Write Backstory With Confidence

How to weave the past in without information dump telling

Backstory is the foundation of engaging characters and believable plots. When it’s well integrated and authentic, it drives the main story without killing pace. Learn how to banish boring backstory while maintaining pace and tension, with proven techniques that will enhance your overall storytelling proficiency.
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Have you been accused of too much telling or information dumps?
Does your character have a fascinating history, but you’re not sure how best to convey it to readers?
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Avoid the pitfalls of backstory by peeling back the layers one at a time to discover the most effective delivery methods, how much to use, and how to make it drive the main story.

This course is for fiction writers who want to avoid information dumps and use backstory to provide character motivation that resonates with readers. You’ll have seamless backstory in no time!

This popular workshop combines colourful handouts, tailored feedback, video lessons and personalised feedback on your work. There will be plenty of opportunities to apply the techniques to your own stories so you can see them in action and understand how how they work in different scenarios. 
 
This workshop will give you the skills to:

• Banish information dumping.
• Select and use an appropriate delivery method. 
• Know when to release backstory for maximum effect.
• Identify where backstory isn’t working.
• Know where your character came from and is headed, so the backstory is consistent and relevant.
• Use backstory as a baseline from which to show character growth.

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Two Flexible Options

Start the self-guided course now 

Work at your own pace and get valuable feedback on your work.
Inclusions: 

• Video lessons that are packed with techniques you can apply right away, accompanied by examples and exercises   
• Unlimited support from Sandy Vaile so you can ask questions and clarify concepts 
• BONUS feedback on 5,000 words of your story! 
• BONUS backstory development templates 
• BONUS quick reference cheat sheet  
• 12 months of access, so you can revise the information in your own time 

Wait for an online group workshop

Attend during a specific month, only when this workshop is available.
Inclusions: 

• ​A video lesson each week, accompanied by an assignment 
• Feedback on each assignment!
• Access to Sandy Vaile during the workshop, so you can ask questions 
• BONUS backstory development templates ​

Start the self-guided course now $97

See group workshop schedule - various prices

What participants are saying about Sandy's workshops

Sandy Vaile's courses have been tried and tested by thousands of aspiring authors, many of whom have gone on to publication and credit Sandy Vaile with making a significant contribution to their success..

I credit this teacher with a quantum shift in my writing. I can literally see the difference!" Nina Campbell

I loved Sandy's dedication to giving the best feedback possible. It's made a huge difference to me already.

Guarantee (see my promise here)