Writing is an intuitive process. The creative spirit of a person who has the penchant to express it through words is what inspires one to write. The sense of fulfilment one gets after completing a written piece is the driving force of every writer. The euphoria that follows in the aftermath of one’s creation gives that sense of purpose and structure in a writer’s life. But in the beginning it is quite natural to have doubts about one’s ability and how to go about it. A few pointers here that can help develop your writing skills:
- Read, read, read : Writers can be said to be a derivative of readers, book worms, or bibliophiles – however you might like to call them. People who read are exposed to different voices, conventions and genres of writing. They not only absorb a huge range of vocabulary and idioms but also have a greater understanding in the nuances of language, style, formatting and structure. Make it a habit to grab a few minutes to read every day whenever you have time maybe even when you are in the bus or waiting in the doctor’s chamber. Even some of the easily accessible social media platforms like say Facebook though has a bad name due to its narcissistic and addictive nature yet we can always get on its good side by reading all the rich articles it provides whether be it about self help, politics or literature.
- Start writing: Start writing by listening to the voice inside you and letting it guide you. It might even look like a child’s write-up in the beginning. But that doesn’t matter. Your first objective is to get your ideas on paper. Many writers start by writing about their daily lives or about their pent-up feelings in their dairies. But you will be surprised to find it reading almost like a small story in your life, thereby giving you the confidence to write more. Rewriting and editing this article repeatedly is what makes it better and publishable.
- Practice: Writing is like a muscle which gets stronger with practice. It might be about anything from the recent school reunion you enjoyed or about your favourite book. Your grammar skills will be much needed here and if you have paid attention to your grammar classes in school, they will come in handy. Keep trying your hand in different topics that interest you and your confidence will grow along with your collection of write-ups. You can keep a goal of writing 500 words per day or during the weekends which will be like a mini workout. Even writing your opinions on blog posts or social media platforms regularly is like a writing exercise as you try to focus on the right words and syntax to be used. These days there is a broader opportunity to send your write-ups to many online websites and magazines that accept articles in different categories. Once you see your article published it will boost your confidence further. Those in school can start by submitting your write-ups to school or college magazines.
- Inspiration: If you are not finding the right inspiration, go to the places that bring out your best. You can jog in a quiet area filled with nature or you might like to meditate whatever appeals and relaxes you. An evening walk around your neighbourhood whereby simply observing the world around you might bring your attention to some conversation or a person. This might inspire you to write a story or an opinion based article. Maybe some emotions maybe overwhelming you which on writing might not only bring clarity and calmness, which writing usually does, but at the same time produce a beautiful piece.
- Research: If you are still out of ideas then you can research on the topic you are going to write about. Once your subconscious is filled with enough information, you will find yourself peeling those layers and a torrent of words flowing from your pen.
- Familiarity: Try your hand on topics you are passionate or knowledgeable about. This gets your paper flowing with words naturally and easily. If you plan to be a novelist, write on the genre you are familiar with as you have more knowledge on the kind of structure, tone, style, or elements used by the authors.
- Grammar: Follow basic grammar rules such as using the active voice, strong verbs, correct tenses while avoiding contractions like don’t, wouldn’t and so on. Besides many good books on grammar you will find valuable websites and resources in your very own free internet library.
- Environment: Create a beautifully decorated writing area that appeals to your senses with preferred stationery. Light up some incense or run some light background music to heighten your inspiration. Find a time that suits your mood and grab a coffee or juice that gives you that inspired kick.
