Reasons to Write
By Rory C. Keel
Why do I write? Is it because throngs of fans demand it, anticipating every word of my next masterpiece? Is it because I honestly expect to make millions of dollars on a bestseller, or desire to be famous? No.
This week I will share with you reason number 3, of why I write.
Reason #3 – Writing improves your skills.
“Practice makes perfect!” I knew there had to be a reason the teacher made me write my spelling words three times each in grade school. There were a few other lessons I learned while writing words multiple times on the chalkboard, but I will spare you from my youthful indiscretions. Yes, the more a person writes the more they learn and the better they become at the craft. Even those who have a level of natural ability will continue to show improvement with every word.
Use of Tools
There are a few basic tools that you will need to help you get started.
- A Thesaurus and a Dictionary will help to insure the proper meaning and usage of words, improving your vocabulary.
- The Chicago Manual of Style, or Strunk and White Elements of Style, will aid in punctuation and sentence structure. Over time you will notice a marked improvement in your writing.
- Use Encyclopedias found online or at your local library, to research your project. It will naturally results in an increased knowledge of that subject and improve your reading comprehension.
- A computer with a word processor program, and certainly, pen and paper are still terrific to use for jotting things down.
- Find a comfortable writing place.
- Then start with an Idea and write it down.
How do I know these points are true? I’ve come along way since the first grade, A-B-C-D-E-F-G . . .
Be careful of the style guide you choose. The old Shrunk and White Elements of Style is considered out of date and should not be used. Stick with the latest addition of The Chicago Manual of Style before you submit your work to your editor. One of the hazards in my writing is that I learned the basics a long time ago. I’ve been amazed at how much punctuation and grammar has shifted in the past twenty years. Fortunately, a few refresher courses on these subjects have helped with this tremendously.