“Get it down. Take chances. It may be bad, but it’s the only way you can do anything really good.”

—William Faulkner

William Faulkner on writing

Every writer in the world will tell you that they are constantly learning. Even the most successful, prolific writers in the world are eager students. That’s the beauty of being a writer. You can never have enough resources and ideas to improve your writing skills.

There are some basics that remain the same when trying to be a writer. But there is always scope for improvement and learning. The best writers write, the great ones read.

For any one seeking to write or improving their writing skills, I have compiled some amazing and helpful free resources which assist you. These can be used in any form of communication- emails, documents, reports, essays, articles, blogs, novels, books, scripts, video, audio, etc. The list is endless.

Writer’s Digest-

This complete and superb resource is a boon for writers. They have contests, publishing guides, podcasts, writing prompts, and blogs about writing ideas and getting published. Amateur writers should definitely take note of their helpful blog series and tips about getting published. They break down various aspects of writing, understanding plot, narrative, character sketch, etc in their podcasts which can come useful for anyone seeking to be published.

Using English-

Using English is a site dedicated to simplifying English as a second language (ESL). They provide materials that teach how to include simple phrases, the nuances, linguistic skills, and grammar concepts. This site is not limited to writers. In fact, a major share of its audience is teachers and educators looking to add to their syllabus or teaching materials. Even if you are a native English speaker, browsing through this site will polish your communication skills tremendously.

ProBlogger-

One of the most dedicated and complete blogging resource websites available, ProBlogger tackles writing related issues, ideas on how to grow your readership and so on. ProBlogger has ebooks, podcasts, links, and materials to improve your writing, enhance your communication, increase your community, and build a sustainable brand. This is a must-read and visit website for bloggers, writers, and entrepreneurs.

Grammar Girl-

This website has been on my bookmarked list for years. One of the most popular and successful websites about grammar and writing resources, Grammar Girl has wonderfully concise and simple tips. I like the no-fuss, specific and niche approach to topics. It also simplifies concepts for writers of all levels and genres. The website has expanded Grammar Girl as a resource for writers to a resource for any communicator or media professional.

Learning Path-

Creative Writing is not a skill you are born with. You have to learn it and work hard at improving it. What better way than studying creative writing courses? Learning Path curates some amazing free online courses offered by some of the best universities in the world. You can learn poetry, basics of writing, publishing, academic writing, science fiction, writing prompts, and character sketches to name a few topics. These courses are perfect if you want to brush up on certain skills or test the waters before enrolling in a full-time writing degree.

These resources can be a good start for a beginner or assist experienced writers with their projects. There are many other helpful and free resources I will be covering later in the blog. Do you have any particular resource or website that has helped you in your writing? Let me know in the comments!