So, what is a LitReactor?

Quick history lesson: A few years back, Chuck Palahniuk’s website grew to host author interviews, a writing workshop, and online writing classes. These features were a big hit—so much, that the decision was made to spin them out into their own site. Thus, LitReactor.

We’re taking the class model and expanding on it: Covering more topics and disciplines, bringing in more instructors, and offering an á la carte approach to a writing education. It’s the most you can learn about writing without having to put on pants and leave the house.

So is this like an online university?

We don’t offer accreditation, and you can’t apply the classes toward a degree. You study what you want to study.

If I’m not getting a degree, what’s the point?

There’s a lot of debate over whether you need an MFA to pursue writing seriously. The consensus seems to be: It doesn’t hurt, but it’s not a requirement. And a lot of people don’t want to get one. They’re crazy expensive and they take a lot of time to earn.

So I shouldn’t get an MFA ever?

You should explore every option available and pick the one that works best for you. We’re just another option.

Who even teaches these class?

Our two requirements for instructors are: Be awesome, and be passionate. We’ve got a stable of heavy hitters, from established authors to literary agents to publishers. Want to see our roster thus far? Check them out.

Do you just offer classes on the craft of writing?

Nope! Besides classes focused on writing basics—like dialogue workshops and short story fundamentals—we’ve also hosted classes on finding an agent, writing a query letter, and coding an eBook. Craft is important, but there are other disciplines worth covering. And we’re always looking to add new subjects.

What does a typical class consist of?

In general, you can expect weekly lectures and homework assignments, discussion forums, critiques from your instructors, and reviews from your peers. We mix things up—there are phone conferences, webinars and video chats. And we have a lot of new, very cool stuff coming up soon. The class pages will tell you what you can expect. 

I’m a beginner. Is there a class for me?

Definitely. A lot of our classes are designed for all skill levels, but we also try to make it clear if the instruction is geared toward beginners or advanced learners. But our instructors want to work with anyone who’s enthusiastic.

Do you own the stuff that I write in classes? 

Nope. We don't take the rights to anything. Nothing you do here is considered "published," and it always remains private. 

I’m a writer with some short stories published. Why am I even here?

Because you never stop learning. And it’s never too late to pick up a new skill set.

How many students are there in a class?

It varies. Each class lists how many seats are available. We try to make the class pages as descriptive as possible.

What if they’re not descriptive enough, or I still have questions that aren’t answered here?

Then e-mail us, and someone will be happy to assist you.