Writers' Tips and Tools

Writing Space - Even if it's only a corner of a room or a table, having a place devoted to your writing is useful. Equip your space with everything you need to be comfortable and productive. Consider investing in a good desk chair and a work surface that allows you to sit comfortably and see well. If you use a computer, pay particular attention to your sitting posture, the height of the keyboard, and the position of the screen, so you can avoid painful injuries.

Equipment - Whether you write with a pen, typewriter, computer, or quill, make sure your writing tools are in good condition and readily available. Some writers find a tape recorder indispensable. Others enjoy quiet background music while they work. Still others must have a pitcher of water near their work station, or an affectionate cat, or an unlimited supply of peanut M&Ms. Good equipment and amenities make the writing task more pleasant and ultimately, more productive.

Schedule - Even if you have a "day job" or other responsibilities, set aside regular writing hours. Try to do your writing at the time of day when you feel freshest and most energetic.

Writer's Block - Feeling stuck or stymied at times is common and normal. If you allow yourself to get hung up and hysterical by this, the so-called block may prove self-perpetuating. I like to look at slow or no-go times as speed bumps. You may need some time to mull things over before you're ready to make further forward progress on your book. Try to write a little every day despite the frustration. You can also make use of these times to organize your work, plan future projects, do research, catch up on your reading, or throw in a load of wash. If you hate laundry as I do, this may well inspire you to get writing again.

Handling Rejection - As a seasoned professional, I can offer the following unassailable truth: rejection sucks. Still, for most writers, it is an inevitable, necessary part of learning the craft and, ultimately, getting published. Individuals have their particular ways of handling rejection. Some swear by cheesecake. Some simply swear. But exposing yourself to potential disappointment is a necessary step toward publication.

In my mother's view, a turndown of my writing could only mean one thing: the editor was an idiot. While this may have been true, I try to take a more mature, philosophical perspective. Having a project rejected means it is wrong for that publisher or that publication at that particular time. This may be for any number of reasons. The publisher has similar works in the pipeline. Your proposal doesn't fit their format or philosophy. They prefer to work with writers they know. Or possibly, your work needs work.

I found it very useful to hold on to my rejection letters. Over time, I noticed that the quality of my rejections improved. At first, I received the standard "Dear Contributor" form responses. Later, an assistant would scrawl a bit of encouragement on the bottom. Soon, I started getting personal letters from actual editors, explaining why they were turning me down and suggesting that I try again.

General writing advice:

• Use the active voice whenever possible. Say "John threw the ball," not "The ball was thrown by John."
• Write what you know, but remember that you can become knowledgeable about most anything by interviewing experts and doing comprehensive research.
• Less is more. Say what you mean in the fewest possible words.
• Favor specifics over generalizations. Instead of "shoe," say "loafer" or "sandal."
• Find your own voice. Don't try to imitate someone else's style.
• Read critically. Study what works for you and what doesn't.

If you have other questions or want to suggest your favorite bit of practical advice, e-mail me at jkelman@jkelman.com.