Writing Tips & Resources

Creating a consistent writing routine is crucial for productivity. You can set aside dedicated time each day, even if it's just 15 minutes, to focus solely on writing. Over time, this routine will become a habit, making it easier to produce content regularly.

• Daily Writing Habit: Consider early morning or late evening as prime times to write without distractions. Use a timer to ensure you stay focused during your writing sessions.

• Freewriting: This technique involves writing continuously without worrying about grammar or structure. It’s an excellent way to overcome writer's block and generate new ideas. Start with a prompt or a single word and let your thoughts flow onto the page.

Reading is a fundamental part of becoming a better writer. By exposing yourself to different genres and styles, you can learn new techniques and broaden your understanding of storytelling.

• Recommended Books for Writers:

  • On Writing by Stephen King: This part-memoir, part-writing guide offers invaluable advice from one of the most successful authors in the world. King’s insights into the craft of writing are both practical and inspiring.

  • Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott: Lamott’s book is known for its humor and down-to-earth advice on the writing process. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to develop a sustainable writing practice.

  • The Elements of Style by Strunk and White: This classic guide is essential for mastering the fundamentals of writing, from grammar to clarity.

In the digital age, various apps and tools can streamline the writing process and help you produce polished, professional content.

• Scrivener: This powerful writing software is designed for long-form projects such as novels and screenplays. It allows you to organize your research, outline your story, and write in sections, making it easier to manage complex projects.

• Grammarly: Grammarly is an indispensable tool for checking grammar, spelling, and style. It offers real-time suggestions that can help improve the clarity and readability of your writing.

• Hemingway App: This app analyzes your text for readability, highlighting complex sentences and passive voice. It’s particularly useful for tightening up your prose and ensuring your writing is accessible to a wide audience.

Connecting with other writers can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Writing communities are also excellent for networking and discovering new opportunities.

• Veterans Writing Group (VWG): As a veteran, engaging with VWG allows you to connect with others who share your experiences and passion for writing. The group offers workshops, critique sessions, and a supportive environment to help you improve your craft.

• Online Writing Forums: Platforms like Reddit’s r/writing and Absolute Write are great places to ask questions, share your work, and learn from other writers. These communities are filled with writers of all levels, offering a wealth of knowledge and support.

Mastering certain writing techniques can elevate your storytelling and make your work more engaging.

• Show, Don’t Tell: This classic piece of advice encourages writers to convey emotions and actions through descriptive language and dialogue rather than simply stating facts. For example, instead of saying “John was angry,” you might write, “John’s face turned red as he clenched his fists.”

• Character Development: Well-developed characters are crucial to any story. Create detailed character profiles that include backstory, personality traits, and motivations. This will help ensure that your characters are believable and relatable.

• Plot Structure: Understanding different plot structures can help you organize your story effectively. The Hero’s Journey and the Three-Act Structure are two popular frameworks that can guide your narrative.

Once you’ve written and revised your work, it’s time to share it with the world. Submitting to literary journals, entering contests, and self-publishing are all viable options.

• Start Small: Begin by submitting short stories or poems to literary journals. This experience will help you learn about the submission process and improve your writing through feedback from editors.

• Writing Contests: Participating in writing contests, especially those tailored for veterans, can provide recognition, motivation, and sometimes monetary rewards. Winning or placing in a contest can also boost your credibility as a writer.

Writing is a craft that can always be improved. By continuing to learn and refine your skills, you can become a more effective storyteller.

• Workshops and Webinars: Writing workshops and webinars, many of which are available online, offer opportunities to learn from experienced authors and connect with other writers. These events often focus on specific aspects of writing, such as character development or self-publishing.

• Writing Podcasts: Listening to podcasts like The Creative Penn and Writing Excuses can provide ongoing inspiration and education. These podcasts cover a wide range of topics, from the business of writing to the creative process.

Beyond books and apps, there are other resources that can help you grow as a writer.

• The Writer’s Toolbox by Jamie Cat Callan: This book offers a variety of creative exercises designed to spark ideas and overcome writer’s block. It’s a fun and interactive way to explore new story ideas and improve your writing skills.

• Purdue OWL: The Purdue Online Writing Lab is a free resource offering extensive guides on grammar, style, and research. Whether you need help with citations or understanding complex grammatical rules, Purdue OWL has you covered.