Here's the catch-all pan; the little techniques and details that add up. While the following isn't a complete recipe for success, the tips and tricks will help level your cake or keep the moisture locked in even if the middle collapses later.

Anyone who's suffered through one of my first chapter critiques will recognize my quotated catch phrases. Pay attention to these; they may have more official names elsewhere, but the information stands.

"Weak Language"

 Phrases such as "tried to," "managed to," and their ilk are examples of what I call "weak language" (or sentences in need of a stronger verb or clean-up).

Ex: I tried to turn the wrench but only managed to strip the bolt.

This is a fine sentence, but it lacks strength. 

Revised: I turned the wrench and stripped the bolt.

Eight words instead of thirteen. Same information without the "clutter."

*"Weak Language" is different from a "weak verb."

A "strong verb" creates a clear image (a case of proper word choice).

Another example of "weak language": I didn't want to think about Harry. I knew I shouldn't, but the thoughts came unbidden.

Revised: I didn't think about Harry, knew I shouldn't, but the thoughts came unbidden.

"Want to" are two words too many; they distance the reader from the narrator/character. Not a huge difference, but cut two words every few sentences for better conciseness and you de-clutter thousands of words and phrases from a novel. 

What sounds stronger?

I tried to reach for the ledge.

or

I reached for the ledge. 

(Readers surmise the character is "trying" without "telling.") Normally, you can push a sentence for "stronger language" by using "visceral reactions."

"Visceral Reactions":

What's a visceral reaction again? Think an involuntary reaction to outside stimuli---cringing when you hear a gross sound, bursting out laughing at a joke, cold sweat when afraid---everyone has them, everyone who isn't a psychopath anyways. 

*Along with word choice, visceral reactions act as credibility/empathy bridges between characters and readers. Stomach fluttering after the guy you like gives you a wink; absolutely relatable. Wincing when your mom calls your name in that "mom" tone; yep, I'm there. 

What else . . .

Metaphor Confusion:

Ever write a simile or metaphor and ask, "Why doesn't that sound right?"

Probably a confused element involved. 

Ex: The sweet scent of cherry blossoms were like millions of pink stars shooting to earth.

(Anyone catch the "OMG, why" moment?) Here's a hint: scent has nothing to do with sight. What does a sweet smell and pink stars have in common, nada. 

Here's how to fix this: Separate the sense you wish to explore (either scent or sight) and write the appropriate connection.

Ex: The falling cherry blossoms were like millions of pink stars shooting to earth. 

*Sometimes two sense CAN work together, but rarely. How so? Scent is linked to food for many people. The sweet smell of cherry blossoms could remind someone of the taste of a childhood candy that had a earthy aftertaste. Scent is also linked to memory, so the other senses could link with scent especially, in the right circumstance. A good rule: keep your senses clean and separate to avoid confusion. 

We've covered the three main elements of creative writing. We've explored some of the essential "cleaning-house" techniques to keep your ideas laser focused. We've talked about the humor of princesses nose deep in unicorn butt. All in all, I'm ready to dust the flour off my hands and present this cake in all its layered glory. 

Take these tips and tricks, advice, and the thinly veiled sarcasm and be free my pastry chefs! Never stop improving and, more importantly, never stop tasting other recipes to find what you like, the new flavors to be combined or avoided at all costs. 

Writing, like baking, is a science and an art. Once you nail the science part, you can live for the expression. (Anyone who says differently buys their pastries from a store and thus are not reliable sources.)

Thank you for taking this "baking class" with me. 

HAPPY WRITING! (And best wishes on your cakes!)