2nd Installment: Writing Tips

Ok, they say write what you know. Yeah, it's easy to write a book about something you know inside and out, front and back but as a writer, challanging yourself is a good way to keep your mind alert which again, keeps it healthy. So if you don't write what you know, how to write about it? Easy, you do a lot of research.

Find something you would be interested in and always wanted to try but never thought you could or never had the time before. Read books about it. Actually try it. Let's say its bungee jumping (this is just an example lol).

Start off slow and get your hands on as many books as you can. Familiarize yourself with the terms and equipment. Then go watch people do their jump. Once you know the process, actually go have your own jump. Now you're writing about something you know.

If it isn't something that simple, like something that's fictional, then use your imagination. That's why you have one lol. And if that still isn't it, talk to people who have experienced it for themselves. Read more books. Watch it on TV. Whatever it takes to learn what it is, do it. If it's possible, that is.

As a writer, always try new things, even if you don't plan on writing it someday. You never know when you will have a character that needs to know it. The human brain can absorb a whole lot of information so fill it up. Become an expert in as many fields as you can by reading a lot of books on different subjects. Grow a passion for learning new things. Include the family and friends in new adventures which can make it more fun. And remember, you don't have to go to school to become an expert. Reading books, talking to people, experiencing it for yourself can give you the same knowledge as schools for a whole lot cheaper and in your own time. You're not learning to become a professional at it, you're learning to better educate yourself for your writing. You don't need a diploma for that (in that field, that is lol). Don't quit school though.

If you want a certificate that says you know what you know and have the time and funds for it, by all means go for it. By taking that route, you gain more power over your career giving you more options to make a financial future to add to your writing.

So write what you know and learn what you don't know so you open the door to more writing! Learn, write, grow!

Amber Rigby Grosjean
http://www.argrosjean.com
http://writingforall.com