Practical Advice for Emerging Writers

Writing, much like any art, requires dedication and discipline. While the advice to read and write a lot is often cited, there are additional practices that can significantly enhance your skills as a writer.

Start Small: Short Stories and Character Development

Begin by crafting short stories. Short stories provide an excellent platform to learn the fundamentals of storytelling, editing, and revising. Each story you write, no matter how small, is an opportunity to refine your craft. Visualize your characters, delve into their psyche, and let their voices guide you. The key is to get your ideas and thoughts on paper quickly; the quality can always be improved later.

Learning from Experience

Every experience you encounter is valuable. Whether you are writing about personal experiences, family stories, or fictional scenarios, every piece of writing is an educational journey. What you come across, whether delightful or challenging, is all grist for the mill. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow as a writer.

Avoid Unnecessary Descriptions and Dud Adjectives

Descriptive writing can be overwhelming, so it's important to be selective. If you are writing about a living room, for instance, a simple mention of it will suffice unless the decor is crucial to the plot. Similarly, try to avoid adverbs ending in -ly. These can often be replaced with stronger verbs. For example, instead of saying 'he ran quickly,' you could say 'he sprinted.' This not only enhances the clarity of your writing but also makes it more engaging. Avoid phrases like 'he or she thought,' and opt for simpler alternatives, such as 'he thought' or 'she thought.'

Write Action Scenes with Realism

Action scenes should be realistic and not overly dramatic. Avoid imitating TV or movie action; such scenes can come across as silly or unrealistic. Aim for authenticity and detail. A well-crafted action scene should be vivid and immersive, making the reader feel like they are right there with the characters.

Editing Strategy for Improved Writing

One common mistake is editing too much as you write. Editing at the same time as writing can stifle creativity and result in a lackluster first draft. Instead, write your entire draft first. After you have completed your first draft, take a break and come back to it with fresh eyes. This approach allows you to focus on the clarity and flow of your writing, making the editing process more effective.

Find Your Why

The primary goal of writing can profoundly affect your work. Many writers strive for publication, and while this can be motivating, it can also be a source of pressure. I recently realized that my desire to be published held me back, as I would often second-guess my writing. Now, I write purely for personal enjoyment, and it has led to improved writing and productivity. Writing should be a joyful experience, and when you enjoy the process, the quality of your work often improves.