Common Writing Terms Explained.

When I was new to the writing community, these terms mystified me. They were EVERYWHERE, yet with no explanation. So, I hope this can make things less confusing.

ABA – American Booksellers Association

ARC – advanced reading copy (This is generally sent out to select readers before publication in exchange for reviews.)

AU – alternate universe (Mostly a fanfiction term)

BCC – back cover copy (This would include the blurb and short synopsis. Basically it's your selling pitch that would be printed on the back cover to interest potential readers.)

Beta Reader – a person who reads a manuscript and gives feedback on issues before publication

Character Chat – Used by writers (with other writers) to flesh out characters. Partners will roleplay as their characters.

Charrie – short for character

Elevator Pitch – a short description of the story that can be said in thirty seconds (roughly the time of an elevator ride)

FMC – female main character

K – thousand

MC – main character

MMC – male main character

MS – manuscript

NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month; Month in which writers can participate in a contest to complete 50,000 words in thirty days. Held largely in the U.S.A. and always in the month of November.

OTP – one true pairing (fandom term)

OP – out of print

POV – point of view

Query Letter – letter to an agent or editor to pitch your work

SASE – self-addressed stamped envelope

Ship – couple (Fandom term)

WIP – work in progress

Word War – A period of time set by the players in which you attempt to write more words than your opponents.

Zero Draft – A ‘draft’ comprised of various scenes of the story. Many prefer the zero draft as an alternative to beginning with the first draft.