Advice to writers

[kengr]

I see a lot of stuff on the web where the author has a good story to tell, but it is acutely painful to read.

First bit of advice. If you want to write, you have to be moderately well read. I don't mean "great literature". Just whatever sort of fact and fiction you enjoy, as long as it is written by *professional* writers who had it edited by professional editors.

Why? Because it will expose you to programproper spelling & grammar. As well as let you absorb some hints about plotting.

You'll learn hatthat a lot of words and phrases in common (and not so common) use are *not* spelled the way you may have thought they were.

Next, find someone to proofread your stuff before you post it. Even the pros make errors. That's why copy editors and proffproofreaders exist.

Even a friend will spot words you left out, poor word choices, places where your story isn't making sense because you left out details, etc.

Your stories will be better and your readers will thank you.

(edit: corrected typos with strikeout)

Comments

[gentlemaitresse.livejournal.com]

I had to giggle at your typos in this entry. ;-)

[kengr]

That was written at "I haven't been to bed yet" in the morning rather than "I'm up way early".

And it was sparked by reading a story (rather good) that I had to fight to decode in places.

Things like the protagonist being chosen as the "valor victorian" for high school graduation...

Also, missing words and many, *many* more cases of the author going with words that sounded *somewhat* similar to the word they actually intended. Like going shopping for a new "assemble" (ensemble).

[gentlemaitresse.livejournal.com]

Oh, I understood all of that. I knew what you were getting at. I was nodding as I read it because I've seen those kinds of stories.

But at the same time I just couldn't help giggling at your typos due to the subject. :-)