Boost the odds of writing a successful query by heeding these advice points, which include "make your editor feel special" and be "local and timely."

Finding a fresh angle on a topic in the news got this writer into The New York Times and the New York Daily News.

A short-story writer realizes that the form he once considered “built for sadness” welcomes hope, too.

A number of persistent myths haunt the world of contemporary poetry, says our columnist, who sticks her neck out to set the record straight.

Time is flying by, you’d better believe it. Shouldn’t you at least jot down your precious memories before they fade?

One of the top suspense authors takes you through the tricks of the novel-writing trade, starting with reading the classics.

In her treatment of the friendship between Clara Schumann and Johannes Brahms, and in her other novels, A. Manette Ansay aims for the universal by writing through particulars.

An author of nine novels offers some advice on boosting your efficiency and productivity as a writer.

A novelist offers an array of business mistakes she’s made in her writing career—so that you won’t have to.

An experienced writer of short fiction offers a broad range of entry points that can get you started, and the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

You don’t need inside knowledge to write for industry magazines—just a good idea.

Here are some tips on how to use one skillfully in fiction, and when not to use one at all. 

It may not be the MacDowell Colony, but a “self-retreat” close to home can offer valuable and relatively inexpensive benefits.

A psychologist explains how to put the concept of “social IQ” to work in developing characters and their relationships.

Want a great tip on breaking into magazine journalism? Pitch ideas you have some kind of personal experience or connection with, our columnist urges.

Seek out other writers to build a collection that offers unique answers to a key question.

This month’s spotlight is on the prestigious literary journal The Paris Review, describing its tone, preferences and contributors.

A literary roundup to help you enhance your craft, feed your muse, or guide your holiday gift-giving.

Check out a list of markets in these areas: agents; food/drink, home/garden and literary magazines; and publishers. Plus, information on conferences and contests and helpful tips from editors at The Herb Companion and Natural Home.

In finding his fictional ideas, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Junot Díaz looks to his own “weird compass”  for inspiration.