you finally caught your breath back “do you want to do that right now?” paige asked in your ear,

but before you could answer there was a knock at the door, making paige stand up while saying “one second” she layed you back down on the couch, and covered you with a blanket, just in case, and walked to the pile of clothes hurrying on putting her dress shirt back on properly before opening the door enough for her to see the person, and the person be able to see her, just enough for it to not be considered suspicious

“you have to leave in 10 minutes for GQ magazine, we can’t find y/n, so i didn’t know if she told you or not.” one of your interns said

“oh alright, thank you.” paige said shutting the door as soon as the intern acknowledged that paige answered and walked away

paige walked to her small in office bathroom, getting a rag and wetting it before coming back over to you, and gently cleaning you down there, with you letting out small noises from sensitivity

“i didn’t realize we were that close to time for the magazine shoot, i’m sorry” you say out tiredly

“it’s fine, we’re not late” paige said while walking over and grabbing your panties, bra, and one of her spare dress shirts that she keeps in her office in case her shirt gets dirty, and walked to her mini fridge grabbing a water bottle

she helps you get dressed in those said clothes, handing you the water after she opened it for you

“you’re gonna stay here and take a nap while i’m at the shoot-“

“no i’m fine, i’m your assistant, i have to be there!” you say cutting her off making her raise her eyebrows at you

“i’ll bring one of your interns with me, i already know you have everything written down correct?” paige asked in a knowing voice, that you just nod your head to

“great! so we will take your notes and go to the shoot while you stay here a take a well deserved nap yeah? i’ll lock the door when i leave, so you don’t have to worry about anyone walking in and seeing you in my shirt and panties, there’s snacks and drinks in the mini fridge and cabinets, just make yourself at home until i get back alright?” paige said with her hand on your bare thigh - rubbing small circles with her thumb

you just nod your head, not wanting to agree with this but also not having a choice “good girl” paige says while leaning in again and giving you a kiss before pulling away to get changed to leave for the shoot

“i never got to please you” you say looking up at her with tired eyes, paige chuckles from buttoning up a new pair of suit pants - seeing as the ones she was wearing are now wet

“maybe next time”

🏷️ @melpthatsme @rebecca-woso @authentic-girl03 @ldapper

[oiblackestsheep]

MBTI Types & Texting Styles

Perceiving Functions

xNxP | High Ne: uses run-on sentences and parentheses (to maximize info-dumping and clarification via extraneous details, respectively)

xNxJ | High Ni: Short and simple sentences. It’s not intentionally “dry”, it’s just effective word choice.

xSxP | High Se: lowercase letters/free form sentences and p much any slang they wanna use bc its just texting and not deep enough for proper spelling and grammar

xSxJ | High Si: Breaking up responses to multiple topics into separate paragraphs.

It’s easier to keep track of what you’re talking about this way.

—

Judging Functions

xxFJ | High Fe: traditional/safe emojis and slang for effective communication ie. lol, brb, ☺️, 😅 periods in the middle are okay. Periods at the end are intimidating so it’s best to avoid those

xxFP | High Fi: Using creative combinations of emojis ( 🙏😩 | 👁️👄👁️ | 🥺👉👈) for the ultimate range of personal expression

xxTJ | High Te: Capital letters, and advanced punctuation; they exist for a reason. Big fan of the Oxford Comma.

xxTP | High Ti: Correct spelling and grammar is mostly a byproduct of autocorrect unless its absolutely necessary. it doesnt have to be perfext just understandable

[literaryvein-reblogs]

more notes on: writer's block

It is an anxiety we feel when we are unable to transfer ideas from our heads to the page.

It is a feeling of inadequacy—that whatever we write will be unoriginal, unimaginative, or have very little value.

It is a temporary state in which we are so overwhelmed with the expectations of an assignment, instructor, ourselves (inner editor) that we can’t get started.

Techniques to Combat Writer's Block

Stream of consciousness writing

There are variations to this type of writing. In general, the ideas are the same: writing freely without considering grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, etc.

The most important aspect of this exercise is to just write.

Variations include: write what comes to your mind as you focus on your topic; write with your eyes closed; cover your computer screen and type freely; write slowly while focusing on each shaping of the letters; or set a timer/alarm and write non-stop for 10-15 minutes.

Change your location

If you usually write at a computer, try the kitchen or dining room table.

If you usually write at a desk, try a seat by a window. Or how about a coffee shop, a park, or the library?

Relaxation techniques

Take a break from trying to write. This will help you to rejuvenate (but come back soon)!

Take some deep breaths. People who tell you that physical exercise is important for mental activity are telling the truth.

If nothing's happening on the computer screen or paper, take a walk around the block. Hit the treadmill or tennis courts or drive to the gym. But take your notebook with you.

Fresh blood will be flowing through your brain and jogging might just jog something loose in your head. It happens.

Start in the middle of your writing project

Avoid the problem of getting started by starting on a part of the project that interests you more and then come back to the introductory matter later.

After all, your readers will never know you wrote the introduction last (another joy of word-processing technology!).

Talking aloud

Talk over your paper with a friend, or just blab away into a tape recorder (even better).

Play the tape back and write down what you hear in clusters of ideas or free write about them.

Accountability & community

Set up a time and place to write with someone else or a few other writers.

Start by talking about what you are working on, your struggle, and what needs to be done.

You can set a specific amount of time for everyone to write silently (an hour or a few).

Then come back together in the end to vocalize what you accomplished (and what you still want to accomplish if more needs to be done).

This goal setting, accountability, and community are highly valuable for the writing process.

more on: writer's block

[mimimui]

comma after dearest (genshin impact)

wherein (character) reacts a certain way to a grammar mistake you made in your letter (or was it?)

includes: kazuha, ayato, thoma, xiao, zhongli, alhaitham, kaveh, scaramouche

tags: a bit unserious writing, fluff, i am obssessed with "it changed the meaning, did you intend this?" forgive me, not proofread

a/n: not sure if anyone's done this before, but take it as my apology for not having written in a while (╥﹏╥) my fever + colds are killing me & i have a lot of scheduled things to do for school aaaa. maybe i can write this with other fandoms as well ? (and character x character ships hehe) .. enjoy !

kazuha notices it immediately. aside from all the work with the fleet, he spends time reading—or rereading—your letters. written messages aren't uncommon when he's at sea, but this letter was different. had you made a mistake with your punctuation? no, it can't be, you've always opened your letters with "my dearest kazuha".

he blinked at the words, now seeing a comma between the word 'dearest' and his name. as much as he was confused, he was flustered. if this wasn't a mistake, and that you intentionally called him your dearest, then it's a shame you can't see how absolutely smitten he is for you right now.

ayato is busy going through papers and folders when he sees an envelope slide under his door. he chuckles as he reads his name in your writing, carefully picking it up and opening it. you have a habit of writing him letters and sliding it under his door while he works, which ayato finds very endearing.

when he reads "my dearest, ayato", his smile only widens more, finding new motivation to finish his assignments for the day so he can get to you as soon as possible. he knows how much effort you put into writing these short, yet loving, letters when he places this one on his (already full of other letters) pinboard.

thoma takes a while to realize, but when he finally notices it, his heart rate increases by a concerning amount. he loves you so much to the point that when he reads "my dearest, thoma", there's hearts in his eyes. thoma's so much happier after reading your letter, and now he's doing everything smiling.

ayaka told him he looks brighter than usual today, and ayato even asked him if he received good news. of course, he was shy about this, but he told the kamisato siblings it was nothing to worry about. though, he continues to do his work with a little bounce in step.

xiao denies it. he thinks he's read it wrong at first, but when he looks over at it again, it is confirmed that you did write him as your dearest. forgetting about the rest of the contents of the letter, xiao began to contemplate. an error like that was unlikely, especially since you're fond of writing.

the next time you meet, he has a hard time trying to bring up the topic. he knows you meant what you wrote, but he wants you to confirm it. when you tell him, "yes, i mean it." he tries to hold back a smile. keyword: tries.

zhongli adores the salutation. or rather, he adores you. he appreciates the sweet, small detail you added in. zhongli hurriedly, yet carefully, writes you a letter back, addressing you as "my dearest, (y/n)" and replying to the contents you had in yours.

he never really indulged in using endearments, but ever since your letter, he's only even been calling you his 'dearest'. when greeting you, when asking for your attention, when talking about you, whenever. zhongli's never said it outloud, but you know he absolutely loves that nickname now.

alhaitham is amused. he thinks you genuinely made a mistake in your letter, but doesn't address it until he returns to sumeru. when you see him again, he brings it up, expecting to be able to playfully taunt you about it. but he was so wrong.

"but you're my dearest. how is that wrong grammar?" you say, turning the situation around and teasing him instead. alhaitham wanted to tease you so much that he didn't bother to think of other possibilities. he's defeated, and all he can say is, "...i have no reply."

kaveh doesn't know how to react to it. should he be flustered, or correcting you for the mistake? was it even a mistake? he does write you a letter back, but best believe he immediately asks you about it as soon as he comes back home. "did you intend this?" he says, showing you your letter.

when you nod your head, all the shyness and blush that should've came in before came in now. kaveh uses the folded letter to cover his smile, but it's too wide and too bright to even try to. when you tease him about it, he strongly denies having his heart race from it.

scaramouche chooses to ignore it. he knows you wrote that punctuation on purpose, but he doesn't want show that he's thinking about it. this ultimately failed when he doesn't write you back, and you knew something was up with him. once he returns and he acts indifferent, you bring it up.

his eyes widen as he looks away, realizing he forgot to reply to that letter. scaramouche hesitates before quietly apologizing, mumbling something about 'my dearest' and 'running out of paper'.

thanks for reading (˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶)

[maiochiruhanabiraaa]

Learning Together (Lamine Yamal.)

Summary: Lamine struggles with math homework until Y/N steps in to help. Together, they tackle problems and switch to English grammar exercises, making learning enjoyable. Y/N's support strengthens their bond, leaving Lamine grateful for her presence and assistance.

Lamine sat at his desk in the cozy corner of their living room, surrounded by scattered papers and open textbooks.

He had been struggling with his math homework for hours, feeling increasingly frustrated as the clock ticked closer to midnight.

Y/N, his girlfriend, noticed his struggle as she passed by, heading to the kitchen.

"Lamine, are you still working on that math?" Y/N asked, concern lacing her voice.

Lamine sighed and nodded.

"Yeah, these problems are really getting to me. I just can't seem to figure them out."

Y/N walked over and leaned against the edge of his desk, peering at the textbook.

"Mind if I take a look?" she offered.

Lamine shrugged, handing her the open page. "Sure, maybe you'll see something I missed."

Y/N scanned the problems quickly, her brow furrowing in concentration.

"Alright, let's tackle this one step at a time," she said, pulling up a chair beside him.

Together, they dove into the math problems. Y/N guided Lamine through each problem methodically, explaining the concepts and demonstrating the steps clearly.

She encouraged him to think critically and apply the formulas they had reviewed earlier. Whenever Lamine felt stuck, Y/N provided gentle prompts and hints, nudging him in the right direction without giving away the answers.

As they worked through the problems, Lamine began to feel more confident. Y/N's patient approach and clear explanations helped him grasp the concepts he had been struggling with.

With each problem they solved together, Lamine's frustration gradually melted away, replaced by a sense of accomplishment.

Once they finished the math problems, Y/N noticed a grammar workbook on the shelf nearby.

"How about we switch gears and work on some English?" she suggested with a smile.

Lamine chuckled softly.

"Sure, why not? I could use a break from numbers."

They flipped through the grammar exercises, focusing on topics like sentence structure, verb tenses, and punctuation.

Y/N's enthusiasm for language was infectious, and she made learning grammar feel engaging and fun.

She quizzed Lamine on various rules and offered explanations whenever he had questions, making sure he understood each concept thoroughly.

Throughout their study session, Y/N's support never wavered. She celebrated Lamine's progress and encouraged him to keep going, even when the material seemed challenging.

Their shared laughter and occasional playful banter lightened the mood, turning what could have been a daunting study session into a rewarding learning experience.

By the end of the evening, Lamine felt grateful for Y/N's unwavering patience and dedication.

She had not only helped him tackle math problems and improve his English skills but had also strengthened their bond through shared learning experiences.

As they tidied up the desk together, Lamine wrapped his arms around Y/N, feeling incredibly lucky to have such a supportive partner by his side.

"Thank you for helping me tonight," Lamine said sincerely, pressing a kiss to Y/N's cheek.

Y/N smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting pride and affection.

"You're welcome, Lamine. I'm always here to support you, no matter what."

And as they stood together in their cozy living room, Lamine knew that with Y/N by his side, there was no problem-mathematical or grammatical-that they couldn't solve together.

[rath00ker]

How twst characters text (Not including side or staff characters)

Riddle Rosehearts: He texts very dry and to the point 2/10 you’ll know what he wants but its awkward to text him

Trey clover: Texts in one word like someone’s dad 1/10 would text “food” to the heartslabyul group chat

Cater Diamond: Texts with too many abbreviations and emojis, 6/10 wouldn’t hate texting him

Deuce spade: texts like a normal person. Nothing special. 5/10

Ace Trappola: Texts the most out of pocket shit to get your attention. “Just imagine me n u OILED UP” 3/10, I’d be scared to open the notification

Leona Kingscholar: Also texts like someone’s dad and it takes him 2 to 3 business days to reply. 0/10

Ruggie Bucchi: He probably got one of them flip phones so it takes him forever to text and he won’t say a lot. 6/10 just cause I love him

Jack Howl: Also just texts like a normal person, 5/10

Azul Ashengrotto: Perfect grammar, punctuation and spelling. Will correct you on yours. 2/10 idc about “your” actually being “you’re” you know what the fuck I mean

Jade leech: Texts whole paragraphs like he’s writing you a letter but he’s actually just asking where you put the milk. 1/10 I don’t got time to read all that just ask me simple questions

Floyd Leech: Literally can’t type to save his life. You gotta decipher his text messages like code. 2/10

Kalim Al asim: He’s so friendly over text and uses a lot of “!!!” When texting. 7/10 what a pleasant young man

Jamil Viper: literally won’t text back. He calls you if he needs something. 1/10 TEXT ME BACK AND QUIT LEAVING ME ON SEEN

Vil Schoenheit: Also doesn’t text if you need him you have to call him. Never looks at his text messages or DMs because his fans are weird sometimes. 3/10 I understand but still

Rook hunt: Sends you pictures of your house 0/10

Epel Felmier: Texts in a southern accent 7/10 he’s a little country boy

Idia Shroud: Texting is like his one form of communication and he refuses to send paragraphs and just texts you ten sentences about one topic. 8/10 just like me fr

Malleus Draconia: Literally doesn’t know how to use a phone 0/10

Lilia Vanrouge: Doesn’t text just sends you links to really bad TikTok’s cause he thinks it’s funny. 2/10 please stop

Silver: Takes two to three business days to text back and probably falls asleep in the middle of texting you back. 5/10 he’s trying his best

Sebek zigvolt: I don’t care about Sebek 0/10

[blingblong55]

-`ღ´-Hello, welcome to my blog -`ღ´-

I am an 18+ blog so MDNI

Hi! I'm Kasper, I'm a 21-year-old fanfic writer for the COD fandom. You probably know me as blingblong55, so Hi!:)

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Disclaimer:

I write for pretty much any COD character, with that said, I am a straight woman so I do apologise if any LGBTQ+ fanfic aren't so well written, (but I will try to make them as good as possible).

Also, I don't really ever check my grammar or how well I punctuate my stories, just had to make that clear:)

I write 18+ stuff so if you are a minor please do not interact with my blog. Thank you.

If you are a minor please be respectful of the MDNI tag I always leave on my NSFW stories. Now I know I can’t confirm if you are indeed a minor or not but be aware that the topics I write for can be unrealistic standards for sexual intercourse and they can/will ruin your own perception of such intimacy.

Rules for requests: -Themes that involve paedophilia will be deleted immediately. - I write on pretty much everything, from kinks, fluff, angst and incorrect quotes to any little drabble I can create from your ideas or mine. - will not write anything that has to do with the reader getting r**ed. -I can maybe...just maybe allow consensual non-consent (CNC), but those are very minimal, Dub-Con is acceptable but rare -will not write anything that has to do with racism, incest, or homophobiaಠ_ಠ -Full-on smut is an obvious yes. -I, at times do AUs so you are welcome to make a request about anything like that -if you want to make a request whether it be Male, Female or GN reader, let it be known or I will end up choosing the gender\pronouns.

Side note:

GN, M, F reader's call sign is 'Grim'.

Kasper Team/Squad is non-canon and has been created by me for my stories.

Anon's can claim emojis!

I’m more of a angst writer than anything, so don’t be afraid to cry

(yes....I named a team after me...but you would too..so shhh)

Please remember that if I haven't done your requests it's either because I am busy or I am in the process of writing it. :)

Also, my inbox is always open for when you just need to rant or vent, just lmk if you wish to keep it only in my inbox lol

My backup account is @kasperslibrary55

4.9k pookies and nasty whores (and counting)

Much love xx <3

[bee--28]

This is my Dead Poets Society handwriting post

I will die on all these hills.

Neil:

It's a little messy, more messy than most students at Welton.

Reminder, Neil did not grow up in the upper-middle class. His father built his own wealth, they can barely afford to send Neil to Welton and to a prestigious college. It takes a good moment to build wealth. Neil's father was likely a good supportive father in childhood. That's why Neil was affected so much (this is so off topic)

Todd:

I feel like his handwriting is big. I feel like his short/small letters (all but tdfhjklb) would fill up the lines on lined paper (I'm projecting, that's how I write, tho his would be more neat that mine is, his parents/father care about status which is reflected in handwriting)

Meeks:

Neat, proper punctuation, proper grammar. Very Meeks, our established academic. (The phrase of this is also very Meeks tbh).

Knox:

Someone posted this with a poll of which DPS character their handwriting it similar to and most people voted for Meeks but I think it's more Knox, I reposted their post with a whole rant if you wanna scroll back on my page for that.

Pitts:

Messy but readable. Rushed. Very Pitts.

Cameron

POSH AF. I love Cameron but his handwriting is obnoxious, that's just how he is.

Charlie:

His handwriting used to be like Meeks or Knox, maybe even similar to Cameron's when he was first learning to write but when he started to rebel a little bit he decided to write illegiblely to piss his parents and teachers off

That's it, that's the whole thing, I'm a strong believer in everything here, don't ask why, I just speak my truth

[mintyeve322]

for anyone concerned by my writing style on my posts that my fic(s) might have no capital letters, random capital letters, or some other issue, i just wanted to clarify i type posts and messages very different from stories.

in stories I'll use proper punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and grammar. (at least to the best of my ability) i just couldn't give two shits about that stuff while I'm rambling here.

just a warning or heads up, haha.

anyway, so that we're on topic, fiddlestan time below the cut.

I think their relationship is pretty quick to take off but slow to be official. i feel like Stan is so starved for affection that she's scared to acknowledge her feelings, especially since affection is sometimes just "platonic girl stuff". don't worry stan, overly affectionate heterosexual female friends drive me insane too.

on Fidd's part, i think she is hesitant to make things official because at first she's not sure if her feelings are genuine or if she's accidentally using Stan, but once she realized thats not it, she's still hesitant to say anything because she doesn't wanna make Stan uncomfortable if she's not right about her feelings.

Fidds is a people pleaser and unhinged as hell before she uses the memory gun, let alone afterwards, so she for sure has made or aquired some crazy shit as gifts for Stan. She for sure has made her at least one robot that malfunctioned and had to be decommissioned, she bought Stan a fish, I'll do some fish research to figure out what kind later but it has some sort of significance, to occupy the empty tank in the shack since Frilliam is lost at sea. She's probably helped Stan make exhibits and made a cryptid up that reminds her of Stan. I feel like she'd get gifts for Stan constantly, and Stan wouldn't know how to act about it because her instinct is to be skeptical of kindness but Fidds was her sister's friend and she hasn't asked Stan for anything in return and she doesn't know why.

Related to Stan's belief that affection is transactional, if Fidds ever gets nervous about the portal or if Stan keeps something from her, like why she got arrested last night or where she found a part and Fidds says she owes Fidds an explanation, Stan will shut down and probably cry in her room for an hour.

Stan is VERY worried that Fidds is gonna reveal one day that she's only there for some sort of payment or gain on her end, and if she even implies that Stan owes her something, Stan will spiral until Fidds is able to figure out the problem and apologize, even if she agrees that she does owe Fiddleford something for all she's done.

Related to this, there's probably a period of time where Fidds is working really hard, to the bone, for Stan. She hates not feeling useful and may have hit a road block she's trying to push through or something, and when Stan tells her to take a break, she interprets it as a sarcastic "just let me do it, idiot" comment and not the "please take a break im worried about you" way stan intended it, due to the fact Ford, with her one track mind, has been harsh to her in that way before.

Fidds is apologetic and swears she's almost got it she just needs more time and please don't maker her leave she promises she can do it, and Stan has to basically grab her, look her in the eyes, and tell her she just needs to take a break and come back later. Fidds says she just wants to be useful for Stan, and Stan tells her she doesn't care if she's useful, she just needs her there and burning herself out working on the project is not worth it. they have a long conversation about how even if fidds never worked on the project again Stan would still want her around and its sad and fluffy.

also a thing where stan gets frustrated and implies Fidds isnt useful and has to comfort her and insist that isn't what she meant because it genuinely wasn't what she meant agh i love miscommunication hurt/comfort

idk im rambling and i feel like we're all so busy unpacking Stan's trauma we forget that Fidds has very real trauma from her work with Ford that has plenty of hurt/comfort potential as well.

[k3nz1ekorn]

Jayvik Actor au- Karaoke confessions pt.1

Character cheat sheet: Viktor-Vladamie/Vlad, Jayce-Joel, Vi-Viola, Cait-Cathrin/Cat, Mel-Miah, Savannah- Sevika, Sky- Skyler, Powder/Jinx-Piper, Ekko-Elijah

Preview- Vlad’s driver had dropped them off outside the bar roughly half an hour ago and there was no sign of Joel. He had stressed over his outfit for an hour in total and the one man he was trying to impress wasn’t even here. He took another sip of his drink and let his eyes drift around the room for the umpteenth time, fiddling with the end of his came in his free hand. His cropped band shirt came down to his waist, covered by the open button up Viola had insisted on. The choice left a nice section of his stomach uncovered before it was met with his dark green cargo pants, not his first choice but his favorite brace for dancing was more comfortable with the slightly thicker fabric. Even without his ideal pants, he looked good and he knew it. He just wished the object of his affection would show up so he could prove it.

Minor Caitvi and Melvika in this one. They get like a full paragraph though.

Vlad was jealous. It was a plain and simple fact. Why? Joel Torres. His own filming for Arcane was on hold the past few days since they were focussed on other scenes, not a problem, He had plenty of other projects to fill his time with! Unfortunately this did mean he hadn’t seen Joel since Monday. It was currently Friday. The absolute horror, am I right? And though that would be changing tonight, having set plans for over a week now, it didn’t help the ugly emotion that had been churning in his gut. The media had started a rumor that there was something going on between his costars Miah and Joel, and while he knew it wasn’t true, he couldn’t help but roll his eyes and huff every time he got a “Sorry, Joel and I need to run lines, can we do lunch tomorrow?” or an even worse “im with miah ill see you friday” from Joel (and his lack of proper grammar over text), which by the way, ouch? That had been sent on Wednesday and no communication had been had between the two since. That’s actually what brings us to the current topic and conversation, the one about him being jealous.

The stars of Arcane were all finally going out for drinks together, as actual friends he might add, and due to the varying degrees of fame amongst them, they’d booked a VIP room at Viola’s favorite karaoke bar for the night. Viola, Miah, and himself were currently in varying states of the getting ready process in his living room. Miah was sitting on his patterned blue rug in front of the couch with her makeup and a mirror on the coffee table in front of her, she currently wore his bathrobe over her white skirt and cropped pink baby tee to avoid getting makeup on anything. Viola was in his kitchen just ten feet away absolutely decimating his liquor cabinet, and he was sitting behind Miah on his gray velvet couch, using her mirror to fix his hair for the 15th time.

“Vlad I’m telling you to just ask him the fuck out, okay?” Viola popped back up from under the counter and set down three shot glasses, proceeding to pour them some of his…when did he buy whiskey? He doesn’t drink whiskey. “It’s been WEEKS now of fuck me eyes back and forth around the lot,” She punctuated her words with a dramatic lean to the side and a wave of the hand,” and I’m out $30 if one of you can’t get it together and make a damn move by the end of filming. Do you want me to be out $30?” Their head snapped to look in Vlad’s direction, an accusatory finger following. “Because I thought-”

“You and Joel will be in the same vicinity tonight, I would not recommend that once we leave.” That earned him a laugh from Miah and a dramatic groan of annoyance from Viola. She picked up their tray of shots and walked around the breakfast bar into the living room. Tonight they were donned in chest tape with an open cropped black jacket over it, a pair of black jeans and studded boots to complete the look. She set the tray down and sat beside him on the couch. He didn’t need to look at them to know they were facing him.

“Uncalled for, there hasn’t been an incident in over a week and you know it. Plus who else is gonna be your wingman? Cat ain’t subtle and whenever Miah gets within five feet of him it’s on the cover of Teen magazine.” He cringed a bit at that, it was true after all. It was also the entire reason they were having this conversation at all. Another cover shot of Joal and Miah’s “lunch date” as the article had put it.

“I’d hardly call your methods subtle, besides I don’t know how many times I have to tell you he isn’t interested. He doesn’t seem like the type to...what was that saying Miah?” He makes eye contact with her in the mirror, “Beat the bush? It had to do with a bush.” He finally looks over at Viola as she downs her shot.

��Beat around the bush dear. And no, he’s not. That’s what we’re trying to tell you.” Miah finally speaks as she blends out her blush. “We’ve already established he’s not interested in me, nor I him. You can even ask him if you really want to know for sure.” She gives him a pointed look and closes her compact with a satisfying click. He breaks their eye contact to reach for his cane. He’d had enough of this conversation to be frank, and needed to finish getting dressed. 

“Maybe I will hmm? Who knows what the night will bring, but in the meantime, please do not burn down my apartment while I change.” That was definitely directed at Viola. “I’m moving in a few months and I’d like my deposit back, thank you.” He turns to go to his bedroom, his exit is punctuated with the soft clicks of his cane, and as Viola watches him go she doesn’t know whether she wants to scream or cry at his obliviousness. 

“He could tell the moment you set your sights on someone, but has no idea when someone does the same for him?” The question is directed at Miah, who looks to be nearly done with her makeup. A joint sigh escapes them both as they make eye contact. It’s like a light bulb appears above Viola’s head as a smirk makes its way across her face and Miah knows what she’s going to say before the words even escape her mouth. “Speaking of…how’s that going? Savannah right?”

She can tell Miah’s blushing under her perfectly applied makeup and gives a nudge of encouragement with her foot. The woman bats her foot away and rolls her eyes. “Yes Savannah. We’re only texting right now, nothing’s…going yet. But I invited her tonight so with a little liquid courage and half an edible I think I’ll work up the nerve to ask her out.” She unclips her shoulder length butterfly locs and gives her head a shake to help fix them before she turns off her mirror’s light. With a little uncertainty she takes a deep breath and turns to face her friend. “How did you…when you asked out Cat…uh…any pointers?” Her head tilts to the side with an awkward smile

Viola barks out a laugh and leans over to hand the other her previously forgotten shot. Miah immediately downs it gratefully and lets out a little chuckle before continuing. “Men are easy for me, y'know? I can flirt with them no problem, go on dates with them, text, but with Savi? It’s like I can’t even get a word out…” She leans herself back against the couch defeated, following the way the fan spins with her eyes. She hears the way Viola sucks her teeth before replying with an almost cautious tone.

“Honestly? No idea. Cathrin asked me out. Walked up to me after an audition I did at Kurtmen Studios and said I’d ‘gotten the part of her date’ for that Saturday." They share another chuckle, “Best I can tell you is to just dive in and hope for the best…she’s definitely a lesbian though, I looked into it for you.”

“...oh?”

“Yep. Half her posts tag that Lesbian bar on the other side of town and the other half are selfies at the gym or hiking.”

“Vi that sounds like yo- oh. Yeah I believe you.”

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Vlad’s driver had dropped them off outside the bar roughly half an hour ago and there was no sign of Joel. He had stressed over his outfit for an hour in total and the one man he was trying to impress wasn’t even here. He took another sip of his drink and let his eyes drift around the room for the umpteenth time, fiddling with the end of his came in his free hand. His cropped band shirt came down to his waist, covered by the open button up Viola had insisted on. The choice left a nice section of his stomach uncovered before it was met with his dark green cargo pants, not his first choice but his favorite brace for dancing was more comfortable with the slightly thicker fabric. Even without his ideal pants, he looked good and he knew it. He just wished the object of his affection would show up so he could prove it. 

He was brought out of his thoughts when the stool next to him scraped against the floor and it was pulled out, a set of blue eyes and a blonde beard coming into view as the newcomer ordered. He heard him say a whiskey on the rocks, and being a drink or two in at this point, decided he'd make the most of his night. The bartender set down the drink and out of the corner of his eye he saw Viola go up to sing Wannabe by the Spice Girls again.

“Whiskey eh? I’m more of a vodka man myself, but maybe their selection here is a bit better than what I’m used to.” He faced the other as he vocalized his thoughts and realized he recognized him, he had seen him at a queer club Miah had dragged him to last weekend. He’d definitely been checking Vlad out. 

“It’s not my usual go to, but I’m gearing up to buy this guy a drink and needed an extra push. Sitting right next to me actually, you think he’d want one?” The man raised his eyebrow and took a long sip of his drink. Vlad let the side of his mouth curl into a half smile and chuckled.

“I think he’d like a shot of vodka. And a name to go with such a cute face.” His head came to rest on his hand as he spoke, cane now resting against his inner leg The other quickly waved down the bartender and ordered the shot while Vlad finished the remainder of his drink. 

“I’m Charlie. Yknow when my friend said he was gonna get us into an exclusive bar, I didn’t expect to see so many famous faces. Yours included.” The shot was set down and Vlad raised it to his new counterpart before downing it. His eyes stayed on the bar for a moment as he responded.

“Oh? So you know me then? And here I thought you just wanted a drink with a handsome stranger?” He was only half teasing. It would have been nice to not be recognized, but with his rising fame it was becoming harder and harder to find possible partners that didn’t already know who he was. He asked for another vodka soda.

Charlie made no indication he was bothered by what was just said, even laughing along, but as he made a move to respond he tensed a bit, leaning just a bit farther away and eyes widening in an almost confused way, it would have been comical in any other circumstance. His eyes had focused on something behind Vlad and he himself now felt a presence in the previously empty space behind him. It was familiar, and he scrunched up his face in curiosity before swiveling around just a bit to see who it was.

“You can go. Sorry to keep you waiting Vladimir, Cat and I got into a bit of an argument before we left.” Joel quickly came into sight and claimed the bar stool on the other side of him, eyes not leaving Charlie’s. Vlad made a noise of confusion and shook his head in a way he really hoped was nonchalant.

“Oh uh…” Fuck “You didn’t! Viola’s stage presence has had me captivated until just a minute ago, Charlie and I were just talking.” The man in question looked between the two a few times, trying to gauge the situation. Joel raised a brow at him when Vlad had turned back to the blond, eyes narrowing just a tad.

“I said you can go?” and oh was he gone. Departing with a quick nod of his head and walking quickly in another direction. Vlad’s face scrunched up in confusion. He thought they were heading somewhere with their conversation too. With only mild disappointment, he shrugged and turned his attention to Joel, whose eyes had found their way back to Vlad the moment Charlie had hurried off. He had an unreadable look on his face as Vlad’s eyes found his and silence overtook them. 

Joel briefly looked to the bartender to order a glass of tequila when Vlad’s drink was brought over and Vlad unwillingly made a mental note to try tequila the next time he went out. He’d already mixed alcohol enough for one night and he didn’t want to be totally incoherent now that the object of his desires had reared his beautiful head. Not a word was spoken as whoever was next went up on stage and Joel took a sip from his first drink of the night. Vlad was the first to break the silence, he usually was he noted.

“You look good tonight, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you out of costume now that I think about it. Green’s a good color on you.” This was true, he’d only ever seen the other man in their Arcane costumes and the occasional jacket to avoid spilling anything on it. He looked good. He was dressed in a fitted dark green sweater over a dark grey button up shirt, though how anything fit under that sweater with how tight it seemed to be was a mystery. He had on black pleated slacks and dark grey shoes, a bit professional for a bar but who was he to judge. What caught his eye most was the gold chain around his neck, with a beautiful blue rock hanging from it. He’d seen it before, on a bracelet Joel always wore on set. It must be interchangeable? Or part of a set? Eh who cares, he was two seconds away from drooling- Oh shit his mouth was open. He snapped his jaw shut with a light click and cleared his throat, eyes looking anywhere but the man beside him. Embarrassment heavy on the air around him.

Joel waited a moment before responding, “Thanks. I like this sweater. It’s soft, see?” An arm was held out in front of him and Vlad actually didn’t have time to be embarrassed about the way his hand shot out to feel along Joel’s bicep and forearm. It was definitely soft…and did so very little to hide the absolute unit of an arm underneath it. 

“I see…very nice, yes.” He said as he brought his arm back down to his pocket. Joel gave a hum of approval and threw a glance over Vlad’s shoulder again before letting his eyes come back to the other’s. 

They got into a comfortable conversation from there, Vlad very animatedly talking about this or that, Joel making comments here and there. They both found they had a mutual love of horror films, both loving the Evil Dead franchise and the remake of The Invisible Man. A comment was made that they should make plans to see something together once they had more free time, and Vlad plays off the flush oh his face with being just a bit buzzed.

“So’s that your type?” Vlad absolutely froze at the words.

“You mean Charlie?” He asked in an almost perplexed curiosity. Why were they talking about him again, it had been nearly an hour since he’d gone on his way.

“If that was his name.” He had to find an answer soon with the way Joel was staring at him. The thing was, while yes that was his type, he had his ideal specimen of a man sitting directly next to him…who also coincidentally fit the majority of the criteria he preferred, more so that the blond had in fact. He cleared his throat and let his eyes fall to the floor for a second, drink swirling in his hand while he thought of an answer.

“For the most part, give or take the ehh…facial hair I suppose?” Was that subtle? Oh gods it definitely wasn’t. Where was Viola? She was meant to be a wingman tonight for him. He dared a glance at the other as the words rolled off his tongue, she had said to be more forward anyways.

“Hm. Definitely not my type but we all have our preferences.” Joel shrugged as he answered. He felt himself deflate just the smallest bit as he decided to ask a bold and very clarifying question. 

“Oh? Like men in general?” Fuck fuck fuck abort abort abort-

“No. Men are fine, he’s just not my type.”  Vladimir’s head had never in his life whipped up so fast, and he had never been so embarrassed about a reaction as when his gaze locked onto a pair of beautiful golden eyes, staring right into his soul.

“Ah. I see.” He responded slowly.

“I just prefer a smaller partner. Eye color is all wrong too.” Joel broke their eye contact for the first time as he glanced at a loud crash across the room. Vlad couldn’t bear to look away from his face at that moment.

Was he flirting? Was it just one too many drinks and an active imagination? He didn’t think he’d had enough to make himself lose his perception of those around him, but maybe it was time to call it quits for the night. His mouth suddenly felt very dry as he watched Joel’s eyes drift back to his own.

“I’ll be back. I’d like to talk more.” Joel downed the remainder of his drink and stood up, “I like talking to you…Vlad. Apologies for not being able to see you much this last week.” Heat crept up his neck as we watched the taller man walk away towards the commotion. He could now clearly see Piper, another castmate of theirs, had been the cause. He couldn’t be bothered to figure out what was happening though, too lost in thought about the conversation he’d just had.

Author's note: Im like a fly rubbing my hands together in an evil way whenever i write bc i just love making vik flustered

[duckprintspress]

I saw your post regarding the em dash and spaces - have you done one on the ellipses? I often use them in place of an em dash to show an interruption in both dialog and narrative.

Thanks!

Hi!

Sorry it took me a while to answer this, it's hard to find the time to write long posts. :D But no, we haven't done a long post on ellipse usage similar to this post we did about em dashes and spaces. Similar to em dashes, using spaces with ellipses is a bit fuzzy. It can be hard to get solid guidance from CMoS on ellipses, too, because CMoS doesn't really have any examples that link to how we use them in fiction. Their examples focus on their use in academia. Even their definition of what an ellipse IS ( "An ellipsis is a series of three dots used to signal the omission of a word, phrase, line, paragraph, or more from a quoted passage.") doesn't even acknowledge the way they are generally used in fiction to denote a trail-off or hesitation. There's a single, brief section on ellipses in fiction and the hesitation/trailing off usage, but this section mostly just acknowledges this usage exists and doesn't give much guidance.

The CMoS doesn't use spaces around ellipses, but they do use some punctuation around it. For example, "What about...," said James. would be grammatically correct according to CMoS. However, ellipse rules are an area where the DPP style guide (available here! though it actually doesn't include most of the below detail on ellipses, oops...) deviates from the CMoS. Because there's so little guidance, and what there is seems more like an after-thought, we made some of our own decisions about ellipse usage, as like. we're fic writers. we fuckin' love ellipses.

Our punctuation rules for ellipses:

In general, we opt for an ellipse if a section of text is left intentionally incomplete, specifically in a "trailing off," "leaving the rest of what would be written implied," "hesitation," or other related usages. If the cut off is abrupt due to an interruption or some other "instant" reason the sentence ends, use an em dash instead.

If an ellipse is at the end of a sentence that would otherwise end in a period, we omit the period, because we feel this best indicates that the thought is left incomplete intentionally. Example: As for James, well...

If an ellipse is at the end of a sentence that would otherwise end in an exclamation point or question mark, we include the exclamation point or question mark, because we feel this best indicates the intended tone with which a reader should interpret the trailed-off thought. These should be omitted if the sentence looks like a question/exclamation but is not intended to be read with that inflection. Example: But what about...? Why would you...

If an ellipse is at the beginning of a sentence, we do not capitalize the first letter of the text that follows, because we feel this best indicates that some unwritten thought preceded it and what follows shouldn't be interpreted as an entire sentence. In this instance, we do not use any spaces before or after the ellipse unless other grammar would require it. Example 1: ...never mind, don't worry about it. Example 2: That's right. ...but maybe we should worry about it a little.

If an ellipse is in the middle of a sentence, and the thought before the ellipse and the thought after the ellipse are directly connected, we do a lower case (not a capital) as the first letter of the second half, with a hair space between the ellipse and the second half of the sentence (this becomes a full space in epubs due to formatting concerns), because we feel this best indicates that the two thoughts are connected. Example: But you said...I mean...you told me it'd be different this time.

If an ellipse is in the middle of a sentence, and the thought before the ellipse and the thought after the ellipse are not connected, in the sense that there's a full break in topic/thought denoted by the ellipse, then we use a full space, and the second half starts with a capital letter to denote that a new sentence has begun, because we feel this best indicates that a break has occurred. Example: I suppose I did... Anyway, we were talking about ellipses, not James, right?

(Regarding the previous two, obviously what counts as a new thought is subjective, there's no hard-and-fast rule, so there's wiggle on whether to capitalize or not.)

In dialogue cases, the above rules hold true, and also trump the "always use a comma with dialogue tags" rule, because honestly an ... followed by a , just looks funny and isn't any more or less clear than if the comma isn't there. Example: "But I want to talk about James..." I trailed off. "...but you don't, so I'll leave it alone."

Also in dialogue, if what follows the dialogue is a dialogue tag, we use lower case for the first letter outside the dialogue (Example: "Perhaps, since you're so determined to talk about it..." they answered.). If what follows the dialogue is a separate action, we use upper case for the first letter outside the dialogue (Example: "Must you be so..." Frustrated, I scowled.) This matches our usual rules for capitalization after quotation marks.

If we did end up with a "scholarly" usage, for example in a found documents story where "outside materials" (still fictional, of course) were cited, I expect we'd follow the CMoS rules more closely, because they make more sense when an ellipse is being used in the way that CMoS clearly most expects an ellipse to be used - when citing a source that, for example, ends in a superfluous word as it's being quoted. In cases like that, following the ellipse with a period is reasonable because in the source material, the sentence DID end, it didn't just trail off into nothing. Like, if the original to-be-quoted line is "This is a sentence within a sentence." and I cite it as "This is a sentence...." the fourth dot makes it clearer that material has been omitted. Probably to avoid any confusion with our other usages, I'd do something additional, like maybe use brackets. "This is a sentence [...]." to indicate we're using the ellipse in the "omitted text" way and not in the "trailing off/hesitating" way. It hasn't come up yet, though, so I can't say for sure.

I think those are the basics of how we've decided to handle these cases? Sorry if I've omitted an obvious one, I'm running through actual ellipses in our latest manuscript to try to jog my memory lmao.

Anyway, much as with em dashes, CMoS leaves enough unspecified that there's room for an individual publishers and authors to make their own choices regarding ellipses and surrounded spaces and punctuation, and as long as whatever they choose is consistently applied, it's all about equally acceptable. The above aren't hard and fast rules, they're just the decisions we've made with the situations we encounter most often.

...hokay, that's everything I can think of right now. I hope this helps!

Did y'all know you can send us writing-related asks? We might be slow to reply, but we'll get to 'um eventually, so feel free to send 'um our way!

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Revision Strategies

When the time comes for revision, it can cause stress for writers of every level.

After all, it can be hard to delete or change words you spent hours writing.

To help reduce this stress, the following lists a few revision strategies.

READ IT ALOUD

Although it can be awkward at first, reading your work aloud can be one of the best revision strategies.

1. Catching Typos

When reading silently, your brain might skip over or correct small errors because it makes educated guesses about what the words are trying to say.

However, reading aloud forces you to slow down and see what is actually written.

2. Identifying Sentences That Flow Awkwardly

If you have ever read an incredibly long sentence in someone’s work, you know that it can be hard to follow the person’s train of thought.

These sentences are hard to catch in your own writing, but reading aloud will make them almost impossible to miss.

It is natural to take a breath in between sentences, so if you find yourself out of breath while reading aloud a single sentence, or having difficulty following the main idea/s of a sentence, the sentence likely needs to be revised.

SHARE YOUR WORK

It can be unnerving to ask others to read your work, but the payoff is more than worth it.

1. Another Reader Can Offer A New Perspective

It is easy to miss small details in your own work, especially when you have been looking at the same document for a long time.

Furthermore, because you are an expert on your own topic, you may not notice whether your essay effectively lays the groundwork necessary for those unfamiliar with the topic.

Ask a friend, family member, or a writing consultant to read your draft and offer feedback.

Moreover, telling your readers what to focus on ensures they pay special attention to the elements you want to revise.

2. Edit for Grammar Last

Even a grammatically-sound paper can fall flat if the content does not meet a reader’s expectations.

Your top priority during revision should be to make sure that you have made your point/s clearly.

Save the editing of punctuation and grammar until after you finish revising a draft.

3. Manage Your Stress

If you get a lot of feedback on what to revise, make and prioritize a list of the comments.

After taking the time to digest everything, focus on each individual item on your list.

Cross off items as you complete them so that you have a physical representation of the work you have finished.

TAKE TIME AWAY

Leave yourself enough room in your schedule to take time away from your completed rough draft; time away from your writing is an important part of revision.

1. Recharging Throughout the Process

It is taxing to begin revision immediately after finishing a draft and can discourage writers.

Giving yourself a break between writing and revising allows you to rest and recharge, so when you revise, you have more energy to spend on the process.

2. Refreshing Your Perspective

Taking a break allows you to distance yourself from your work so that you can read through it more objectively.

This fresh perspective allows you to see what might need clarification, refined organization, elaboration, or other revision work.

3. Coming Back from a Break

Instead of immediately jumping into sentence-level revisions during your first read-through of a draft, focus on reading your writing from start to finish at least once without interruptions.

This enables you to see how well your writing flows, catch any repetition, and determine whether anything might be missing.

Writing Notes & References

[lilwnet]

Spencer Dating a True Crime Fan: Headcanons

Summary: a true crime junkie and an FBI agent, the Universe must be laughing its lungs out. Some vague-ish headcanons on what it’s like to be in such a relationship. In general, the sweetest, most supportive boyfriend Spencer Reid, and caring, brilliant you.

Pairing: Spencer Reid x gn!reader

Warnings: don’t think I went to extremes or described anything graphic, however, I’d recommend giving it a pass if you aren’t comfortable with anything true crime. Besides, it’s kinda long and isn’t proofread.

A/N: I’m not a native English speaker, and it’s frustratingly hard for me to speak — and write — good, authentic English, especially grammar- and punctuation-vise as my first language interferes heavily. Hence, beware because there are mistakes!

When you say it to Spencer or he sees you getting interested in a book dedicated to a prolific murderer, he’s perplexed. Being exposed to so much evil in his life, he couldn’t wrap his head around the reason for you to be so invested in true crime.

Yet, when you explain it to him, he wonders if he’s a true crime fan, too.

For you, it’s always been quite fascinating why people resort to such a brutal, inhumane and cruel way of dealing with daily struggles; then, you say about “stranger danger”, your parents’ precautions and warnings that made you curious from the very young age why they are so focused — or overly focused — on safety. Finally, you want to understand why some people get high off killing others, meaning, you’d like to get a hang of their brain’s system, of their choices, life, history, psychological evaluation. In general, that coincides with what he does for a living.

I believe you wouldn’t know about his occupation at that point of your relationship. It’s pretty early on, quite possibly the first date when Spencer rather nervously asks you to tell more about yourself that you just blurt it out. The thing is, you’ve grown quite used to the fact that some people find you weird for taking a liking in such a dark topic. You thought, the earlier you say, the lesser it’d hurt if you were to go your separate ways.

However, Spencer surprises you. After your explanation, he seems to get it and then laughs genuinely as he realises how comical the situation is. If you meet through one of your mutual friends, Reid will question their sense of humor. If you meet randomly, he doesn’t know what to question, yet will get pumped up by fate’s unpredictable, always on-point turns.

You, a true crime junkie, is now dating an FBI agent, an SSA with BAU.

When he finally stops laughing and sees your bemused reaction, he proceeds to reveal his job, and you join the new wave of laughter.

After that, you talk about some cases he deals with, although you try your best to read, profile the agent to avoid pressuring him into reliving said crimes. Later on, the mutual agreement would be to only talk about it when both want to.

Surprisingly, Spencer feels like talking about it a lot, still he doesn’t resolve to graphical descriptions. He finds it soothing to share the story and push it right to the back of his head.

You, in turn, are a remarkably good, careful listener who doesn’t hide their emotions. You shed tears if it hits you hard, you comment when you believe a killer to be an absolute idiot, you make a face when you’re disgusted or annoyed.

Reid finds it refreshing; his colleagues, he himself, have built up façades as nonchalant, unfazed, gathered, their walls too high and thick for anyone to question the authority and experience.

Maybe it isn’t just the sharing part that helps him go through the hardest aspects of his job, but you, your mannerism and your presence.

What he likes most is how compassionate you are. You both believe the rationale for it is the amount of information you know about true crime.

When you discuss something — his case or something one of you has read — and you ask Reid about a victim’s family or focus on a victim’s background rather than a killer’s, he can’t help but hug you tight.

As an FBI agent, Spencer has gone to a couple of crime-related events, orchestrated by FBI or scrutinisingly arranged by ex-BAU agents, and he knows how little attention people pay to those who suffer the most. So, seeing you doing the exact opposite of what he encounters daily melts his heart.

Now, if you’re just a listener and/or a reader, he will ask you about your favourite podcasts or Youtube channels to buy a ticket — or tickets — to their shows or find you books about some perpetrators he believes you might find fascinating to study.

BUT if you’re doing a podcast or a Youtube show, or both, it’s a whole different story.

The minute you say it, Spencer is hooked on and ties himself in knots to find out more. You don’t show him an episode as you find it rather embarrassing, hence, Dr. Reid resolves to the only option he can think of.

Spencer asks Penelope to show him how to use Youtube or a podcast app. Garcia is surprised and eager to help, albeit upset when she realises Reid won’t say a word to explain his sudden interest in technology.

When he picks up the interface and the general idea of a website, he buys a new phone to have a chance to listen to your voice and to see you in both a Youtube box and a FaceTime box when he’s away on never-ending cases.

If you have a concept of doing something simultaneously while talking true crime — think of Bailey Sarian or MissMangoButt — he’d be so impressed. True crime is hard enough as there are many subtle, intricate details to elaborate on, and you do it almost effortlessly while focusing on something else at the same time!

(If you’re knitting, Spencer’ll ask you to knit something for him to see you do it while elaborating on a story, and he feels so soft inside, he can’t really explain why).

If you’re just telling a story, he’s as equally impressed. Spencer has a stage fear, a fear of public speaking, he’s camera shy. And you’re there talking, providing photos, your reaction is as real as when the two of you talk. You seem so natural at it.

Dr. Reid’s well-aware of every case you discuss or at least he has heard of them. He still listens or watches amid a) your style of telling a story; b) your humour and your mannerism; c) it’s you… how he can not listen to you or watch you? Apart from that, you’re doing something to spread awareness on never-decreasing crime rates.

Besides, he’s awestruck at the way you tell a story like some novelists do. An intriguing beginning, either slowly painting the surroundings for listeners or almost shoving them right into the midst of a case, then a build-up that leads to a climax and an end, letting your listeners know that some weirdos are held accountable or concluding that criminals never stop.

At first, the genuis listens to it when he’s home alone or in hotel/motel rooms after his own cases. Then, Spencer plucks up the courage to say he’s so proud of you and your work and provides you with a number of episodes he has watched or listened so far.

“I feel like I might become a true crime junkie because of you,” he’d joke. “Seriously, I would love to listen to all of them, but I don’t want to look, uh,” Reid stumbles over his words not to sound rude. “I don’t really want strangers or my colleagues to listen to what I’m listening to.”

Next thing Spencer knows you gift him two different pairs of wired headphones; the first goes with his phone, the second quickly reminds him of the headphones he once described as the only technology he has seen that he’d like to have.

Yeah, he’s a true crime junkie now, too, but he is your true crime junkie. Spencer watches all the episodes until he runs out of them and then waits patiently for the uploading day.

He grows so comfortable with your soothing voice, it helps him sleep. When you joke about something, Reid chuckles and, strangely, has no shame for it, even when five pairs of eyes stare at him, puzzled, while he sits comfortably with his eyes shut and his headphones in.

When he sees you doing some research or writing a script for another story, he won’t intervene unless you ask him to. He won’t be offended if you’re working things on your own — because why would he be? — but he’s so happy to give you a hand. To him, it means you value his ideas and opinion.

Spencer helps you find the information you need by just stating a fact or a detail you’ve spent an hour looking for, or scanning through your script if it seems shabby to you. In most cases, he says that you’re an overthinker, and everything is great, yet he does provide the critique to enhance your work.

If you have a concept similar to Payton Moreland’s “Binged” when she examines two cases on a common theme, he might suggest you cases to look at.

Sorry, but he’ll never join an episode, and you shouldn’t push him to.

Now, topics are heavy, still Spencer knows his limits and takes breaks when needed to avoid overstimulating his mind or getting increasingly anxious on daily basis.

Furthermore, he lets you accept that you need to have a rest, too, for the exact same reasons.

True crime aside, you still have so much to talk about, from gossips to carpet history.

Bonus: with Spencer slowly opening up to technology, you two exchange breakthroughs in cold cases.

For example, when the Golden State Killer was caught, you two spent the majority of the day connecting the dots and discussing the case, and the court hearing made you two shook.

He didn’t actually work that day, and neither did you, but who cares?

Hotch does, so you better keep low-profile.

[writingquestionsanswered]

hello, do you perhaps wrote some tips on how to do self-proofreading? i mainly write fanfic for fun, but even so i want to give my best so i can look back at my writing and think that i've done all i can. i feel like i have to proofread my writing to achive that. but the thing is, i have a hard time staying objective. im afraid it will only worsen my draft. however, i can't also afford proofreading service. if you have written that topic before, please let me know. thank you! have a pleasant day.

Proofreading

It's important not to confuse proofreading and editing. In editing, you're finding and fixing big picture items like conceptual problems, structural issues, plot holes, loose threads, loose world building, weak character development, thematic incoherence, meandering narrative arc, wonky pacing and flow, etc.

Proofreading is about finding and correcting errors, such as typos, misspelled words, incorrect grammar, bad or missing punctuation, formatting errors, eliminating crutch words, improving consistency and clarity, cutting back on repeat words, limiting use of passive voice, and minimizing overuse of dialogue tags.

While editing is often subjective--what one persons considers to be a problem may seem fine to another person--proofreading is rarely subjective. Incorrect grammar is incorrect grammar. A typo is a typo. A spelling error is a spelling error.

Whether you're talking about editing, proofreading, or both, there are lots of free checklists for both that you can find online. These checklists provide an item-by-item list of things to watch out for. These can be really helpful when you're editing and when you're proofreading. With editing especially, it can help you stay a little more objective about things that need objectivity, like problems with pace and structure. They can also give you confidence that you've done everything you can in self-editing/self-proofreading. You can find these lists by Googling terms like "fiction editing checklist" or "fiction proofreading checklist."

Happy editing/polishing!

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I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

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[jane-alma]

Advice for dealing with writer’s block, from a fellow writer

Okay, so I think we can all agree that writer's block sucks. And if you're someone who writes regularly, there's no way to avoid experiencing it from time to time (I sure know I do). But here are a few things that I usually find helpful when I experience writer’s block <3

Firstly, give yourself permission to take a break. Sometimes, the harder we push ourselves to write, the more elusive inspiration becomes. Step away from your writing for a little while and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could be anything from going for a walk, reading a book, or indulging in a hobby. By taking time to recharge, you allow your mind to reset and open up to new ideas. Sometimes it can be an longer break that is needed, sometimes the best way to get back into writing if you have a really bad case of writer’s block is to simply not try.

Another useful technique is to try freewriting. Set a timer for a specific duration, it can be as short as 10-15 minutes (personally, I prefer setting my timer for about half an hour to 45 minutes when I do this), and write continuously without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or structure. Let your thoughts flow freely onto the page. This exercise can help loosen up your creative muscles and break through any mental barriers. If you know that you have a tendency to overthink or be overly self critical when you write, I suggest avoiding a time duration longer than 30 minutes, at least the first times you do this exercise.

If you find yourself stuck on a particular project, consider working on something completely different. Switching gears and exploring a new topic or genre can provide a fresh perspective and alleviate the pressure you may be putting on yourself. Experimenting with different writing styles or formats can also help reignite your passion for storytelling.

Collaboration can be another effective way to overcome writer's block. Engage in writing exercises with fellow writers or seek feedback from trusted peers. Sharing your work-in-progress and receiving constructive criticism can often provide valuable insights and new directions for your writing.

Lastly, it's important to remember that writer's block is a natural part of the creative process. Be patient and kind to yourself. Avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk. Instead, focus on nurturing your creativity through self-care, reading, and exploring new experiences. Trust that inspiration will return in its own time.

And most importantly of all, be kind to yourself. We are usually our own biggest critic. Happy writing! <3

[gkyoyukinona]

How to Write an Essay (Without Losing Your Sanity lol)

The essay. That dreaded form of writing that often brings out feelings of fear, dread, and confusion. But fear not! Writing an essay doesn't have to be as terrifying as it seems. Whether you're a student or someone who just got stuck with a writing assignment, i am here to guide you through the process. Get ready to unlock the mystery of essay writing in a very simple way.

Step 1: Understand the Prompt

First things first: Read the assignment. I know, I know—this sounds too easy, but you'd be surprised how many people skip this crucial step. Understanding the question you're being asked is the foundation of your entire essay. You wouldn’t build a house without a blueprint, would you? (Unless you’re a DIY enthusiast)

Ask yourself:

What is the essay asking me to do? Analyze? Argue? Explain?)

Are there specific guidelines or requirements? (Word count? Format? Citation style?)

What’s the purpose of the essay? (Are you informing? Persuading? Telling a story?)

Step 2: Research Like You’re the Next Sherlock Holmes

You may be tempted to skip this part and just write whatever comes to mind. Big mistake! Essays are all about backing up your ideas with solid evidence. So, channel your inner Sherlock Holmes and start researching.

Use reliable sources (we’re not citing Wikipedia here, folks).

Take notes and organize your thoughts. This will save you from diving into a writing frenzy and realizing halfway through that you’ve completely lost track of your argument.

Look for a variety of sources—books, articles, interviews, or anything that feels appropriate for your topic.

Once you’ve done your research, take a deep breath and let the facts fill your brain. You’ll need them in the next step.

Step 3: Make an Outline

Okay, you’ve got your research, and now it’s time to plan out your essay. The outline is like a map that keeps you from wandering into the unknown wilderness of “I don’t know what I’m doing anymore.”

There are different ways but this is how I make the most simple outline for my essay

Introduction: This is where you grab your reader's attention. Start with a hook—something that piques curiosity or makes them think. A quote, a question, or even a joke (that’s relevant, of course).

Body Paragraphs: These are the meat of your essay. Each paragraph should cover one main idea. Start with a topic sentence, support it with evidence, and wrap it up with an analysis. Rinse and repeat.

Conclusion: Time to bring it all home! Restate your main points, tie everything together, and leave your reader with something to think about. And please, for the love of all things good, don’t just copy-paste your introduction.

Step 4: Write the First Draft (Embrace Imperfection)

Now, it's time to write! Don’t worry about making it perfect just yet. The goal is to get your thoughts down on paper. You can always clean it up later.

Here are a few tips:

Write freely. Don’t censor yourself—let your ideas flow.

Use transition words like "however," "for example," and "in conclusion" to connect your ideas smoothly.

Don’t obsess over grammar and spelling in the first draft. You’ll have time for that later.

Now once you're done writing drafts think of some title ideas related to the topic of your essay. Remember a catchy title is necessary as it serves the first impression of your write up. ( Some of you may do this before starting your essay and i really admire you for that becoz for me thinking title take hours )

Step 5: Edit Like You’re a Grammar Ninja

Once you’ve got your first draft, it’s time to put on your editing hat. You know, the one with the sharp sword of logic and the shield of perfect grammar.

Check for clarity. Does everything make sense? Is your argument easy to follow?

Grammar and punctuation: This is where you get to play the detective. Look for missing commas, awkward sentences, and spelling errors. Use apps or Google to check your grammar

Step 6: Polish and Submit (The Final Touches)

Now that you've edited your masterpiece, it's time for the final touches. Ensure your essay follows the required format and citation style (MLA, APA, Chicago—pick your poison).

Take one last look at your essay:

Are your paragraphs well-organized?

Is your argument clear?

Is your spelling flawless?

Congratulations! You've now survived the essay-writing process and emerged victorious.Keep practicing, and soon, you'll be an essay-writing pro—no sweat, no tears, just a few cups of coffee and maybe a well-timed joke.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Visit this link to see my essay and other writeups on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/gkyoyuki.nona?igsh=Mzhxa2c5ZjNpY2kx