by Jinianne Lutz

Created on: July 26, 2009

To be an effective writer, one must write often. Although this sounds like a cliche, it is true that, to be effective at anything, it must be done frequently. Writing is no exception.

Writing every day should be the goal. The writing can be in the form of daily journaling or writing for pay. You should pay attention to grammar and punctuation when you are writing, even if the writing is only for yourself.

Reading is a habit that will help you when you write. Search out books and magazines that are well-written. While reading, pay attention to the author's style. If it's a style that you believe you can emulate, try writing in that same prose. Reading a variety of subjects helps give you a well-rounded view of the writing world. Science fiction might be very technical while a biography may be more conversational. Normally, you will find your best writing style through practice.

Crossword puzzles are a great way to help learn different meanings for the same word. As you fill in the blank, you might discover a deeper meaning to a word and, in turn, you can use that in your writing.

Creative writing is different from technical writing. Most often, you will excel at one form and not pursue the other. For many people, writing a technical, how-to manual comes easy. For others, fiction writing words flow easily onto paper or computer as the author embellishes a main or secondary character.

Submitting articles and book queries are necessary for anyone aspiring to be a paid writer. Write your article, proof read it many times, and submit it to a magazine that is actively seeking submissions. If you desire to be a book author, begin writing query letters today. Dreaming and thinking about it will not get you published.

Keep copies of all of your written work and review it periodically. You should see a growth in your abilities to condense your work when necessary, be explicit in step-by-step writing, and your grammar and general writing should be improved from when you began writing.

Your speech should be as grammatically correct as possible, as this will carry over into your writing style. If you commonly say words such as ain't, you should begin to listen to yourself in an attempt correct your language. As your verbal grammar improves, your written words will also improve.

Words such as to, too, and two all sound alike, yet have completely different definitions. Take the time to understand your word usage. Do not misuse your and you're as they are not interchangeable. Keep a dictionary nearby at all times so you can look up unfamiliar words.

Ask a trusted friend to read your word on occasion, especially if you are interested in becoming a paid writer. If you are considering writing a book, it might be to your benefit to pay an editor to proof your work and offer comments for suggestions.

Join an online writer's club in which you can write for fun, ask for comments, and learn to write to a deadline or specific topic. Faithwriters is only one website that offers weekly writing contests to help you hone your skills and abilities.

Write often, write frequently, write a lot. Enjoy what you are writing, yet be willing to accept criticism to improve your skills.

Learn more about this author, Jinianne Lutz.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.