So you write. Yes many people do. But the truth is not all of them are good at what they do with it. I have compiled a short list of things that will help your writing get noticed and read by more than the audience you are used to. These are just several things that have helped me along the way to becoming a better writer.
Be Clear
There is nothing more important than expressing yourself in the clearest manner possible. And don't think it's impossible to write an exciting thriller without being somewhat vague. It is possible to write in a vague sense while still maintaining that quality of clearness that will allow you're reader to connect with what you've written. This can be applied to any style of writing. Just be clear and you're audience will understand.
Don't Over Do It
Your audience is not stupid. In reference to number one on this list, being clear does not mean you have to explain every little solitary detail. They will understand what you are trying to convey as long as you use proper technique, syntax and, of course, grammar.
Be Clever
Have you ever read something that you were completely uninterested in? No. You stop reading it halfway through, unfortunately even if it's for work or school. Keep your readers interested by using your intelligence. Show them you know what you are talking about. This means doing research if you have to and using techniques you may be unfamiliar with. And at the same time, please refer back to number two on the list. Do not write like your audience is stupid. Don't over do anything and don't write using all big words that everyday people will need a dictionary to understand. Write like a human being.
Use Your Voice
While being one of the more difficult aspects of writing, if you catch your tone of voice in what you write, your audience is guaranteed to catch on. It, again, gives them something to connect with. This can be practiced by keeping a simple journal or participating in the online blogging world. While writing in these avoid using shortcuts and remember to use proper grammar. It will improve your style tremendously.
Write
I can't stress enough that you need to keep writing. Most people are very critical of what they read on a daily basis. BUT DON'T LET THAT PUT YOU DOWN. Some people may not like what you write, others will. It doesn't matter. What matters is that you keep writing and you keep doing what you love. I hate to use clichés (which should be another number on the list because you should never ever ever use them but I'll let that slide. It's pretty obvious) but the saying is right.
Practice makes perfect. Do you think Kurt Vonnegut got to where he was at by giving up when people didn't like his work? Now, don't misinterpret this. Not everyone is out to get you. Many authors are more than happy to help a fellow writer out. This is where the idea of a workshop comes into play. Sharing work with other people is definitely a way to get tips and suggestions on how to improve. Which brings me to my last point.
Share Your Work
To publish your work does not mean to get it printed in a national journal or on the cover of the newspaper. While it can mean making those headlines, publishing simply means to make public. Share what you write with as many people as you can. Get them to give you feedback. Open a blog and post stories for the internet to read. Like I said you will have lovers and haters, but don't let them bring you down. Remember, it is about doing what you love and improving at it.
So hopefully these tips have helped you as much as they helped me. No one was published overnight and everyone got to where they are because they were open to improvement. Stay sharp and remember to keep writing.
