There are several writing skills that no writer can be without:
- Proper grammar, punctuation and knowledge of writing formats.
- Understanding of how to present characters, plot and conflict.
- Ability to communicate thoughts and ideas freely.
- Attention to Reader Interest.
- Ability to develop a unique writing style.
Good writing and good writers
Not all writers begin as professionals with literary or journalism degrees. This is proven by the dearth of writers of renown. Being able to formulate pictures and ideas in the minds of readership is extremely important. This requires a finely tuned ability to create an accurate representation with proper grammar, punctuation and a deft skill for refining paragraph content. All writers work from the tried and true need to answer 5 questions adequately, factually and satisfactorily for readers. These are Who, What, When, Where and Why. The construction of writing need not answer all 5 questions necessarily in that order. This is what determines presentation of writing style.
Write what you know
Most novice writers begin by writing what they know. Their experiences are guides to how well they expound upon them in writing. Writing biographies and non-fiction require absolute accuracy in presentation of facts. However, the other element in these two writing genres is stylizing the presentation of facts to make them unique and worth of the reader audiences. Non-fiction that is too predictable and doesn't represent or substantiate the facts in a style worthy of the author's writing skills and reputation may not be successful.
Get to the point
Writing has a purpose; stating that purpose needn't be so aggressive that it overwhelms readers and causes loss of interest. One essential writing skill is to write for your readers. When readership is overlooked, writing is diminished as an art and a literary work. Thus, ensuring that the point of writing is clear and easily understood is another essential writing skill.
Developing a unique writing style
Good writing always withstands the test of editing. The first line of editing should always come from the objective writer of the literary work. It's important not to assume what is written is purely personal style. Choose from among several well-known writers and study their unique writing style. Developing a unique writing style that becomes the writer's signature is not a simple matter. It may take time and in-depth study of personal writing style.
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The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL)
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