“Ask Jane” Shorts
One-to-three minute videos on critical writing questions that give you the answers you need quickly and let you get back to writing!
Should I put my manuscript aside to see it with fresh eyes later? If so, how long?
In this video, we talk about the common advice to put your manuscript aside when you're finished with your current draft before beginning to revise. We...
How should I handle foreign names, words, or dialogue in my novel?
In this video, we dive into when it's okay to use foreign words in your novel, how to approach characters communicating in a language different from the...
How do I type an em dash and how should I use them in my writing?
In this video, we talk about a powerful but often overlooked punctuation mark: the em-dash! I outline multiple ways to use this mark in dialogue and explain...
How do I use double and single quotation marks properly?
In this video, we look at the different reasons why you would use double or single quotation marks in fiction and non-fiction writing. We also explore what...
How do you show character flaws or weaknesses while maintaining character consistency?
In this video, I use examples from my Josie Prescott Antiques mysteries (https://janecleland.com/mysteries/) to highlight my approach to integrating character...
How can I freshen up generic descriptions, such as “large hands?”
In this video, we look at my approach to ensuring descriptions are fresh and interesting. By stepping back and considering not just what you want to describe,...
How do I connect two independent clauses using a comma and a semicolon?
In this video, we discuss an alternative approach to connecting two independent clauses using a comma and a coordinating conjunction. While semicolons are not...
How do I connect an independent clause with a dependent clause?
In this video, we talk about how you can properly use commas to link independent clauses with dependent clauses. We also look at alternative arrangements you...
How do I use commas for direct address and modifying phrases?
You don't need to be scared of commas! In this first video of four on proper comma usage, we'll look at how to correctly utilize commas when using them as...
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