On Writing With Brandon Sanderson | Full Writing Lectures (2025)

Brandon Sanderson returns for his last class of 2025, doing one final Q&A to some of the most asked questions from the class. Thank you all for joining us, now go write that book! Want to send me something to open?Dragonsteel EntertainmentATTN: AdamP.O Box 698American Fork, UT 84003Stay up to date by  following my newsletter: https://brandonsanderson.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7d056bb7596a3e617f82004b2&id=fa68f14db0Interested in signed books and swag? Check here: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/You can also follow me on:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSandersonTwitter: https://twitter.com/BrandSandersonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/?hl=enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mistbornbrandonFrequently asked questions: https://faq.brandonsanderson 

What's your biggest question about traditional publishing?In the penultimate episode of Brandon Sanderson’s 2025 Writing Lecture Series, we return to the world of publishing. Brandon breaks down the role of literary agents, how to find one, what they actually do for authors, and how to effectively pitch your book — whether to an agent, editor, or industry professional.New to the series? Watch the full playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSH_xM-KC3ZvzkfVo_Dls0B5GiE2oMcLYWant to send me something to open?Dragonsteel EntertainmentATTN: AdamP.O Box 698American Fork, UT 84003Stay up to date by following my newsletter: https://brandonsanderson.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7d056bb7596a3e617f82004b2&id=fa68f14db0Interested in signed books and swag? Check here: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/You can also follow me on:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSandersonTwitter: https://twitter.com/BrandSandersonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/?hl=enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mistbornbrandonFrequently asked questions: https://faq.brandonsanderson 

This week on Brandon Sanderson's writing lecture series, we dive into the publishing side of the writing world. We take a close look at how the publishing industry came to be what it is today, what steps your book goes through when publishing with the Big 5, and how contracts look in the professional world of book writing.Want to send me something to open?Dragonsteel EntertainmentATTN: AdamP.O Box 698American Fork, UT 84003Stay up to date by following my newsletter: https://brandonsanderson.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7d056bb7596a3e617f82004b2&id=fa68f14db0Interested in signed books and swag? Check here: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/You can also follow me on:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSandersonTwitter: https://twitter.com/BrandSandersonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/?hl=enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mistbornbrandonFrequently asked questions: https://faq.brandonsanderson 

Brandon Sanderson is back in class answering some of the questions that burned within the hearts of his students. He delves deep into the philosophy of worldbuilding within your novels along with provides expert knowledge on ways to make it better. Want to send me something to open?Dragonsteel EntertainmentATTN: AdamP.O Box 698American Fork, UT 84003Stay up to date by following my newsletter: https://brandonsanderson.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=7d056bb7596a3e617f82004b2&id=fa68f14db0Interested in signed books and swag? Check here: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/You can also follow me on:Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@authorbrandonsandersonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandSandersonTwitter: https://twitter.com/BrandSandersonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandsanderson/?hl=enTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mistbornbrandonFrequently asked questions: https://faq.brandonsanderson 

Brandon Sanderson dives into the essentials of world-building, showcasing how it shapes plot and character. He discusses the balance between detail and simplicity, using concepts like the 'hollow iceberg' for effective storytelling. The session also touches on the art of naming and narrative perspective, underlining cultural significance in fantasy. Additionally, Sanderson shares insights from his upbringing, linking creativity to structure in writing. Get ready to enhance your writing toolkit with practical advice and stimulating ideas!

Dive into the secrets of captivating magic systems with insights on Sanderson's Laws of Magic. Discover the delicate balance between hard and soft magic and how it affects storytelling. Learn about the art of timing magic reveals for emotional impact, illustrated by examples from popular narratives. Reflect on narrative choices and the importance of foreshadowing, while exploring how limitations in magic can enhance character depth. Uncover the craft of satisfying endings that resonate, proving that unexpected twists can still deliver emotional payoffs.

Dive into character development with a unique slider methodology! Explore the balance between personality and narrative arcs through iconic characters. Discover how motivation and backstory shape complex characters, including relatable villains. Learn the significance of character arcs—promise, progress, and payoff—and how they drive transformation. Plus, get tips on customizing characters in romance novels and the importance of humor and drama in character interactions. Perfect for aspiring writers wanting to breathe life into their characters!

Brandon Sanderson dives into the intricacies of plot development in this engaging Q&A session. He discusses crafting compelling betrayal arcs and bittersweet endings, underlining the importance of character relationships. The balance between sweet and bitter elements in narratives is explored, showcasing techniques from literature, film, and video games. Sanderson also examines the 'try-succeed' cycle in plot dynamics and the nuances of whodunit and cat-and-mouse narratives. Finally, he offers invaluable tips on managing narrative scope and reader expectations.

Discover the art of crafting dynamic characters with proactivity, relatability, and capability. Delve into the impact of proactive heroes, exploring how their initiatives engage audiences. Uncover the evolution of anti-heroes, using figures like John Wick to discuss relatable motivations. Learn how character flaws and quirks add complexity, making protagonists more engaging. Plus, explore loyalty through iconic characters like Samwise Gamgee, illustrating character growth and development.

Brandon dives deep into the art of plot and storytelling. He discusses the importance of narrative promises using examples from beloved films. Crafting engaging narratives involves meaningful character development and clever foreshadowing techniques. He explores the roots of quest fantasy, highlighting relatable settings that draw readers in. The significance of detailed maps and game mechanics in enhancing story depth is also touched upon. Finally, Brandon shares insights on mastering character arcs and the delicate balance of suspense in plots.