Writer’s Workshop: Weaknesses

27 August 2010 | Filed Under Writer's Workshop 

I know we like to head off criticism and talk about our strengths as writers, and that’s important, but we also need to acknowledge our weaknesses. If we don’t, how are we supposed to improve?

First, discover what exactly your weaknesses are. If you have no idea, ask another writer to look over some of your work and see if they can spot them.

Second, figure out how to improve. Read blogs or books, talk with other writers, etc. Do what you have to so you know where to start.

Third, practice. I find it works best to go by scene or chapter, and focus on improving one weakness at a time.

For me, it’s description. So every time I have to describe a character or location, I slow down and make sure to write in a way that will help the reader see what I’m envisioning.

How do you deal with your weaknesses?

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    Hi, I'm Jenn, new grad student and old YA fantasy writer. I've long dreamed of being a novelist, and I bet you have too. I hope you find my blog helpful, inspiring, and maybe just a little bit fun. (But not too much fun. Writing is serious business, you know.)

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