by Gordon Hamilton

Created on: February 10, 2009

As in almost all other walks of life, there is no such thing as the perfect writer. No matter how prolific or successful a writer may be, he or she is always open to development, and consequently, improvement. So how can a writer actively seek ways in which to improve their craft? What activities or practises will encourage such development?

The first thing we have to do in this respect is to develop accurate self-criticism. The best way in which to achieve this is not to scour through writings that we only produced the previous day but to go much further back. Depending naturally upon how long you have been writing, try to look back at pieces which you wrote six months ago, two years ago, more if applicable. Read them not as the author but as the casual reader would. Determine what, if anything, is glaringly wrong with them or how they could in any way be improved. Has your style changed, for better or for worse? Write down your findings in note form as you make them for later, more in-depth consideration and analysis.

All writers should also be readers of similar types of work produced by other authors of a similar ilk. For example, the thriller writer should read the productions of other authors in this genre. Consider how said authors craft their plot, humanise and develop their characters, keep the reader turning the page in pursuit of more action and adventure. Consider whether you achieve the same effect in your own writing and if not, why not, and how you can ensure that you at least begin to do so in future. In a similar way, technical authors can look at the works produced by colleagues and collaborators and determine how useful said works are likely to be to others in the same field of expertise. It is imperative in both these instances and all related others that we be scrupulously fair and honest, both with the other author's work and writing abilities and our own.

We should always be on the look out to develop our knowledge and understanding of the field to which we write and the best way to do this in all respects is to be mindful of what is going on around us each day as we go about the business of conducting our daily lives. Carry with you a notepad and pen and write down any thoughts or occurrences which you feel may help you with your writing. This could be anything from a chance encounter with a particularly interesting individual whom you wish to adapt slightly to include as a character in your next novel, to an interesting fact which you uncover during the course of the working day which you wish to include and expound upon in your next technical article or thesis. Knowledge and experience are wonderful things and the significant key to authenticity and credibility in our writings.

These are but three techniques which should be relevant in assisting any type of writer to improve upon the quality of their output. There are of course many more which are specific to a given form of writing. We have to remember that arrogant perceptions regarding our own abilities will detract from same abilities and limit our scope as writers. Consequently, we forever have to be on the look out for ways in which to grow and improve and in this respect we will continue to flourish in ever new ways and capacities.

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