Apart from cold journalism and forms of business writing, a whole universe resides of creative writing. You might have entered it recently or a writer aiming to experiment, these skills can grant you success.
Creative writing encompasses a variety of styles and genres falling outside the category of academic or technical writing. It focuses upon aspects like character development, plot, and narrative. The structure of this form of writing is infused with imagination and diversity. Our team of professional writers at 7dollaressay recommends eight super effective tips to help any creative writer.
1. Never stop reading
The more you read the better chances are of improving your writing skills. It can be almost impossible to indulge in creative writing if you do have any references in mind. There are incredible examples of creative works penned by notable authors which can benefit you greatly. Reading other people’s writing can help you identify which genre would you be interested in. You also experience the different techniques and styles which are used to make a work distinctive.
2. Hold on to ideas
Never dismiss the ideas which randomly come to you now and then. Even not so promising ideas can help you reach brilliant ones. You should never underestimate the power of brainstorming. The smallest of things can trigger ideas for an inspirational piece of work. Keep a notepad close at hand at all times. Or jot your ideas down in the notes app on your phone. The information can help you out at the most unexpected of times.
3. Form a point of view
Fictional writing always has some message or lesson to share in the story. A narrative that has no driving force behind it feels incomplete and flat. The readers will fail to understand the point behind the plot weaving. Therefore, acquiring a voice is one of the most vital creative writing tips. It makes your work appealing and relatable to the audience. If you manage to connect with them through your story, it will leave a lasting impression on their minds.
4. Use of literary devices
Literary devices are those elements of writing which help create vivid imagery throughout your work. This is an integral part of skillful writing. Figures of speech like similes and metaphors create powerful scenes which effectively convey your message. The reader would be able to experience the events happening in your work through the rhythm and sounds it creates. Consonance, alliteration, assonance are the devices which can help you with that.
5. Understand your readers
Knowing your audience next on our list of writing tips for students. Think beforehand who exactly you are writing for. Is it for other creative writing students like yourself? Or for the young adult generation? There is not any piece of work that is directed to every demographic. Knowing who your readers will help you set the tone for your writing. In turn the piece will be more attractive and resonant for the targeted readers.
6. Start to write
This might seem obvious, but it is fundamental for beginners to remember. There is right time to start except now. You might feel intimidated and like your work is not good enough. But give your imagination free rein and let it lead you to places never explored before. Once you lose the hesitation you can work on improving your skills through time and effort. Writing exercises and prompts are great sources to help with that.
7. Do not be afraid of rewriting
It is unwise and unrealistic to expect that you will get everything perfect in the first draft you write. You need to keep returning and going through it to polish and refine it. Do not hesitate to strip away the parts which are unsatisfactory. Eliminate any element which does not seem fitting for the plot after writing down.
There is no limit to the reviews you can do in order to make your writing flawless. Sometimes you might even want to start over from scratch. This is all part of the process of creative writing which you must be prepared for.
At times like this there is no need to lose heart and give up entirely. Keep in mind the geniuses of literary world have all felt like that at one point or another. The key is to accept your shortcomings and then overcome them. Remind yourself that it does take a lot of time to tell a story and build a whole new world. Only through reviewing will you end with a piece that leaves the impact you desire.
8. Take a writing workshop
Writing classes not only provide you with useful knowledge but also introduce beginners to a community of writers. They can assist you when you are stuck at a place and offer constructive feedback and criticism.
You can gather an outside perspective on your writing style, plot, characters, setting, and diction. This is valuable as you can get an idea beforehand of how the readers will receive it after publishing. As a result, you can work on the weaker points to hone them till perfection.
Creative writing workshops can even be helpful for experienced authors who are having a writer’s block. You can find inspirations and recommendations to get back on track when surrounded by a likeminded community.
Final thoughts
We are certain that our tips for creative writing can help you on the path of becoming a writer. As an aspiring author you must form a voice and style that is identifiable as yours. Once you have a strong idea to work on this can be easier to achieve.
Think about the experiences you have had personally and imbue your characters with those emotions. Readers will be more drawn to the storyline and your characters if they are crafted from the heart. Make it believable even if it is fantasy by finding the perfect words to explain the setting. You can truly touch the reader’s hearts with the right tone and force behind your story.
