19 Essential Tips for Becoming a Better Writer Instantly

Introduction

When people think about becoming a 'better writer,' they often imagine taking a literature class in France or studying with Hemingway's ghost. However, real improvement can be achieved through small but powerful tweaks to your writing habits. This article draws from personal experience and insights from the Ship 30 for 30 writing program and my Category Pirates newsletter to share 19 tips that can help you enhance your writing skills immediately.

19 Writing Tips

Tip 1: Organize Rapid-Fire Thoughts into Bullets

Start by compressing your thoughts into bullet points. This helps you identify the key points and then expand each point into more detail. If you're unsure about the bullet points, you lack clarity in your message.

Tip 2: Delete the Word "That"

In 99% of cases, the word 'that' is unnecessary. It clutters your sentences without adding value.

Tip 3: Emphasize the Most Important Word in Each Sentence

For example, change 'You knew who the first President was' to 'You knew the name of the first President.' The latter sentence is more impactful.

Tip 4: Increase Engagement with a High Rate of Revelation (RoR)

Keep your readers intrigued by introducing new information quickly. Avoid stretching one idea across hundreds of paragraphs; instead, condense 10 ideas into a handful of paragraphs.

Tip 5: Prep the Page Before Starting

Make your blank page less intimidating by naming the document, setting a working title, writing a first sentence, and outlining your subheads. This process helps you fill in the skeleton more easily.

Tip 6: Avoid Using Semicolons

Semicolons are often misunderstood and overused. Use commas and periods instead to keep your sentences clear and readable.

Tip 7: Begin with a Short, Strong Declarative Statement

Start with a statement like 'There is only one way to get rich.' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and sets the tone for your writing.

Tip 8: Write in Different Interfaces

Experiment with writing in various interfaces such as a physical journal, napkins, or digital tools like Quora answers or Microsoft Word. Viewing your writing on different platforms can help you see it differently and make it more engaging.

Tip 9: Eliminate Tiny-Word-Chunks

Delete repetitive phrases like 'and so as' or 'if it is' to make your sentences cleaner. This is called 'pulling the weeds between your flowers.'

Tip 10: Remove Opening "I" Phrases

Authoritative writing doesn't require phrases like 'I think' or 'I believe.' Your readers know your beliefs and thoughts are your own.

Tip 11: Use Niche Language Wisely

Use niche-specific language for a niche audience but opt for general language to reach a broader audience. The words you choose determine your readership.

Tip 12: The Tequila Test

Create a list of common phrases people use about your topic and avoid them. Instead, think of something unique, as in 'First thing you need to do is take a shot of tequila,' to stand out.

Tip 13: Open with the 1/3/1 Sequence

This sequence, where you open with an introduction, then the middle paragraph contains the value, and close with a summary, makes your writing more engaging and easier to follow.

Tip 14: Ignore Word Count

Aim to express your message as clearly and concisely as possible. Sometimes, fewer words are more effective than more.

Tip 15: Focus on Visibility

In today's digital world, visibility is key. Publish more to gain more visibility, and let action speak louder than thought.

Tip 16: Rewrite from Scratch

Instead of tweaking your existing draft, rewrite 100 percent new content. This new version may incorporate useful elements from the old draft while streamlining the overall message.

Tip 17: Change Minds, Not Just Words

Go beyond describing actions or ideas; focus on changing your readers' mindset. Move them from their current state to a new perspective.

Tip 18: Remove Adverbs

Adverbs like 'excitedly' or 'carefully' are often unnecessary. Removing them makes your writing more direct and declarative.

Tip 19: Do Some Unintentional Writing

Before any intentional writing, spend 15 minutes journaling freely. This clears the mind and allows fresh ideas to flow.