4 answers
Krystal
Student
Antwerp, Ohio
2
Questions
Asked
464 views
what are the best ways to get a head start in writing?
i know a lot of people struggle to get themselves on their feet -- what are your best suggestions for getting a headstart on your writing career?
4 answers
Mahi Patel
Student Advisor and Dental
99
Answers
Davie, Florida
Updated
Mahi’s Answer
Read Widely: Reading extensively exposes you to different writing styles, vocabulary, and perspectives. Analyze the works of various authors to understand their techniques and learn from them.
Write Regularly: Practice is key to improvement. Set aside time each day or week to write, whether it's journaling, short stories, essays, or any other form of writing. Consistency will help you develop your voice and style.
Set Goals: Establish clear writing goals to keep yourself motivated and focused. Whether it's completing a certain number of words per day or finishing a project by a specific deadline, having goals provides direction and accountability.
Experiment with Different Genres and Styles: Don't limit yourself to one type of writing. Try your hand at various genres, such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or screenplay writing. Experimenting will broaden your skills and help you discover what you enjoy writing most.
Seek Feedback: Constructive criticism is invaluable for improvement. Share your work with trusted friends, writing groups, or online communities to receive feedback. Be open to suggestions and use them to refine your writing.
Study Craft: Learn about the elements of storytelling, such as plot structure, character development, dialogue, and pacing. There are numerous resources available, including books, online courses, and workshops, that can help you enhance your understanding of the craft.
Edit and Revise: Writing is rewriting. After completing a draft, take time to revise and edit your work. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, grammar, and punctuation. Don't be afraid to make significant changes to improve your piece.
Embrace Failure: Understand that not every piece of writing will be perfect. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and don't be discouraged by setbacks. Keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and strive for continuous improvement.
Stay Inspired: Surround yourself with inspiration. Whether it's through nature, art, music, or other forms of creativity, find what inspires you and incorporate it into your writing process.
Stay Persistent: Writing can be challenging, but perseverance is key. Even when faced with writer's block or doubts about your abilities, keep pushing forward. Remember that every word you write brings you closer to your goals.
Write Regularly: Practice is key to improvement. Set aside time each day or week to write, whether it's journaling, short stories, essays, or any other form of writing. Consistency will help you develop your voice and style.
Set Goals: Establish clear writing goals to keep yourself motivated and focused. Whether it's completing a certain number of words per day or finishing a project by a specific deadline, having goals provides direction and accountability.
Experiment with Different Genres and Styles: Don't limit yourself to one type of writing. Try your hand at various genres, such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or screenplay writing. Experimenting will broaden your skills and help you discover what you enjoy writing most.
Seek Feedback: Constructive criticism is invaluable for improvement. Share your work with trusted friends, writing groups, or online communities to receive feedback. Be open to suggestions and use them to refine your writing.
Study Craft: Learn about the elements of storytelling, such as plot structure, character development, dialogue, and pacing. There are numerous resources available, including books, online courses, and workshops, that can help you enhance your understanding of the craft.
Edit and Revise: Writing is rewriting. After completing a draft, take time to revise and edit your work. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, grammar, and punctuation. Don't be afraid to make significant changes to improve your piece.
Embrace Failure: Understand that not every piece of writing will be perfect. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and don't be discouraged by setbacks. Keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and strive for continuous improvement.
Stay Inspired: Surround yourself with inspiration. Whether it's through nature, art, music, or other forms of creativity, find what inspires you and incorporate it into your writing process.
Stay Persistent: Writing can be challenging, but perseverance is key. Even when faced with writer's block or doubts about your abilities, keep pushing forward. Remember that every word you write brings you closer to your goals.
Nathaniel P. Creed
Administration/Technician
13
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Nathaniel P.’s Answer
Beginning a new venture can often feel daunting, but I concur with the sentiments expressed in other responses: don't be afraid to take the first step!
As a child, I struggled with grammar and English lessons, yet I had a passion for reading and writing. My progress was gradual, but eventually, I took up journaling, a habit I maintain to this day (as recently as last night, in fact). Words and language extend beyond mere sight or sensation; they possess the power to create, conquer, build, and annihilate! Regardless of whether you enjoy reading or writing, as a human, you're endowed with a unique gift among our species; the ability to communicate. In this modern age, writing takes on various forms, so the ideal starting point is to sit down and consider your interests. What inspires you? What repels you? Are you able to express these feelings in writing?
The inception of writing lies in ideas, aspirations, dreams, desires, and necessities. Do you aspire to change the world? If so, how would you go about it? Do you wish to dedicate long hours each day to writing, or perhaps spend a few hours focusing on specific topics? Alternatively, do you want to acquire knowledge to impart to others? Words and language are omnipresent! However, their impact depends on how we utilize them.
I assure you, there will be periods of quiet and failure. These are inevitable, as I don't subscribe to the concept of "writers block" - no one can be perpetually inspired! At times, you need to rest, to unwind and allow your mind to rejuvenate. Revel in these moments! Welcome them! Don't fear failure or the prospect of pausing and restarting, because while persistence is commendable, patience is a more potent virtue, one that will accompany you for a longer period.
Look up local writing groups at local bookstores.
Schools and community colleges sometimes have information about writing programs.
Journal as frequently as possible
Patience!
As a child, I struggled with grammar and English lessons, yet I had a passion for reading and writing. My progress was gradual, but eventually, I took up journaling, a habit I maintain to this day (as recently as last night, in fact). Words and language extend beyond mere sight or sensation; they possess the power to create, conquer, build, and annihilate! Regardless of whether you enjoy reading or writing, as a human, you're endowed with a unique gift among our species; the ability to communicate. In this modern age, writing takes on various forms, so the ideal starting point is to sit down and consider your interests. What inspires you? What repels you? Are you able to express these feelings in writing?
The inception of writing lies in ideas, aspirations, dreams, desires, and necessities. Do you aspire to change the world? If so, how would you go about it? Do you wish to dedicate long hours each day to writing, or perhaps spend a few hours focusing on specific topics? Alternatively, do you want to acquire knowledge to impart to others? Words and language are omnipresent! However, their impact depends on how we utilize them.
I assure you, there will be periods of quiet and failure. These are inevitable, as I don't subscribe to the concept of "writers block" - no one can be perpetually inspired! At times, you need to rest, to unwind and allow your mind to rejuvenate. Revel in these moments! Welcome them! Don't fear failure or the prospect of pausing and restarting, because while persistence is commendable, patience is a more potent virtue, one that will accompany you for a longer period.
Nathaniel P. recommends the following next steps:
Maria Saladin Rivera
Project Management, Instructional Designer, Professional Learning
18
Answers
Fort Worth, Texas
Updated
Maria’s Answer
Hi Krystal, everything mentioned in the previous response AND start a blog! There are several online platforms that are free and you can write to your heart's desire.
It can become a portfolio of your writing and also a way to easily share your writing with others and get feedback. It will also be a place where you can see your writing skills change overtime. You can keep your blog private and only share with those you trust will give you feedback. When you are ready, you can start making your blog posts public!
I like having a digital space because when an idea strikes, I can access my blog and write a draft that I will later on review and revise.
You'll get inspiration from lots of reading listening to topics of interest and people watching... it depends on what your writing interest is.
The important thing is to get started 🙌
It can become a portfolio of your writing and also a way to easily share your writing with others and get feedback. It will also be a place where you can see your writing skills change overtime. You can keep your blog private and only share with those you trust will give you feedback. When you are ready, you can start making your blog posts public!
I like having a digital space because when an idea strikes, I can access my blog and write a draft that I will later on review and revise.
You'll get inspiration from lots of reading listening to topics of interest and people watching... it depends on what your writing interest is.
The important thing is to get started 🙌
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Krystal,
Here's how you can elevate your college application:
Academic Excellence:
Strive to maintain a high GPA by performing exceptionally in your classes.
Enroll in advanced courses such as honors, AP, or IB to display your academic prowess.
Prepare extensively for standardized tests (SAT/ACT) to achieve top scores.
Extracurricular Involvement:
Join activities that highlight your passions and abilities.
Assume leadership roles in clubs or organizations.
Participate in community service or volunteer work to show your dedication to serving others.
Letters of Endorsement:
Select individuals who know you well and can vouch for your strengths to write your recommendations.
Supply them with details about your objectives and accomplishments to aid them in composing persuasive letters.
Personal Statement/Essays:
Compose a distinctive and genuine personal statement that mirrors your character and ambitions.
Customize each essay to the particular college or university you're applying to.
Further Readiness:
If interviews are required, prepare by rehearsing common questions and clearly expressing your objectives.
Investigate each college’s prerequisites and deadlines to ensure you submit a comprehensive application.
By concentrating on these aspects, you can amplify your college application and boost your likelihood of being accepted into your preferred institution.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Providing this Answer:
College Board: Offers valuable advice and tips on enhancing college applications, including guidance on academic performance, extracurricular activities, standardized testing, and more.
Princeton Review: Provides expert guidance on creating compelling personal statements, obtaining strong letters of recommendation, and preparing for college interviews to boost college applications.
U.S. News & World Report: Renowned for its extensive rankings and guides on colleges and universities, it provides useful resources on improving college applications through strategic planning and preparation tactics.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Here's how you can elevate your college application:
Academic Excellence:
Strive to maintain a high GPA by performing exceptionally in your classes.
Enroll in advanced courses such as honors, AP, or IB to display your academic prowess.
Prepare extensively for standardized tests (SAT/ACT) to achieve top scores.
Extracurricular Involvement:
Join activities that highlight your passions and abilities.
Assume leadership roles in clubs or organizations.
Participate in community service or volunteer work to show your dedication to serving others.
Letters of Endorsement:
Select individuals who know you well and can vouch for your strengths to write your recommendations.
Supply them with details about your objectives and accomplishments to aid them in composing persuasive letters.
Personal Statement/Essays:
Compose a distinctive and genuine personal statement that mirrors your character and ambitions.
Customize each essay to the particular college or university you're applying to.
Further Readiness:
If interviews are required, prepare by rehearsing common questions and clearly expressing your objectives.
Investigate each college’s prerequisites and deadlines to ensure you submit a comprehensive application.
By concentrating on these aspects, you can amplify your college application and boost your likelihood of being accepted into your preferred institution.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Providing this Answer:
College Board: Offers valuable advice and tips on enhancing college applications, including guidance on academic performance, extracurricular activities, standardized testing, and more.
Princeton Review: Provides expert guidance on creating compelling personal statements, obtaining strong letters of recommendation, and preparing for college interviews to boost college applications.
U.S. News & World Report: Renowned for its extensive rankings and guides on colleges and universities, it provides useful resources on improving college applications through strategic planning and preparation tactics.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
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