5 Unconventional Writing Tips That Can Boost Your Productivity

As a writer, you know that you have to put in the hard work, rather than relying on inspiration alone. Regular writing practice even when you do not have a project on hand will help you notch up your skills and strengthen your writing muscles. Here are a few writing tips that may go against traditional wisdom, but they might help you get better.

Change your writing environment often

You may be very comfortable and doing great at your work desk, hitting your word count but it puts you out of your comfort zone if you swap your writing place for somewhere different. If you love writing in solitude, try a busy coffee shop, or if you always write just before breakfast, try writing later in the day. You could also switch between writing by hand versus typing. This is a sure way to get over that writer’s block and get in a new perspective in your writing.

Write under constraints

It might sound counter intuitive but writing under a self-defined constraint such as avoiding adverbs, or starting each sentence with a particular word, or writing dialogue-only scenes, or writing only in a particular tense, would get you out of your comfort zone and actually help get those words flowing. You would also gain confidence in your writing skills and be more willing to experiment.

Organise your ideas

If you have always written by the seat of your pants, relying on ideas that come up as you sit down to write, it would be very useful for you to map out your ideas to see the relationship between various elements of your writing. One of the most effective writing tips is to use techniques such as mind maps or even doodle your ideas with bubbles to get a clear sense of what your mind is throwing up and in what sequence.

Change formats and mediums

Have you always written on your blog? Try pitching to a newspaper. If you are very word-oriented, create cartoons to embellish your work and to bring in a visual element. Go longform if your write-ups are usually short. Write in a genre you have not tried before. The idea is to do different things to notch up your skills.

Choose your deadlines wisely

If deadlines are what get you going, by all means have them. But once in a while step back to access if they are working for you. If you are putting in less effort because you do not have the time to work on your piece, give yourself more time. If you struggle with deadlines, get accountability partners or commit to a goal on a public forum.

Knowing about your writing habits, strengths and weaknesses makes for a more aware and sensible writer who knows how to leverage strengths and work around less desirable writing ways.

Some additional writing tips

In addition to these unconventional writing tips, it’s crucial for a writer to foster a mindset of continuous improvement. Seek feedback from peers or join writing groups, or writing retreats where you can share your work and receive constructive criticism. You might even hear a new mix of writing tips along with feedback.

Embrace the editing process as a means of refining your writing and don’t be afraid to revise extensively. Remember that writing is a craft that evolves over time, and each piece you produce contributes to your growth as a writer.

Did you know reading counts as one of the finest writing tips? Reading widely across different genres and styles can provide valuable insights and expand your creative palette. Analyze works that resonate with you and try to discern the techniques employed by successful authors. This not only enhances your appreciation for diverse writing styles but also inspires you to incorporate new elements into your own work.

And of course, don’t underestimate the power of rest and reflection! Apart from these writing tips, taking breaks from your writing routine allows your mind to recharge and think of fresh ideas and perspectives. Reflect on your writing journey, celebrate your successes, and learn from challenges. The ability to adapt, learn, and evolve is fundamental to becoming a resilient and accomplished writer. So, stay curious, stay open-minded, and enjoy the ongoing adventure of honing your craft.

Start experimenting with these writing tips, have fun and learn along the way in your writing journey.