Especially when you're just getting started, learning how to be a good writer seems overwhelming. Even when you're experienced, if you're honest with yourself you know there's always room for improvement (I certainly do.). But how to go about addressing our weaknesses?
ONE SKILL AT A TIME
One option is to focus on one specific skill at a time. For instance:
- how to write vivid descriptions
- how to reveal information without using blatant exposition
- how to reveal character through everyday actions
- how to add subtext to a scene
You can break these down even more. For example, check whether your descriptions include all the senses. If you are already good at describing how things look, focus on how they sound, smell, taste, or feel to the touch.
SAMPLE EXERCISES
Here are a few sample exercises to get you started:
- Write a one-paragraph description of your bedroom, referring to at least three senses. How would you vary that description if you wanted to create a sinister atmosphere or an especially light-hearted one?
- Write a brief scene that reveals that your character has a criminal past, without having them speak about it.
- Write a paragraph describing how a character opens a package in a way that reveals they are angry. Then rewrite it to suggest they are delighted.
- Write a polite conversation between two characters in a way that reveals that one of them can't wait to get away (again, without having them say it).
LITTLE SESSIONS, BIG RESULTS
Spending ten minutes a day on one of these should show results within a few weeks. Don't worry about whether you'll use any of the writing, although you may find it sparks ideas for stories or parts of longer projects.
When you feel you've made enough progress in one skill, move on to the next one. You'll be building your mastery one step at a time.
