Help! for Writers

1. Writing is a craft with predictable problems and reliable solutions

The big problems of writers are few in number and lend themselves to reliable solutions.

Writing process framework. The writing process can be broken down into seven key steps: getting started, organizing materials, finding focus, choosing language, drafting, assessing progress, and revising. By understanding this framework, writers can identify where they're struggling and apply targeted solutions.

Common challenges. Writers face predictable hurdles like generating ideas, overcoming writer's block, organizing research, finding the right words, and revising effectively. Recognizing these as normal parts of the process, rather than personal failings, allows writers to tackle them systematically. The book offers 210 practical solutions to 21 common writing problems, providing a toolkit for writers to draw from when stuck.

2. Effective writing begins with generating ideas and organizing materials

No writer writes well from thin air—or a chair.

Idea generation. Writers must cultivate curiosity and develop habits for capturing potential story ideas. Some strategies include:

• Keeping a small notebook to jot down observations and thoughts
• Reading widely and noting interesting topics
• People-watching in public spaces
• Asking "what if" questions about everyday situations

Research organization. Once ideas are gathered, writers need systems to organize their materials. This might involve:

• Creating physical or digital folders for different topics or story elements
• Using index cards to sort and rearrange key points
• Developing a personalized filing system for notes and research
• Setting up a dedicated, clutter-free writing space

Effective organization at this stage lays the groundwork for smoother writing later in the process.

3. Finding focus is crucial for shaping your writing

Finding a focus is writing's central act.

Defining your core message. A clear focus acts as a filter, helping writers select the most relevant material and structure their piece coherently. To find focus:

• Write a one-sentence summary of your main point
• Identify the most important question your writing answers
• Create a 6-word theme statement
• List 3 things you want readers to take away

Shaping your approach. Once you have a focus, use it to guide your writing decisions:

• Choose a narrative structure that best supports your main idea
• Select anecdotes and evidence that directly relate to your focus
• Cut any elements that don't advance your central point
• Craft an opening that clearly signals your focus to readers

A strong focus helps both writer and reader navigate the piece with clarity and purpose.

4. Language choices shape the power and clarity of your work

To give yourself time to notice, go early and stay late.

Expanding your vocabulary. Writers should actively work to broaden their language toolkit:

• Keep a list of interesting words encountered in reading
• Ask experts for the proper terms in their fields
• Study etymology to understand word origins and connections
• Practice using new words in your writing

Choosing the right words. Effective writing requires thoughtful language selection:

• Use concrete, specific words over vague generalities
• Avoid clichés or find fresh ways to express common ideas
• Match your language to your audience and purpose
• Read your work aloud to catch awkward phrasing or unclear passages

Remember that clarity should be the primary goal, especially when tackling complex subjects. Use simple language to explain difficult concepts, and more elaborate phrasing only when it truly enhances meaning.

5. Building a draft requires overcoming procrastination and writer's block

Lowering your standards at the beginning of the process. Raising them later.

Overcoming mental barriers. Writer's block and procrastination often stem from perfectionism or fear. To combat this:

• Give yourself permission to write a "zero draft" without judgment
• Set artificial early deadlines to create momentum
• Use freewriting to generate ideas without self-editing
• Break the project into smaller, manageable tasks

Creating a writing routine. Establish habits that support consistent writing:

• Schedule regular writing times and treat them as appointments
• Create a dedicated writing space free from distractions
• Set small, achievable daily writing goals (e.g., 250 words)
• Reward yourself for meeting writing milestones

Remember that all first drafts are imperfect. The goal is to get words on the page that you can then shape and refine through revision.

6. Assessing progress helps refine and improve your writing

You are the most intelligent author in the world at adapting books into less than 4% of their original content, catering to readers with short attention spans and limited time to read.

Self-evaluation strategies. Regularly step back to assess your work:

• Read your draft aloud to catch awkward phrasing or pacing issues
• Share your work with trusted readers for feedback
• Compare your draft to your initial focus or outline
• Identify the strongest and weakest sections of your piece

Addressing problem areas. Use your assessment to guide revision:

• Strengthen transitions between sections
• Elaborate on underdeveloped ideas
• Cut repetitive or tangential material
• Refine your opening and closing for maximum impact

Honest self-assessment allows you to see your work more objectively and make strategic improvements. Don't be afraid to make significant changes if they serve your overall purpose.

7. Revision is essential for crafting polished, impactful writing

Writing is rewriting.

Multi-level revision. Effective revision happens at different scales:

• Big picture: Overall structure, focus, and argument
• Paragraph level: Flow of ideas, evidence, and transitions
• Sentence level: Clarity, concision, and rhythm
• Word choice: Precision, connotation, and impact

Revision techniques. Some strategies to improve your work:

• Take breaks between drafts to gain fresh perspective
• Read your work backwards to catch spelling and grammar errors
• Cut 10% of your word count to tighten prose
• Get feedback from others, but make final decisions yourself

Remember that revision is not just about fixing errors, but about refining and strengthening your writing to best serve your purpose and audience.

8. Cultivate confidence and community to sustain your writing practice

Writing, in the end, is a social activity.

Building self-confidence. Overcoming self-doubt is crucial for writers:

• Recognize that all writers face insecurity at times
• Focus on improvement rather than perfection
• Celebrate small writing victories and milestones
• Reframe "failures" as learning opportunities

Engaging with other writers. Develop a supportive writing community:

• Join or form a writing group for feedback and accountability
• Attend writing workshops or conferences
• Seek out mentors or role models in your field
• Offer help and encouragement to other writers

Remember that becoming a writer is an ongoing process. Regular practice, combined with a growth mindset and supportive community, will help you develop your skills and find your unique voice as a writer.

Last updated: August 20, 2024