Telling a story isn't like other hobbies where you know exactly what to do and how to do it. You've got to create something entirely from scratch. If it sucks, it's your fault. If it's awesome, it's your glory. Either way, you need to develop good habits to help you learn and grow as a writer.
The first thing I hear when listening to other authors give advice is to just finish writing your book. But if you've ever tried this you know it's a lot easier said than done. What happens when you've set a deadline for yourself and you push aside all plans with family, your homework, reading that amazing book, cooking dinner, and any other distractions just so you could write? You pull up your computer eager to knock out some major word count and...nothing.
This is where I use the, "When in doubt, talk it out" motto. Turn to your writing partner (if you don't have one, get one. Or two, or three) for those times when you get stuck. Talk to them about the scene you're trying to write and what comes next and I promise as you talk about it, you'll be able to unfold the details that seem to elude you.
If you're the writing partner being called, make sure to ask a lot of questions. Look for gaps in the scene transitions or plot. Make sure the scene is propelling the story forward and that the characters are consistent. Let your partner explain things and most the time you just have to sit back and listen, asking a question here and a question there.
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