Beginners at writing will find it hard to write at first. But informative tips to improve in writing will help in the transition from beginner to a full-fledged writer.
Writing is not an easy task. Even those who profess a love for writing will struggle to find the right words. It is especially difficult for beginners like myself.
Thus, every tip to improve one’s writing is beneficial. Continue reading for writing improvement tips that will help newbie writers.
What are the types of writing
But first, the basics. Let us learn just what exactly are the types of writing available out there.
By knowing these types of writing, we can have a clearer picture of how to use them. Understanding these writing methods will allow you to adapt your style to connect with your audience.
Expository writing
This type of writing is based on research and facts about a certain topic. A fine example of expository writing introduces the main idea and then expands on it with facts and supporting details. It will also provide critical information.
After presenting information, good expository writing will summarize the sources of the research. And finally, will draw a conclusion based on the facts and information presented.
Descriptive writing
This is another form of writing where the words are used to create a mental picture. It allows the reader to see an object, place, situation, or event through writing.
In addition, this writing style enhances the reader’s awareness by using descriptive words to create sensory details. When used correctly, sensory details such as sight, sound, touch, or smell allow the reader to experience the written material.
Narrative writing
Narrative writing is a form of writing where a story is told. A good story has the power to help readers see things in a different light. The wonder of a compelling story opens up the mind to a place where anything is possible.
In order to have a good story, it has to have the main character, conflict, a plot, setting, theme, and a narrative arc.
Persuasive writing
Persuasive writing attempts to persuade readers to accept an idea or opinion and take action. This form of writing intends to win the reader over to the point of view of the writer.
Examples of this type of writing include letters of recommendation. Also reviews, proposals, editorials, or advertisements.
12 writing tips for beginners
Now that we have identified the types of writing, let us then proceed to the writing tips for beginners.
Read, read, read
Yes, this is the most common writing advice that we will encounter. And with good reason, because it is by reading that we learn how to write. Through continues reading, we gain the following:
- Understanding of what the reader wants
- Know the basics of good writing styles
- Inspiration and ideas
And as Stephen King profoundly explained:
“The real importance of reading is that it creates an ease and intimacy with the process of writing… Constant reading will pull you into a place… where you can write eagerly and without self-consciousness.”
Know the basics
Even before you begin writing a single sentence, you must first understand the basics of writing. That is proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling. Certainly, there are tools available to help with the basics. But familiarity with the fundamentals of writing is still beneficial.
To borrow from Max Verstappen, a Belgian-Dutch racing driver:
Of course, you learn from certain moments, and you always get more and more experience, so maybe in the future you will do some different things, but in general, the basics always stay the same.
Knowing the basics serves as the foundation for conveying the correct message to your readers. By removing grammatical errors from your writing, you will provide clear communication to your readers.
Keep learning
If you are serious about your writing, then it is imperative that you learn constantly. Learning something new and then writing about it allows for the information to be retained in the mind.
Additional knowledge? Plus the ability to share valuable information and insights with your readers? Now that is a win-win.
Simply write
To be called a writer, you have to write. All additional learning and continuous reading will not help if you don’t actually sit down and write.
You have to believe in yourself. Know that you have something to offer and that there will always be someone who will benefit from your writing.
Certainly, F. Scott Fitzgerald is on to something when he remarked:
“You don’t write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say.”
Be concise
Understand that a kilometer of words does not equal a good writer. Writing is all about communicating and providing information, clarity, wonder, or entertainment. And this is done through the use of carefully selected words.
As Thomas Jefferson said:
“The most valuable of talents is that of never using two words when one will do.”
So choose your words wisely and get to the point. Keep your readers engaged, not bored or confused.
Practice writing and keep writing
Be aware that there is no shortcut to improving your writing skills. If you want to improve, you have to practice. This is the best advice you could ever get.
Again, to quote another great writer:
“Any man who keeps working is not a failure. He may not be a great writer, but if he applies the old-fashioned virtues of hard, constant labor, he’ll eventually make some kind of career for himself as a writer.”
— Ray Bradbury
So write regularly, daily if you must. Create a writing schedule to fit your lifestyle, however, you do it, be consistent. As in any habit formation, it is the repetition of the action that will form the habit. Then comes improvement.
Edit and proofread
Never underestimate thorough editing and proofreading. This is a vital part of the writing process and one that should not be bypassed.
Editing and proofreading require the review of your draft. You need to check proper organization, paragraph structure, and of course, content. Good editing and proofreading will definitely improve your writing effectiveness. And also, the clarity of your ideas.
Done Is Better than Perfect
While it is necessary to edit and proofread for better communication, bear in mind that “done is better than perfect.” You can never have perfect written material. Once you have completed your writing, edit, proofread, revise, then post or publish.
Be confident enough to know that even if your writing isn’t perfect, your readers will find something useful in it because it’s done and published. In contrast to an unposted or unpublished work that is waiting for perfection where your readers gain nothing.
Write short paragraphs
In keeping with being concise, you should also manage the length of your paragraphs. Short paragraphs composed of sentences supporting the same concept are easier to read and understand.
It also allows the eyes to pause and rest, in addition to making your written material more visually appealing.
Use the active voice
The active voice is the most effective way to convey your message. Again, this is for conciseness, using fewer words results in greater writing efficiency.
Additionally, the active voice creates a faster-paced narrative. Which makes writing easier and reading more enjoyable. It cleans up the sentence and helps to avoid grammatical errors.
Use a conversational tone
This is one way of saying be yourself. Write your thoughts and ideas the way you would converse with a friend or an acquaintance.
The use of a conversational tone will allow your writing to engage and get the attention of your readers. This is because your readers will feel that you are addressing them personally.
Create the best writing environment for you
A good writing environment should also be considered in order to write consistently and productively. And this writing environment will differ from one writer to the next. Some may need the company of other writers to get their creative juices flowing, while others need complete silence.
The important thing to remember here is to take note of the environment in which you can write. Experiment by trying to write, for example, in a crowded coffee shop. Then in a library. See where you are most comfortable. In doing this experiment, we may discover spaces that are better suited to the energies required to complete our writing.
Being aware of your writing productivity in a specific physical environment can undoubtedly help you improve your writing.
To summarize
In order for beginners to improve in their writing, the most important thing to do is to keep learning through the process of reading. Know the basics of writing, start writing, keep practicing and learn to be concise.
Good and thorough proofreading will also come in handy as is the use of short paragraphs. Bear in mind as well to use the active voice and employ a conversational tone.
Lastly, a conducive writing environment will obviously help with a writer’s productivity and quality of writing.
So there you have it; I hope these writing tips help you as much as they did me on my writing journey.
What are your tips for writing improvement? Please share them in the comments below.
Outside references:
5 Writing tips for beginners
6 Ways to Improve your writing skills
16 Easy Ways to Improve Your Writing Skills
8 Tips for Improving Your Writing Style
9 Writing tips for beginners
Why is it so Important for Writers to Read
