scottishfae

There always seems to be some breakdown of communication somewhere that leaves authors and readers frustrated with each other. To open those lines of communication I submit this post, one of two, that will help break down what both writers and readers like to see. These are working guidelines, so feel free to add on your own opinions. I'm only going to post a few that I know of and hope that other people can help feel out the form to its fullest. Remember, don't be unreasonable with your suggestions.
Ten Commandments
o1) Using author's notes is not necessarily a bad thing, but using them excessively is both annoying and hinders reading of the story.
o2) Similarly, making author's notes in the middle of the story should almost never be done. If things need to be noted, make a mark indicating a footnote and explain it at the end.
o3) While the size of each chapter is completely dependent on the author's own opinion of how the story needs to go, it can be exceedingly frustrating to see a one page update.
o4) Do not hold your story hostage for reviews. It's incredibly immature and it is rude to your dedicated readers.
o5) Don't assume that just because you've posted a story that you are entitled to reviews.
o6) While everyone has different schedules and RL to deal with, not updating your fic (without any word to your readers) is frowned upon--sometimes it cannot be helped but it is best to try and avoid it if at all possible.
o7) Authors should always proofread their story before it is posted. Betas are bonus points and can only really help a story and author.*
*There is a whole subtopic in the forums that is dedicated to beta reading. If you're looking for one or would like to volunteer, please go check it out.

There always seems to be some breakdown of communication somewhere that leaves authors and readers frustrated with each other. To open those lines of communication I submit this post, one of two, that will help break down what both writers and readers like to see. These are working guidelines, so feel free to add on your own opinions. I'm only going to post a few that I know of and hope that other people can help feel out the form to its fullest. Remember, don't be unreasonable with your suggestions.
Ten Commandments
o1) Using author's notes is not necessarily a bad thing, but using them excessively is both annoying and hinders reading of the story.
o2) Similarly, making author's notes in the middle of the story should almost never be done. If things need to be noted, make a mark indicating a footnote and explain it at the end.
o3) While the size of each chapter is completely dependent on the author's own opinion of how the story needs to go, it can be exceedingly frustrating to see a one page update.
o4) Do not hold your story hostage for reviews. It's incredibly immature and it is rude to your dedicated readers.
o5) Don't assume that just because you've posted a story that you are entitled to reviews.
o6) While everyone has different schedules and RL to deal with, not updating your fic (without any word to your readers) is frowned upon--sometimes it cannot be helped but it is best to try and avoid it if at all possible.
o7) Authors should always proofread their story before it is posted. Betas are bonus points and can only really help a story and author.*
*There is a whole subtopic in the forums that is dedicated to beta reading. If you're looking for one or would like to volunteer, please go check it out.