5 Mistakes to Avoid in Your Writing
1. Poor Grammar
Proper grammar is essential to good writing. You can come up with the single greatest idea in the history of the world, but no one will take you seriously if your syntax is wrong. If you are not good at editing for grammar errors, ask anyone you know to read your work and give feedback. They will most likely notice errors or irregularities you may have never caught. Another way around this is to read your completed piece out loud. Vocalizing the text increases your focus on the written word and allows you to notice elements that just seem awkward.
2. Repetitive Punctuation
Punctuation can be a writer's best friend when used properly. Semi-colons, hyphens, periods, question marks, commas, and more are capable of enhancing your text. However, overuse of these elements can ruin perfectly good writing. Try to vary up your sentence structure with punctuation. A combination of long and short sentences is ideal; by using punctuation creatively, you can expand your ideas without violating proper syntax.
3. Lack of Variety
If every sentence reads the exact same way, writing becomes boring. Liven up your writing with synonyms, analogies, metaphors, allusions, and punctuation. You can have a great idea ruined by a lack of variety. Don't be afraid to experiment with your writing in later drafts. Imagination is your friend, and it doesn't have to be used exclusively for idea development.
4. Copycat Syndrome
Reading is a great way to expand your writing capabilities. Even experimenting with the style of famous authors can be beneficial. It is essential, however, to avoid just copying what everyone else has already done. If you write horror, I'm pleased to say we already have a Stephen King, so we don't need another one. The same applies to any major author of any kind. By copying someone else's style, you are doing your writing a great disservice. Try to develop your own voice and ideas. Your writing will only improve with the effort.
5. Tense Minds
Stress doesn't help the creative process at all. By simply taking a break every now and again to unwind, your writing will be better off. Make sure you take care of your needs before working on a serious piece. An emotional high can be all the inspiration you need, but it's probably best to tackle that subject when you have calmed down and can truly concentrate on the subject at hand.
Published by J Ronson
J Ronson View profile
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- Account for proper grammar and punctuation in your writing.
- Don't just copy what everyone else does. Use a variety of sentence style to develop your own voice.
- Relax. It's going to be ok. Don't less stress overtake the writing process.