Writing has been around for centuries, and as writers we always try to perfect our skill. That is why Saads Abrahams from media update is sharing 10 writing tips from famous authors that will change the way you write.
Whether you are a new writer or a seasoned one, you can always learn something new and grow your skill. Something I've learnt as a writer is that you are only as good as you are willing to grow.
There are about a million tips out there that can assist you in your writing journey — we've put together 10 of the best tips we could find that span across different genres and eras, which altogether prove that good writing principles are timeless.
So, keep scrolling to take a look at these nuggets of wisdom that can help both new and experienced writers refine their craft.
1. Write Every Day — Even When You Don't Feel Like It
Author: Stephen King
Quote: "Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration; the rest of us just get up and go to work."
Tip: The brilliant author Stephen King, in this quote, is emphasising consistency over perfection. You need to write a lot and often — this is the only way you can improve your skill. If you want to improve your writing skills, build writing into your daily routine, even if it's just for a few minutes.
2. Kill Your Darlings
Author: William Faulkner
Quote: "In writing, you must kill all your darlings."
Tip: As writers we can get attached to what we write — and although this might be one of the more common / cliché writing quotes, it is a great tip to have. If you want your writing to be powerful, you have to be willing to cut out the parts that you love if they don't serve the story.
Remember, to make your work impactful, you need to edit ruthlessly, as this will sharpen the story's effect.
3. Show, Don't Tell
Author: Anton Chekhov
Quote: "Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass."
Tip: When you are telling a story through your writing, you have to remember that you need to put the image in your mind directly into the mind of your readers and the feeling you want them to feel in their hearts. And you can only do this by using as many details as possible to paint that picture.
Make use of sensory details and actions to convey mood or emotion.
4. Read Voraciously
Author: William Faulkner
Quote: "Read, read, read. Read everything — trash, classics, good and bad…"
Tip: You cannot be a good writer if you are not a dedicated reader. Reading is one of the few ways in which you can improve your writing. So read as much as you can, and don't stick to one genre or style.
By exposing yourself to diverse styles, you will inevitably build your writing instincts and broaden your vocabulary.
5. Don't Overwrite
Author: Ernest Hemingway
Quote: "Don't worry. You've written before and you will write again."
Tip: As writers we've all been there — writer's block comes for all of us at some point, but it is important to keep pushing, try something new, and look at your work from a different angle. Sometimes taking a step away from your work is just what your brain needs.
Don't be discouraged when you hit a block. Take a breath, take a break and let inspiration come to you.
6. Write What You Know (Emotionally)
Author: Mark Twain
Quote: "Write what you know."
Tip: When you write about what you know, you are going to write from a place of knowledge, and you are able to add substance to your work. Use your personal experiences to add authenticity.
7. Embrace Rewriting
Author: Roald Dahl
Quote: "Good writing is essentially rewriting."
Tip: If you want your writing to be great, you need to learn to read through your work, edit it and rewrite it — this is how you will be able to create the best version of your work. The first draft is about ideas; the second (and third) is about clarity and rhythm.
8. Find Your Unique Voice
Author: Zadie Smith
Quote: "When you finish your book, put it away for a couple of months. When you pick it up again, pretend you've never seen it before."
Tip: As a writer, the more you write, the more you will grow and the more you will develop your own voice. It might take time to discover your voice, but it is what will set your writing apart.
9. Write With Courage
Author: Maya Angelou
Quote: "There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you."
Tip: To be a great writer, you need to be vulnerable. Tell stories that matter to you, even if they're difficult — these will be the pieces you are most proud of.
10. Break the Rules (When You Know Them)
Author: George Orwell
Quote: "Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous."
Tip: You need to learn the craft so you can bend it with intention, not ignorance. Writing has rules but it also gives you the freedom to share your story in your own way.
What is your favourite writing tip? Let us know in the comments section below.
*Image courtesy of Canva