How do I become a more articulate writer ?

Question

I am 17 and want to become journalists or editor..or somewhere in that general field. but my grasp on english is poor.
what techniques do you suggest to become a better writer ?
any certain books I should read?
which do you feel you can attain more from; reading or writing?

Answer 1

Practice, practice, practice.

It is also helpful to write something, put it aside, and go back some time later to see your own shortcomings and what can be improved. The hardest thing to do for most of us is see our own flaws. So we go to others for critiquing.

I'd do both reading and writing. Read the best selection of English writing. There're so many fine literary pieces to choose from. I have a love for Hawthorne, but he's a bit old for our times, I suppose.

Answer 2

I suggest that you devour as much English language literature as possible. I myself have found reading to be the best way to understand how to convey my point succinctly and in an interesting manner and this method also improves the vocabulary, as it 'teaches' you synonyms and the context to apply them in.

Writing is definitely another good way to learn to speak more proficiently with the written word. Try to get critiques from native English speakers if your grasp of the language is poor, as the grammar of a language is best understood by someone whose mind 'thinks' it naturally.

If your understanding of English is also poor, try starting off with English language television, but do aim for more British than American, as the American dialect of English uses a less correct grammar and American television features more colloquialisms than the formal wording used in British BBC programming, for example.

Answer 3

READ! Read whatever you can get your hands on. It doesn't even having to be a book about writing. I was once told you can't be a good writer unless you read.

Answer 4

Write everything you see or feel in a book. Keep it with you everywhere. Do not worry about perfection in the start. Write like you would speak. Correct its grammer later.

Answer 5

This is where i really practice and never beaten: THE LIVELY ART OF WRITING authored by Lycille Payne. My columist friend in Manila Bulletin gave it to me. Plus you must enroll in Journalism Bachelor's degree where you will learn how to write news, articles plus photo journalism. Today, competition is tight so you must be professional prepared. good luck.

Answer 6

read the classics