Going from an avid reader to a writer is a bigger jump than one might think. While for some people writing comes naturally, the vast majority need to study and practice at it before really hitting their stride, like any other hobby or activity. Fortunately, there are countless resources available to help you hone your craft. Whether you're just starting or already have a few stories under your belt, it's never too late to take in lessons from others to further refine your craft. Even an expert might learn something new!
Below, we'll explore five of the best resources for writerseach offering unique insights and practical advice. From books and podcasts to online communities and expert lectures, these tools will help you improve your storytelling, refine your prose, and navigate the challenges of writing.
On Writing by Stephen King
What It Is
Published in 2000, On Writing is divided into two main sections. The first half is a memoir where King shares his journey to becoming a writer, detailing his struggles, early failures, and eventual success. The second half is a practical guide, filled with writing advice based on his decades of experience.
How It Helps Improve Your Writing
King's advice is straightforward and brutally honest. He emphasizes the importance of:
- Writing every day to build consistency and discipline.
- Reading widely and often to understand different writing styles.
- Avoiding unnecessary adverbs and passive voice.
- Being willing to "kill your darlings"-cutting parts of your work that don't serve the story, no matter how much you love them.
For aspiring writers, On Writing is both inspirational and instructional. It's a book that can reignite your passion while giving you clear, actionable steps to improve.
Brandon Sanderson's Lecture Series (Available on YouTube)
What It Is
Brandon Sanderson, the acclaimed fantasy author behind Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive, offers a full Creative Writing class for free on YouTube. This is the same class he teaches at Brigham Young University, and it's an incredible resource for writers of all levels.
- Worldbuilding and setting development
- Character arcs and motivations
- Plot structure and pacing
- Magic systems and internal logic in storytelling
- Publishing and the business side of writing
How It Helps Improve Your Writing
Sanderson breaks down complex writing concepts into easy-to-understand lessons, often using examples from popular books and movies. His lectures are engaging, practical, and highly detailed, making them a fantastic resource for both beginner and experienced writers.
The Beta Readers Groups (r/betareaders on Reddit & BetaReader Connect on Facebook)
What They Are
r/betareaders (on Reddit) and BetaReader Connect (on Facebook) are online communities where writers can find beta readers-people who will read your work and give feedback before publication.
How They Help Improve Your Writing
Beta readers offer a reader's perspective, helping you understand what works and what doesn't. They can point out:
- Plot holes and inconsistencies
- Pacing issues
- Confusing character motivations
- Dialogue that doesn't feel natural
By using these groups, you can get honest feedback before submitting to agents, self-publishing, or even sharing with a wider audience.
The Podcast Writing Excuses
What It Is
Started by Brandon Sanderson, Dan Wells, Mary Robinette Kowal, and Howard Tayler, Writing Excuses is a 15-minute weekly podcast dedicated to helping writers improve their craft.
How It Helps Improve Your Writing
Each episode focuses on a specific aspect of writing, such as:
- Creating tension in your stories
- Developing deep, multi-dimensional characters
- Writing compelling dialogue
- The differences between traditional and self-publishing
Because the podcast is so digestible and practical, it's an excellent resource for writers who want bite-sized, expert advice that they can use right away.
The Blog Story Fix
What It Is
Run by Larry Brooks, Story Fix is a blog that delves deeply into the mechanics of storytelling. Brooks is also the author of Story Engineering and Story Physics, both of which break down the structure of successful novels.
How It Helps Improve Your Writing
Story Fix provides in-depth analysis of story structure, including:
- The importance of the four-part story structure
- How to create a powerful inciting incident
- The role of conflict and tension in every scene
- How to revise a manuscript with story physics in mind
Becoming a better writer requires learning, practice, and feedback. The resources aboveOn Writing, Sanderson's lectures, beta reader groups, Writing Excuses, and Story Fix-offer guidance from some of the best minds in the industry.
But writing is a highly personal journey, and different resources resonate with different people.
What writing resources have helped you the most?
Do you have a favorite book, blog, podcast, or community that has shaped your writing? Share your thoughts with us!
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