Monet's Garden, Giverny, France (photo by D.G. Hudson) |
Establish a daily writing time
--Include writing for a novel, short stories, editing, or outlining. Give it priority in the day.
Define a writing goal & specify time frame for completion
--Choose a goal by word count, number of pages, or number of chapters to be done
Establish a suitable writing area
--Locate your writing spot (your home, or an off-premise location--coffee shop, library, the park). No browsing on the web allowed during writing time.
Organize writing area and storage
--Choose your filing method - digital, or hardcopy. Keep a backup, and keep it current.
--Keep tools close at hand. Coffee can quality as a writing tool.
‘Chunk’ the big goals into smaller pieces.
--Focus on one part of the process at a time: characters, scenes, narrative, story structure, world building
Carry portable writing materials or recording device
-- Record ideas when they occur (while running errands, waiting for appointments, at the airport). Not recommended while driving.
Use a calendar to record progress
--Record your writing progress- online or manually.
--Free calendar in monthly format offered as download by Elizabeth at Reading Writers (see below** for link and site details).
Keep blog updated / use timely topics
--Determine frequency of posts and maintenance of content. Track on writing calendar.
Stay informed about the industry
-- Select a few writing blogs, or websites with quality content. Writer`s Digest 101 Best Websites for writers is a great place to start. Keep the number manageable.
Research and refine list of literary agents or publications
--Use online databases or other resources to compile a list of prospective contacts
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2011 Reading Writers Calendar. http://www.readingwriters.com/free_downloads.htm
**Compliments of: R e a d i n g W r i t e r s
The ultimate reading service for writers, by writers.
http://www.readingwriters.com/