Writing is not just an art but a craft too. A craft can be learned and writing is no different in that there are many writing skills that can be learned. Imagination and good ideas are important but they are not enough. Other qualities are needed to produce work of a high standard such as discipline and perseverance. It is difficult to teach anyone how to write quality fiction but most writers are able to significantly improve their writing by devoting time and attention to their craft.
Reading prolifically, for example, often has a good effect on your own writing. It not only expands your vocabulary but creates an awareness of different styles, what makes a good plot and how to develop characters. You begin to identify what makes one novel better than another and you are able to use these observations to improve your own writing. Reading what you have written out loud is often a good idea too, as this helps you to make sure that the sentences have a certain rhythm to them.
It is essential to create a space and make time for your writing. It is a jealous master and does not take kindly to lack of attention. In takes much time and focus to first plan, then write a draft and rewrite until you are satisfied with what you have produced.
Every second person wants to write a book but not that many actually sit down and do it. This is because it does require a lot of hard work. It takes true commitment and dedication to see the process through to the end. Planning, creating believable characters and a good plot requires focus and single-minded attention. Good authors often spend many hours every single day, writing and rewriting.
The advice of others can be invaluable in helping you to improve your writing. Attending workshops is one way to expose your work to others. Most people find it difficult to expose themselves in this way. However, bear in mind that helpful criticism is good for your growth. It can help you to rise to the next level.
Carrying a notebook at all times allows you to make notes of observations and thoughts as you have them. It is easy for these to get lost as the memory does not retain them for long. One of the tips successful authors often give other writers is that they must show, not tell. Rather than saying that the sun is shining, show how it filters gently through the blinds. Observation of tiny details helps you with showing rather than telling.
You need to be able to persist through times of doubt and face rejection with courage. Many authors have suffered a great deal of rejection before they finally broke through to success. Commitment to their writing gave them the dedication they needed to persevere, despite criticism and setbacks.
In the process of perfecting your writing, you may be faced with many obstacles. However, with dedication and hard work, most people can improve their writing a great deal. Get input from others, read widely, hone your skills and you may be surprised at the level of work you can produce. Some sacrifice is required but the results will be worthwhile.
Reading prolifically, for example, often has a good effect on your own writing. It not only expands your vocabulary but creates an awareness of different styles, what makes a good plot and how to develop characters. You begin to identify what makes one novel better than another and you are able to use these observations to improve your own writing. Reading what you have written out loud is often a good idea too, as this helps you to make sure that the sentences have a certain rhythm to them.
It is essential to create a space and make time for your writing. It is a jealous master and does not take kindly to lack of attention. In takes much time and focus to first plan, then write a draft and rewrite until you are satisfied with what you have produced.
Every second person wants to write a book but not that many actually sit down and do it. This is because it does require a lot of hard work. It takes true commitment and dedication to see the process through to the end. Planning, creating believable characters and a good plot requires focus and single-minded attention. Good authors often spend many hours every single day, writing and rewriting.
The advice of others can be invaluable in helping you to improve your writing. Attending workshops is one way to expose your work to others. Most people find it difficult to expose themselves in this way. However, bear in mind that helpful criticism is good for your growth. It can help you to rise to the next level.
Carrying a notebook at all times allows you to make notes of observations and thoughts as you have them. It is easy for these to get lost as the memory does not retain them for long. One of the tips successful authors often give other writers is that they must show, not tell. Rather than saying that the sun is shining, show how it filters gently through the blinds. Observation of tiny details helps you with showing rather than telling.
You need to be able to persist through times of doubt and face rejection with courage. Many authors have suffered a great deal of rejection before they finally broke through to success. Commitment to their writing gave them the dedication they needed to persevere, despite criticism and setbacks.
In the process of perfecting your writing, you may be faced with many obstacles. However, with dedication and hard work, most people can improve their writing a great deal. Get input from others, read widely, hone your skills and you may be surprised at the level of work you can produce. Some sacrifice is required but the results will be worthwhile.
