Author: jankilby

Aristotle advised those composing speeches to organize them into introduction, body and conclusion sections. He said to tell people what you will say, communicate the message and then restate what you’ve said. Writers of both non-fiction and fiction use this formula, just in different ways.

This advice is universal because it’s based on the belief that we need to prepare others to hear our story, then deliver it and provide closure. Remember that we are storytellers and readers by nature. Relationships are like bridges that connect us to people, but stories often start them.

Having a fear of writing is normal.

You might be afraid that you don’t have anything new to say. Remember that every writer brings a unique perspective. Besides, some messages need repeating.

You might believe your work isn’t the best quality. Realize that with enough effort and experience it can be better.

You might doubt that others would be interested in your subject or writing style because they are so unusual. Readers are often attracted to what is different.

Believing in yourself is essential.

 

Writing book reviews is a great way to develop your skills in non-fiction. Contact the book section editor for your local newspaper or for magazines you read to express interest in doing them. Include samples of any past publications you have. Once you receive an assignment, follow the guidelines for freelancers. Read articles on book reviewing to help you. Have an experienced writer or editor review your draft before submitting it. Keep a file of your published clips.

Write in your own voice. Use your own original language and style. Avoid cliches. You are like a beautiful rose that has its own special qualities.

Using an outline to plan your writing can greatly improve your productivity. List your ideas, and then organize them. Your writing process should then be faster.

Writing effective emails is essential in your professional life.

Start with a subject line that indicates your specific topic, purpose or question. Organize your message like a business letter with text typed flush left. Begin with a formal greeting line (Dear Mr./Ms./Dr.  ___:). Use separate introductory, body and closing paragraphs. Leave a space between each.  End with a closing line (Sincerely,). Allow three spaces below it.  On the fourth one, type your name. Below it, add your contact area code and phone numbers. Proofread your work to ensure that it’s accurate, clear, concise and complete. The tone of it should be positive and polite.

 

 

Self-Editing for Fiction Writers: How to Edit Yourself into Print is a great book by Renni Browne and Dave King. This is my favorite resource to recommend to my clients and students who write fiction.

 

If you’d like to learn how to make your creative writing manuscripts more publishable, consider taking my fall 2016 editing class. I will teach it from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Sept. 22 and 29 and Oct. 6, 2016.  This will be offered as part of the community education program of North East ISD in San Antonio, Texas.  To read a description of the class in the adult program catalog and learn how to register for it, visit https://communityed.neisd.net.

 

State your publishing goals. Identify specific strategies to reach them. List resources needed. Set deadlines. Do this regularly for the current year and each of the five upcoming ones.

Join local, state or national writing organizations. Attend their meetings, and volunteer for leadership and service roles.  Join or form a critique group. Take writing classes in community education programs or at colleges. Enter contests. Regularly submit query letters and manuscripts to editors.