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10 RULES FOR REAL WRITERS

What makes a real writer? Simply put, a real writer is an artist with words, who zestfully creates copy, no matter the topic or timetable. A real writer will persist for payment or purely for the enjoyment of crafting content.

Writing may be a leisure hobby for some, but it is a true craft for the professional. What are the top ten practical rules for real writers?

REAL WRITER RULE #1: WRITE EVERY DAY.

A genuine wordsmith will hone his or her writing abilities and continually sharpen verbal skills by writing something every day. The daily discipline of composing copy, either for publication or pure pleasure, is essential to the bona fide writer.

Topics may vary widely, and formats may change as well. A real writer may choose to practice creative cross-training, by writing a hard-news story one day, a financial analysis the next and a science fiction short story the following day. Between hard-hitting deadline pieces, a writer may craft a few lines of poetic verse as well.

To a writer, the main point is to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) every single day.

REAL WRITER RULE #2: PLAN AHEAD.

Suppose a writer sits down to create a story, an article or even an entire book. What is the first step?

Just like the very first school essay or research paper, a writing project of any size begins with an outline, a plan or a sketch. By starting with structure, the writer is able to determine what areas will require more material and which sections may need additional emphasis. An outline is an excellent tool for guiding the writer, as he or she prepares the piece.

Of course, real writing is an evolving practice. The initial plan may need to remain flexible, as many writing projects do seem to take writers in unexpected directions in the process.

REAL WRITER RULE #3: RESEARCH IS REWARDING.

Empty writing is no writing at all. Fluffy, fact-void pieces are not worth reading. Even creative writing, such as poetry and prose, is usually based on real content.

The most imaginative fantasy and science fiction writers do considerable research before beginning their work. How much more must non-fiction wordsmiths?

REAL WRITER RULE #4: CONSIDER YOUR READERS.

Readership is everything to most real writers. Although many will write for the sheer love of the craft, readers are essential to the profitability of a professional writer.

The smartest writers create their work with their readers in mind. Audience is important. An esoteric special-interest piece will require

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