Are you an aspiring author? These tips and tricks will help you become a better writer.
- Write about what interests you. There’s nothing worse than writing about something you absolutely hate. If you don’t know it, stay away until you’ve learned to do proper research.
- Turn off the TV and put the pen to the paper. If you want to be a writer, you have to write. There’s no magical or mysterious way to do it. It’s hard work, but it’s worth it in the end!
- Ask everyone for feedback. I know, it may be difficult for your young ego, but it’s absolutely necessary. Have friends and family read your work. Learn to take their advice into consideration.
- Brainstorm and then continue brainstorming. There are many ways to take notes and get the initial ideas on paper (or screen if you choose to use a computer). Many authors I know use a detailed outline. Some writers scribble notes on paper in bubbles around a main theme or character. Find what works for you and run with it.
- Carry a notebook and pen with you wherever you go. You never know when a great idea is going to crash into your brain!
- Read, read and read some more. An architect will not design buildings without looking at others. A painter doesn’t create a masterpiece without having seen many paintings from other artists. Writing is no different.
- Set realistic goals. It’s fun to write. It’s more fun to reward yourself for hitting your writing goals. Trust me, it keeps you motivated and committed.
- Set a schedule for yourself and stick to it. If you only write when you feel like it, you’ll never get anything done.
- Be prepared for rejection. It’s going to happen over and over. Learn from those lovely letters. Let rejection be your driving force. Harry Potter wasn’t picked up by the first few publishers. The series was rejected many, many times. Look at the series today. Who would have known?
- Stay committed. Writing is not for everyone. Learn as much as you can about the craft and stick with it. Commitment to your work is by far the one thing that will keep you going strong.
Keep at it, young authors of the world!
Ashley Lowe
Editor
