F&F GENERAL FAQs
A few things people often ask before getting started.
Q: DO YOU TEACH TEMPLATES OR FILL-IN-THE-BLANK FORMULAS?

A: No. I teach structure, story logic, and how the brain processes narrative, so you can create your own work with confidence. I use real examples and show you how it works from the ground up. No templates or gimmicks, just great narrative story sense.

Q: WHO ARE YOUR PROGRAMS FOR?

A: I help writers across forms: fiction, creative nonfiction, business writing, speakers, podcasters, and creators who want their words to matter. If your work is rooted in story form (and most is), then I can help. If you are unsure whether this is for you, email me. We can chat about it. 

Q: DO YOU OFFER AI PROMPTS OR USE AI IN YOUR PROGRAMS?

A: No, I do not. I focus on the human side of writing—voice, story logic, emotion, and how they work in the brain. AI cannot do what the human brain can. While I do not shun AI entirely, I don’t think it has a place in story-based writing. I teach how to write more easily without having to rely on shortcuts like AI and templates. I do teach how to use AI (paired with old-school techniques) in doing research, though (with strong caveats and guardrails in place).

Q: WHAT IF I’M NOT A WRITER? CAN YOU STILL HELP ME?

A: If you write, you are a writer. That’s the only prerequisite—a willingness to put pen to paper or fingers on keys. It is the act of writing that makes a writer. If you are struggling to write what you want, then I can help. While I offer 1:1 coaching and larger done-for-you writing for clients, I also have a large blog hub with tons of help. If you are worried about not being a writer, this blog in particular might help: I’m Not a Writer. 

Q: DO I NEED PRIOR EXPERIENCE?

A: No. Curiosity matters more than credentials. This is a place to learn and hone your skills.

Q: WHAT IF I HAVE WRITING EXPERIENCE?

A: Great. Let’s take your skills to another level. Even if you have experience, there’s always something to improve or get clarity on. You don’t need to go it alone. I can help.

Q: CAN I WORK WITH YOU 1:1?

A: Yes. Coaching options are available for focused, personalized support.

Q: DO YOU OFFER DONE-FOR-YOU SERVICES?

A: Yes and no. While I do offer done-for-you services for clients, they are often larger, more involved corporate and documentary-style film projects or executive speeches. However, in my 1:1 coaching, I offer done-with-you services. It’s a collaborative approach where I partner with you to help you improve your writing through guidance and trusted story methods. It’s personalized coaching that teaches and moves you forward. I don’t write it for you. But I do guide you and help teach you what needs improvement and how to make those changes.

Q: CAN I HIRE YOU TO WRITE FOR ME?

A: Yes, and no. While I do take on larger scriptwriting and speechwriting assignments from clients, I do not offer those services to individuals or small companies. It isn’t cost-effective for most smaller operations. Larger projects come with larger budgets. I lowered my prices for my 1:1 services and programs to help aspiring and established writers. If, however, you are a larger company that needs a script, presentation, production, or speech developed, please contact me. Otherwise, consider 1:1 coaching for done-with-you options.

Q: IF I BOOK 1:1 SERVICES, WILL I GET YOU?

A: Yes. Figments & Fables is my passion project. I am the only one who does the coaching and cohort programs. You will never get a substitute or be farmed out to someone else. All feedback comes from me, not a bot. Guaranteed. 

Q: DO YOU OFFER A MILITARY DISCOUNT?

A: Yes! I offer a 30% discount to US military personnel, veterans, and dependents. Find out more about this discount (and who is eligible) on my Military Pricing Page.

Q: DO YOU OFFER IN-PERSON APPOINTMENTS?

A: Yes! I happily meet clients who are in the Washington DC metro area. We typically meet at a cafe or coffeehouse, but other locations are possible. Email me to set something up. I offer this service at no extra charge, unless parking is an issue. Then I will charge to cover garage parking. Most places do not require this.

Do you have a different question? Email me at susan@figmentsandfables.

Read my Customer Service FAQ and other policies below.