Essential tips that have changed the way I write...

With creativity, comes the rules of communication – and if you don't adhere at least some of these rules, you'll never be able to tell anyone a story, no matter how big your imagination is. Whether you are a new writer or someone with several works (or several hundred) under your belt, honing your craft is crucial for success.

Understanding the intricacies of effective writing can often make the difference between a piece of work that gathers dust and one that is eagerly read – and one that becomes someone's 'favourite' read. Below I have detailed some things I have learnt that have helped me improve my knowledge and skills are a writer.

1. Read Omnivorously, and often.

Reading is not just a pastime; it is a crucial component of becoming a better writer. Exposing yourself to different styles, genres, and perspectives can richly inform your writing. But don't – whatever you do – force yourself to read something you just hate with a passion. This will get you nowhere. Read what you would want to write; write what you would want to read.

Try to vary your approach, reading from different genres (including fiction and non-fiction) as well as poetry. All the time we should be paying close attention to what makes all these works of art different; what makes you keep reading; and – at times – what makes you put the book down... Though I don't constantly make notes while I'm reading, nor do I annotate my books, but it's a good idea to reflect on what you've exploring after you've finished something, reflecting on key elements like plot, characterisation and dialogue. I think everyone goes through a stage of mimicking – but this is all healthy, as long as you experiment and open your mind to new ideas and approaches.

2. Establish a Writing Routine

Perhaps what makes some people 'successful' writers, is the fact that they often have a writing schedule in place that allows them to write consistently. It's a good idea to find a time of day when you feel most creative (and productive), and do some writing in a place which is (mostly) free of distractions. I say 'mostly' because essentially everything around is stimulus for a story and further creative thinking.

Some people also like to set timers and use apps to help with their routine. Either way, any habits when it comes to writing, are good ones. And why not try a 'writer's hour' – this is something I have been doing with my fellow writers on a Tuesday afternoon, and it has proved most productive, limiting procrastination in particular – every writer's table-side demon.

3. Listen

Improvement in writing no doubt comes from thoughtful reflection, but also feedback from other people. Open your ears! Sharing your work with others may seem scary, but it's actually a very freeing experience, especially when we consider just how solitary writing is as both a hobby and profession. Workshops and courses are equally beneficial.

4. Discover and develop your voice

A unique voice will set any writer apart in a crowded marketplace. Try to experiment with different writing styles and techniques you haven't tried before, and make notes as you do so, detailing what worked well and what needs more time and attention. Remember to write passionately – write about things that interest you; things you love. Readers can always tell how enthusiastic a writer is about their work from their voice.

Some other top tips:

• Never stop learning – to stop learning is to close your mind to new skills

• Stay updated on publishing news and try to read a mixture of new releases, older work, and classics

• If you don't want to commit to a course, explore webinars or attend literary festivals and book talks by published authors

• Celebrate writing milestones with small victories, whether that's finishing a chapter or completing a novel, it's important to acknowledge your own achievements, no matter the size!

Final Thoughts

Writing is not a race. Each word you write brings you closer to your goals as an author. By applying these essential tips and embracing the process, you’ll improve your craft significantly. Stay tuned for more posts about writing advice soon!

Happy Writing!