Writing about writing improves writing!

Letting your imagination flow.... Then wording it into a picture you want your reader to see.... That is all it is!

Here are some of the tips that my teachers and family members taught me.

1. Plan: Write out the 'introduction', 'body' and 'conclusion' of the article or story you are about to start writing. Develop a framework and write down random ideas you want to include in your work.
Get your facts right!
2. Start with a big bang: The opening line can either get or lose the reader, so dramatize the starting moments. If it is a story you can start with a car crash or waking up from a very bad dream. If it is a report you can start with a very uncommon or intriguing fact. Did you know that

3. Use the five the senses in your writing: Use sound, touch and smell when describing things. Example: As he entered the hospital room, the scent of freshly cut flowers filled the air…..

4. Painting a picture with words: This is sort of related to the previous point. Using colors to describe things. For example instead of saying “the gate was slightly open” you could say “the rusty old gate was slightly open” or “the shiny, glamorous furniture shouted out at him” instead of just saying  “the lavishly furnished home”

5. Watch your Punctuation, Spelling and grammar. I guess this goes without saying. Have someone else proofread your work. With all the sophisticated tools available, this task has become much easier. 

6. Build characters - You want to give your character life. You will find a way to include their hobbies, their professions and their life style without direct give always. Example: His overalls were stained with paint. Gives the implication that he might be a painter.

7.  End with a big bang: Just like the start, the end should be a great moment. It is often useful to think of the ending even before you start. That way you can have a well rounded plot and a sense of direction

8.  Develop a sense of style. This is very difficult to explain. Different writers have different styles. Over the year I have developed my writing style to be emotional and involving. I try to tie up the readers to experiences that they can relate to.

9. Finally - just keep it simple! Especially if you are starting off, you don't have to use elaborate sentences and extended vocabulary. Try to write out a rough draft that you can add more color to later. Write out simple stories or reports and have some friends who are good writers to review it. Their honest constructive feedback will help you more than compliments. I am always happy to do this for you!
10. Read your work, edit and fine tune!