Closing the Loop: Tie It Together
Some writers enjoy tying the first and last chapters together, creating a full-circle moment for their readers. While this technique doesn’t work for every story—especially depending on how you open—it can be incredibly satisfying when done well.
Think of your characters as entering through a doorway in Chapter One. By the end, they should either exit changed or return to that door transformed. It’s not always easy to do, but when it clicks, the payoff is powerful.
For example, one of my novels begins with a dream sequence. The protagonist is reliving the moment his parents were killed in a suicide bombing. Rather than repeating the dream trope at the end, I chose to have him reflect on how proud his parents would be of who he has become. That created a resonant emotional loop without repeating the structure.
Even if your opening chapter is filled with throwaway characters or focuses on a newborn who won’t appear again until later, consider revisiting those moments or themes by the end. Bring them full circle in a meaningful way. Tie up your loose ends wherever possible—your readers will thank you.
A Word on Writing Discipline
Put your butt in the chair and write. There’s no shortcut around that truth.
Many writers struggle with discipline—including some of my closest writer friends. They want to write, they plan to write, but somehow… the words never get down. Why? The answer varies, but often it’s as simple as failing to make writing a daily priority.
One successful writer I know writes every morning from 7 to 9 a.m., without fail. Another scribbles down chapters during her lunch breaks. Me? I write all the time. From the moment I wake up to the moment I sleep, my word processor is open. Whether I’m writing, rewriting, critiquing, or simply re-reading my own work, I’m always engaged with the process. When I’m driving, I dictate ideas using a recorder. That’s how committed I am.
Discipline is a decision.
During NaNoWriMo, I wrote over 76,000 words in under 30 days. Was it perfect? Not even close. That was just the first draft. After six rewrites, it became something I was proud of. I accomplished that by committing to a daily goal of 2,000 words. If I missed the mark one day, I made it up the next. I averaged over 2,000 words daily, and it worked for me.
You’ll need to find what works for you. Maybe it’s a time slot, a word count, or a ritual. Whatever it is, do it with discipline—and you’ll become a better writer for it.
A Word on Editing
Once I finish a draft, I set it aside for at least 30 days. That break gives me space to return with fresh eyes. During my first revision, I correct the obvious and build on what’s already there—adding background, expanding character depth, and polishing the writing. The manuscript always grows stronger in that second pass.
After a few rounds of personal editing, I share the work with my critique group. Their feedback is invaluable. Some members follow the story from start to finish; others jump in and out—but all contribute in ways that sharpen my work. Two of my most trusted readers are brutally honest, and I love them for it. Their notes elevate my writing in ways I couldn’t achieve alone.
If you don’t have a writing group, find one. Join an online forum, attend local workshops, or start your own. The feedback you receive will be worth its weight in gold.
And once your critique phase is done—hire a professional editor.
Don’t skimp. Don’t hire a friend who reads a lot. Choose someone with real editing experience, preferably a line editor—someone who reviews your manuscript line by line, correcting grammar, spotting inconsistencies, and ensuring the story arcs cleanly. A good editor will polish your work beyond what any beta reader can offer.
Pay a fair price. Expect professional results. Your future readers—and your publisher—will appreciate it.