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This writing course, Online: Plotting and Suspense with JP Pomare, takes place online.

Many writers have brilliant story ideas but don’t know where to begin. In this online workshop with bestselling author JP Pomare, you’ll learn different approaches to building a story and crafting narrative tension in fiction.

Is this course right for you? Read our FAQ > 

This course is constructed in a way to help develop early novel ideas by finding and pursuing potential narrative avenues, and building a convincing story world replete with strong characters and a setting that draws readers in. We will look closely at the individual elements of fiction with a focus on how these interact with plot, and establish techniques for building and maintaining tension throughout an entire novel.

You’ll undertake a variety of exercises to help you move from the initial big idea toward a developed draft full of twists that keep readers turning the pages.

This course involves submitting short writing exercises, and giving and receiving peer feedback. Participants will receive limited tutor feedback.

Expected Learning Outcomes 

In this workshop, participants will:

1. Learn how to develop a story idea and complete early drafts with an eye for strong narrative structure
2. Discover how elements of fiction interact, and find conflict and tension in character, setting, dialogue and plot
3. Master self-editing techniques to make their prose gripping and keep the reader turning the pages.

Participant Requirements

Internet access and confidence using basic computer software are essential for this program. Please read our FAQ before enrolling.

You do not need to log into the course at a specific time and there are no live meetings. You will receive an email with an invitation link to join the online classroom a week before the course starts.

Please expect to spend a minimum of six hours on the course, noting that the amount of time needed to read, respond to discussions, write, revise and critique will vary from person to person.

• You can complete the lesson material in your own time.
• There will be assignments which have deadlines. To be guaranteed tutor feedback, you will need to complete the assignments by the deadline.

You can find out more about the course by reading our frequently asked questions.  If you have any questions, please contact us.

Reviews

‘JP had lots of valuable knowledge and advice to offer.’ — Rachel, 2023

‘JP’s feedback was so prompt and he went above and beyond … and being very precise and constructive.’ — Kate, 2021

‘I found the material presented by JP excellent and stimulating. His feedback was very constructive and encouraging.’ — Robyn, 2021

More from Writing NSW

Check out our full range of in-person writing courses in Sydney, our online writing courses and our feedback programs to see how we can help you on your writing journey. Find out about our grants and prizes, as well as writing groups across NSW, and sign up to our weekly newsletter for writing events, opportunities and giveaways.