The line of dialogue belongs to the character; the verb is the writer sticking his nose in.

Really, when I write a book I'm the only one I have to please. That's the beauty of writing a book instead of a screenplay.

Never use an adverb to modify the verb 'said' . . . he admonished gravely. To use an adverb this way (or almost any way) is a mortal sin. The writer is now exposing himself in earnest, using a word that distracts and can interrupt the rhythm of the exchange.

I think any writer is a fool if he doesn't do it for money. There needs to be some kind of incentive in addition to the project. It all goes together. It's fun to sit there and think of characters and get them into action, then be paid for it. I can't believe it when writers tell me 'I don't want to show my work to anybody'.

I don't believe in writer's block or waiting for inspiration. If you're a writer, you sit down and write.

My most important rule is one that sums up the 10: If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it.

Never use a verb other than ‘said’ to carry dialogue.