We’re often too hard on ourselves when it comes to evaluating our writing. In all of us, there is the core of an inner writer. It is sometimes very hard to tap into this ability. And, as in sports or music, some of us are more gifted than others. But that doesn’t mean that you should shun the idea of improving your writing. Writing is a task that we’re all required to do at some point in our work lives.

Beverly Zibrak, Word Doc

So here are some tips on how to improve your writing. I hope they help and give you the confidence to continue honing your skills.

Master the basics. Stephen King wrote in On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, “[I have] two theses, both simple. The first is that good writing consists of mastering the fundamentals (vocabulary, grammar, the elements of style). It is possible, with lots of hard work, dedication, and timely help, to make a good writer out of a merely competent one.” In other words, we can all improve our writing. But we need to start with the fundamentals, remembering what we learned in English 101.

Good writers always review and edit what they have written.A first draft is just that. No one submits his or her first draft without editing it. Have someone else  review and edit your writing before you send it to a broader audience. Find someone who to check for typos and grammar. These people don’t have to be professionals, just have a keen eye. One of my best sources is a real estate agent who finds every error in my writing. Bad writers do not review anything. It may seem time-consuming and difficult, but in the long run editing our work is time well-spent.

Know when enough is enough. William Carlos Williams wrote: “To know when to quit when you’ve done. And not to have hangovers of other ideas sifting in unnoticed. Good writing is precisely like good dressing. Bad writing is like a badly dressed woman – improper emphasis, badly chosen colors.” In other words, say what you need to say and make your point, then exit. You will lose your audience if you ramble on.

Lastly, allow yourself to write badly. Julia Cameron wrote in The Right to Write: An Invitation and Initiation Into the Writing Life …. “Let it all in – every little detail that catches your fancy. You can sort it out later – if it needs any sorting.” Your first draft should be your longest piece of writing. When you fine tune what you have initially written, future drafts will be shorter and the ideas will hang together better.

To better writing and great success!