Writing may be an art, but getting published depends on mastering the craft of writing. An author wishing to get into print should master the tools of the writing trade.
Anybody who has ever had a desire to write something, whether it is a poem, short story, essay, novel or whatever has a longing, however secret to see that piece of writing published – to see that name in print. It is that desire and nothing else that ensures the writer sticks with it and there are some very useful tips and ideas to paving the way to success.
Writing Tips
- Create writing space. Great masterpieces have been penned in attics, on the back of table napkins, in trains, in garden sheds and even at the kitchen table late at night when the house is quiet. But nowadays, and even bearing in mind that laptops are getting smaller and lighter, there is still a need to settle down someplace and actually start writing and this is best done in a comfortable space. This space is for the writer only and it can be the garden shed as long as it is the writer’s place of work.
- Make time for writing. Finding time to write is a constant problem for the beginner and keeping a full-time job, rearing children, mowing the lawn can all crowd in on that precious elusive entity – the time for writing. But the serious writer will find a way and time management should be studied. If needs be, the writer should reduce the time spent watching television, spend less time in bed, mow the lawn faster, whatever it takes just do it. Make the time.
- Use writing tools. Masterpieces can still be written by using a pencil and a jotter but it will prove very useful to invest in a computer, desktop or laptop, the choice is endless. Most computers now have fax software installed and most printers can now double or treble as a printer, copier or scanner. All these are very useful for preparing and submitting work to prospective editors.
- Use Access to Writing Information. Email and Internet services are now essential tools for research and submissions so invest time in learning how to maximize their capabilities. Digital cameras are useful for photojournalism and photos can be attached to emails so make full use of all the new technological devices and software. If necessary, budding writers should consider writing courses and computer lessons. This education may make all the difference between “slush pile hopeful and bestselling author”.
- Know the writing Market: It may seem obvious but many writers forget or neglect to do market research. A writer should chose an outlet for possible acceptance and research it - bearing in mind the style, format, content and editorial guidelines before submitting any material. Unsuitable work submitted will not impress the editor and subsequent offerings may not get a look in at all.
- Be aware of Publishing Guidelines. A serious writer will always have an up to-date file with relevant submission guidelines. Editorial departments of magazines and journals have specific guidelines ready for the asking – so ask. Once the guidelines are received follow them to the letter, word count, spacing, style, taboo subjects, submission procedures – hard copy or email or both, multiple submissions. In short, whatever the editor asks for, supply it.
- Writing Submissions: Once the guidelines have been adhered to, present the finished piece of writing in a professional manner. Pages should be crisp, clean and neat. Spelling, punctuation and syntax should be faultless. Never submit a piece already rejected by another publisher until it has been checked thoroughly and reprinted on new crisp paper.
Writing can be a pleasurable experience for most people, but by learning the trade craft of writing and mastering the basic principles of research and submission guidelines, writing can also be financially rewarding.
The copyright of the article Helpful Hints for Writing Success in Freelance Writing is owned by Laurence O'Sullivan. Permission to republish Helpful Hints for Writing Success in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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