W R I T I N G H A B I T S Y O U S H O U L D D E V E L O P

C R E A T E D B Y E D I TA K A Y E

• Every writer has his or her unique own writing style and has most likely developed habits that help them write more often and more creatively.

• Writing, like most talents, takes a lot of practice to perfect - and even if it’s almost perfect, there are always ways to improve.

• Though writing habits are different for each person, here are some general helpful habits you should know to improve your own writing:

• First, write every day.

• You should have a notebook or journal that you carry around with you everywhere you go - and in your spare time, write!

• You can write about anything you want, from how you’re feeling, to what the person is wearing next you on the subway - as long as you write.

• This doesn’t mean you should be constantly writing every time you have some breathing room.

• But when you get an opportunity, take it.

• Even if it’s just for five minutes each day.

• Next, is a famous saying you may have heard by William Faulkner and it applies to the editing process of writing: “Kill your darlings.”

• There will be times when you love a particular sentence or chapter of a book you’re writing, but it may not work with the overall piece you’re working on and you’ll have to cut it

• Of course, you can always save it in a different folder and use it for another work - or even use it as a base for your next work.

• Knowing your audience is another great habit to get into when you’re sitting down to write.

• Often, writers won’t even start a project unless they know who their target audience is.

• If you’re writing contemporary adult fiction, make sure your language is strong and concise.

• If you’re writing children’s books though, you will have to use a different vocabulary.

• Understanding who it is you’re writing for is vital for reaching success as a writer.

• So, before you begin writing, figure out who the audience will most likely be.

• Last, another helpful habit to develop is unplugging from social media and other various distractions that are plentiful these days.

• This means not checking your Instagram, Facebook newsfeed, or signing into Netflix for the time you’ve designated to write.

• Having distracting surroundings will likely take away from the quality and quantity of work you’re doing for that time span. If you’re writing, focus on it.

• There are too many times procrastination gets in the way of our ability to create beautiful pieces of art.