by Jennifer Gibbs

Created on: September 30, 2010   Last Updated: September 12, 2011

No matter what type of writing you do - writing for fun, writing professionally or writing as part of your educational pursuits - most people set out taking writing seriously. Most aspiring writers set out to learn the tools and tricks of the trade, only to be overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the information they find. For this reason, the most successful strategies for getting ahead in your writing also happens to be an incredibly simple series of steps that anyone can take, any time, regardless of the circumstances.  The following “Top 6 R’s of Writing” are yet another resource geared towards helping you succeed in every assignment you’ll encounter along the way…

R = READ! As a writer, one of the greatest ways to strengthen your own skills is to gather inspiration through osmosis. By reading great writers and making it a point to do so often, you’ll begin to “absorb” great techniques and a real ear for what works well in both fiction and non-fiction writing.

R = REVISE! Never accept your first draft as a final draft… This should go without saying, but the longer you’ve been writing (or the shorter the deadline you’re up against), the more likely you are to be tempted to turn something in (whether to a client, an editor, a publisher, etc.) after only one writing session. Don’t make this mistake. Just remember the rule of Good, Better & Best. Never settle for good when you can go for better. Never think that better is enough when it could be your best!

R = RESEARCH! Whether you major in fact or fiction, research is one of those important, behind-the-scenes actions that really pays off when your audience goes through your manuscript. In the world of fiction, investing time in research can lend a level of authenticity to your writing that you might otherwise overlook. In the world of non-fiction, professional-grade research isn’t an elective – it’s absolutely mandatory.

R = RESPECT! Respect the voices of your proofreaders, editors and other critics – especially if they’re professionals. It’s always better to get a “bad” review before you send something off to an editor or publishing house – when you still have a chance to fix things. Don’t get your panties in a wad over criticism, but instead make it a point to put feedback to work to make your next draft even more successful!

R = RESOLUTE! Always remain determined to stick to your guns, never giving up. As Billy Crystal’s character in “Throw Mamma From the Train” said: “A writer writes, always!” Make it a point to get habitual about your writing, no matter if you’re receiving rave reviews or ranting criticism.

R = REJECTION! Basically, get used to it. Embrace it, even. All of the greatest writers, Stephen King, Dr. Seuss – whoever, was once turned down by a major publishing house, only to later make them all want to eat their words. Press forward and know that if you give it your all, you can retaliate later with a best seller or two of your own!

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