Have you tried writing a YA novel and then started to think it’s falling flat? Or maybe you’ve completed your book but you’re hesitant because the story sounds like a hippie grandpa trying to be cool

If you don’t want your book to get unnoticed in the shelves, you need to be among the relatable YA books and create a plot that can connect to your teen readers. Achieve your Dream of Becoming an Author. Get Your Guide Here.

See how your teen readers see their world and know how they express their emotions. Here are five writing techniques you can practice and apply for an authentic and convincing book that teenage readers will love.

1. Roll out your story through a teen’s eyes.

You can’t reach your teen readers if you don’t connect on a deeper level. Several things that most YA writers don’t understand are the ways teens react, or the uniqueness of their voice.

There’s a huge difference between writing a story of a depressed teenage girl and writing a story as a depressed teenage girl. As a writer, you need to dig deep into their current state of mind.

2. Deal with the tough and touchy issues.

What makes a YA book unique and beautiful is that it altogether deals with gritty, painful, and joyous real-life issues. The subject matter is boundless—sex, drugs, rape, homosexuality, and depression. These are some of the most crucial issues that teenagers face, and you should be brave when writing about these topics.

3. Dive deep, take risk.

Through recognizing the dark moments of teenage life, you can craft an authentic and believable story. Understand that part of a teen’s maturity are the moments when they take risks in doing the unsafe and the forbidden, all while acknowledging the facets of their feelings and emotions.

However, overdoing this process can damage your YA story. So keep it straightforward but not exaggerated.

4. Avoid awkward and exaggerated slang.

LOL, OMG!, BRB—these are slang terms that most teens use, but most older people find awkward. If you attempt to connect with your teen readers, double-check the teen-speak vocabulary and find the right voice.

5. Stop boxing teens into categories.

We’ve all heard of the queen bee, the hunky loner, or the fashionable gay guy—avoid these stereotypes. It’s not about impressing your readers; it’s all about making them believe that it’s their own personal story unfolding in every page.