How should I start writing??

Question

I like writing very much, and I would like to start this as a hobby, or maybe a part-time job, but I do not know how to start. I think I would like to write articles or short stories for magazines or newpapers, what should I do? Are there anyone who are already doing this?? Should I just mail my articles to their address?? Please help!

Answer 1

Pick up a copy of "The Writer's Market" (2007 or 2008) it gives you details on the types of publishers you are looking for and also how to submit to them. You may be able to find a copy at the library or possibly get it on loan if you do not have the $$ to purchase.

Writing to me is great fun and very therapeutic. You have to be very talented and persistent to get your work published however.

Answer 2

Jenny,
You sound like you're ready to make the jump into writing. Do you want to be a writer? Can you dedicate at least an hour a day to writing? Can you handle rejections from editors?Are you willing to spend months, years toiling away without reward? If you answered yes to these, then you are ready to be a writer.

There are lots of people writing so there's lots of competition. Don't send your articles out blindly, they will be tossed out.

There are several books to help you get started with writing so you'll know what to send and how to do it. The Dummy series has a good one and there's the Writer's Guide to the Market that is a huge annual directory of publications with lots of articles giving advise.

Good luck with your endeavors!!

Answer 3

As soon as you pick up the pen and start writing you will see that getting stuff written is the most difficult part of it.

1. First figure out what you want to write (short stories, novels, poetry etc, etc.)

2. Then figure out the genre

3. Then find a plot

4. Then draw an outline of the book and start writing

5. When you are finished and know it is good then try publishing. If the book is good and worth publishing it will publish itself.