We want to let you in on a secret.
The best writers aren’t the ones who can write the longest pieces. They aren’t the ones who choose the perfect words or the ones who produce content in minutes.
No, the most distinguished and successful writers are those who struggle. Those who are invigorated by the puzzle. Those who feel ready to tear their hair out after hours of trying to complete a single page.
These writers understand that there’s nothing to writing, really, but everything. They know that the goal is not to win, but to compete, to shape the nature of the race itself.
If you want to get better at writing articles, you don’t need to master the skill. In fact, all you need is a toolbox at your side. Let’s explore how to fill it up with the practices that will change the way you think and learn.
“Don’t tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” -Anton Chekhov
Read With Intention
The best way to add to your writing toolbox is to go shopping. Read articles and content written by others, and make an effort to pay attention as you do.
Note what features articles you like have in common. Pay an equal mind to the things that make you roll your eyes or click away.
Reading articles offers unique insight related to content writing, but pursuing other material is important, too.
Don’t shy away from books, journalistic pieces, magazines, and even the writing on the back of your favorite cereal.
Crafty and powerful words surround us. Sometimes, we just need to be reminded to open our eyes (and minds).
Take Risks
Stagnation is any writer’s worst enemy.
Language is designed to fit the society that uses it, which means it evolves with time. So should your writing.
Push yourself to do things you didn’t think you could. Even small changes, like writing a piece on a new subject or utilizing multimedia features, can revolutionize your content.
Risk-taking applies to your writing style, too. Try using punctuation that makes you second-guess yourself.
Use those new words you pick up in daily conversation. Push yourself to think outside the box.
Challenges are really just opportunities to learn. Show them they’ve met their match by rising to the occasion.
Use Your Resources
Clues about how to write a stellar article for a particular niche or client are usually scattered right under your nose. Take a look at past pieces or content that’s performing well. What do you notice? What can you take away from it?
If you’re not provided resources that help you write more efficiently, create them yourself. Create style expectations for yourself. Decide how to implement branding into your writing.
Figure out what works best for the audience you’re writing to, and don’t forget it.
Plan Ahead
Don’t make it hard to pay attention to your writing when the time comes. Create outlines ahead of time, do your research, and make sure you know what you want to say and why.
Do the mental work of organizing and planning your content so that when it’s time to write, it’s the only thing on your plate. Skipping this step shows.
Hunt for Criticism
No one loves to be criticized.
But as a writer, criticism is your lifeblood. It’s what keeps your writing alive and dynamic.
Ask for feedback, positive or not, and take it seriously.
Consult friends, family, and peers for a peek at the other side of the page.
What do your readers like? How easily do they navigate your prose? What do they learn, and what do they remember?
Become an Expert
The more you can do to educate yourself about your niche, the better.
When you become an expert, you can synthesize information in unique, engaging ways that hook readers.
Your mind can take a step back and let your voice guide the conversation.
Think of your role as a writer as one with rotating hats. The writer who can be a teacher, mentor, and narrative master will fare significantly better than the rigid writer.
Read Your Writing
Reading work from others is crucial, but it will never give you the same insight reading your own work will. Comb through your pieces with a critical eye.
Consider your writing from a reader’s perspective.
Are there mistakes or stylistic choices you make that don’t work? Is your diction repetitive and limited? Does your flow feel choppy?
There are almost always improvements to be made.
You’re the only person able to see your writing from both sides; no one is more of an authority on your skills than you are.
Practice
As cliché as it sounds, practice makes perfect. For the writer, perfection is an illusion.
Writing is meant to add to a conversation, not end it.
It’s okay if your writing still has room to grow; in fact, it’s preferable. A writer who can continuously grow and change is indispensable.
So, learn to love the process. If you don’t, it may help to take a step back and ask yourself why.
Are you applying unfair standards to yourself? Do you have a strong love for the craft? If not, how can you reinvigorate the fire that keeps you going?
Part of growing your skill is remembering why you’re doing it in the first place.
Learning to Write Better Articles: Final Thoughts
There are no secret life hacks that will make you a better writer. But there are some practical tips that you can use to steer the ship toward stronger, more effective articles.
The desire to become a better writer already sets you apart. Take comfort and confidence in your journey, and don’t forget to pack your toolbox.
At Inkless, we understand that writing is a process that can’t be rushed or overlooked. Our desire to grow and learn is as strong as our passion for delivering winning content.
That’s because we’re storytellers first and foremost. We know that each piece we craft is one step on a path toward connection, innovation, and authority.
Our services are personalized to meet your needs, and our affordable pricing plans are approachable for businesses and organizations of any size.
When you work with Inkless, you collaborate with a team that never misses a deadline and takes your goals seriously. We’re changing writing on the web one word at a time.
Start a conversation today via LinkedIn, by visiting our website, or by contacting info@inklessagency.com