Becoming a better writer ? Whats the best way?

by Sarah Dyne
11th March 2014

Reading books, studying how too books, visiting websites, paying for feedback, studying, just plain hard slog writing and rewriting? What's the best way to be a better writer in your opinion?

I keep wondering if I should go on a course, can anyone recommend something suitable for a person who works full time?

Please don't say Arvon...I tried that and it wasn't for me, plus its soo expensive.

Replies

I think you have most of the answers in your question Sarah. The slog and rewriting are particularly apt. I've been writing for years. Like Damien I write mostly for pleasure and if I have a piece or a poem I think is better than average I enter it in a competition. This is good for boosting the ego and the bank balance! Keep at it, is good advice and edit, edit edit. Re-read some of the work you did a couple of years ago and give t a good polish. That brought me a prize recently.

Good luck and remember you are not alone in your struggle,

best wishes,

rosa

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Rosa
Johnson
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Rosa Johnson
11/03/2014

Congratulations Debbie-Ellen.

I hope you will be able to carry over your acquired ability to your next m/s. I haven't worked with Cornerstones but they do have a very good reputation and are very approachable.

rosa.

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Rosa
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Rosa Johnson
11/03/2014

I went to Cornerstones to have my first manuscript structually reviewed. They worked with me for several months and I met up with my editor. I can't tell you how glad I am that I contacted them. It was amazing feedback.

Cornerstones have since told me I'm ready to submit and they've offered to help.

I paid a large sum, but to be honest, I'd pay it again.

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Debbie Ellen
11/03/2014