Starting as a new writer is both exciting and daunting. Whether you’re working on your first novel, writing essays, or developing your blogging voice, there are universal writing tips that can help you hone your craft, stay motivated, and create work that resonates. Here are ten tips to help you build a strong foundation for your writing journey.
1. Write Every Day
One of the best ways to improve as a writer is to make writing a daily habit. Even if you can only dedicate 15-20 minutes a day, consistency is key. Writing every day helps you build momentum, strengthens your writing skills, and allows you to explore new ideas more freely. Treat it like exercise—the more you do it, the better and stronger you’ll get.
Tips for Daily Writing:
- Set a specific time each day for writing.
- Start with short goals, like writing 200-300 words, then gradually increase as you get comfortable.
- Don’t focus on perfection; just aim to get words on the page.
2. Read, Read, Read
Good writers are avid readers. Reading widely exposes you to different writing styles, genres, and techniques that you can incorporate into your own work. It also builds your vocabulary, improves your understanding of story structure, and offers inspiration when you need it most.
How to Read Like a Writer:
- Take notes on passages that resonate with you and analyze why they work.
- Read both within and outside of your genre to expand your understanding.
- Notice how authors develop characters, build tension, or create mood.
3. Embrace the First Draft
The first draft of any piece of writing is about getting ideas down without worrying about polish. Give yourself permission to write freely and make mistakes. The first draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to exist. You can always revise and improve it later.
Why First Drafts Are Important:
- They help you overcome the fear of the blank page.
- They allow you to explore your ideas and see where your story or topic takes you.
- They create a foundation to build on in later drafts.
Don’t get discouraged by imperfections in your first draft; instead, celebrate that you’re making progress.
4. Develop a Writing Routine
Establishing a writing routine helps you build discipline and creates a supportive environment for creativity. Decide when and where you’ll write, and stick to that routine as consistently as possible. A routine can help you avoid procrastination and get into the “writing zone” more easily.
Tips for Creating a Routine:
- Choose a time of day when you’re most alert and focused.
- Set up a comfortable, distraction-free writing space.
- Set a timer and commit to writing for a set period, even if it’s only 15-30 minutes at first.
Consistency, rather than duration, is what ultimately builds a sustainable writing habit.
5. Find Your Unique Voice
Your writing voice is what makes your work distinct and personal. Finding your voice may take time, but it’s worth the effort. Don’t try to imitate other writers—write in a way that feels authentic to you. The more you write, the more naturally your unique voice will emerge.
How to Find Your Voice:
- Experiment with different writing styles and tones until you find what feels natural.
- Write as if you’re talking to a friend—your authentic voice often shines through this way.
- Reflect on your personality, worldview, and interests, and let these influence your style.
Your voice is what will make your work stand out, so embrace it and let it shine.
6. Learn the Basics of Story Structure
For fiction writers, understanding basic story structure is essential. This doesn’t mean you have to follow a rigid formula, but having a roadmap helps keep your narrative cohesive and engaging. Even if you’re writing non-fiction, understanding storytelling elements—like beginning, middle, and end—can make your work more compelling.
Story Structure Essentials:
- Beginning: Introduce characters, setting, and main conflict.
- Middle: Develop the conflict and obstacles the protagonist faces.
- End: Resolve the conflict and provide closure.
Studying story structure can give you a framework to guide your writing and keep readers engaged from start to finish.
7. Show, Don’t Tell
One of the most common pieces of writing advice is “show, don’t tell.” This means revealing information through actions, dialogue, and sensory details rather than simply stating facts. Showing creates a more immersive experience for readers, helping them feel connected to your characters and scenes.
Examples:
- Instead of saying, “She was angry,” show it: “Her fists clenched, and her face flushed as she spoke.”
- Rather than writing, “The room was messy,” describe it: “Clothes were strewn across the floor, and dishes piled high in the sink.”
By showing rather than telling, you create vivid, memorable scenes that draw readers into your story.
8. Don’t Be Afraid to Edit Ruthlessly
Editing is where your writing truly shines. It’s a chance to refine your ideas, polish your prose, and eliminate anything that doesn’t serve the story. Editing can be challenging because it often involves cutting parts of your work, but don’t be afraid to be ruthless. Good writing is concise and intentional.
Editing Tips:
- Start by focusing on big-picture edits: plot, pacing, and character development.
- Then move to sentence-level edits, improving word choice, clarity, and flow.
- Read your work aloud to catch awkward phrasing or repetition.
Editing is an essential part of writing, so embrace it and take your time.
9. Seek Feedback and Embrace Criticism
Constructive feedback is invaluable for improving your writing. It helps you see your work from an outside perspective and identify areas for improvement that you might have overlooked. Seek feedback from people you trust—whether it’s friends, beta readers, or writing groups—and be open to their insights.
How to Handle Feedback:
- Remember that feedback is about the work, not you as a person.
- Look for patterns in feedback—if multiple people mention the same issue, it’s likely worth addressing.
- Decide which feedback resonates with you, and don’t feel obligated to change things that don’t align with your vision.
Constructive criticism can be hard to hear, but it’s one of the most effective ways to grow as a writer.
10. Keep Learning and Stay Persistent
Writing is a journey, and there’s always more to learn. Embrace the process and be willing to keep growing. Read books on writing, take courses, and experiment with different techniques. And above all, don’t give up. Writing can be challenging, but persistence and patience are key to improvement.
How to Keep Learning:
- Read books on craft, such as On Writing by Stephen King or Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott.
- Join writing workshops or online courses to sharpen your skills and meet other writers.
- Keep a notebook of new ideas, observations, and writing prompts to fuel your creativity.
Writing is a lifelong pursuit, and every word you write brings you closer to achieving your goals.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a skilled writer takes dedication, patience, and a willingness to keep learning. By writing consistently, embracing feedback, and trusting your unique voice, you’ll build a strong foundation that allows you to grow. Writing can be challenging, but it’s also immensely rewarding, allowing you to explore new worlds, connect with readers, and leave a lasting impact through your words. Follow these tips to start strong, stay motivated, and enjoy every step of your journey as a writer.