Master the rhythm of great storytelling in this hands-on workshop on pace and flow. Learn how sentence structure, scene length, and clarity affect momentum and reader immersion. We’ll explore techniques to control tempo, smooth transitions, and avoid drag – so your fiction moves with purpose and compelling emotional drive.
By the end of the workshop, you will:
For people who are writing a novel or short story, or are planning to do so, and want to develop an understanding of common rules, grammar, and style for sharp narration.
This workshop is a practical, hands-on introduction to editing for Pace and Flow – the often invisible forces that shape how smoothly and powerfully your story reads. Through guided discussion, real-world examples, and practical exercises, we’ll uncover what makes prose feel seamless – or sluggish – and how to bring rhythm and clarity to your narrative.
We’ll cover:
• What pace and flow really means – and how they affect emotional engagement and narrative drive.
• Overwriting – how to spot when a scene is doing too much, and how to tighten without losing impact.
• Sentence-level flow – guided by principles from Strunk and White, focusing on clarity, brevity, and energy.
• Common misconceptions – like mistaking fast pace for constant action, or slow pace for depth.
• Word clutter – how to identify and remove unnecessary words that drag your prose.
• The rhythm of sentences – how length, structure, and variation can build momentum or create pause.
• When writing feels “off” – how to troubleshoot clunky passages and restore fluidity.
By the end, you’ll have a sharper understanding of how to shape the movement of your story – line by line, scene by scene – so your fiction flows with purpose, polish, and emotional pull.
Please read before purchasing.
The participant:
To help create a welcoming, creative, and productive space for everyone, please follow these guidelines during the workshop:
We’re here to learn, grow, and support each other – thank you for helping make this a safe and inspiring space for all.
We take all instances of negative feedback seriously and will reply within 48 hours of a complaint being made. Please read all the information regarding workshops on our site. If you feel you have not received what you purchased, please email richard@new2thescene.co.uk with the subject ‘Complaint’ and clearly state your grievance.
New2theScene will not tolerate or respond to abusive language.
All outcomes are at the discretion of New2theScene and are final.
What if I can’t make that date?
Please check your schedule before purchasing the workshop. Once a workshop is closed, refunds cannot be given, as we may have turned people away who could have purchased that space.
Do I have to turn my camera on?
It helps create a community feel within the group, however we understand people have reasons for not wanting to be visible. Please email enquiries@new2thescene.co.uk so we know you won’t be using a camera during the workshop.
Can I book more than one workshop at a time?
Of course. Each workshop should be purchased separately.
What happens if I don’t meet the ‘Online Behaviour Guide’?
You may be asked to leave the workshop, forgoing your right to a refund. New2theScene is a community that encourages positivity in an industry that can be littered with rejection. Respect and kindness are at our core.
Will there be more dates available in future?
Possibly. Please keep checking the website, newsletters andour social media for updates.
Will there be other workshops in future?
That depends on the popularity of these workshops! Any suggestions welcome. Email richard@new2thescene.co.ukwith the subject ‘suggestions’.
Who delivers the workshop?
All material is created by New2theScene through research, collaboration with authors and industry experts, and experience. It is mainly delivered by R.A. Howitt – author and founder of N2tS – as he has the most experience delivering talks and learning! If a speaker changes, participants will be notified.
I’ve paid for a workshop but haven’t received a link yet. What should I do?
Links may not be sent until close to the workshop delivery date. If you have any concerns, email enquiries@new2thescene.co.uk with the subject ‘workshops’.
I have issues with internet/timings, can you record the workshop and send it to me?
Unfortunately not. This would breach our ‘Online BehaviourGuidance’.
Will the workshop be recorded?
Workshops may only be recorded for internal auditing –checking quality of delivery, and in case of complaint. Any recording will not be used for gathering information on participants.