We aren't professionals, but we've read countless books and magazines about writing, and have talked to several writers about their techniques. This is a compilation of the little tidbits of writing info we have learned and used in our writing, which we will update periodically. Enjoy!
M's Writing Tips
Characters should doubt themselves about something.
Get into a scene as late as possible and get out as early as possible - try cutting out the first and last paragraphs of a scene.
Embrace day dreams.
Use sense details to evoke emotion.
Give characters strong opinions of each other.
Finding the right word is important. You may have to fool around with several words until you find the one that fits.
S's writing Tips
Write as often as you can.
If you're stuck, revise and cut - even what you love but deep down know does not fit.
Make characters contrast each other in appearance, personality and behavior.
If you don't know what to write about start with a "what if...".
Let the story tell itself - think of a basic plot and go from there. When you write you'll think of more ideas.
If life is too easy for your characters the readers won't care about them - make them suffer.
R's Writing Tips
Be selective about what you put in your book; you don't need it all.
In first drafts you don't need to know everything. You can come back later and fill it in.
You should know everything about your characters, but you don't need to share it all on the first page.
Don't go off on too many tangents in your writing. There is a fine line between sub-plots and tangents.
K's Writing Tip's
Make sure your setting is vivid and realistic even if you made it up.
Let the readers use their imaginations. Don't include every little detail about characters your story.
When rewriting make sure to check for plot holes, missing scenes, and character inconsistency.