10 writing tips from renowned authors
Gifted writers such as Kurt Vonnegut and Anton Chekhov worked according to certain tenets of the craft. Here are some favorites.
Here are 10 ways to improve your writing, online or otherwise:
1. Write, write, write.
“Quantity produces quality. If you only write a few things, you’re doomed.” —Ray Bradbury
You know what they say, “If you want to be a writer, write!” What applies to novels and newspaper columns also applies to the Web: The more you practice, the better you become. Keep churning out content, refining as you go, learning what works and what doesn’t. Over time, your content will improve.
2. Write with passion.
“When you do a thing, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. Stamp it with your own personality. Be active, be energetic and faithful, and you will accomplish your object.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson
If there’s one thing that separates good writers from great writers, it’s passion. When you care about what you’re saying, your audience can tell. So to write well, write with passion. Throw yourself into your writing, and keep at it.
3. Show, don’t tell.
“Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” —Anton Chekhov
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