Writing is not my forte, so I will point you to some great writing resources.
http://www.wikihow.com/Write has a comprehensive list of the steps to writing well. I look at the list and think really? All that? But I also know that writing takes effort and great writing takes even more effort, so really. All that.
No, I didn’t follow all these steps with this blog post, but I’m guessing you already knew that. One day I’ll write you a thoughtful and well-worded essay on a subject I know. Just to prove that I can and thereby show you that you can too.
For an overview and to hear from writers head on over to http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/arts/features/howtowrite/index.shtml
They write about how to write fiction, but most of it will apply to all writing.
Read
Reading increases your vocabulary, and exposes you to other ways of thinking and seeing the world. Reading exposes you to the good, the bad and the mediocre of writing. Reading makes you aware of the written word.
Tips I try to remember
- Have a clear idea about the thought I am trying to convey.
- Make an outline.
- Write the way I speak. I feel this one needs to be balanced with grammar rules. I also tend to use body language, odd sounds and intonations to communicate. It’s the actor in me. That does make it hard to put into words.
- Take words out if they don’t add anything
- Write every day.
- Read everyday
What do you do to help you write?
Here are two more tips I’ve found to be helpful.
1) Be genuine. The posts I’ve written that have resonated most with people are those that are most true with who I am.
2) Write without inhibition. Edit without mercy. I like things to be perfect. The problem is that I spend my time perfecting every sentence and never get anywhere. I’m learning to just write whatever comes to mind at first and then go back later and correct it.
Another good list of tips is: http://chrisguillebeau.com/3×5/good-writing-tips/
Good call, Joshua. Chris is a great writer (and traveler and social media pro) to follow.
When you are finished with your writing (as finished as anyone gets) are you happy and proud with the results? You should be. Your writing is compelling and persuasive. How do you feel about it?
I’m hardly ever satisfied with my writing. I feel that it could flow better. I feel it’s too self centered. I feel it’s booooring. I feel there is 1000000000 things still to do on it. But then people read it and tell me it’s good. Go figure. 🙂
But that’s OK. I would hate to be in a place where I thought my writing was perfect (it never is). It forces me to refine my craft and make it better.