What is your writing routine?

Generally, when I’m drafting, I set myself some kind of goal. Sometimes, that’s reaching a certain word count every day, but because I’m an over-writer, seeing the word count tick up when I’m halfway through the project isn’t a true reflection of how much progress I’ve made with the story (because I like to get stuck in my characters’ heads and dissect every thought and feeling). That’s when I know I need to switch gears and find other goals, i.e. finish a chapter every 2 days, or get the draft done by a certain date. When I was in grad school and only had a little bit of time for writing ahead of going to the lab, I’d aim for 20 minutes of writing time, because everything else was too overwhelming and would make me fall off the wagon right away.

Same goes for editing. I set myself realistic goals, and work 5-6 days/week on my manuscript.

Generally, my head’s most useful in the mornings, so I try to get the biggest chunk (or the most complicated edit) done then. I also realized that goals and routine away from the page are as important for me to find a balanced routine, so I try to incorporate some kind of movement into my writing days, whether that’s going for a walk (no headphones! Gotta have some time to listen to my thoughts) or heading to the gym.

What writing software do you use?

If you would’ve asked me this question a year ago, I would have told you I’m a Scrivener girlie for all things drafting. Then, when I’m ready to share, I export into MS Word because it just has better functionality for formatting, track changes and comments.

Then I got to drafting my second book, and the only space where I could write was Google Docs for some reason (and long-hand and my phone notes for some chapters). Point is, for me there’s no tried and true method. It seems to be changing from project to project and I’m happy to go along, as long as I get the words out.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently editing my first book, Love & Other Brain Experiments, while gearing up to revise my still untitled second book. Plus, there are always a few ideas cooking at the back of my mind, but I try not to overwhelm myself with too many projects at once.

Can I submit my manuscript to you for feedback?

As much as I would love to help, I am not able to personally review everyone’s work. I am, however, planning to open occasional query package critiques, which I will announce on my Instagram.

If you would like general query letter critique, I’d recommend connecting with other writers on Instagram, joining the Beta Reader Match Up, or finding query letter critique groups on reddit. In addition, there are some great mentoring programs you can apply for to get further help with your query package and manuscript, such as SmoochPit (which I also mentor for) or Round Table Mentor.