“As a rule, we don’t write by focusing on one element, say dialogue, but rather, we write the full scene that includes characters, plot, conflict, dialogue, and setting details. They’re intertwined, and if done well, you can’t separate one from the whole. However, as we study writing, we focus on the different elements to help grow the individual skills to improve the whole. The exercises we do become our playground, and the skills we learn come with us when writing a full scene.”