eLearnAfrica
Introduction to Writing Fiction
University of Lincoln
  • Start Date: 04 Sep, 2023
  • 4 weeks
  • Study Content: Videos


Hone your creative writing and editing skills as you learn how to craft compelling characters and atmospheric settings.

Course Fee: Free
Certificate Cost: See Fees and Eligibility
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Course Description

Launch your creative writing career with the University of Lincoln


Are you a budding writer planning your first prose fiction project? Do you want to get feedback from peers and guidance from a published novelist?


This four-week course from the University of Lincoln provides a comprehensive introduction to the art of writing fiction. From crafting captivating sentences to rounding out characters and describing settings, you’ll gain the toolkit you need to launch your writing career.


Hone your creative writing and editing skills


Throughout the course, you’ll expand your writing and editing skills. You’ll try hands-on exercises and get feedback from peers, which will help you hone your writing practice.


In Week 1, you’ll learn how to construct intricate sentences and develop your own style. Then, in Week 4 you’ll examine methods for refining that style through rigorous editing. You’ll learn how to polish your prose in preparation for publication.


Master the fundamentals of setting and characterisation


Weeks 2 and 3 of the course will focus on two of the most essential considerations of fiction: characterisation and setting.


You’ll learn how to craft compelling characters, relationships, and character arcs, as well as how to bring places vividly to life. You’ll explore the role that character and setting play in the ‘worldmaking’ of fiction.


Get tips and guidance from a published writer


Throughout the course, you’ll gain expert guidance from Dr Amy Lilwall, a published novelist and creative writing lecturer. She’ll share the tools and tips you need to begin writing professionally.


By the end of the course, you’ll have the confidence and training you need to pitch your own work to publishers.


This course is designed for budding writers of prose fiction in all its forms: flash, the short story, the novella, and the novel. It will also be useful for anyone interested in improving their writing skills or preparing for a university course in creative writing.


An interest in writing and some knowledge of English grammar are essential for this course.


    • Certificate cost may vary. You will be redirected to the host page for cost and payment options.

    • University of Lincoln

      This university is part of the partnership between eLearnAfrica and FutureLearn.

    • You may be able to download course materials after enrolling in this course. If not, all of the necessary course materials provided by the course instructor will be available on the provider's course page.
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