Brainstorm Session FAQs

What is a Brainstorm Session?

A brainstorming session is a free-flowing process done by phone call or Zoom meeting where the client and editor discuss a book, series, plot, or other projects. It involves generating ideas, themes, or concepts for a project. This can include creating a scene bank, creating or reviewing an outline that addresses three-dimensional characters, fleshing out the book’s bone structure, developing and reviewing character cards and arcs, and/or refining and structuring elements. The brainstorming session is an open conversation where one question can bring up another. Clients can explore various possibilities, connections, and angles to spark creativity and develop content.

Is a Brainstorm Session beneficial?

At DPT, we like to say yes, but the truth is it depends. Brainstorming can be highly beneficial because it tends to stimulate creativity, generate diverse ideas, and encourage thinking outside the box. However, the effectiveness comes down to how the client/writer organizes and refines the ideas into a cohesive structure during the writing process.

Authors have chosen this option for many reasons, but here are the topics most addressed:

blocked in writing
creating a series arc
developing detailed outlines
scene banks
series outlines
as an add-on after developmental editing
to read dialogue with and check to see if it sounds natural
understanding show and tell lesson
strengthening author voice
to plot murder together (fictional, of course)
title and series name discussion

Are half-sessions available?

Yes, a half session costs $30 (or 28€).

A one-hour session costs $50 (or 45 €).

Sessions are not prorated. If it goes over the one hour, it will be charged by the half-hour.

Is a Brainstorm Session Guided?

It can be. We have worked with authors who come with clear objectives and questions and others who open the communication with a topic and see where it leads. If it veers away from the main objective, the editor usually brings the conversation back on topic or reminds the client of their objectives.

Do I need to prepare before a session?

We ask that the author come to the session with some main objectives, at the most three, that will be discussed in the opening of the session. However, it is important to note that one hour may not be enough to address all the objectives.

Can I send my documents ahead of time to review?

You can send them earlier to have them ready at the time of the session. However, if the session requires PRIOR reading or preparation, this is not included. The editor is under no obligation to review information before the session. It can be reviewed in unison during the session, a silent session can be booked where the editor can review material prior to the call, or please see our other services such as our manuscript critique, beta services, proofing, and editing. If in doubt, feel free to reach out and ask.

How much can I get done in an hour?

It depends on the reason for booking the session. If the intent is to hash out a few scenes that include character building and relationships, then this may take less time than creating a detailed plot for an entire series.

Do I get meeting notes from the brainstorming session?

No, it is the client's responsibility to take the notes necessary for future reference.

DPT reserves the right to edit these terms as they see fit. Please use the contact page for further information.