Learning plan cover

Become a better fiction writer

LEARNING PLAN

Become a better fiction writer

Fiction writing requires both creative vision and technical mastery—a combination that can take years to develop without proper guidance. This learning plan provides aspiring and practicing writers with a structured path from foundational craft and mindset through character development, prose techniques, and professional-level revision strategies that separate published authors from hobbyists.

ByCommunity User
2 h 54 m
12 coursesUpdated 4 days ago
On WritingBird by BirdLearning from Writing Masters: Lamott, McKee & More12 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

This plan was crafted by BeFreed’s proprietary AI to help you learn Become a better fiction writer with ease. It is curated from in-depth research on the topic and structured around the most effective learning journeys proven by BeFreed users.

Each episode delivers bite-sized, high-impact lessons distilled from world-class sources — bestselling books, research papers, and expert insights. Together, they form a sophisticated yet accessible path to mastering Become a better fiction writer.

What You'll Learn

  • Master the fundamental craft elements and daily writing habits that form the foundation of successful fiction writing
  • Create unforgettable characters and compelling plot structures using proven frameworks from master storytellers
  • Develop your unique literary voice and write vivid, immersive prose that captivates readers
  • Learn advanced storytelling techniques including narrative psychology and the art of effective revision
  • Transform good stories into exceptional ones by applying professional-level principles from legendary narrative experts

Build your fundamental writing practice by understanding the essential craft elements and developing the daily habits and mindset that successful writers cultivate.

On Writing cover
On Writing

Stephen King's memoir and writing guide

8 m
Bird by Bird cover
Bird by Bird

A witty, compassionate guide to writing and life, offering inspiration and practical advice for aspiring authors.

7 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2source 3source 4
6 sources
Learning from Writing Masters: Lamott, McKee & More

Dive deep into the minds of influential writing voices like Anne Lamott, Robert McKee, and James Frey. Discover the psychology behind great writing, daily practices that work, and the courage required to find your authentic voice.

24 m

Learn to create unforgettable characters and compelling plot structures that keep readers turning pages, using proven frameworks from master storytellers.

The Art of Character cover
The Art of Character

A comprehensive guide for writers on crafting memorable, multi-dimensional characters that drive compelling stories across various mediums.

10 m
Plot & Structure cover
Plot & Structure

A practical guide for crafting compelling plots and story structures, with techniques for both commercial and literary fiction writers.

10 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2source 3The 12 Steps of Writing a Novel Explained
6 sources
Mastering the Art of Novel Writing

Discover the proven techniques for crafting compelling novels, from creating unforgettable characters to mastering plot structure. Learn the complete 12-step journey from initial idea to publication.

26 m

Develop your unique literary voice and master the art of vivid, immersive prose through advanced techniques in description, style, and storytelling psychology.

Word Painting cover
Word Painting

A masterful guide to crafting vivid descriptions that bring your writing to life through powerful sensory details and imagery.

8 m
Reading Like a Writer cover
Reading Like a Writer

A passionate guide for book lovers on how to read critically and write better by studying literary masters.

10 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2Developing Style and Voice in Fiction Writingsource 4
6 sources
Supercharge Your Fiction Writing Style

Master advanced storytelling techniques to create the 'fictive dream' that transports readers. Learn character development, sensory writing, and professional revision strategies from literary masters.

25 m

Master advanced storytelling principles and the art of revision to transform good stories into exceptional ones, drawing on insights from legendary narrative experts.

Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting cover
Story: Substance, Structure, Style and the Principles of Screenwriting

A masterful guide to crafting compelling narratives, exploring the art and science of storytelling for aspiring screenwriters and storytellers.

9 m
The Anatomy of Story cover
The Anatomy of Story

A comprehensive guide to crafting compelling narratives, offering 22 steps to master storytelling for screenwriters and novelists alike.

10 m
podcast cover
source 1source 2source 3source 4
6 sources
Mastering Story Creation: From Blank Page to Bestseller

Discover battle-tested techniques from master storytellers James Scott Bell, James N. Frey, and Victoria Lynn Schmidt. Learn the LOCK system, character development secrets, and structural frameworks that transform ideas into compelling narratives.

27 m

Users also liked

Master fiction & self-growth

Master fiction & self-growth

LEARNING PLAN

Master fiction & self-growth

Fiction writing requires both creative artistry and practical career skills to thrive in today's competitive publishing landscape. This learning plan bridges the gap between craft and career, ideal for aspiring authors seeking to transform their passion for storytelling into a sustainable writing practice.

2 h 37 m4 Sections
Novel

Novel

LEARNING PLAN

Novel

Writing a novel requires mastering both creative storytelling and professional craft techniques. This comprehensive learning plan guides aspiring novelists from foundational concepts through advanced techniques to publication-ready work, providing a structured path for anyone serious about completing and publishing their first novel or improving their fiction writing skills.

2 h 11 m4 Sections
Creative writing

Creative writing

LEARNING PLAN

Creative writing

Creative writing is both an art form and a craft that requires deliberate practice and structured learning to master. This learning plan is designed for aspiring authors, hobbyist writers seeking to elevate their skills, and anyone who wants to tell compelling stories through fiction or creative prose. Whether you're drafting your first short story or working toward completing a novel, this comprehensive curriculum provides the essential foundation and advanced techniques needed to develop as a serious writer.

3 h 6 m4 Sections
Fantasy

Fantasy

LEARNING PLAN

Fantasy

This learning plan is essential for aspiring fantasy authors and creative writers who want to master the craft of fantasy storytelling from foundational concepts to advanced techniques. Whether you're writing your first fantasy novel or seeking to elevate your existing work, this structured progression guides you through the critical skills that distinguish published fantasy authors. The plan combines literary analysis of classics with practical craft elements, making it valuable for both beginners establishing their foundation and intermediate writers refining their technique.

2 h 28 m3 Sections
Deeper understanding of novels

Deeper understanding of novels

LEARNING PLAN

Deeper understanding of novels

This learning plan transforms casual readers into sophisticated literary analysts who can fully appreciate the artistry behind great novels. It's ideal for book club members, aspiring writers, literature students, or anyone who wants to move beyond surface-level reading to unlock the deeper meanings and craftsmanship within fiction.

2 h 42 m4 Sections
Poetry

Poetry

LEARNING PLAN

Poetry

This learning plan is designed for anyone who wants to read poetry more deeply and write with greater artistry and authenticity. Whether you're a beginner discovering poetry's power for the first time or an experienced writer seeking to refine your craft, this comprehensive journey through reading, technique, and creative development will help you find your voice and express what matters most to you.

2 h 7 m4 Sections
Literature

Literature

LEARNING PLAN

Literature

This learning plan is essential for anyone seeking to move beyond surface-level reading to truly understand how literature works and why it endures. It's ideal for aspiring writers who want to learn from the masters, students of literature looking to deepen their analytical skills, educators seeking to enrich their teaching practice, and passionate readers who want to unlock deeper layers of meaning in the books they love.

3 h 4 m4 Sections
Read books for essay prep

Read books for essay prep

LEARNING PLAN

Read books for essay prep

This learning plan is essential for students, academics, and professionals who need to produce high-quality written arguments and analytical essays. Whether you're preparing for college applications, graduate studies, or professional writing tasks, mastering these foundational and advanced composition skills will dramatically improve your ability to communicate complex ideas persuasively and clearly.

1 h 42 m4 Sections

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 200,000+ Curious Minds

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA
platform
comments
12
likes
117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum
platform
comments
12
likes
108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC
platform
comments
254
likes
17

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful
platform
comments
96
likes
4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon
platform
comments
201
thumbsUp
16

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke
platform
star
star
star
star
star

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn
platform
comments
37
likes
483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu
platform
star
star
star
star
star

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web
Start your learning journey, now