You don’t have to click far on the internet to search for writing tips. From editing advice to tips on prose and even advice on what to eat to make you a better writer, the digital world is not short of direction on how to make you a better writer. However, there are a few tips that often go overlooked in the sea of “Just write!” suggestions.
Being a Good Writer is More than Being Good at Writing
Many people who dedicate their time and energy to the craft of writing are generally good writers, meaning they know how to compose a sentence, how to check for typos, and how to make the written message make sense. Being a good writer is more than knowing how to properly utilize the rules of writing.
First, good writers are good observers. They know how to look at a situation, analyze it, and research it to find the gems they need to create an effective piece of writing.
Good writers are able to connect with people through words. They are able to understand human emotion, problems, and experiences and translate them onto the page. This is the heart of writing. This core is clothed in details that every person may not necessarily be able to connect with, but they can resonate with the essence of the message.
For instance, if you write about what it’s like to be financially rich, many people may not be able to relate. However, if you write about the pain of a heartbreak, it won’t matter if the reader is rich or poor. Heartbreak is a universal feeling that most can empathize with, despite external circumstances. Writers know how to find that connectable truth and bring it to life on a page.
Additionally, good writers are disciplined. Like most talents, writing regularly only makes you better. Good writers work on their craft consistently. This can include reading, researching, finding inspiration, and even resting.
Break a Few Rules
Many of us spend years in school learning how to write, including what punctuation to use, how to spell, how to construct a sentence, and how to formulate a paragraph. We heard, “Do not start a sentence with a conjunction. Do not end a sentence with a preposition.” But these are not always absolute. To get their point across, some of the greatest writers have broken a few of these rules.
Sentence structure and grammar help to provide clarity and understanding to any piece of writing. Good writers know the rules of writing. Great writers know when it is a good time to break those rules. While following the rules is generally a good thing, never breaking out of that mold can make writing feel lifeless. Here are some ideas on how to break a few rules:
- Use contractions. In professional settings, it is sometimes discouraged to use contractions. Unless you have been explicitly asked not to, try using contractions to break up how your sentences are structured.
- Use short sentences to emphasize a point. You can break up longer sentences and paragraphs to draw attention to an idea. Additionally, having a mixture of short and long sentences provides a better experience for the reader.
- Ask questions. You can even ask rhetorical questions. This subconsciously causes your reader to pause, even briefly, to think about what you are saying, leaving them more engaged.
- End a sentence with a preposition. While not ending a sentence with a preposition used to be a well-known rule of writing, it is not as enforced today. If it’s more natural to end a sentence with a preposition, feel free to.
The key to doing this is in your intention. If you are breaking rules for the sake of writer’s rebellion, it may not land well. Breaking rules to make an impact or to emphasize a point gives your writing personality, allows it to breathe, gives more room for your authentic voice, and ultimately better serves your audience.
Take (Mindful) Breaks
As mentioned before, you’ll find lots of tips, noting that the key to better writing is to write more. There is no question that while honing your craft is crucial, taking a break can also lead to success.
There may be a cultural pressure to produce every day, but good writing isn’t just about mindlessly putting words on a page. Many times, the best writing happens when you are thinking clearly. Sometimes you need to step away from the screen or notebook to do so.
It may feel like taking breaks indicates you are lazy or unserious. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Taking a break gives your mind time to process thoughts, reset, and solve problems. When you take a break, your brain can begin to mentally sort things that may have been entangled while you were trying to write. When you return to the page, the problem can seem easier, and you may find yourself back in the flow.
Remember, though, not all breaks are created equally. Make sure your breaks are mindful and intentional. Using break time to doom scroll through social media, binge-watch unrelated shows, or make yourself busy doing something else is not really resting at all.
Instead, try visiting social media pages that motivate you, watch shows that inspire you, or simply go outside and take a walk. Breathe in some fresh air. Be still and take a break from overstimulation. These small resets are not only helpful for your brain, but they can help calm your nerves, bringing you to a more relaxed state.
Whether you’re building a brand, refining your message, or simply trying to write more effectively, knowing when to break the rules, when to take a break, and what abilities to apply outside of the written word are all essential components of great writing. And don’t forget to practice!Not all of us have the time or talent needed for great messaging. If you want to take your business content further with strategy and creativity, contact Better Content Matters today. We can help.
Further Reading:
https://bettercontentmatters.com/the-pen-as-a-pathway-writing-to-alleviate-your-anxiety/
https://bettercontentmatters.com/small-changes-big-results-three-simple-strategies-to-elevate-your-writing/
https://bettercontentmatters.com/writers-block-hurts-seo-more-than-you-think/
