Introduction
Many of you, I’m sure, have started to write.
Some of you have achieved a bit of recognition. Maybe you’ve had some short stories or poems published in a few literary magazines. Maybe you’ve self-published a book and sold a good number of copies.
Sorry, this post isn’t for you guys. This post is for those who want to write, but haven’t embarked down that path yet.
Because they don’t know where the hell to start.
Where to Begin
KISS. It’s an acronym a future writer would do well to heed.
And no, you don’t need to become a knight in Satan’s service.
Keep it simple, stupid.
What does that mean? Here are a few examples of rookie mistakes that you’ll want to avoid.
Don’t Write That Novel…Yet
Have you tried to write a novel? Did you get a few thousand words in and then not know where to go from there. Frustrating, isn’t it?
If you’re just getting into writing, don’t attempt something as monumental as a novel.
Especially if you don’t have an idea that makes you want to practically burst with excitement.
Instead, start with short stories. Master the narrative arc. Get familiar with setting, dialogue, internal monologue, and character development.
So yeah, that epic 150,000 word novel. You may want to put that on hold.
Unlimited Freedom Isn’t Always A Good Thing
You can literally write about anything. That’s great, right?
Wrong.
Beginners often find that they can’t think of a compelling idea. That’s where writing prompts come in.
If you’re a beginner, writing prompts can be a nice tool to help focus, allowing you to focus on writing, not on generating ideas.
The New York Times produced a list of 500 writing prompts. To read it, click here.
Setting Goals
Realize that you’re not going to become an overnight sensation. At least not in the course of your first night writing.
When you’re just starting out on your writing career, you may find it helpful to set little goals for yourself. Once you achieve your goals, you’ll find that your confidence increases. Your increased confidence will spur you on to write more and write better.
Here are a few goals you may want to consider targeting:
1. Writing 1000 words per day for a month.
2. Completing three short stories.
3. Crafting three works of creative nonfiction.
4. Submitting your writing to ten literary magazines.
5. Achieving your first acceptance in a literary magazine.
6. Learning how to use Duotrope to find literary magazines that publish writing similar in style and content to your own writing.
7. Receiving your first sincere compliment (close friends, romantic partners, and family don’t count).
Conclusion
If you’re new to writing, there are four main things that you want to do:
1. Keep it simple, stupid.
2. Start with short stories.
3. Utilize writing prompts.
4. Set appropriate goals.
How About You?
For the more established writers who read this post anyway, what methods did you use when you started writing? Did you find them helpful, or were they more of a cautionary tale? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The Literary Game 