8 answers
Caroline
Student
Minneapolis, Minnesota
1
Question
Asked
658 views
how can someone improve on their writing skills?
i need advice on how to be able to write well and articulate
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8 answers
Iryna Tam
Writer, copywriter
171
Answers
Hagerstown, Maryland
Updated
Iryna’s Answer
Hi Caroline!
Improving your writing skills is a valuable endeavor that can enhance your ability to express yourself clearly and effectively. Here are several strategies and tips to help you become a better writer:
1. Read Regularly
Diverse Genres: Read a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, articles, and essays, to expose yourself to different writing styles and perspectives.
Analyze Writing: Pay attention to how authors structure their arguments, use language, and develop ideas. Take notes on techniques you find effective.
2. Practice Writing Daily
Set Aside Time: Dedicate a specific time each day for writing. It doesn’t have to be long; even 15-30 minutes daily can make a significant difference.
Use Writing Prompts: Use prompts or challenges to inspire creativity. There are many resources online with daily writing prompts to get you started.
3. Focus on Structure and Clarity
Outline Your Ideas: Before writing, create an outline to organize your thoughts. This helps in presenting your ideas logically.
Be Concise: Aim for clarity and brevity. Avoid unnecessary words and jargon. Make every word count.
4. Expand Your Vocabulary
Learn New Words: Make an effort to learn new vocabulary and practice using them in your writing. Tools like vocabulary-building apps or word-a-day emails can be helpful.
Practice Synonyms: Instead of using the same words repeatedly, use synonyms to add variety to your writing.
5. Write for Different Purposes
Experiment with Styles: Try different formats, such as essays, reports, creative writing, or poetry. This will help you discover your unique voice and versatility.
Engage in Different Platforms: Write blog posts, journal entries, or participate in online writing communities where you can share your work and receive feedback.
6. Revise and Edit
Review Your Work: After completing a piece, take a break before revising. This helps you see your writing with fresh eyes.
Focus on Mechanics: Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway can assist in identifying mistakes and improving readability.
7. Seek Feedback
Share Your Writing: Share your work with friends, family, or writing groups to gain constructive feedback. Join workshops or online forums where you can exchange critiques with other writers.
Implement Suggestions: Be open to feedback and make changes based on constructive criticism. Learning to accept and utilize feedback is essential for growth.
8. Study Writing Techniques
Take Writing Courses: Consider enrolling in writing courses, either online or in-person, to learn specific skills and receive instruction from experienced writers.
Read Writing Guides: Explore books on writing such as "On Writing" by Stephen King or "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White for practical advice and techniques.
9. Establish Your Writing Routine
Find Your Optimal Environment: Identify where and when you write best. Create a comfortable, distraction-free space for writing.
Set Goals: Set achievable writing goals, whether it’s a word count, a completed piece, or a specific time spent writing each week.
10. Be Patient and Persistent
Embrace the Process: Writing is a skill that takes time to develop. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges or setbacks.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your improvements and celebrate milestones in your writing journey.
Improving your writing skills requires consistent practice, openness to feedback, and a willingness to learn. By reading widely, writing regularly, and actively seeking to enhance your craft, you can express your thoughts clearly and effectively. Remember, the key is to stay committed to your growth as a writer.
Good luck!
Improving your writing skills is a valuable endeavor that can enhance your ability to express yourself clearly and effectively. Here are several strategies and tips to help you become a better writer:
1. Read Regularly
Diverse Genres: Read a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, articles, and essays, to expose yourself to different writing styles and perspectives.
Analyze Writing: Pay attention to how authors structure their arguments, use language, and develop ideas. Take notes on techniques you find effective.
2. Practice Writing Daily
Set Aside Time: Dedicate a specific time each day for writing. It doesn’t have to be long; even 15-30 minutes daily can make a significant difference.
Use Writing Prompts: Use prompts or challenges to inspire creativity. There are many resources online with daily writing prompts to get you started.
3. Focus on Structure and Clarity
Outline Your Ideas: Before writing, create an outline to organize your thoughts. This helps in presenting your ideas logically.
Be Concise: Aim for clarity and brevity. Avoid unnecessary words and jargon. Make every word count.
4. Expand Your Vocabulary
Learn New Words: Make an effort to learn new vocabulary and practice using them in your writing. Tools like vocabulary-building apps or word-a-day emails can be helpful.
Practice Synonyms: Instead of using the same words repeatedly, use synonyms to add variety to your writing.
5. Write for Different Purposes
Experiment with Styles: Try different formats, such as essays, reports, creative writing, or poetry. This will help you discover your unique voice and versatility.
Engage in Different Platforms: Write blog posts, journal entries, or participate in online writing communities where you can share your work and receive feedback.
6. Revise and Edit
Review Your Work: After completing a piece, take a break before revising. This helps you see your writing with fresh eyes.
Focus on Mechanics: Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway can assist in identifying mistakes and improving readability.
7. Seek Feedback
Share Your Writing: Share your work with friends, family, or writing groups to gain constructive feedback. Join workshops or online forums where you can exchange critiques with other writers.
Implement Suggestions: Be open to feedback and make changes based on constructive criticism. Learning to accept and utilize feedback is essential for growth.
8. Study Writing Techniques
Take Writing Courses: Consider enrolling in writing courses, either online or in-person, to learn specific skills and receive instruction from experienced writers.
Read Writing Guides: Explore books on writing such as "On Writing" by Stephen King or "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White for practical advice and techniques.
9. Establish Your Writing Routine
Find Your Optimal Environment: Identify where and when you write best. Create a comfortable, distraction-free space for writing.
Set Goals: Set achievable writing goals, whether it’s a word count, a completed piece, or a specific time spent writing each week.
10. Be Patient and Persistent
Embrace the Process: Writing is a skill that takes time to develop. Don’t be discouraged by initial challenges or setbacks.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your improvements and celebrate milestones in your writing journey.
Improving your writing skills requires consistent practice, openness to feedback, and a willingness to learn. By reading widely, writing regularly, and actively seeking to enhance your craft, you can express your thoughts clearly and effectively. Remember, the key is to stay committed to your growth as a writer.
Good luck!
Rich Feitelberg
Novelist
7
Answers
Quincy, Massachusetts
Updated
Rich’s Answer
You write every day. You read regularly too. Editing also helps.
Pablo Jeannel
1
Answer
Caldwell, Idaho
Updated
Pablo’s Answer
Read ‘The Elements of Style’ by William Strunk jr. and E.B White
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1840
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you would like to improve writing skills.
Below are my suggestions:
1.Attend writing skills classes
2. Find out more writing skills information. There are plenty of resources online
3. Read more classical novels
4. Write some articles from time to time. Seek your school teacher comments if possible
5. Write diary
Practise makes perfect!
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1.Attend writing skills classes
2. Find out more writing skills information. There are plenty of resources online
3. Read more classical novels
4. Write some articles from time to time. Seek your school teacher comments if possible
5. Write diary
Practise makes perfect!
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Joanne Williams
Associate Professor
34
Answers
Olivet, Michigan
Updated
Joanne’s Answer
Caroline - I am assuming you mean someone other than yourself- but you will be involved, right?!
So, write with and for them. Make much of your communication written. Make it a game, reward people for interesting and appropriate dialogue. Give them space to explore.
FIrst, don't worry about the method (grammar and style so much) as the message. Make sure their meaning is being "heard" and then work from there.
Ane writing is reading. Have them read their work outloud. Wherever they stumble points to room for improvement.
And read everything, from food packages to signs, and of course pleasure.
The enjoyment and purpose must be there in order for the will to improve methods and meaning.
So, write with and for them. Make much of your communication written. Make it a game, reward people for interesting and appropriate dialogue. Give them space to explore.
FIrst, don't worry about the method (grammar and style so much) as the message. Make sure their meaning is being "heard" and then work from there.
Ane writing is reading. Have them read their work outloud. Wherever they stumble points to room for improvement.
And read everything, from food packages to signs, and of course pleasure.
The enjoyment and purpose must be there in order for the will to improve methods and meaning.
Roger Maxwell
Freelance Writer
15
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Roger’s Answer
Hi there,
First I want to say… Everyone has given a lot of great answers that you should consider.
Now, for me, becoming a great writer and being articulate comes from doing more than just writing and reading. Here's a few pieces of advice that helped me grow as a writer, and they might work for you too:
1. Become an Observer of the World
Writers are detectives of life. Pay attention to people—the way they talk, how they move, what they care about. Eavesdrop on conversations (politely, of course), watch how people argue or laugh, and notice the little details others might miss. Write them down in a notebook. You'll find inspiration everywhere, and it will teach you how to make your writing feel alive.
2. Talk Out Your Ideas
Pretend you’re explaining your story or an idea to a friend. Out loud. Talking forces you to articulate your thoughts clearly, and it helps you spot ideas that might not make sense or could be more interesting. You could even record yourself and listen back to see how it sounds.
3. Write Something Wild and Imperfect
Don't focus on being "good" at first. Write something silly, messy, or completely random. Describe a dream you had, invent a scene where a cat becomes a queen, or try to write a whole page without using the letter "e." Being creative without pressure makes your brain stretch, which helps you grow as a writer.
4. Get Curious About Words
Words are tools, and knowing how to use them is powerful. Collect words you love, even ones you don’t hear every day. Create a "word bank" in a journal or on your phone. Then, play with them—try to use one new word every day, whether in writing or conversation.
5. Learn to Ask Big Questions
Writers don’t just tell stories; they explore ideas. Ask yourself questions like: What does it mean to be brave? Why do people act the way they do? What would it feel like to be someone else? The more curious you are about the world, the richer your stories will become.
6. Read Like a Detective
Instead of just reading for fun (though that's important!), sometimes read to figure out how an author makes their writing work. Why do you like a certain character? How does the author create suspense or make you laugh? Take notes on what stands out—you can "borrow" those techniques for your own stories.
7. Write What You Feel, Not Just What You See
Writing isn’t just about describing things; it’s about showing emotions. Think of a moment that made you really happy, sad, or scared. Instead of writing, "I felt happy," describe what happiness felt like in your body—like a balloon expanding in your chest or sunshine pouring into your head. This kind of writing connects with people.
8. Find Your Weird
Every great writer has something unique about them. Maybe you love dinosaurs, or you have an unusual way of seeing the world. Whatever makes you you—lean into it. That’s where your best writing will come from.
Writing articulately doesn’t just mean using proper grammar or choosing the “right” words—though those are important. To me, it’s about understanding your audience and communicating in a way that resonates with them. Articulate writing bridges the gap between what you want to say and how others can understand and feel it.
We live in a world where language is constantly shifting. Slang, cultural idioms, and even genre-specific styles can make the same idea feel completely different depending on who’s reading it. For instance, “Yeah, I’m up for that” has evolved into “I’m down for that”—a shift that reflects how language grows and changes. Writing articulately means being attuned to those changes while staying true to your voice and purpose.
It also requires awareness—not just of language, but of the world around you. The way people talk, how they move, their mannerisms, the color of the sky, the texture of a trail—every detail you observe becomes a tool for your writing. Metaphors, for example, can make your words more vivid and relatable: “…the trail was like a scar upon the land.” These moments of observation ground your writing, making it not just articulate but deeply engaging.
Here’s an example from my own writing, inspired by personal experience:
"He sat up and was struck by a wave of dizziness. He squeezed his eyes shut and held his breath until it passed. Despite his fever, the wound in his thigh radiated its own heat. The bite wound had gone numb, oozing clear fluid, which he wiped away with the sleeve of his tunic. He collected his things, then stood by the creek. He was seeing it for the first time: rich greens and yellows of overgrowth, young moss-covered trees bordering the gentle curves of the creek; brown trunks of trees sprouting tall from the vegetation like bronze pillars into the sky; the flow of glistening water streaming over and around the rocks and branches, over the smooth stones of the creek bed. What is this place? He put down his bundle, took a step into the flow, then laid his fevered body into the cleansing water. It flowed over his neck, his back, his arms, legs, and feet—washing the sickness from his body. He stretched out his arms, caressed the stones with his fingers. He was a rock, a branch, a stone ... he belonged."
This passage draws on my memories of illness and physical struggle, channeling those sensations into words that (hopefully) allow the reader to feel the character’s exhaustion, awe, and surrender. Articulate writing isn’t just about words—it’s about capturing life, then shaping it in a way that others can connect with.
Ultimately, I believe writing articulately is a mix of technical skill, deep awareness, and an ongoing curiosity about how people think, feel, and communicate. That’s part of what I explore in my digital course, Organic Writing: how to observe, interpret, and transform life’s details into compelling, resonant prose.
Another thought I was going to mention is for her to listen to her favorite authors books. Writing is music and if you listen to how the sentences sound, or even writing them out, copying the books so you feel what articulate writing "feels" like.
Writing really does have its own rhythm, and hearing it aloud can help develop an ear for flow and clarity. Copying passages is also an excellent tactile way to absorb the nuances of an author's style. Combining this with active observation and personal experimentation could give you a robust approach to mastering articulate writing.
And now I think I’ve said enough.
I hope this helps. I know it’s a lot - I do tend to jabber on.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Your friend.
Roger
First I want to say… Everyone has given a lot of great answers that you should consider.
Now, for me, becoming a great writer and being articulate comes from doing more than just writing and reading. Here's a few pieces of advice that helped me grow as a writer, and they might work for you too:
1. Become an Observer of the World
Writers are detectives of life. Pay attention to people—the way they talk, how they move, what they care about. Eavesdrop on conversations (politely, of course), watch how people argue or laugh, and notice the little details others might miss. Write them down in a notebook. You'll find inspiration everywhere, and it will teach you how to make your writing feel alive.
2. Talk Out Your Ideas
Pretend you’re explaining your story or an idea to a friend. Out loud. Talking forces you to articulate your thoughts clearly, and it helps you spot ideas that might not make sense or could be more interesting. You could even record yourself and listen back to see how it sounds.
3. Write Something Wild and Imperfect
Don't focus on being "good" at first. Write something silly, messy, or completely random. Describe a dream you had, invent a scene where a cat becomes a queen, or try to write a whole page without using the letter "e." Being creative without pressure makes your brain stretch, which helps you grow as a writer.
4. Get Curious About Words
Words are tools, and knowing how to use them is powerful. Collect words you love, even ones you don’t hear every day. Create a "word bank" in a journal or on your phone. Then, play with them—try to use one new word every day, whether in writing or conversation.
5. Learn to Ask Big Questions
Writers don’t just tell stories; they explore ideas. Ask yourself questions like: What does it mean to be brave? Why do people act the way they do? What would it feel like to be someone else? The more curious you are about the world, the richer your stories will become.
6. Read Like a Detective
Instead of just reading for fun (though that's important!), sometimes read to figure out how an author makes their writing work. Why do you like a certain character? How does the author create suspense or make you laugh? Take notes on what stands out—you can "borrow" those techniques for your own stories.
7. Write What You Feel, Not Just What You See
Writing isn’t just about describing things; it’s about showing emotions. Think of a moment that made you really happy, sad, or scared. Instead of writing, "I felt happy," describe what happiness felt like in your body—like a balloon expanding in your chest or sunshine pouring into your head. This kind of writing connects with people.
8. Find Your Weird
Every great writer has something unique about them. Maybe you love dinosaurs, or you have an unusual way of seeing the world. Whatever makes you you—lean into it. That’s where your best writing will come from.
Writing articulately doesn’t just mean using proper grammar or choosing the “right” words—though those are important. To me, it’s about understanding your audience and communicating in a way that resonates with them. Articulate writing bridges the gap between what you want to say and how others can understand and feel it.
We live in a world where language is constantly shifting. Slang, cultural idioms, and even genre-specific styles can make the same idea feel completely different depending on who’s reading it. For instance, “Yeah, I’m up for that” has evolved into “I’m down for that”—a shift that reflects how language grows and changes. Writing articulately means being attuned to those changes while staying true to your voice and purpose.
It also requires awareness—not just of language, but of the world around you. The way people talk, how they move, their mannerisms, the color of the sky, the texture of a trail—every detail you observe becomes a tool for your writing. Metaphors, for example, can make your words more vivid and relatable: “…the trail was like a scar upon the land.” These moments of observation ground your writing, making it not just articulate but deeply engaging.
Here’s an example from my own writing, inspired by personal experience:
"He sat up and was struck by a wave of dizziness. He squeezed his eyes shut and held his breath until it passed. Despite his fever, the wound in his thigh radiated its own heat. The bite wound had gone numb, oozing clear fluid, which he wiped away with the sleeve of his tunic. He collected his things, then stood by the creek. He was seeing it for the first time: rich greens and yellows of overgrowth, young moss-covered trees bordering the gentle curves of the creek; brown trunks of trees sprouting tall from the vegetation like bronze pillars into the sky; the flow of glistening water streaming over and around the rocks and branches, over the smooth stones of the creek bed. What is this place? He put down his bundle, took a step into the flow, then laid his fevered body into the cleansing water. It flowed over his neck, his back, his arms, legs, and feet—washing the sickness from his body. He stretched out his arms, caressed the stones with his fingers. He was a rock, a branch, a stone ... he belonged."
This passage draws on my memories of illness and physical struggle, channeling those sensations into words that (hopefully) allow the reader to feel the character’s exhaustion, awe, and surrender. Articulate writing isn’t just about words—it’s about capturing life, then shaping it in a way that others can connect with.
Ultimately, I believe writing articulately is a mix of technical skill, deep awareness, and an ongoing curiosity about how people think, feel, and communicate. That’s part of what I explore in my digital course, Organic Writing: how to observe, interpret, and transform life’s details into compelling, resonant prose.
Another thought I was going to mention is for her to listen to her favorite authors books. Writing is music and if you listen to how the sentences sound, or even writing them out, copying the books so you feel what articulate writing "feels" like.
Writing really does have its own rhythm, and hearing it aloud can help develop an ear for flow and clarity. Copying passages is also an excellent tactile way to absorb the nuances of an author's style. Combining this with active observation and personal experimentation could give you a robust approach to mastering articulate writing.
And now I think I’ve said enough.
I hope this helps. I know it’s a lot - I do tend to jabber on.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Your friend.
Roger
ELISHA ALIAKA
2
Answers
Nakuru, Nakuru County, Kenya
Updated
ELISHA’s Answer
Diving into various books exposes you to a world of unique words, boosting your vocabulary and sparking your creativity in a truly exciting way.
Anthony Pappas
Teacher
6
Answers
Athens, Greece
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
hi Caroline,
all the suggestions everyone else mentioned are good --- ..... Just keep this simple realization always in mind: when you're writing, it's that you have someone's attention for some time: one minute, 37seconds, a weekend (like a really good paperback while sitting in bed reading!), 11 minutes, a lifetime: Shakespeare amazing plays and sonnets (and life!)! the Odyssey (by Homer), the Old and New Testaments (by many many many known and unknown peoples!!)
that's why re-reading what you wrote, re-writing it (again and again if need be - it's fun!) and finally letting go of it with all it's imperfections, just because you think it's great already or you don't want to look at it anymore! -- that's all part of it....
hope that helps
all the suggestions everyone else mentioned are good --- ..... Just keep this simple realization always in mind: when you're writing, it's that you have someone's attention for some time: one minute, 37seconds, a weekend (like a really good paperback while sitting in bed reading!), 11 minutes, a lifetime: Shakespeare amazing plays and sonnets (and life!)! the Odyssey (by Homer), the Old and New Testaments (by many many many known and unknown peoples!!)
that's why re-reading what you wrote, re-writing it (again and again if need be - it's fun!) and finally letting go of it with all it's imperfections, just because you think it's great already or you don't want to look at it anymore! -- that's all part of it....
hope that helps