A couple of weeks ago we asked our readers to share their writing
tips. The response was far beyond the initial expectations, and the
quality of the tips included was amazing. Thanks for everyone who
contributed.
Now, without further delay, the 34 writing tips that will make you a better writer!
1. Daniel
Pay attention to punctuation, especially to the correct use of commas
and periods. These two punctuation marks regulate the flow of your
thoughts, and they can make your text confusing even if the words are
clear.
2. Thomas
Participate in NaNoWriMo, which
challenges you to write a 50,000 word novel in a month. I noticed that
my writing has definitely improved over the course of the book — and
it’s not even finished yet.
3. Bill Harper
Try not to edit while you’re creating your first draft. Creating and
editing are two separate processes using different sides of the brain,
and if you try doing both at once you’ll lose. Make a deal with your
internal editor that it will get the chance to rip your piece to shreds;
it will just need to wait some time.
A really nice trick is to switch off your monitor when you’re typing. You can’t edit what you can’t see.
4. Jacinta
In a sentence: write daily for 30 minutes minimum! It’s easy to notice
the difference in a short time. Suddenly, ideas come to you and you
think of other things to write. You experiment with styles and voices
and words and the language becomes more familiar…
5. Ane Mulligan
Learn the rules of good writing… then learn when and how to break them.
6. Pete Bollini
I sometimes write out 8 to 10 pages from the book of my favorite writer…
in longhand. This helps me to get started and swing into the style I
wish to write in.
