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Advice for new writers

Earning money by writing is hard work. It is an uphill struggle of commitment and disappointment. It is tiring and at times frustrating, but for all those who can stick to the task, it can be an extremely rewarding profession indeed.

If there is one key to becoming a professional writer it is dedication. Getting to grips with rejections and coping with criticisms are something which all writers must be able to deal with. If a person has dedication and commitment then they have overcome the first stage.

The next stage is in setting realistic targets for writing. Trying to write the next best selling novel maybe a desire, but it is also an unrealistic primary target. The new writer should at first read everything possible and try to write in different mediums. They should look at the construction of magazine articles, newspaper columns, novels, poetry, on-line articles, advertising, everything and anything which involves the written word.

From this position the new writer will have a whole host of material in which to analyze and learn from. At the same time the new writer should seek to practice as much as possible, and if possible seek the help and advice of more experienced writers. Taking a few evening writing classes if possible is a good way to develop written skills quickly.

From here the writer can then sort to examine their own skills and what else needs to be developed. They can begin to plan their own route to getting where they want to go with their writing careers. Getting started on the internet is an excellent training ground for the new and budding writer, and it offers the perfect arena in which to practice, practice, practice.

Three useful tips for the new writer:

* Clear Writing

One of the most important aspects of writing is to keep it as crystal clear as possible. Long-winded sentences full of waffle and repetition should be avoided at all times. Pointless phrases such as "at this moment in time" when "now" will do, or "in addiction to which" as opposed to "besides" are clear signs of bad writing. Good writing is clear and free from such unwanted waffle. The use of pompous language or overlong sentence construction is another element of bad writing, and likewise should be avoided.

* Tautology

Bad habits can creep into writing unseen by the writer. The double negative, tautology and the tired cliche, are part of the weeds of writing. They should be rooted out as quickly as possible. Using double negatives in such terms as "I don't


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