Guy's Rules for Writers

I've given this out as a handout a few times and it generally goes over pretty well. These are the rules I created for myself as a writer. They might be really useful, they might seem like total rubbish - either way, here they are. Click on the links if you're interested in my scintillating commentary, but here are the basics:

Rules for Writers

1.    In order to be a good writer, you have to write.

2.    In order to write effectively, you must have a space to work in. Find something to help you focus. I.E. Music while you write, before, write in silence, etc.

3.    In order to write accurately, you have to live a real life. Life is a toolbox. Write what you know.

4.    Read what you write. If you want to write short stories, read them, learn from the professionals, learn what you like, what you don’t like, and then use those things to create your own style.

5.    No one person can fill a world all alone. Listen to the world around you, to your friends and your family, and use their stories as much as your own. A lot of people have ideas, but very few can do anything with them.

6.    There is no such thing as writer’s block. There are phases to writing.
a.    Inspiration
b.    Plateau
c.    Momentum
d.    Completion

7.    Writing, like any creative process, is a wheel; in order for it to keep turning, you have to have both intake and outtake. When you’re out of things to say, try reading, listening to music, or watching movies. Don’t think about what you’re trying to write. Instead, let others tell you their stories. 9 times out of 10 you’re going to be inspired by someone else’s creativity. 

8.    Write everything. Start with what you’re good at, and what you really enjoy. Over time, experiment with different formats. Some ideas work better in other formats than the one you’re experienced in.

Topics: Writing , Author