As we talked about a few weeks ago, it is important to feel comfortable in your writing skills before letting someone review your writing, especially an editor or agent. However, as someone who would readily confess that I don't know everything, it can be difficult to find answers you're looking for when multiple sources tell you different things. I am here to help you find sources that you can trust to help build your craft knowledge.
1. Writing-Based Websites and Magazines
There are many magazines and websites that are solely based on writing and giving writing advice. Many of the writers for these places are qualified individuals with access to many sources that have accurate information. You can trust that their word will be better than other websites or magazines that may focus on writing and other things.
A few of my favorites include:
Writer's Digest (print and online)
2. Podcasts About Writing or Grammar Tips
If you are in need of a quick answer to a writing inquiry and can't seem to find one on a website or magazine in a timely manner, you may be able to seek out a podcast specifically to answer your question. The person on the podcast may even help you learn the rule better if you are more of an auditory learner rather than a visual one. There are tons of writing podcasts out there, so if you are a fan of podcasts who is looking to sharpen your writing skills, check out a writing podcast today.
Some of my favorite writing podcasts are:
3. Writing Classes/Workshops
If you are still in school, you have two options to keep building your writing skills. One: just pay attention in your writing classes. Everyone has to take an English or language arts course, so listen to your teacher's feedback and ask them for further explanation if you are still confused. Take as many writing classes as you can to best help build skills. The second option is to ask your teacher to review something you are working on. Obviously, you may not be willing to do this unless you have a good relationship with your teacher, but who is better to give you feedback?
If you have already completed school, you could always go back to get a degree in writing, but why study more if this is something you don't expect to do full-time? There are always writing workshops that you can attend. Whether you have the privilege to live somewhere where writing workshops are given in a community center or library or in the middle of nowhere, you can find a workshop. Writing conferences are a great place to start, and there are smaller ones that don't come with astronomical attendance fees.
Here are some writing conferences to check out:
4, Writing Help Books
There are so many successful authors who have written books to help future writers hone their craft. Like all good magicians, they aren't going to reveal all their secrets, but these books are great ways to get started with building a basis for writing skills. Plus, reading can only make you a better writer.
People who are editors or publishers have also authored books with loads of helpful advice from people on the other side of the table. Though authors who are successful are great sources, editors and publishers may be even better sources because they are the ones who are the most up-to-date with the rules in every genre that they work for.
Writing help books I like:
"On Writing" by Stephen King
"The Art & Craft of Writing Christian Fiction" by Jeff Gerke (great for character development)
5. Author Blogs (Like This One) or Social Media
Blogs about writing are great ways to get advice and learn tips for your writing. Many of the people behind these blogs are typically people who have credentials in writing, whether they are writers or editors. They are great free resources you can use to hone your skills and even get answers to a problem you are having with your own writing. In recent years, social media has served as a platform for readers to connect, share content, and even offer advice. You may even come across an answer to a question you had scrolling on TikTok!
Tips.For.Writers on Instagram
Checking Credibility
Now, this blog would be pointless if I didn't tell you how to know if a source is credible. One of the best ways to know is by looking at an about or "meet the team" section of their website. If they don't have one, it's typically a bad sign. However, they may list credentials somewhere else, so be sure to check for a spot for them. If they say they have self-published a lot, be a little leerier about what they say if it opposes someone who has gone the traditional publishing. (I only say this because traditional publishing has to go through other people who are professionals in the publishing field while anyone can self-publish a book to Amazon. I have nothing against self-publishing.)
Checking the date is also an important practice that you should get into doing. The writing world is always changing. A few years ago, using every other word except for "said" was a major practice. Now, you should say "said" or nothing. So, if you are looking at two articles that say two different things, the one that was published more recently is probably the more accurate one (however, fact-check it). Especially if you are looking at an article written in 2003 and one from 2021.
The main thing to remember is that there is essentially a never-ending stream of writing advice if you are looking for somewhere to find answers to writing questions or get advice to build your craft. However, sorting through that stream should be taken with a grain of salt. Like all things in this world, anyone can post anything online or publish a book on Amazon, so some sources may be better than others. Fact-checking is an important skill to get good at, so I highly recommend looking for tips to ensure a source is credible before taking it at its word.
Until Next Time,
Ally Mac
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