Writing Tips

I have learned several things about writing along the way. Some I picked up as I went along. Other tips and tricks were passed on to me by fellow writers, instructors, and books that I have tweaked over the years to fit my needs. I urge you to do the same. Digest tips, tricks, and advice. Keep what is helpful and set aside what you don't need right now. You never know when something you've heard will benefit you, so never toss it out completely.

Write.
Rather pedestrian, I know. However, I've met more than a few people who've said they are writers, but have yet to put words on paper. Writing makes a writer. Nothing more. Nothing less.
Finish the first draft.
Do not fall into the mire of endless editing. Do not read your work until you write the end on the first draft. You will see plot holes, grammatical errors, wooden characters, missing punctuation...the list is endless. The first draft of my first book was 139 pages. By the final edit, it was 290 pages. Stage 1 is writing. Stage 2 is editing.
Follow your story.
My characters guide me to where they want to go. I'm just along for the ride. If you write plot-driven stories, see where it takes you. Don't force situations because you are closing yourself off to surprises along the way.
Read.
Read as many books as possible as often as you can. Reading opens new worlds to you, stimulates your creativity, and allows you to study the craft by observing what are writers are releasing.
Again: WRITE!
Daily, if possible. Even better, set a schedule. If you can only write one page a day, in a year's time, you'll have 365 pages. Whatever works for you as long as you do it.
Never, EVER give up.
Self-explanatory.
Most of all, take your time and enjoy yourself.
Good luck and much success always.

So what are some writing tips you have? Let me know in the comments below.

Writing Tips

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