by Marie Bywater

Created on: June 04, 2009   Last Updated: June 06, 2009

Productivity is a very important element of a freelance writer's career, whether they work for themselves or whether they write for clients. If you cannot meet deadlines you run the risk of not being offered any more work, similarly if you are an author and you cannot meet the publishing date, you may not get any more book deals. In general being more productive means more articles and therefore more money. If you want to know how to be a more productive writer without sacrificing quality keep reading.

1) Write what you know

Obviously, it stands to reason, if you write on topics where you are knowledgeable, then you are set to be able to churn out more articles. If you get a task to write on factual articles you know nothing about, then you may waste countless hours researching and still may be none the wiser. Therefore it is always better if possible to write on niches you are an expert in and stick to these. This way you can earn more money and build your reputation.

2) Take frequent breaks

Just like in a 9-5 job a freelance writer must take breaks throughout the day. You need to rest your mind and eyes to keep producing quality articles. Periods of inactivity and times you are finding it difficult to put sentences together signal appropriate times for a short break, outdoors in the fresh air.

3) Remove all distractions

Treat your freelance writing job as a proper job. That means do not write in a room with a television blaring or a stereo pumping out the latest hits. If possible have an office where you can work at your writing in peace and quiet. Your office should only contain enough materials to support you and your writing practices.

4) Reward periods of productivity

If you have a productive week make sure and treat yourself, this could be a trip to the shops or dinner at your favourite restaurant. This will encourage you to keep up this speed of writing. Remember the more productive you are, the more money you are likely to earn.

5) Set schedules and stick to them

Before commencing any assignment or client work, make sure you make a plan. This plan should include the approximate time required for research, first draft, editing and improvements. Try your best to stick to your plan as this is the one way you can keep on top of your work and be as productive as possible. However, if you fall behind schedule reschedule your tasks, and remember you still need to sleep.

6) Do not get disheartened by negative feedback

If a client asks you to redo some of work do not be annoyed, instead see it as a way to improve your writing.

When embarking on a freelance writing career, productivity is the key. The more productive you are, the more likely you are to have a successful freelance writing career. If you do experience writer's block remember to take frequent breaks and hopefully this will help you get back to your writing ways again.

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