10 random tips for writers

I can't pretend I'm any kind of expert but sometimes it's the obvious things that need saying.

Tips:
1:  The only way to be a writer is to write.  Don't think about writing a book, write a book.  Or a poem, story, article.  Just write.

2:  Writing takes much longer than you think.  My first novel was a work in progress for years.  But I felt triumphant when I eventually finished it and I learned a lot while doing it.  Perseverance for a start.

3:  Don't show work in progress to your nearest and dearest (or anybody).  They will either think it's wonderful because you did it (gratifying but not helpful) or they will have lots of ideas on how to improve it (not gratifying, not helpful.)

4:  Do show finished work to someone who can give you considered feedback - another writer is usually a good bet.

5:  Be specific about what you want from feedback - if you're worried that your plot holes are too big to swallow, ask someone to point out where the story gets confusing.

6:  Don't edit as you write.  I know it's tempting but don't.  OK?

7:  You can edit yesterday's stuff if it helps get you back into the flow.  Hey, whatever works.

8:  Don't wait for ideas.  I don't know where ideas live but I do know they won't visit you until you show willing and start doing the work.

9:  Writing is not a single process.  It is a whole sequence of processes: writing, planning, editing, re-writing and so on in an infinite loop.  I don't plan at all to start but I do plan once I've got something that I can start to shape into a convincing narrative.  Be confident in your own process.  There is no right or wrong way to do this, as long as it works for you.

​10:  The infinite loop (see previous) has to stop eventually.  You'll never be entirely satisfied with the finished work but... let it go.  It's ready.  And you have something new to write.