Learning to write well both inside and outside the classroom is essential for reasons beyond academic progression. The importance of writing skills has increased with the modernization of society, as writing is the primary way people communicate with one another. Enhancing writing skills leads to more organized thinking, enhanced creativity, increased credibility and confidence, a broader knowledge base, and better first impressions.
Paulette Chaffee, an educator and children’s advocate, believes that writing skills can be improved at any age by using these helpful and cost-effective strategies:
Strategy #1: Read
Though this first strategy might seem too simple to be true, reading is an excellent way to boost writing abilities. Reading allows learners to be exposed to different writing styles while broadening their knowledge base and nurturing memory skills. Anyone trying to build their writing skills should select literary works that they find exciting and that inspire them to continue to read. For instance, finding a captivating book series is a proactive way to engage the brain with reading.
To improve writing skills, writers should implement reading into their daily routine. By doing so, reading can inspire new ideas for writing tasks or help with writer’s block. In addition, writers can compare different writing styles more efficiently, study grammar in context, and expand vocabulary.
Strategy #2: Practice Writing for Different Reasons
While learning how to write in an academic setting, students learn about four general stylistic categories: expository, descriptive, narrative, and persuasive writing. A fantastic way to practice each writing style is to read a variety of samples and then attempt to generate a piece. For example, a writer practicing persuasive writing might find a few examples of cover letters and then try to create one. Cover letters are successful when they aid in persuading an employer and are one of many necessary writing skills that advance career options.
Other ways to practice writing include writing out a strategy, a business plan, or a report. Grants and press releases are also excellent writing practice. Another great avenue to practice writing is to start an online blog.
Strategy #3: Write Everyday
Like reading, writing every day is one of the most beneficial and quickest ways to improve your writing skills.
A daily writing assignment should focus on elevating abilities gradually. For example, for one week or month at a time, implement different approaches in writing. A beginner writer can create a checklist of various objectives to execute during a specific duration of time, such as reading and writing about the same topic, avoiding filler words, outlining complex ideas, simplifying explanations, or reviewing edits aloud.
About Paulette Chaffee
Paulette Chaffee is an educator, children’s advocate, grants facilitator, lawyer, and member of various non-profit boards. She obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Redlands in Communicative Disorders and a California Lifetime Teaching Credential. She is currently a board member of All the Arts for All the Kids.
