There is writing advice everywhere, and while much of it is valuable, some of it can be restrictive or counterproductive. So, it is important to recognize that what works for one person may not work for another. This guide will explore five common pieces of writing advice that you should certainly feel free to ignore. These tips often come from a place of good intention but they can often hinder your creativity. Now, let's dive in and debunk these myths that could be holding you back!
Write What You Know
If there is one piece of writing advice you should ignore, it's "write what you know." This phrase may come from a good place, but it can be limiting. It's not impossible for great stories to come from exploring the unknown, using imagination, and researching new topics. This is why you shouldn't just stick to what you know. Instead, write what interests you, what challenges you, and what excites your imagination. This approach can help you grow as a writer and create more engaging and diverse stories. The primary thing to keep in mind when writing about what you don't know is to research. For tips on how to conduct effective research, click on the button below.
Hire a Professional Editor
Another piece of writing advice that you should ignore is that you have to "hire a professional editor." While professional editors do provide valuable insights and help to polish your work, they aren't the only path to improving your writing. In fact, many successful writers have honed their writing just through self-editing, feedback from friends, and participation in writing groups or workshops. Additionally, there are many resources available, such as books on writing and editing, online courses, and software tools that can help you refine your work. Ultimately, you should remember that while professional editors are beneficial, they aren't necessary.
Never Write a Prologue
Personally, I enjoy a good prologue, which is why I don't believe that you should never write a prologue. While some advice suggests avoiding prologues, they can be a really powerful tool when used effectively. A well-written prologue can set the stage for the story, introduce key background information, and create intrigue that hooks the reader. The key is to ensure that your prologue is engaging, relevant, and adds value to your story. Overall, if it serves a purpose and enhances the story, there's no reason to shy away from including one!
Write Daily
You should absolutely not feel the need to write every day. Writing is a creative process that requires inspiration and energy, which is why forcing yourself to write daily can actually lead to burnout. Plus, writing every day when you're not inspired can lead to a lack of enjoyment in the craft. This is why it is important that you give yourself breaks to recharge and gather new ideas. Remember: writing should be a fulfilling and fun activity, not a chore or an obligation. So, remember to take breaks as they can give you fresh perspectives and new insights when you return to your writing. For tips on dealing with writer's block, click on the button below.
Don't Include Adverbs
Lastly, you should ignore anyone who says that you shouldn't include adverbs in your writing. Adverbs, just like nouns and adjectives are essential in your writing. Adjectives are words that are used to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to provide additional context and nuance. Some examples of adverbs are: early, very, really, exactly, and never. Ultimately, adverbs can help convey a character's manner of speaking, enhance action scenes, and add depth to descriptions. Therefore, you shouldn't omit adverbs altogether, just make sure to use them thoughtfully and sparingly, ensuring they enhance rather than clutter your writing.
Ultimately, while the writing advice above is meant to help your work, it doesn't always achieve that. As a result, it is crucial that you trust your instincts in writing, be open to exploring different methods, and find what works best for you. Remember that you are the writer.
Comments