by Lee Ann Doskocil

Created on: May 14, 2008

Many of us dream of being the next great writer to be discovered. However, for most of us it is just that a dream. The internet has provided aspiring writers with an outlet that provides a unique opportunity to network and get feedback and who knows, maybe even be discovered by a major publisher. There are a number of ways to write on the web including blogging, writing reviews, and setting up a website to showcase your abilities.

Regardless of whether one ever becomes a celebrated writer, online writing opportunities, at the very least, offer an avenue to get feedback. It is sometimes intimidating to hand a writing sample to someone and wait for them to give a critique. Sometimes, it is agonizing for the person trying to critique as well because no one wants to hurt a friend's feelings, and sometimes it is more difficult to be honest in person. Online writing solves this by allowing writers to get their writing critiqued by many, many people who can offer feedback without feeling that they have to spare a good friend's feelings. It also offers the writer an opportunity to receive feedback from many more people than in ordinary situations.

Another motivation for writing online without pay is to develop writing skills for later paid jobs. It allows writers to network and learn from other writers so that when opportunities do arise, they are better prepared. The internet offers writers the opportunity to be discovered by those who might peruse various websites looking for potential employees.
Writing online also allows developing writers to share their feelings, frustrations, and hopes with a wide variety of different people. This provides constant practice and allows for the aspiring writer to keep a sort of electronic portfolio so that they can see their development as a writer. The various online writing opportunities allow writers to explore genres other than those they normally choose.

Regardless of the reason that people choose to write without monetary consideration online, several purposes are served using this venue. Even if the writer has no desire to ever write for pay, he or she is sure to get exposure, feedback, and an opportunity to develop their writing skills. The ability to express oneself to such a large number of people appeals to many and is a central reason that the number of online writing sites and blogs are growing exponentially.

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