Pick Up Your P.E.N. - Three Steps to Professional Writing

How does a fledgling wordsmith evolve into a polished and published writer? If writing itself is a process, then certainly becoming a writer also takes time. Perhaps all writers experience certain stages, as they journey towards experienced authorship.

Perhaps beginning writers must pass through three basic steps towards professional writing.

Although this may seem an oversimplification, the process of becoming a true writer may be exemplified by an acronym, using the apt writing word, "pen." Any would-be writer would do well to pick up his or her P.E.N., passing through three basic stages of increasing professionalism.

P - Practice

Good writing is a learned skill, which takes considerable practice. Certainly, some individuals seem to possess an innate knack for communicating creatively and clearly. Even a beginning writer may have a knack for communication, or a way with words. Still, the art of writing must be rehearsed.

Basic training in grammar, vocabulary, writing formats and other related disciplines are essential for a professional writer. Learning the ground rules of language is a must. Only a seasoned writer knows when and how to break the rules of usage for creative or dramatic effect.

The study of excellent and classic literature adds depth and cultural breadth to any would-be writer's personal repertoire. Reading works from existing masters is an ideal route towards expanding the imagination, which is critical for any writer (non-fiction or otherwise).

Simply put, the starting point for any professional writer is just to begin writing. Keeping a journal, creating a blog or even producing a personal or family newsletter might be an earnest beginning. From that springboard, a writer can build into volunteering and vocational writing as well.

E - Experience

A motivated writer possesses a passion for the printed word. Most beginning writers do not have the liberty of plunging onto the front page of a major newspaper or publishing a full-length novel immediately. Perhaps we can all count our blessings that this is the case. Instead, fledgling wordsmiths begin in smaller arenas.

Anyone who truly desires to write and publish will hunt for opportunities to do so. Many writers start out by composing short articles, promotional items or newsletters for clubs, non-profits, schools, churches and other organizations. Often, these activities offer little or no payment, but they provide excellent opportunities for would-be writers to gather professional writing samples, or clips.

Skilled writers quickly become quite adept at keeping and filing copies of everything they publish. Building writing experience means building a clip file, which can lead to a growing professional writing portfolio.

N - Never Give Up

With practice and experience, a starting writer may be able to build a readership and a reputation, which can lead to more substantial assignments or projects.

Persistence is the key to success for any writer seeking professional publication. Rejections may prove inevitable, as even the top published authors may confirm. However, if a writer is truly gifted with talent and initiative, he or she will continue the craft and hunting for chances to place printed pieces.

In the end, the main point for any would-be published and professional writer is simple. Pick up you P.E.N., and stick to it.

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
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