Prompts

How to be a better writer

Many of us want to learn how to be better writers. The answer is very simple:

WRITE. Write some more. Keep writing.

It’s true!  The more you write, the better writer you will become.

Here are some things you can do to improve your writing.

READ. Read whatever you like to read. Read the genre you are writing in. Read other genres.

BE SPECIFIC. ’57 Bel Air Chevy, not car. Sycamore, not tree.  Foxtrot, not dance.

USE STRONG VERBS. Keep a list of strong verbs in your writer’s toolbox for easy reference.

Resources for strong verbs

Thesaurus in any format: Paper, on your computer, internet.

Books:

Vex, Hex, Smash, Smooch: Let Verbs Power Your Writing by Constance Hale.

Strong Verbs Strong Voice by Ann Everett

Websites:  Tip Sheet Using Strong Verbs  and Writing Tips: Use Active, Precise Verbs

WRITING MAGAZINES often have article to improve writing: Writer’s Digest, The Writer, Poets & Writers.

WORKSHOPS & CLASSES: Internet search on “writing” will yield a variety of results for writing workshops: Day-long, weekend, conferences, writing teachers online. If you add your city or county to your search, results focus on writing activities in your area. Consider UCLA Extension online classes.

The Sonoma County Literary Update is an amazing compendium of writing resources.

Summary, how to be a better writer

  • Write.
  • Read.
  • Be specific.
  • Employ strong verbs.
  • Peruse writing magazines.
  • Attend workshops and classes

Pen, gold background

 

Whatever methods you use . . . Just Write!

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