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Articles by Justin Cox

Justin Cox is a writer, minister, and donut eater. His words are available online at Wired, Film School Rejects, The Writing Cooperative, The Coffeelicious, and more. Besides writing, Justin is an avid traveler and foodie. He lives in Orlando, Florida with his wife, Carla, and their dog, Mac. Connect with Justin on Twitter, Medium, or at JustinCox.com.

It vs They: Difference and Usage Explained

It vs They: Difference and Usage Explained

We’re taught how to address each other using proper pronouns and articles. But what about corporations? Are they people, requiring a more personal you or they? Or are they faceless entities, requiring an impersonal it?

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How to Correctly Use To, Too, and Two

How to Correctly Use To, Too, and Two

Getting tripped up on the differences between “to” and “too” happens often. When do you use a single “o” and when do you use two? While this is one of the most common grammar mistakes, the rule is easy to master.

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How to Start a Journal Entry

How to Start a Journal Entry

We’re the subject of our own lives. Instead of just getting by day to day, journaling allows us to explore our experiences and ourselves. Writing about what we know gives us the opportunity to grow as a person and as a writer. Here are some ideas to get you started.

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Writing on the Go

Writing on the Go

Traveling, even that for work, enriches our lives and provides ample material for our writing. The key is to capture those moments without getting overwhelmed in the moment. Making timely notes means your writing will grow, as will your ability to reflect on the experience.

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When To Use "S" To Make A Word Possessive

When To Use "S" To Make A Word Possessive

Defining possessive nouns is tricky. There are several unique rules that can confuse even the most seasoned writer.

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Idea Generation for Writers: The Art of Letting Your Mind Wander

Idea Generation for Writers: The Art of Letting Your Mind Wander

Our brains are overstimulated. As writers, we need to let our mind rest so new ideas will grow. Find ways that allow you space to pause, slow down, and let go of unproductive thoughts.

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How to Properly Disclose Affiliate Links and Endorsements Online

How to Properly Disclose Affiliate Links and Endorsements Online

While affiliate links are commonly used online, their proper and *legal* usage is not widely understood. After a little research, I’ve come up with a few questions and answers.

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Tips on Line and Copy Editing

Tips on Line and Copy Editing

Literary agents are the gatekeepers of the publishing world. Their verdict on a five-page submission can make or break an author’s dreams. It’s critical to ensure your submission catches an agent’s eye and doesn’t immediately get passed upon.

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How Can Developmental Edits Get My Work Ready for an Agent?

How Can Developmental Edits Get My Work Ready for an Agent?

Literary agents are the gatekeepers of the publishing world. Their verdict on a five-page submission can make or break an author’s dreams. It’s critical to ensure your submission catches an agent’s eye and doesn’t immediately get passed upon.

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Writing Lessons From Hamilton the Musical

Writing Lessons From Hamilton the Musical

*Hamilton* is an international sensation. Fusing hip-hop and musical theater, Lin-Manuel Miranda created an impressive telling of Alexander Hamilton’s life story. As writers, there’s a lot we can learn from the show, its creation, and its namesake.

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What's the Difference Between Peek, Peak, and Pique?

What's the Difference Between Peek, Peak, and Pique?

The English language is tricky. Words can sound the same but have very different meanings. This makes mastering grammatical rules difficult. One set of confusing words are peek, peak, and pique.

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What's the Right Way to Use "It" and "They"?

What's the Right Way to Use "It" and "They"?

We’re taught how to address each other using proper pronouns and articles. But what about corporations? Are they people, requiring a more personal you or they? Or are they faceless entities, requiring an impersonal it?

Read more
Pitch, Please: Pitching to Publications the Right Way

Pitch, Please: Pitching to Publications the Right Way

As writers, we want our words in front of as many eyes as possible. This requires pitching publications and growing our bylines. So let’s look at a few ways to pitch without causing the publication to delete your request.

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Is it “Mambo No. 5” or “Mambo No. Five”?

Is it “Mambo No. 5” or “Mambo No. Five”?

On the surface, writing with numbers is a simple rule: *write out numbers between zero and nine*. However — as it is with all grammar — as you dig, the layers get complicated.

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What I Learned About Writing From My Film School Friends

What I Learned About Writing From My Film School Friends

The filmmaking process is long and arduous. Yet each step helps shape and refine the film into a finished product. Here are the lessons all writers can glean from the world of filmmaking.

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