7 Ways to Become a Better Writer

Write constantly.

The easiest way to get better is simply just to write. Becoming a good writer requires practice. If you’re not constantly in practice then you’re not developing your writing skills. Practicing is the only way to develop your own unique voice.


"The scariest moment is always just before you start.” - Stephen King


Have a special time reserved for writing.
There are times when life is so hectic you just don’t have time for writing. Your kid needs to be brought to the dentist, your fridge is empty and you need to go grocery shopping, or you’re just feeling really sick. Set a certain amount of time just for writing, whether it’s a short or long period of time.


"If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot." – Stephen King


Finish what you start.
You start a book because you’re really hyped about your idea. You get halfway through it and get stuck, meanwhile other ideas are creeping in and you want to work on those instead. Finish what you started and save those new ideas in a file for later. Unfinished books don’t get published, completed ones do. Even if you’re book isn’t as good as you wanted it to be, finish it so that you learn something from it. Maybe it’ll give you idea of where you went wrong so that in your next book you’ll be prepared not to make the same mistake again.


“We rate ability in men by what they finish, not by what they attempt”-Anonymous


Read a book you love.
Writers are readers. We learn our craft through what we read. So not only should you write regularly, but also read. Read a book you love. Read a book you hate. Figure out what works and what doesn’t work and why; and incorporate it into your own work.


“If you don't have time to read, you don't have the time (or the tools) to write. Simple as that." –Stephen King


Beware of adverbs.
To make this short and simple—do not use them.


"The road to hell is paved with adverbs." –Stephen King


Pacing.
Your work in progress could go easily wrong if the pacing is not done correctly. Go back and make sure everything happens at the time it’s supposed to. Go with a pace that’s somewhere between a dash and a slow crawl.


"Good books don't give up all their secrets at once.” –Stephen King


Always be ready for new ideas.
You could get an idea at the train station, at the doctor’s office, or in a line waiting for coffee. Ideas or inspiration could come at any moment. So be prepared. Have a notebook or notepad at hand to jot down any burning ideas. It could be an important plot twister—and you wouldn’t want to forget that.


“Miracles come in moments. Be ready and willing.” -Wayne Dyer

7 Ways to Become a Better Writer