So I'm pretty sure you have read some butt-kicking stories before. Whether it is the style, the plot, the characters, or the impressive language, they're all great stories. But the question is, how do you write a great story too?
I know you've probably also read a lot of other guides as well, but hopefully mine can be a bit different and help you guys out a bit too.
1. You must read a lot. Novels, fiction, non-fiction, adventure, action, fantasy, classics, the works. If you don't open your mind to what's in the world, you'll never be able to incorporate interesting things into your writing. Read a lot. Study each author's style, the way they make words flow, and how they build the story.
2. Write a lot. Write everyday. Write about anything. Just keep writing, writing, and writing. The more you write, the more you will improve. I know from personal experience. I've been writing ever since fourth grade, and I can see the differences with the stories from before and now. Write about random things. Describe an inanimate object for a whole page. Keep a journal. Write poetry. Write happy things, depressing things, angry things. Find your voice.
3. Notice things around you. You live in a world where there are so many possibilities. Look around you and really look at things. Is there something beautiful and quirky about that tree on your front lawn that you've never noticed before? The awkward habit that your best friend has that you've never noticed? Take everything, even the smallest things, and put them into your writing.
4. Every writer must have a lexicon of their own. Don't know what that means? Look it up in the dictionary. And always keep a dictionary by you when you write. Or if you're lazy, just have dictionary.com open in another tab. Words are a writer's sword. Without them, you cannot create anything.
5. Put yourself into your story. (No, it doesn't have to be literal). Pour a little of your personality into each character, and twist it. Use the character's voice as your voice. Put yourself in his/her shoes.
6. Put some emotion behind your words. You're telling a story. What is it that captures the reader's attention? Everyone has their own unique style.
7. Finally, have patience. Don't get frustrated if the first story you write is a load of dog crap. All great writers at one point have written something that resembles something that you want to flush down the toilet. Writing takes patience. If you want to be a great writer someday, you will be. It takes time, just like everything else.
8. And don't forget the good ole important things, spelling, grammar (even though I'm not that great at it myself), proofreading, etc. And definitely think thoroughly before you decide to write.
So there it is, my guide for those who seek to become better writers. If it helped, good for you. If it didn't, then I'm sorry. I realize that a lot of these tips sound very tedious to do. But I know I've taken every single one of those steps before, and it pays off. Hopefully, you'll take my advice and start writing something great of your own too. Good luck to all!
-Randy
PS: You are your own worst critic. I'm going to let you elaborate on that yourself, but just keep it in mind.
