Writing

The verb to get is one of the most common words in English. We use it all the time when we speak, but it’s sometimes better to find alternative verbs in writing. Good writing is always about variety and finding the right words. But because this verb has so many meanings and functions, it’s easy…

For most writers, the hardest part of writing is right here. It’s the start, the beginning, the opening. It’s finding an idea, the first words, and the first sentence. All types of writing have a beginning, so it’s the same for every writer. You might be writing a book, an article, a poem, or an…

It’s often a temptation to use foreign phrases in a novel to add authenticity. If you set your story in Paris, for example, adding some dialogue in French might seem like a good idea. However, there are some traps that you can fall into that could have a negative effect on your readers. When you…

It’s a tough decision for any author to stop writing a book. You started your writing project with a lot of enthusiasm. But now it’s becoming a grind. Every writer has a file of unfinished, abandoned, or forgotten manuscripts. So don’t think you are alone when you start having doubts about your book. As in…

An oxymoron and paradox are similar literary devices because contradictory terms often appear together. While they are alike, they differ in their construction. An oxymoron usually consists of only two or possibly three words. Examples include pretty ugly, original copy, and think out loud. A paradox, on the other hand, is a sentence that often…

Good writers never write a first sentence; they carefully create and craft one with a clear objective in mind. The opening sentence in any form of writing needs to fulfill the goal of convincing a reader that what follows is worth reading. Whether you are writing a novel, an essay, an article, a blog post,…

When it comes time for serious editing, the two most popular choices are the Grammarly or Prowritingaid desktop editor. These two apps are the top choices for a writing checker and grammar corrector for most writers. There’s no doubt that if you have a premium version of either one, you know how helpful it can…

The mistakes new writers can make often occur because of not being aware of a problem. All writers, including the experienced, make mistakes, errors, and typos. But the key to good writing is knowing how to fix a problem. If you are a new writer, don’t worry. Once you understand the basics, you can improve…

The skills a writer needs can make for a long list. It includes mastering grammar, syntax, tone, and style, to name a few. New writers find the process challenging but rewarding as they discover how to use these elements to craft their own unique voices. No writer is ever truly finished, as writing is a…