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How to Become a Writer

Sean Glatch  |  July 1, 2024  |  12 Comments

So you’re wondering how to become a writer. The short answer is: anyone who writes is a writer. However, becoming a writer who’s serious about their professional career requires lots of work, and if you’re wondering how to become a professional writer, you’re here to start your journey towards a productive and successful literary career.

How do you become a writer? You don’t need a degree to be a writer, nor do you need to be a certain age. Becoming a writer simply requires an admiration for—and a longing to create with—language. So, don’t worry about becoming a writer later in life or lacking a formal education. (That’s what Writers.com is here for!)

No one can teach you how to admire the written word, but the instructors at Writers.com are experts at turning longing into language. That’s why this article covers everything you need on how to become a writer. From the personal to the professional, let’s dive into everything writers need to build a successful literary career.

How to Become a Writer: Contents

How to Become a Writer: Anyone Can Become One

It’s never too late to become a writer, how to become a writer: where to begin your writing journey, how to become a professional writer: what “professional” means, how to become a writer: resources for becoming a professional writer, how to become a writer: developing a writing habit.

Even today, there’s a persistent myth that writers are elite, born-with-it Ivory Tower folks who possess some ineffable gift of the Muses. Yes, some great writers were born with greatness (and plenty were born with wealth and privilege), but anyone who calls themselves a writer does so because they labor with the written word.

Becoming a writer simply requires an ardent exploration of language.

In others words, you don’t need an MFA from the University of Iowa to call yourself a writer. Becoming a writer simply requires an ardent exploration of language. If we had to boil a writer down to three requirements, it wouldn’t involve age or degree. The 4 traits for becoming a writer are:

• Passion for the written word,
• Desire to expand the boundaries and possibilities of language,
• Persistence and patience, bordering on stubbornness, and
• Willingness to grow and learn continuously.

Many writers who have these traits stop themselves from writing, maybe because they’re wondering how to become a writer without a degree, or simply because they don’t believe in themselves without the privilege and connections writers seem to have. Now, writers certainly benefit from a university education or a family legacy in literature, but countless writers have acquired respect and success without a degree or name recognition.

Ernest Hemingway never went to college, but he still won a Pulitzer and Nobel Prize; neither did Maya Angelou attend university, yet she’s celebrated as the “black woman’s poet laureate” and later accepted a professorship with Wake Forest University. Degrees are just paper; it’s words that matter.

Degrees are just paper; it’s words that matter.

Becoming a writer has no age restriction; the act of writing is rated G for the General Public, and those aforementioned traits are found in writers from ages 2 to 99+.

Many writers discover their writing talents in their later years. Why, exactly? Neurology reveals there are two types of intelligence : fluid intelligence and crystallized intelligence. “Fluid” refers to creative and adaptive thinking, including activities like writing and problem solving. “Crystallized” refers to the solidified body of knowledge people draw from—all the words, definitions, and experiences that build a foundation for the world.

Generally, younger adults have more fluid intelligence, whereas life experience builds one’s crystallized intelligence over time. The two intelligences tend to converge in a person’s 40s, since this is an age where the faculties for fluid intelligence haven’t declined, and crystallized intelligence abounds. Not-so-coincidentally, many writers see their careers flourish in their 40s and 50s!

Many celebrated writers didn’t put pen to paper until middle age or later.

In fact, many celebrated writers didn’t put pen to paper until middle age or later. Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t start writing until her 40s, and her Little House series didn’t start printing until she was 65. Likewise, Most of Wallace Stevens’ work was published after he turned 50; despite being a poet, he worked at an insurance company, and most of his coworkers were shocked when he won a Pulitzer at 75. Nobody knew that he wrote!

Finally, many university students return for a writing degree after establishing a career elsewhere. BFA and MFA programs around the world educate students in their 30s and beyond; in 2017, the average age of a low-residency MFA student in the U.S. was 35.4, according to LitHub and AWP .

Whether you’re 19 or 90, you’re never too old to write. The best time to write is yesterday; the second-best time is today.

Rather than an If-Then structure, the writing profession follows a Became-Because structure.

How do you become a writer? Where do you begin? The writing profession is unlike most professions, which follow an If-Then structure. If you get a bachelor’s degree, Then you can work as a nurse, computer scientist, or accountant; If you join a worker’s guild or apprenticeship program, Then you can find work in a number of trade jobs.

The writing profession follows a Became-Because structure. Zora Neale Hurston became a writer because she obtained degrees from Howard University and Barnard College, encouraging her to dissect the African American experience through a literary and anthropological lens.

Conversely, Haruki Murakami became a writer because of a baseball game .

The qualifications for becoming a writer are unique to the individual, and every writer is formed by personal interests and experiences. As a result, no one can tell you where to begin your writing journey; however, if you’re wondering how to become a writer, you’ve already started your journey by thinking about it.

If you’re wondering how to become a writer, you’ve already started your journey by thinking about it.

One distinction to help you think about your writing journey is the difference between amateur and professional writers. If you’re not sure what you want to become, start with the following question: what does “professional” mean?

There are, generally, two classes of writers: amateurs and professionals. Before describing the professional writer, let’s be clear: “amateur” is not derogatory, and professional writers are not “better” than amateurs. Amateur comes from the Latin amator , “lover.” An amateur writer loves the written word just as much, sometimes even more, than the professional; amateurs simply have less pressure, deadlines, and financial dependence on writing. It’s a pastime, not a career.

If you want writing to be a significant portion of your income, then you aspire to being a professional writer.

If you want writing to be a significant portion of your income, then you aspire to being a professional writer. Professional writers have to approach their writing as a business, building a literary audience and keeping a regular writing schedule. Professional writers need to understand the ins and outs of the publishing industry—which they often learn through obtaining a university degree—and it also helps to have formal training in the publishing world and experience operating literary magazines.

How do you start to work toward becoming a professional writer? Below are resources to get you started.

At some point, the professional writer needs to know the ins and outs of writing as a business. This list covers the essentials of how to become a professional writer.

How to make money as a writer

• Explore freelance writing opportunities (updated weekdays at F.W.G.)
• 6 writers explain how they make money (NY Mag)
• Self-publishing versus traditional publishing (Self-Publishing School)
• Writing to market (Funds For Writers)

Taxes as a self-employed creative

• Taxes on freelance writing and royalties (TurboTax)
• Tax tips and unique situations (The Balance Careers)

Resources on publishing

• Poetry journals
• Fiction journals
• Creative nonfiction journals
• How to get published in a literary journal (Reader’s Digest)
• Book: What Editors Do by Peter Ginna ($25 at UChicago Press)

Becoming a writer online

• Basic guide to each social media platform (Kindlepreneur)
• Building an author’s website (The Write Practice)
• Free website template for authors (Copyfolio)
• Running a mailing list (Your Writer Platform)

Things to know before taking writing classes

• Poetry courses
• Fiction courses
• Creative nonfiction courses
• Why take a writing course?

Additional resources for learning how to become a writer

• Setting SMART goals
• Reading like a writer
• The golden rule: show, don’t tell
• Overcoming writer’s block
• Becoming a poet
• 8 tips on learning how to write
• Best online creative writing classes
• Creative writing programs (answering the question: should you get an MFA?)

How do professional writers spend their workdays? Perhaps the trickiest part about becoming a writer is establishing a writing habit. For example, Haruki Murakami runs a 10K every morning to support his writing, and Charles Dickens wrote (and slept) facing north to improve his creativity.

Perhaps the trickiest part about becoming a writer is establishing a writing habit.

What works for one person rarely works for another, so experiment with writing habits—and when you find one that works, stick with it.

Generally, you can parse the writing business into 3 separate components:

• The writing life—putting pen to paper at regular intervals.
• Scheduled time for “the business of writing”—literary submissions, applying for grants, etc.
• An active media/marketing presence—blogging, tweeting, emailing, etc.

You’ll want to schedule time for each of these elements in your daily writing habit. Of course, this is easier said than done. Budding writers often overestimate their ability to work: they think they can spend 3 hours writing, 2 hours replying to emails, and 2 hours submitting work to journals. Then they spend the afternoon watching reruns of BBC quiz shows. (Yes! I did do this recently.)

That’s why forging a consistent writing habit is essential—for amateur writers as well as professionals. Writing at the same place at the same time encourages your brain to write every day. And, if you can’t keep yourself focused on writing, try experimenting with different writing rituals. If a 10K helps Murakami write, something equally unique could help you, too.

How to Become a Writer: Take Your Next Step with Writers.com!

The classes we’ve curated in our upcoming schedule will take your writing life to the next level. Whether learning a new writing style or mastering the business of writing, becoming a writer feels a whole lot simpler with Writers.com.

Sean Glatch

12 comments.

Brilliant review Misty

I hope, I can be a better writer with your support.

Yeah. Same thing as with all other fields. Practice, practice, and once again, practice! It’s like a sport, you should always find new ways to practice.

This really helped me out. Thank you so much!

I’m 14 and i hope to become a writer someday. Thank you so much for the info.

Thank you for the information About to start my writing journey and thus really helped.

I’m a senior that would like to turn my love of writing into a profession. The information you have presented here has inspired me to continue moving towards that goal.

I live in a rural area of Uganda with very little education but always aspired to write a book on families. I am much encouraged. started it but got stuck ..

I love writing and thank you for information you have given meand am obliged to say thank.

i am very eager to become a writer be that script know how or fiction. i am a sponge for knowledge so i learn as i work. i treat everyday as a school day. i want to learn every single part of the writing career-be that if the editor drinks tea or coffee and how they like there papers folded. i soak information as i do a task. i love to build the bullet points for a story because everything needs a beginning. if you are baking a cake the eggs and flour are needed before you think about putting anything in the oven. to prepare a cake you need a tray to put it in-before you build a story you need a starting and then ingredients to put in along the way. i really love to build a story from different snippets of things. i have a thirst for many different aspects of life having spent a majority of time in hospitals and then being taken advantage of my my family because of my brain injury. so i know more than most in a lot of different subjects and matters in life, i have lost more than most in life but i am here telling my version of it to the big bright world. 0874762400 is my contact number

Discovering the path to becoming a writer is both exhilarating and daunting. It requires a blend of passion, persistence, and honing one’s craft. From mastering the art of storytelling to navigating the intricacies of the publishing world, the journey demands dedication and resilience. Embrace every word written, every rejection faced, for they are stepping stones on the road to literary success.

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How to become a writer

CareerExplorer’s step-by-step guide on how to become a writer.

Is becoming a writer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Still unsure if becoming a writer is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a writer or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

High School

For high school students aspiring to become writers, there are several courses that can help develop essential skills and knowledge in writing, literature, and language arts. Here are some recommended courses:

• English Language Arts: English Language Arts courses are fundamental for aspiring writers as they provide a solid foundation in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and literary analysis. These courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including literature appreciation, creative writing, essay composition, and critical thinking skills.
• Creative Writing: Creative Writing courses offer opportunities for students to explore different forms of creative expression, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama. These courses often include writing workshops, where students receive feedback on their work and learn techniques to improve their writing style, voice, and storytelling abilities.
• Literature: Literature courses expose students to a variety of literary genres, periods, and authors, helping them develop an appreciation for literature and expand their literary knowledge. Studying literature can inspire aspiring writers by introducing them to diverse writing styles, themes, and techniques used by accomplished authors throughout history.
• Journalism: Journalism courses teach students the principles and practices of journalistic writing, including news reporting, feature writing, interviewing, and ethics. These courses help students develop research, interviewing, and writing skills essential for careers in journalism, media, or non-fiction writing.
• Public Speaking or Debate: Public Speaking or Debate courses help students develop communication skills, confidence, and persuasive writing abilities. These courses teach students how to articulate their ideas effectively, engage with audiences, and present their arguments coherently and persuasively, valuable skills for writers who may need to promote their work or speak publicly about their writing.
• Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature and Composition: AP English Literature and Composition courses are rigorous, college-level courses that prepare students for advanced literary analysis, critical thinking, and writing skills. These courses may offer opportunities for students to earn college credit by taking the AP exam and demonstrate their proficiency in English literature and composition.

Educational Paths

Aspiring writers have various educational paths to pursue to develop their craft and advance their careers. Here are some common educational options for writers:

• Bachelor's Degree in English, Creative Writing, or Journalism: Many colleges and universities offer Bachelor's Degrees in English , Creative Writing , Journalism , or related fields. These programs provide students with a comprehensive education in writing, literature, language arts, and communication skills. Students may have the opportunity to study various genres of writing, participate in writing workshops, and gain hands-on experience through internships or campus publications.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing: For writers seeking advanced training and mentorship in creative writing, pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree can be beneficial. MFA programs typically offer focused instruction in writing fiction, poetry, nonfiction, or screenwriting, along with opportunities to workshop manuscripts, receive feedback from faculty and peers, and develop a portfolio of writing. Many MFA programs also offer teaching assistantships or fellowships to help students fund their education while gaining teaching experience.
• Master's Degree in English Literature or Composition: Some writers may choose to pursue a Master's Degree in English Literature or Composition to deepen their understanding of literary history, theory, and criticism. These programs offer opportunities to study classic and contemporary literature, literary analysis, and scholarly research methods, which can enrich a writer's knowledge and inform their writing practice. Students may also have the option to focus on creative writing within a literature or composition program.
• Certificate Programs and Workshops: Writers looking for shorter, more specialized training may consider certificate programs or workshops offered by universities, writing centers, or literary organizations. These programs often focus on specific genres, topics, or aspects of writing, such as fiction, poetry, screenwriting, memoir, or professional writing. Certificate programs and workshops provide opportunities for intensive study, skill development, and networking with other writers and industry professionals.
• Continuing Education and Professional Development: Even after completing formal education, writers can continue to hone their craft and stay current in the industry through continuing education courses, conferences, seminars, and online workshops. Many organizations, such as writing associations, literary festivals, and writing retreats, offer opportunities for writers to further their skills, connect with fellow writers, and gain inspiration from established authors.

Writing Workshops and Conferences

There are numerous writing workshops and conferences that offer valuable opportunities for writers to improve their craft, connect with fellow writers, and learn from industry professionals. Here are some popular options:

• The Writing Excuses Workshop and Retreat: Organized by the hosts of the Writing Excuses podcast, this workshop offers intensive writing sessions, critiques, and discussions on craft and career development. It takes place in different locations each year and focuses on various aspects of writing, such as worldbuilding, character development, and story structure.
• The Bread Loaf Writers' Conference: Held annually at Middlebury College in Vermont, the Bread Loaf Writers' Conference brings together writers of all genres for workshops, lectures, readings, and networking opportunities. It features faculty members who are established authors, editors, and literary agents, providing valuable mentorship and feedback to participants.
• The Tin House Summer Workshop: Hosted by Tin House magazine, this workshop offers week-long intensives in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Participants have the opportunity to work closely with acclaimed authors, attend craft seminars, and participate in readings and discussions. The workshop takes place in Portland, Oregon, and welcomes writers at all stages of their careers.
• AWP Conference & Bookfair: The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP) hosts an annual conference and bookfair that brings together thousands of writers, editors, publishers, and literary professionals from around the world. The conference features panel discussions, readings, book signings, and networking events, making it a valuable resource for writers looking to connect with the literary community and learn about the latest trends in publishing and writing.
• GrubStreet's Muse & the Marketplace: Held in Boston, Massachusetts, GrubStreet's Muse & the Marketplace conference offers workshops, seminars, and one-on-one manuscript consultations for writers of all genres. It also features keynote presentations by bestselling authors, literary agents, and editors, as well as networking opportunities with fellow writers and industry professionals.
• The Writers' Digest Annual Conference: Organized by Writers' Digest magazine, this conference offers workshops, panels, and pitch sessions with literary agents and editors. It covers a wide range of topics, including writing craft, publishing, marketing, and author platform development, making it a comprehensive resource for writers looking to further their careers.

Build a Strong Portfolio

Building a strong portfolio as a writer is essential for showcasing your skills, experience, and versatility to potential clients, publishers, or employers. Here are some steps to help you create a compelling writing portfolio:

• Select Your Best Work: Start by reviewing your past writing projects and identifying pieces that demonstrate your strengths, creativity, and expertise. Choose a variety of samples that showcase your range as a writer, including different genres, styles, and formats.
• Tailor Your Portfolio to Your Audience: Consider who will be viewing your portfolio and tailor your selection of samples accordingly. If you're applying for a specific job or freelance project, include samples that are relevant to the position or industry. For example, if you're applying for a content marketing role, include samples of blog posts, articles, or social media content.
• Showcase Diversity: Include samples of different types of writing, such as articles, blog posts, essays, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, copywriting, technical writing, or scripts. This demonstrates your versatility as a writer and your ability to adapt your writing style to different audiences and purposes.
• Provide Context: For each sample in your portfolio, provide a brief introduction or explanation that gives context to the piece. Include information about the purpose of the writing, the target audience, any relevant research or interviews conducted, and the results or impact of the piece if applicable.
• Polish Your Work: Before adding samples to your portfolio, review and revise them to ensure they are polished, error-free, and representative of your best work. Pay attention to grammar, punctuation, spelling, and overall clarity. Consider seeking feedback from peers, mentors, or editors to help refine your writing.
• Create a Professional Presentation: Present your portfolio in a professional and visually appealing format. You can create a digital portfolio using a website, blog, or online portfolio platform, or compile a physical portfolio using printed samples or a PDF document. Choose a clean, organized layout that highlights your writing samples and makes them easy to read and navigate.
• Update Regularly: Keep your portfolio up-to-date with your latest and best work. As you complete new writing projects, add them to your portfolio to showcase your ongoing growth and development as a writer. Consider periodically reviewing and refreshing your portfolio to ensure it remains relevant and engaging to your audience.

Employment Opportunities

Writers have a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries and sectors. Here are some common employment options for writers:

• Publishing: Writers may work for publishing houses, literary magazines, or online publications as staff writers, contributing writers, or freelance writers. They may write articles, essays, reviews, or features for print or digital publications, covering topics such as news, culture, entertainment, lifestyle, or specialized fields like science, technology, or finance.
• Advertising and Marketing: Writers can pursue careers in advertising agencies, marketing firms, or corporate marketing departments, creating content for advertising campaigns, promotional materials, websites, social media, and other marketing channels. They may write copy for advertisements, slogans, product descriptions, email campaigns, press releases, or branded content.
• Content Creation: With the rise of digital media and online platforms, there is a growing demand for writers to create content for websites, blogs, podcasts, videos, and social media channels. Writers may work for media companies, digital agencies, content marketing firms, or as independent freelancers, producing articles, blog posts, videos, infographics, or other multimedia content.
• Journalism: Writers can pursue careers in journalism, working for newspapers, magazines, online news outlets, or broadcast media organizations as reporters, correspondents, editors, or columnists. They may cover local, national, or international news, investigative reporting, feature stories, opinion pieces, or specialized beats such as politics, business, sports, or arts and culture.
• Technical Writing: Technical writers specialize in creating documentation and instructional materials for technical or specialized audiences. They may work for technology companies, engineering firms, healthcare organizations, government agencies, or software companies, writing user manuals, product guides, technical specifications, training materials, or software documentation.
• Publishing and Editorial: Writers may work in publishing and editorial roles, such as editors, copywriters, proofreaders, or literary agents. They may review and edit manuscripts, provide feedback to authors, develop publishing strategies, or negotiate book deals. Some writers may also pursue careers as literary translators or ghostwriters, helping others bring their ideas to life.
• Education: Writers with expertise in writing, literature, or language arts may pursue careers in education as teachers, professors, or writing instructors. They may teach writing workshops, literature classes, composition courses, or creative writing programs at schools, colleges, universities, or community organizations.

Certifications

Unlike some professions that require specific certifications or licenses, writing as a profession typically does not have mandatory certifications. However, there are several optional certifications and credentials that writers can pursue to enhance their skills, credibility, and career opportunities. Here are a few examples:

• Certified Professional Writer (CPW): Offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC), the CPW certification is designed for professionals who specialize in resume writing, business communication, and other forms of professional writing. This certification demonstrates expertise in writing effective resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and other career documents.
• Grant Writing Certification: Many organizations and institutions offer certification programs or courses in grant writing, which can be valuable for writers interested in pursuing careers in nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or fundraising. These programs typically cover grant research, proposal writing, budgeting, and grant management.
• Technical Writing Certification: The Society for Technical Communication (STC) offers a Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) certification for technical writers. This certification demonstrates proficiency in technical writing, editing, and communication skills, as well as knowledge of industry standards and best practices.
• Editorial Certifications: Editors may pursue certifications such as the Certified Professional Editor (CPE) credential offered by the Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) or the Certified Copyeditor credential offered by the American Copy Editors Society (ACES). These certifications demonstrate proficiency in editing skills, grammar, style, and publishing standards.
• Project Management Certification: While not specific to writing, project management certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) can be beneficial for writers who work on large-scale writing projects or in project-based environments.
• Creative Writing Programs: While not certifications in the traditional sense, completing a creative writing program or obtaining a degree in creative writing from a reputable institution can provide writers with valuable training, feedback, and mentorship from experienced authors and faculty members.

Associations and Organizations

There are several professional associations and organizations that cater to writers, providing resources, support, networking opportunities, and advocacy for their members. Here are some notable associations for writers:

• The Authors Guild: Founded in 1912, The Authors Guild is the oldest and largest professional organization for writers in the United States. It provides legal assistance, advocacy on issues affecting authors' rights, contract advice, and resources for professional development.
• The National Writers Union (NWU): The NWU is a trade union representing freelance writers in all genres and fields, including journalists, authors, poets, and technical writers. It offers contract advice, grievance assistance, health insurance, and other benefits to its members.
• The American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA): ASJA is a professional organization for nonfiction writers, including freelance journalists, authors, and content creators. It offers networking events, professional development opportunities, and resources on topics such as contract negotiation and copyright.
• The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA): SFWA is an organization for writers of science fiction and fantasy literature. It provides advocacy, networking, and resources for its members, including access to professional guidelines, legal assistance, and health insurance options.
• The Mystery Writers of America (MWA): MWA is a professional organization for writers of mystery fiction, including authors, editors, publishers, and agents. It offers networking events, awards programs, and resources on writing craft and industry trends.
• The Romance Writers of America (RWA): RWA is a professional association for writers of romance fiction. It provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and advocacy on behalf of its members, including support for diversity and inclusion in the romance genre.
• The Association of Writers & Writing Programs (AWP): AWP is an organization for writers, teachers, and students of creative writing. It hosts an annual conference, publishes a literary magazine, and provides resources on writing education, publishing, and literary events.
• The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI): SCBWI is a professional organization for writers and illustrators of children's literature. It offers networking events, conferences, workshops, and resources on writing and publishing for children and young adults.

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Writers and Authors

Career, salary and education information.

What They Do : Writers and authors develop written content for various types of media.

Work Environment : Writers and authors may work anywhere they have access to a computer. Many writers and authors are self-employed.

How to Become One : A college degree in English, communications, or journalism is generally required for a full-time position as a writer or author. Experience gained through internships or any writing that improves skill, such as blogging, is beneficial.

Salary : The median annual wage for writers and authors is $69,510.

Job Outlook : Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 4 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Related Careers : Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of writers and authors with similar occupations.

Following is everything you need to know about a career as a writers or author with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:

Top 3 Writer and Author Jobs

Shelton, CT Job ID: #68006 Pay Rate: $30-35/hr Summary/Objective Butler Aerospace & Defense is seeking an experienced technical writer to work in our writing group authoring maintenance publications

Apex Systems is seeking a Medical Writer consultant to join their remote clinical research team ... Author clinical study reports, NDA and health authority summary presentations, regulatory documents ...

Role: Technical Writer (s) Level 3 Location: Remote Language: English Security: Secret How You ll ... and author or edit the required content Solicit and engage client feedback and, if applicable ...

See all Writer and Author jobs

What Writers and Authors Do [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Writers and authors develop written content for various types of media, including advertisements; books; magazines; movie, play, and television scripts; and blogs.

Duties of Writers and Authors

Writers and authors typically do the following:

• Choose subject matter that interests readers
• Write fiction or nonfiction through scripts, novels, biographies, and more
• Conduct research to obtain factual information and authentic detail
• Write advertising copy for newspapers, magazines, broadcasts, and the Internet
• Present drafts to editors and clients for feedback
• Work with editors and clients to shape the material so it can be published

Writers must establish their credibility with editors and readers through clean prose, strong research, and the use of appropriate sources and citations. Writers and authors select the material they want to use and then convey the information to readers. With help from editors, they may revise or rewrite sections, searching for the clearest language and the most appropriate phrasing.

Some writers and authors are self-employed or freelance writers and authors. They sell their written content to book and magazine publishers; news organizations; advertising agencies; and movie, theater, and television producers. They may be hired to complete specific short-term or recurring assignments, such as writing a newspaper column, contributing to a series of articles in a magazine, or producing an organization's newsletter.

An increasing number of writers are producing material that is published only on the Internet, such as for digital news organizations or blogs.

The following are examples of types of writers and authors:

Copywriters prepare advertisements to promote the sale of a good or service. They often work with a client to produce written content, such as advertising themes, jingles, and slogans.

Content writers write about any topic of interest, unlike writers who usually specialize in a given field.

Biographers write a thorough account of a person's life. They gather information from interviews and research about the person to accurately portray important events in that person's life.

Bloggers write posts to a blog that may pertain to any topic or a specific field, such as fashion, news, or sports.

Novelists write books of fiction, creating characters and plots that may be imaginary or based on real events.

Playwrights write scripts for theatrical productions. They come up with a concept, write lines for actors to say, produce stage direction for actors to follow, and suggest ideas for theatrical set design.

Screenwriters create scripts for movies and television. They may produce original stories, characters, and dialogue, or turn a book into a movie or television script.

Speechwriters write speeches for business leaders, politicians, and others who must speak in front of an audience. A speech is heard, not read, which means speechwriters must think about audience reaction and rhetorical effect.

Work Environment for Writers and Authors [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Writers and authors hold about 142,800 jobs. The largest employers of writers and authors are as follows:

Writers and authors may work anywhere they have access to a computer.

Jobs are somewhat concentrated in major media and entertainment markets—California, New York, Texas, and Washington, DC—but improved communications and Internet capabilities allow writers and authors to work from almost anywhere. Some writers and authors prefer to work and travel to meet with publishers and clients and to do research or conduct interviews in person.

Writer and Author Work Schedules

Some writers and authors work part time. Most keep regular office hours, either to stay in contact with sources and editors or to set up a writing routine, but many set their own hours. Others may need to work evenings and weekends to produce something acceptable for an editor or client. Self-employed or freelance writers and authors may face the pressures of juggling multiple projects or continually looking for new work.

How to Become a Writer or Author [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Get the education you need: Find schools for Writers and Authors near you!

A college degree in English, journalism, or communications is generally required for a salaried position as a writer or author. Experience can be gained through internships, but any form of writing that improves skill, such as blogging, is beneficial.

Education for Writers and Authors

A bachelor's degree is typically needed for a full-time job as a writer. Because writing skills are essential in this occupation, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in English, journalism, or communications.

Other Work Experience for Writers and Authors

Writers can obtain job experience by working for high school and college newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, advertising and publishing companies, or nonprofit organizations. College theater programs offer playwrights an opportunity to have their work performed. Many magazines and newspapers also have internships for students. Interns may write stories, conduct research and interviews, and gain general publishing experience.

Employers also increasingly prefer new applicants to have the ability to code and program webpages or manipulate data to create a visual story using tables, charts, infographics, and maps. Online publications require knowledge of computer software and editing tools that are used to combine text with graphics, audio, video, and animation.

In addition, anyone with Internet access can start a blog and gain writing experience. Some of this writing may lead to paid assignments regardless of education, because the quality of writing, the unique perspective, and the size of the potential audience are the greatest determinants of success for a piece of writing.

Writers or authors can come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences as long as they demonstrate strong writing skills.

Writer and Author Training

Writers and authors typically need to gain writing experience through on-the-job training. They may practice writing and work with more experienced writers and editors before their work is ready for publication.

Writers who want to write about a particular topic may need formal training or experience related to that topic.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Writers and Authors

Some associations offer certifications for writers and authors. Certification can demonstrate competence and professionalism, making candidates more attractive to employers. For example, the American Grant Writers' Association (AGWA) offers the Certified Grant Writer® credential.

Certification can also increase opportunities for advancement.

Advancement for Writers and Authors

Beginning writers and authors can get a start and put their name on work immediately by writing for small businesses, local newspapers, advertising agencies, and nonprofit organizations. However, opportunities for advancement within these organizations may be limited because they usually do not have enough regular work.

Writers and authors can advance their careers further by building a reputation, taking on more complex writing assignments, and getting published in more prestigious markets and publications. Having published work that has been well received and maintaining a track record of meeting deadlines are important for advancement.

Many editors begin work as writers. Those who are particularly skilled at identifying stories, correcting writing style, and interacting with writers may be interested in editing jobs.

Important Qualities for Writers and Authors

Adaptability. Writers and authors need to be able to adapt to newer software platforms and programs, including various content management systems (CMS).

Creativity. Writers and authors must be able to develop new and interesting plots, characters, or ideas so they can come up with new stories.

Critical-thinking skills. Writers and authors must have dual expertise in thinking through or understanding new concepts, and conveying it through writing.

Determination. Writers and authors sometimes work on projects that take years to complete. They must demonstrate perseverance and personal drive to meet deadlines.

Persuasion. Writers, especially those in advertising, must be able to persuade others to feel a certain way about a good or service.

Social perceptiveness. Writers and authors must understand how readers react to certain ideas in order to connect with their audience.

Writing skills. Writers and authors must be able to write clearly and effectively in order to convey feeling and emotion and communicate with readers.

Writer and Author Salaries [ About this section ] [ More salary/earnings info ] [ To Top ]

The median annual wage for writers and authors is $69,510. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $38,500, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $133,580.

The median annual wages for writers and authors in the top industries in which they work are as follows:

Job Outlook for Writers and Authors [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 4 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

About 15,200 openings for writers and authors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment of Writers and Authors

As traditional print publications lose ground to other media forms, writers and authors are shifting their focus to online media, which should result in some employment growth for these workers.

Careers Related to Writers and Authors [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Announcers and djs.

Announcers present news and sports or may interview guests on media such as radio and television. Disc jockeys (DJs) act as masters of ceremonies (emcees) or play recorded music at weddings, parties, or clubs.

Editors plan, review, and revise content for publication.

News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists

News analysts, reporters, and journalists keep the public updated about current events and noteworthy information. They report international, national, and local news for newspapers, magazines, websites, television, and radio.

Public Relations and Fundraising Managers

Public relations managers plan and direct the creation of material that will maintain or enhance the public image of their employer or client. Fundraising managers coordinate campaigns that bring in donations for their organization.

Public Relations Specialists

Public relations specialists create and maintain a favorable public image for the organization they represent. They craft media releases and develop social media programs to shape public perception of their organization and to increase awareness of its work and goals.

Technical Writers

Technical writers, also called technical communicators, prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. They also develop, gather, and disseminate technical information through an organization's communications channels.

More Writer and Author Information [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

For more information about writers and authors, visit

American Grant Writers’ Association, Inc.

American Society of Journalists and Authors

Association of Writers & Writing Programs

National Association of Science Writers

Society of Professional Journalists

Writers Guild of America East

A portion of the information on this page is used by permission of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Explore more careers: View all Careers or the Top 30 Career Profiles

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Last updated on May 02, 2022

How to Become a Writer: 7 Practical Steps

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Linnea Gradin

The editor-in-chief of the Reedsy Freelancer blog, Linnea is a writer and marketer with a degree from the University of Cambridge. Her focus is to provide aspiring editors and book designers with the resources to further their careers.

If you’re dreaming of turning your passion for writing into a full-time career, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll go through a series of actionable steps that you can take to start writing professionally. 

Here are 7 steps to help you become a writer:

1. Create a solid writing routine 

Here are a few tips for establishing a writing habit:

Make writing a priority. If you want to be a professional writer, set non-negotiable time in your calendar for writing and arrange your other commitments around it. 

Define your writing goals. Whether it’s a daily number of words or completing a task in a set number of days, goals help break larger projects into manageable chunks — so you’ll be less overwhelmed and more likely to knuckle down and write.

Identify your ideal writing times . Do you tend to get the most done right after waking up in the morning, or during the quiet hours of the evening? Figure out your windows of productivity and capitalize on them.  

FREE COURSE

How to Build a Solid Writing Routine

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However, no matter how watertight your writing routines are, every author can benefit from a helping hand to perform at their best and become an even better writer. Thankfully, there are some apps for that.

2. Use writing tools to improve your output 

Different tools can impact your output in different ways: for example, online whiteboards like Miro can help you visually sketch out your book’s outline and character bios, and help you define the mood of your world-building. Tools like Grammarly can identify and fix typos and grammatical errors, whereas browser blockers like Cold Turkey can help to minimize distractions and stay productive. 

When it comes to using professional writing software, you could use tools like Reedsy Studio to enjoy smooth collaborative editing, keep track of your word count goals, and format your book for distribution. 

Which writing app is right for you?

Find out here! Takes 30 seconds

Finally, workspace tools like ergonomic chairs and standing desks can also largely influence the quality and proficiency of your writing (we also hear that houseplants can boost creativity, but don’t quote us on that).

But, before you get too comfortable in your writing nook surrounded by all your lovely tools, you may want to consider going back to class…

3. Take classes to pick up credentials

• Journalist — write for newspapers and magazines. Requires top-notch research skills, the ability to be objective, and to meet strict deadlines.
• Columnist — write for newspapers and magazines. Unlike journalists, columnists offer their subjective opinion and insight on current events.
• Travel writer —  chronicle your adventures across the globe to give advice and inspiration to other travelers.
• Copywriter — write marketing copy for brands, companies, or organizations.
• Technical writer — turn complex jargon into concise information that users of a product or clients of a company can clearly understand.
• Web content writer — write online blog posts and articles for brands, companies, or organizations.
• Ghostwriter — write content on behalf of other people or organizations. Learn more about becoming a ghostwriter here!
• Grant writer — write documents to help organizations seeking grants.

The options are plentiful. But if you think you’ll need academic credentials, let's take a look at your choices in closer detail. 

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You needn't look too hard to find authors who emerged from MFA programs to establish glittering literary careers. For example, both Flannery O’Connor and Rachel Kushner are MFA babies.

Then again, you can find just as many authors who didn’t study anything related to writing and worked in completely unrelated industries before becoming bestsellers  — like Charles Bukowski (a postman), Haruki Murakami (a jazz club manager), and even Harper Lee (an airline ticket clerk). After all, life experience is a key ingredient of any good fiction.

Becoming a novelist doesn’t require any specific credentials beyond the ability to write (and market) a great story. Pursuing an MFA can certainly help you develop your craft , network with established and aspiring writers, or lead you to some creative writing gigs, but it’s not a shortcut to success. In addition, the majority of MFA programs focus on literary fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. So if you want to become a genre fiction writer rather than express yourself in verse , an MFA is likely not a necessary stepping stone for you.

Bachelor’s Degree (BA)

While higher education is not a required credential for becoming a novelist, academic qualifications can be more important for nonfiction writers. In many cases, success as a nonfiction author relies upon your subject authority and often necessitates the relevant credentials as proof. That might include a degree or other relevant experience in the field. Imagine yourself picking up a nonfiction book and turning it over to read the author's bio: what kind of credentials would assure you this is someone who knows what they’re talking about?

In terms of journalism, most news outlets will require applicants to have completed a Bachelor’s degree before adding them to the payroll. While majoring in journalism is certainly a sound option, many news outlets require a literature degree or similar, as you’ll have many of the same skills but no biases in your journalistic practices. It's also typical to double-major or major-minor in a combination of journalism and the field you’re interested in writing about.

Doctorate (Ph.D.) 

A Ph.D. in literature or creative writing is often preferred by people who want to teach literature or writing at college or university levels. Overall, a doctorate may also be appropriate if your writing draws extensively from academic research or scientific findings — as it will give you more subject-matter authority. 

Associate Degree

An associate degree typically lasts two years and can be more industry-focused than a BA. If you’re hoping to become a copywriter or web content writer, pursuing an associate degree in media, marketing, or writing might be a good way to lay the foundation for your career.

Certificate

Certificates are short-term programs that provide foundational education and skills-based training. They typically last a few weeks to a few months, and, as with the associate degree, it’s a good option if you want to get paid for your texts .

4. Seek opportunities to publish your work

If you’re an aspiring fiction writer, follow the likes of Ursula K. Le Guin and Ernest Hemingway, and get your foot in the door by submitting your short stories to magazines and contests. Here are a few places where you can do just that:

• Literary magazines accepting submissions: here
• Vetted writing contests and their deadlines: here
• Reedsy’s own weekly short story contest: here
• Publications accepting short story submissions: here

To ensure your t’s and i's are all properly crossed and dotted, here is a submissions checklist that’s sure to keep you straight!

Make the process of writing your first novel easier by using a story template like the one below.

FREE RESOURCE

Get our Book Development Template

Use this template to go from a vague idea to a solid plan for a first draft.

Nonfiction writers have ample opportunity to get their byline out in the world too. If there’s a particular niche you’re interested in, start by putting together a list of relevant publications. Most websites will have a submission section with guidelines for submitting a piece. 

Follow specific editors on Twitter to keep up with when magazines are accepting pitches. They will usually tweet when their inbox is open (and what they’re looking for in a pitch) — plus many of them are open to questions. If you don't know where to find them, look for names via magazine websites, the publication’s LinkedIn page, or simply use the Twitter search function. Editors of magazines usually tell you who they are in their Twitter bio!

Put your pitches and deadlines in a calendar

Next, get your ‘pitching calendar’ organized by listing the outlets you want to write for, your premise for each pitch, and any deadlines to keep in mind. You might also want to make note of any feedback you receive. For instance, an outlet might let you know that your piece wasn’t right for them “at this time,” or they might clarify what they’re looking for in more specific terms. 

Here are a few resources that connect writers with publications looking for submissions:

• Authors Publish Newsletter
• NewPages Classifications
• Funds for Writers Newsletter

Consider self-publishing

If you have a book idea you can’t stop thinking about (or are searching for inspiration ) and your goal is to see it materialized, then you might want to consider self-publishing. Getting your book out into the world is easier than it’s ever been, and we’ve detailed the whole process in another guide. Plus, you can do it in your own time. 

Though some traditionally published household names nab hundreds of thousands in advances, those are the outliers. Many more self-published authors make a living from their writing than their traditionally published counterparts: this report found that the number of indie authors earning five to six figures per year from book sales was much higher than the number of Big 5 authors earning the same. 

If you’re still on the fence about which publishing route to take, why not take this one-minute quiz to find out for sure which option is the most viable for you?

Is self-publishing or traditional publishing right for you?

Takes one minute!

Once you start to get a few publications under your belt, it’s time to put them together in a nicely bundled portfolio that shows the world (and potential clients) what you’re capable of. 

5. Create a strong portfolio 

Create a website

To create your own website, you must first register a domain name on services like GoDaddy or Namecheap (e.g. authorname.com), or sign up for a free site with services like WordPress, Wix, or SquareSpace (e.g. authorname.wordpress.com) 一 although the first option is more professional. If you're not too confident in your tech skills, consider hiring a professional web designer who can help you build a website that stands out.

Use a portfolio site

If you don’t want to spend too much time designing a website, you can always turn to a trusted portfolio site. All you need to do is create an account with them and input your personal information. Here are a few popular options:

• MuckRack: a popular platform for journalists and PR professionals.
• Contently: a useful site for content writers.
• Clippings.me: provides a clean-cut design for every kind of writer.

Perfect your website

Your author website should reflect your personality, list your credentials, and most importantly — show your work. 

There are different ways to present your portfolio: you could divide your writing into different niches like Jennifer Fernandez , or you could go for a concise bio that packs a punch in terms of insight into your professional background as in Alice Driver ’s portfolio. For author websites, it’s key to give visitors a clear route to buying any books you’ve published (check Austin Kleon ’s example). 

Once your website is live, it might take a while for word of mouth to spread and for job opportunities to come your way. So, while you get the ball rolling, consider reaching out to organizations that could help you support your dream (read: paying the bills!).

6. Apply for writing grants 

Here’s a reliable list of grants for you to peruse — some will have no stipulations regarding what the money is spent on, and others will be for specific reasons, like traveling to a writers’ retreat or conference. There are also many grants specifically intended to help marginalized communities get a leg up in the industry. Make sure you check out our video guide for some helpful advice on making a successful application.

Whether or not your career will benefit from scoring a grant, you’ll soon learn that if you want to reach new literary heights and establish yourself as a writer, you’ll need the help of other professionals in the space.

7. Collaborate with professional editors

An editor’s bread and butter is to revise your work so that it’s ready for the big stage, from spotting plot holes, improving text quality, and examining your manuscript for inconsistencies before its release. More than that, working with an editor will teach you about the ins and outs of the publishing industry — including the all-important standards and best practices of the literary world. 

Finding a good editor is always a type of collaboration worth investing in if you want to speed up your development and make a leap forward in your journey to become a professional writer.

Hopefully, this post has shown you how to get things going so that you can make writing a financially viable career. To wrap things up, there’s nothing quite as inspiring for budding writers as words of wisdom from those who have achieved writerly acclaim. So tuck into these brilliant books about writing, and then pick up your pen and get going. We look forward to seeing your name in print!

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How to Become a Writer

Learn what it takes to become a Writer in 2024, and how to start your journey.

• What is a Writer
• How to Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

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How do I become a Writer?

Develop your writing skills, build a writing portfolio, establish an online presence, network with writing professionals, seek publication and freelance opportunities, continue learning and adapting, typical requirements to become a writer, educational requirements and academic pathways, building experience in writing, key skills for aspiring writers, additional qualifications for a competitive edge, alternative ways to start a writer career, building a portfolio through freelancing, exploiting industry expertise, utilizing creative writing and storytelling, education and workshops, embracing digital media and content creation, how to break into the industry as a writer - next steps, faqs about becoming a writer, how long does it take to become a writer, do you need a degree to become a writer, can i become a writer with no experience.

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Crafting compelling narratives, engaging audiences with powerful words and ideas

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13 Ways To Become A Writer (2024)

It’s easier than ever to become a writer today. Here, we feature the skills you need to acquire and the most profitable careers paths available.

The writing advice and resources on this page apply to writers across various industries, niches and all types of writing. You can find resources for improving your writing skills , earning more money, and making an impact.

Writing Advice You Can Apply

If you need specific craft advice that will help you become a good writer, fear not!

On Become a Writer Today, I offer practical writing tips and advice for aspiring writers, authors, storytellers, copywriters, freelancers and more. Here’s a round-up of some of our best resources so you can express yourself clearly and accurately.

1. Pick A Genre Or Niche

Perhaps you want to write thrillers, science fiction, self-development or thriller books?

Start with one.

Most writers begin in a particular genre or niche. This approach gives them confines within which to create and also helps them determine who their ideal reader is.

Read the work of other successful writers in your niche of choice, study their work and then write a piece with your take.

Writing within a specific genre or niche and for particular audiences isn’t a bad thing. It increases your chances of finding more readers and earning more money as a writer.

Later on, when you’re comfortable with a specific genre or niche, you try another. Neil Gaiman started as a graphic novel storyteller. Now, he writes across many genres and media for adults and children.

2. Use The Right Writing Tools

Whatever type of writer you are, we profile the writing tools all types of creatives, including authors, bloggers and novelists, need to achieve their writing goals.

If you’re writing online for the first time, we also profile some of the best writing apps from across the internet, one of which will suit your creative workflow.

Discover the writing tools you need.

3. Beat Writer’s Block

Many new writers worry about turning up in front of the blank page and not having anything to write about. However, professional writers have more trouble determining what to spend time on than searching for a good idea.

You can quickly solve creative problems like writer’s block by reading great writing books, taking writing courses, journaling, and creating a system for capturing ideas as you come across them during your daily life.

Learn how to beat writer’s block .

4. Improve Your Storytelling Skills

Whether it’s an article, blog post or book chapter, the best writing informs, educates, inspires or entertains readers. Good writers and authors understand the art of storytelling. And they regularly use techniques like the hero’s journey .

If you want to become a good writer, it’s not enough to convey information on the page. You must be able to do so in a way that the reader finds memorable and engaging. That’s why we tell stories, and that’s why people read them.

Read our storytelling guide

5. Use A Grammar Checker

Many people you want to become a better writer worry about expressing themselves in the English language.

They also worry about publishing work – grammatically incorrect, unclear, confusing for readers.

You can become a better writer by publishing early and often and gradually improving your skills.

It’s easier never to improve your skills as a writer today by taking online writing courses, studying the basic grammar rules, and learning practical skills that authentic writers can use, including storytelling and writing persuasively.

Read our guide to the best grammar checker .

6. Treat Your Writing Career Like A Business

If you want to write on the side of the busy full-time day job or personal family commitments, that’s fine. Writing is a fun, creative, and rewarding way to spend free time.

But if you want to quit a dull day job and get paid full-time as a professional writer, it’s easier than ever to leap.

You can get paid for publishing books on Amazon, working as a freelance writer, copywriter, or creating content that readers, clients, and business owners love.

Compared to years ago, it’s easier never to build a lasting, profitable writing career. The trick is to become a successful writer is to treat it like a business.

Work on your craft and improve your writing skills every day by taking online courses for writers, reading the best writing books and more. Also, work on your business every day by building your brand and pitching for new writing jobs.

7. Master Self-Editing

Good writers know how to edit their work. They also separate writing and editing into tasks they perform at different times of the day. You can edit your own writing with the help of Grammarly or ProWritingAid. A good self-editing checklist helps too.

We also recommend following Robert A. Heinlein’s 5 Rules For Writers:

1. You must write. 2. You must finish what you write . 3. You must refrain from rewriting, except to editorial order. 4. You must put the work on the market. 5. You must keep the work on the market until it is sold. Robert Heinlein

That said, for longer pieces of work, it’s always best to enlist the help of a professional editor.

Get a self-editing checklist

8. Listen To Writing Podcasts

Years ago, many of the most successful writers and authors were inaccessible. As readers or lovers of their writing, we can only learn from them and their creative approach by reading their books. These days, many successful writers run their podcasts to build better relationships with their readers.

You can become a better writer by either starting a podcast aimed at your ideal audience or listening to popular writing podcasts and practising some of the lessons and writing advice you discover on these shows.

Listen to the best writing podcasts .

9. Pursue Creative Writing

Not every creative wants to get paid for their work. Some people prefer exploring creative writing because they like playing with words and expressing themselves on the page.

You can quickly improve your creative writing skills through lecturing and free writing. Creative writing can take many different forms, including journalling and poetry.

Practicing creative writing is also an excellent way to improve your craft, translating into meaningful work later on.

Learn how to master the creative process .

10. Practice Short-Story Writing

Writing short stories is a great way to improve your storytelling skills and practice different genres.

You don’t need a bachelor’s degree or creative writing MFA either. It’s a good approach if you want to learn how to write without investing a lot of time or resources.

11. Conquer Your Writing Fears

Many aspiring creatives are afraid of what people think of their work, that they’ll make mistakes in public, and face rejection.

If you want to become a professional writer, the biggest problem isn’t what people will think of you or your work, and it’s getting their attention in the first place.

Chances are an editor or even a reader will call you out on a typo or a mistake in your work at some point. But, the days of mistakes set in print permanently are over.

You can easily find, fix and rewrite these stakes and then move on. It’s better to learn from your failure than be held back by a fear of writing.

Editors of popular publications will reject or even ignore your pictures, but that doesn’t mean you should stop trying to gain a foothold in the market. Everyone has to start somewhere. Twelve different publishers rejected the author JK Rowling

Learn how to your writing fears .

12. Abandon Perfectionism

When I started writing, I spent hours every evening for months revising the same sentences. I wanted them to sound perfect, but no matter how many times I edited and rewrote them, I always found room for improvement.

If you want to find success as a writer, abandon pursuing perfectionism. It’s simply procrastination in disguise.

By all means, write and publish something you’re proud of, but if perfectionism is holding you back from pitching an editor, publishing an article or writing a book, you’re doing yourself a disservice.

It’s better to get feedback about a piece of finished writing from an editor and readers about your craft than working on a single story endlessly. That way, you can improve as a writer, and you can also take on more writing projects.

Learn how to beat procrastination

13. Learn How To Use Jobs Boards

If you want to find paying work fast or to see what opportunities exist for professional writers, browsing jobs boards is a great way of getting a feel of the market.

You can see the different types of publications and websites looking for writers, what type of niches they operate in, and potentially how much they pay.

UpWork and The ProBlogger jobs board are both good resources for aspiring content creators, bloggers and anyone who wants to break into a particular market or niche.

If you’re ready to take your writing career more seriously, you consider signing up for premiums jobs for service like FlexJobs.

Apply for many different writing jobs as editors can take a long time to get back to you, if at all. Plus, supplement your job applications by building relationships directly with editors on Twitter.

Find the best writing jobs .

The Most Profitable Writing Careers

Writers can pick from a variety of career paths. You don’t need to confine yourself to one either. For example, an indie author can easily supplement their income by blogging or freelance writing.

We cover some of the options available.

1. Try Freelance Writing

The easiest way to earn money as a professional writer is to become a freelance writer.

If you’re comfortable working the written word, it’s relatively easy to find clients and produce content for them.

You can find work as a freelance writer and earn a couple of hundred dollars each month while working another day job. Many new writers find it’s relatively easy to make money on Medium.

When you’ve an established profile, more opportunities than ever exist for freelance writers today like Writer Access or UpWork.

Become a freelance writer .

Listen to the story of freelance writer Zulie Rane.

2. Become A Content Writer

The internet thrives on content. A content writer produces articles, ebooks, guides, PDFs and even social media posts for clients. They also understand the basics of search engine optimisation, and they get paid well for doing it.

If you want to become a content writer, pick an industry or niche related to your hobbies, skills, or interests.

Then, start related informational articles on a website you own. Alternatively, set yourself up as a professional content writer and work with clients. A content writer gets paid anywhere from two to ten cents a word.

Want to get started? Practice these content writing exercises .

3. Become A Copywriter

A copywriter writes words that sell products and services and usually for business owners or clients.

Copywriters are paid more than traditional freelance writers because it’s a particular skill set requires understanding what customers want and translating their needs into persuasive copy.

Copywriting is an excellent skill to learn because even if you move on, knowing how to write effective copy will help you sell more of your digital products, courses and books. A good copywriter can easily earn over six figures a year writing sales pages, email funnels and other content.

Become a copywriter

4. Start A Blog

If you’re comfortable with the written word, start a blog.

Blogging is a long-term project, and it takes many months to pay off.

You can make a name for yourself by guest posting on popular websites in your niche and by building an email list.

Then, when your blog starts to attract website traffic, start blogging on your site and cultivate a loyal relationship with readers. Starting a blog is also a good approach if you plan to go from blog to book.

Start a blog

5. Write Fiction

Fiction writers can get paid to write by entering writing competitions or by publishing books.

Indie novelists earn a good living by writing a series and building their back catalogue. Some of the bestselling genres include romance, mystery, and thrillers.

Even if you’re going down the traditional publishing route, it’s still a good idea to learn the basics of book marketing as book promotion is up to the author.

So, get comfortable with approaches like advertising on Amazon, email marketing and building an author website.

6. Self-Publish A Book

Years ago, writing and publishing that first book meant finding a book agent and getting accepted by a book publisher. Even then, success wasn’t guaranteed.

Now, it’s easier than ever for anyone to write and self-publishing their first book, thanks to Amazon Kindle and other self-publishing options for creatives.

Once you understand the costs of self-publishing a book , you can get paid as an author of fiction or non-fiction books.

If you learn the basics of advertising, expect to earn between $250 and $1000 from your first book. Publish on Amazon and you will earn up to 70% royalties on your book. Traditionally published authors make between 10% and 12%.

Learn how to write a book .

7. Turn Your Non-Fiction Book Into A Course

If you want to earn a living writing non-fiction books, it’s certainly possible. However, many successful non-fiction authors don’t rely solely on a book to make a living writing.

Their non-fiction books build credibility for their work as a coach, teacher or creative entrepreneur.

Creatives can turn many of the ideas inside of the non-fiction book into an online course. Alternatively, if you enjoy blogging, try going from blog to blog to earn a good living from your writing. Online course sells for anywhere between $49 and $2000 plus, depending on the audience and niche.

Learn how to turn your writing into a course .

8. Write For A Magazine

Writing for a magazine is considered a prestigious writing gig. It’s appealing to see your name in print in a magazine in the shop.

Up until a few years ago, many magazines paid their freelance writers enough to live on. Thanks to the internet, it’s much harder for a magazine to break even. As a result, many magazines cut rates for freelance writers and magazine gigs are drying up.

What’s more, many readers are more likely to read articles online than in a traditional magazine. If you still want to write for a magazine, establish a personal brand.

Build up a portfolio of writing articles, and put them on your website. This approach may mean writing for free for a short period.

Next, find a few magazines in your niche and learn how to pitch an editor with good ideas. That said, you’re unlikely to earn a good full-time living by writing solely for magazines. It’s much easier to earn a good living writing online.

A magazine writer usually gets paid by commission, per piece or by word. Rates range from ten cents upwards.

9. Become A Technical Writer

Technical writing involves writing up procedures, informational articles, checklists, documentation and other literature products, services and internal company processes.

As writing careers go, it pays relatively well as a subject matter can be complex if dry.

A technical writer understands how to break down complex ideas and tasks into step-by-step processes, checklists and procedures that anyone can follow.

Thanks to the proliferation of software as a service and working from home opportunities, an aspiring technical writer can easily build a lucrative career from their home office.

Technical writing is good springboard into other types of writing, for example, copywriting, content writing, and writing for experience design.

A technical writer’s salary starts at under $40,000 but experienced senior technical writers can earn six figures a year.

10. Become A Children’s Book Author

Becoming an author of a thriller or mystery book or contemporary fiction involves writing thousands of words over the course of several months, to say nothing of revising and reworking the manuscript prior to publication. But, a good children’s book usually isn’t longer than a few hundred words.

These authors rely on a captivating hook to gain readers’ attention and on compelling imagery that illustrators can turn into pictures and other graphical elements.

If you enjoy reading children’s books, have kids or like simple but memorable stories, writing a children’s book is a good way to become an author without necessarily quitting your day job.

11. Become A Ghost Writer

Many of the bestselling titles you see on bookshelves by celebrities, entrepreneurs, politicians and public figures aren’t written by the person on the cover. A ghostwriter interviews the author and turns their life story and key ideas into a book in many cases.

Or they take a manuscript or early drafts created by the public figure or celebrity and rewrite it until it’s publishable. Becoming a ghostwriter is a lucrative career.

Still, it involves understanding how to interviewer people, translate life experiences into stories without losing some of the tone of voice and knowing how to write a book.

According to Salary.com, a ghostwriter can earn anywhere between $23,834 to $61,704 per year.

12. Join The Medium Parter Progam

The Medium Partner program pays writers each month for writing and publishing articles about entrepreneurship, personal development relationships, and other topics. Anyone can join.

About 6.4% of writers on Medium earn over $100 per month. That is a small percentage and those are full-time writers. They get featured on the homepage.

Read our guide to Making Money on Medium

Listen to advice from a top Medium publication owner

13. Start a Newsletter

Newsletters are a tried and tested monetisation method for content creators. They’re ideal for writers too. You don’t need to worry about any of the technical parts of running a website, assuming you’re comfortable promoting your newsletter to attract subscribers.

Learn how to start a newsletter readers love.

Listen to an interview with Substack founder Hamish McKenzie

My name is Bryan Collins, the founder of Become a Writer Today. I work with other writers to publish content that will help you earn a living, make an impact and share your stories with the world.

How to Become a Writer: FAQ

What does it take to become a writer.

Learn how to tell compelling stories that readers find inspiring, entertaining, educational or informative. Write every day and work on improving your craft. If you want to get paid to write, spent part of the day working on your business.

Also, consider what type of writer you want to become. Do you want to write fiction or non-fiction? Would you like to get paid for freelance writing, copywriting for blogging? Or perhaps you want to self publish books on Amazon?

It’s all possible with focus and hard work.

Do You Need A Degree To Become A Writer?

Some aspiring writers wonder if they need to get a bachelors degree or even an MFA in English for creative writing.

Take it from a professionally trained journalist: an academic program can certainly help you improve your English and storytelling skills, but it’s not a replacement for doing the work.

Anyone can become a writer, no matter their education. Many authors, like JK Rowling and Roald Dahl, didn’t pursue formal training, like a creative MFA, and they still found success as a writer.

How Can I Get Started As A Writer?

Sit down at a desk and eliminate all distractions and interruptions. Open up your word processor or even get a piece of paper and a pen.

Now, get a timer and start writing about whatever is on your mind for 15 minutes or until you produce 300-words. Don’t stop to question yourself or edit your work.

Your job is to get words out of your head and onto the blank page. (Hint: Use the Pomodoro Technique to Write). The following day, repeat this process. Keep going for several days, gradually building up your word count and time spent writing training.

By turning up consistently, you’ll learn more about the types of writing you’re good at and cultivate the discipline it takes to create regularly.

Once you’ve created a consistent writing routine, you can take the next step: writing stories, building a freelance writing career or blogging.

Do You Need a Creative Writing Degree to Succeed as a Writer?

by Melissa Donovan | Mar 7, 2023 | Creative Writing | 50 comments

Do you need a creative writing degree?

Young and new writers often ask whether they need a creative writing degree in order to become an author or professional writer.

I’ve seen skilled and talented writers turn down opportunities or refuse to pursue their dreams because they feel their lack of a creative writing degree means they don’t have the credibility necessary to a career in writing.

Meanwhile, plenty of writers with no education, minimal writing skills, and scant experience in reading and writing are self-publishing, freelance writing, and offering copywriting services.

It’s an oft-asked question: Do you need a creative writing degree to succeed as a writer? Is it okay to write and publish a book if you don’t have a degree or if your degree is in something other than English or the language arts?

Before I go further, I should reveal that although I did earn a degree in creative writing, I don’t think a degree is necessary. But there is a caveat to my position on this issue: While I don’t think a degree is necessary, I certainly think it’s helpful. I also think that some writers will have a hard time succeeding without structured study and formal training whereas others are self-disciplined and motivated enough to educate themselves to the extent necessary to establish a successful writing career.

Five Things I Learned in Creative Writing Class

Do you need a creative writing degree.

First of all, a degree is not necessary to success in many fields, including writing. There are plenty of examples of individuals who became wildly successful and made meaningful contributions without any college degree whatsoever: Bill Gates, Abraham Lincoln, and Walt Disney, to name a few.

In the world of writing, the list of successful authors who did not obtain a degree (let alone a creative writing degree) is vast. Here is a small sampling: Louisa May Alcott, Maya Angelou, Jane Austen, William Blake, Ray Bradbury, Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens), Charles Dickens, Ernest Hemingway, Jack London, Edgar Allen Poe, Beatrix Potter, and JD Salinger.

So you obviously do not need a creative writing degree in order to succeed. After all, some of the greatest writers in history didn’t have a degree. Why should you?

A Creative Writing Degree is Not a Bad Idea

On the other hand, the degree definitely won’t hurt your chances. In fact, it will improve your chances. And if you struggle with writing or self-discipline, then the process of earning a degree will be of great benefit to you.

A college education might indeed be necessary for a particular career, such as a career in law or medicine. In fields of study where a degree is not a requirement, it often prepares you for the work ahead by teaching you specific skills and techniques and by forcing you to become knowledgeable about your field.

However, there is an even greater value in the the process of earning a degree. You become knowledgeable and educated. You learn how to learn, how to work without close supervision, and you are exposed to the wisdom of your instructors as well as the enthusiasm and support of your peers. College is a great environment for development at any age or in any field.

Earning a degree is also a testament to your drive and ability to complete a goal without any kind of immediate reward or gratification. College is not easy. It’s far easier to get a full-time job and buy lots of cool stuff. It’s more fun to spend your nights and weekends hanging out with your friends than staying in and studying. A college degree is, in many ways, a symbol representing your capacity to set out and accomplish a long-term goal.

Know Yourself

If you possess strong writing skills and are somewhat of an autodidact (a person who is self-taught), then you may not need a degree in creative writing. For some such people, a degree is completely unnecessary. On the other hand, if your writing is weak or if you need guidance and would appreciate the help of instructors and peers, maybe you do need a creative writing degree.

If you’re planning on going to college simply because you want to earn a degree and you hope to be a writer someday, you might as well get your degree in creative writing since that’s what you’re passionate about. On the other hand, if you hope to write biographies of famous actors and directors and you already write well, you might be better off studying film (and possibly minoring in creative writing).

You may be the kind of person who needs the validation of a degree. Maybe you’re an excellent writer but you’d feel better putting your work out there if you could back it up (even in your own mind) with that piece of paper that says you have some expertise in this area. Or you might be the kind of person who is confident enough to plunge into the career of a writer without any such validation.

You might find that time and money are barriers to earning a degree. If you have responsibilities that require you to work full time and if you’re raising a family, obtaining a degree might not be in the cards, either in terms of time or money. You might be better off focusing what little free time you have on reading and writing. But there are other options if you’ve got your heart set on a creative writing degree: look for accredited online colleges, find schools that offer night and weekend classes, and open yourself to the idea that you can take ten years rather than four years to complete your higher education.

Finally, some people have a desire to get a degree but they feel they’re too old. I personally think that’s a bunch of hogwash. You’re never too old to learn or obtain any kind of education. When I was just out of high school, I attended a college with many students who were middle-aged and older. I had tremendous respect for them, and they brought a lot of wisdom to our classes, which balanced out the youthful inexperience of my other, much younger classmates. I don’t care if you’re eighteen, forty-two, or seventy, if you have a hankering to do something, go do it!

Making Tough Decisions

Ultimately, the decision rests with each of us. Do you need a creative writing degree? Only you can answer that question.

If you’re still not sure, then check with a local school (a community college is a good place to start) and make an appointment with an adviser in the English Department. If you’re in high school, get in touch with your school’s career counselor. Sometimes, these professionals can help you evaluate your own needs to determine which is the best course of action for you. But in the end, make sure whatever decision you make about your education is one that you’ve carefully weighed and are comfortable with.

And whether you earn a degree in creative writing or not, keep writing!

Most Successful People Who Never Went to College Famous Autodidacts

50 Comments

I think in some cases it can hinder or stifle creativity. I am actually glad I did not go to school for writing. When I hear the words creative and degree together they don’t mesh for me. You can go to school and learn about punctuation and grammar, but creativity comes from real life and growth and learning through experience. Just my opinion – but I only learned about poetry in climbing tree.

Hi Nicole. I appreciate your thoughts on the matter, but since you didn’t go to school for writing, how can you know that creativity cannot come through academic means or through study? I strongly believe that a degree is unnecessary for success in writing, but I personally found that it sped up my development and did in fact stimulate my creativity. Specifically, I would say that being surrounded by creative people (other students, in particular) is excellent for promoting creative thinking. Also, writing is only one small piece of what a successful writer must do. In fact, I learned very little about punctuation and grammar during my time in the creative writing program and I learned a lot about my own creative process. Probably the biggest benefit for me, personally, was exposure to many wonderful authors and poets that I otherwise might not have discovered. While I don’t think college is necessary, I have to strongly disagree that it stifles creativity. But I do respect your opinion and perhaps you had some experience in school or observing other writers in which it did stifle creativity. I can only speak from my own experience, which was highly positive.

Hey all! I’m torn too: I went to art school for 4 years for a degree in painting. I learned a lot and am grateful, because art school added: ways to be cognizant of art, writing about my art and the work of others, and how to be a really great critic.

Only problem was, in a lot of ways, art school also beat down my self confidence and robbed me of some of my intrinsic motivation to make art. It became less spontaneous and more cerebral.

As of late, I’ve turned to creative writing for a creative outlet that has not been…well, I won’t say ruined, so I’ll go with, hasn’t been tampered with. And I find myself in a place where I can definitely improve (A LOT!), but I’m not sure if a formal degree will do it. I am playing with the idea of taking some informal workshops though…

Do you think school for the visual arts is at all comparable to school for creative writing? Maybe it doesn’t help that the folks in my year of art school had some pretty nasty and rude people when it came to critiques!!!

Ray, thanks for sharing your experience. I was hoping someone would offer a different perspective. I can understand how undergraduate work may seem to inhibit creativity and make the process more cerebral. This is where we get into an extremely hazy area of art and creativity. I believe that the spontaneous expressions come from our emotions and personal life experiences. They are strictly expressions. When we bring a cerebral quality to our work, we are usually looking to make a statement or observation. The former cannot be learned. It comes from the inside. The latter, however, is the result of critical thinking. I think it’s unfortunate that you did not find yourself in an educational setting that was positive and supportive. I am not sure how visual arts schools are similar or different from schools for creative writing. If you’re interested in pursuing creative writing, my suggestion would be to sign up for a class and try it out or request a meeting with someone in the creative writing department to get a sense of the program and the people in it.

One final note – it’s my personal opinion that people being rude or nasty during critiques is absolutely unacceptable. If there was an instructor present, I would say the responsibility falls to him or her. Their job is to moderate critique sessions and provide an environment conductive to positive development. I once signed up for a class, and within the first two weeks it was clear to me that the instructor did not have students’ best interests at heart. I dropped the class and the following semester, took the class with another teacher.

I can see where you’re coming from, but college is so very different from high school. The public secondary education focuses on “STEM” (science/math, basically) rather than STEAM (science/math and the arts — as in. a liberal education.) Most universities (public or private) encourage creative thought, even in degrees that are not considered ‘uselessly’ artistic by ignorant politicians. It depends on the university one attends (although I am transferring, the University of Oregon pushes for artistic and creative thought in all fields, and is not at all stifling) but, for the most part, a writing degree would not detach students from ‘real life’ experiences. Many students are living on their own and working full-time. Some are married and have a family and bills to pay, etc. Normally they would not have encouragement from highly knowledgeable faculty to pursue a craft that is not considered practical in the ‘real world.’

I agree with this. I started a masters in professional writing and took a class on nonfiction essays (creative essays) and I tell you what, I have NEVER produced so much writing, and so much good writing. In this class, we just BOUNCED off one another SO WELL. I left each class on fire with ideas and feedback. Best class I EVER took.

I have a BA in English and it’s helped me get paid to write. I freelance for companies, websites and magazines, and many of them love to see the degree. So, I stand out from the crowd a bit. It’s been helpful.

It’s amazing how being surrounded by other creative writers promotes our own creativity. I had the same experience when I was taking classes – I was constantly writing and coming up with ideas. I also feel that having a BA boosts my credibility as a self-employed writer. While I don’t think the BA is necessary, I also know some clients and employers consider it a requirement.

I have to agree with Allena. I have a BA in English and I think it really helps in the freelancing career. Many clients want to hire a professional qualified in English literature, journalism or another field related to writing.

I have pondered the idea of going back to uni and getting a degree in the Arts but I am not sure if it is entirely worth my time and money. I have, however, invested time in some short courses in writing, in order to learn about structure, pace and all those tools which you really need to understand to be able to write well.

There was also the added benefit of spending time with like-minded people who understood my passion and encouraged me to fulfill my potential. I may not have earned a piece of paper at the end of them but they were definitely worth my time.

It’s one of those decisions each person has to make for herself. I think it depends a lot on your personal goals, lifestyle, and available resources. I am a huge advocate for higher education. My general advice is always this: if you can go to school and want to, then do it. On the other hand, if you want to be a novelist and already have the skills and self-discipline, your time is probably better spent writing the novel.

I agree that a creative writing degree is not necessary but certainly very helpful. I believe getting proper education will always be good for anyone; whatever career you are in. As for me, I did not major in writing or in a course related to it because I was still undecided back then. I was passionate about writing but I just did not pursue it because I was afraid that I will not succeed as a writer.

Now, I really want to enroll myself in a writing course. While waiting for that opportunity, I try my best to self-educate through reading and learning from other writers.

I couldn’t agree more!

A great topic for discussion! I have a Creative Writing degree but augmented it with writer’s conferences and online research. So much helpful information out there these days. I posted this on the Writing Platform Facebook page. Well done.

Writing is one of those crafts for which learning never ends. Thanks for sharing this post on Facebook. I appreciate it.

Hi, Melissa! I studied psychology for 4 years in university. I had to quit, so I didn’t get the degree, but studying there gave me lots of knowledge and I also met really awesome people – students and teachers, and I made great friends. You can’t have such things if you learn only by yourself at home. Meeting other writers while getting creative writing degree is probably one of most important reasons for doing it. Unless you don’t like humans at all 😀

Yes, and I would add that for many people, simply taking a few classes can make a world of difference. For example, one could take a creative writing class at a local community college. If a writer is working on their own and struggling with grammar, a single, basic course in English or writing may be just the solution. Taking a class here and there may or may not lead to pursuing a full degree, but it will definitely impart many benefits to any writer.

Great article! Very encouraging. Most of what I’ve read online has been much the opposite.

What would you say about majoring in an education degree not specific to English, while also pursuing a master’s in creative writing?…with the intent to eventually teach writing and social studies at a college level. I know that’s incredibly specific and probably abnormal, but I honesty do not want to major in English. I love literature and all forms of composition (even the dreaded academic essay) but my true interest lies in the intricacy of the human psyche and how the past has shaped our contemporary world..

Katie, it doesn’t really matter what I think because the choice you make will shape your life, not mine. Having said that, I think you’ve got a good, solid plan. Also, I think social studies and creative writing go together quite nicely.

I am in India. I just passed 10th grade. The thing is i want to become a writer/novelist/author. 3 reasons-

1. Writing is my passion 2. I have started writing( 1st novel almost complete). 3. I love literature. I mean that’s the only thing that gets inside my brain and i always excel in English.

So my question are– 1. Do i need to take up arts/humanities? ( because i want an environment with political views and literature and wont only be writing novels and stuff, i would also like to write for magazines etc. Doing arts will help me write and improve whereas in non-med i have study science which i have started hating though its easy but because of this realization that my writings will take years to reach the people ) Is it really that important?

2. Is a college degree in creative writing required? Will it help me?

Tanvir, plenty of writers carve out a career for themselves without a college degree at all, so you can go forth and study whatever you want in school. Certainly, a degree in creative writing will do a lot to make you a better writer, but you can also accomplish that on your own through work and study. If you are absolutely positive that all you want to do is become a writer, then I say study creative writing. I earned a BA in creative writing and I wasn’t even sure that’s what I wanted to do with my life. What I learned in college has served me well. However, and I can’t emphasize this enough, it is by no means a prerequisite. Good luck to you.

Hi I am a young women who has always been told that being a writer is not a very good feild to work in because you must move to the city, it is hard to support a family on the income,and it is hard to get a book published, or maintain relationships, if you are successful. I have always wanted to be a writer and now i am considering college but the thing is that i am not sure if i should become a nurse or writer or both? or neither and just try my luck with writing with out an education in the feild since i feal as though i am good enough at creative thinking.

Why would a writer have to move to the city? Writing is one of the few jobs that you can do from just about anywhere, as long as you have a computer (journalism being the exception). I also don’t see why it would be hard to maintain relationships if you are a successful writer (at least not any more than with any other career). I’m not sure where you’re getting this advice, but I think it’s a little inaccurate. It’s true that most writers don’t make a living from their work at first, which means they need a day job. It is hard to get a book published through a traditional publishing house, but it’s also possible. Self-publishing is another option.

If you truly want to be a writer, there’s no reason you shouldn’t pursue it. Will you make it? That’s entirely up to you.

I also think studying nursing and writing sounds like a good idea. You can double major in both or you could minor in creative writing. That will give you a solid nursing career for your day job and you can write on the side.

Hey there Melissa,

I’m planning to do a course in Creative Writing, and I’ve been looking everywhere for the perfect one. Which university did you do your Masters at? Were you completely satisfied? Was it everything you were expecting? I was looking out for a one year Masters course, most are for two.

I didn’t do a Masters, I did a BA, so I’m afraid I can’t give you any advice on which ones are good.

I think if you check on Google you will find a few. Most are two years like you said but the one year programs are usually scholarships and are kinda jam-packed. check carefully and you’d find what suits you for sure.

Melissa, keep the flag flying.

Surely, it is important to define what you mean by ‘writing’. If you want to have any chance of breaking into published work, tthen I would say a writing degree is a prerequisite. If you are writing for a small group — or just for yourself — it doesn’t matter a hoot. Many of the examples you gave us aren’t really relevant as so few people in the past went to university to do anything at all.

I went to a school decided upon by a selective examination and we were told when we started that only about 2% of us should have any thoughts of going to university, and that techincal qualifivcations, such as National Certificates, were the best we could aspire to for the remaining 98%.

Essentially, the whole thing comes back to the old, and quite impossible to answer question of talent vs skill. If you have the talent, an arts degree will help; if you don’t, all you can expect to be is an amateur (and usually not very good) scribbler. The ability to write a grammatically correct sentence does not make you a story-teller — and it never will.

I have to respectfully disagree with you, opsimath. Most of the authors I know who are currently building successful careers did not go to college at all, and few of those who did attend university studied writing. You can (and many have) become expert writers and storytellers without learning how to do it in school. In fact, I would say that I learned very little about grammar and storytelling in college, and I was a creative writing major. Also, the very fact that historically, authors did not study the craft in formal settings is proof that formal study is not a necessity. History has produced hundreds of eloquent authors who managed to master the craft without formal schooling, and writing hasn’t changed so much that we’re living in times where a degree has become mandatory.

Having said that, we all have to put in the time and work in order to succeed. The point is that whatever you might learn in school, you can also learn outside of school if you know how to find the right mentors and resources. A degree gives anyone an advantage, but in the field of writing, it is not a prerequisite for success or expertise. And I say that as someone who is a firm advocate for higher education. Obviously, there are some exceptions; for example, you probably do need a journalism degree or a computer science degree if you want to be a journalist or technical writer, but for storytellers and other creative nonfiction writers, it is an option, not a requirement. There are other ways to acquire the skills and expertise you need to succeed as a storyteller.

A good idea, I think, would be to take a few courses at the local community college, or online if there isn’t a school nearby, to get an idea on how effective a class environment will be for you. I need a structured peer group to thrive at anything in life, yet my husband was miserable at a liberal arts college. I have to sign up for a class at the gym to lose weight – I can’t just get up in the morning to jog or do laps at the pool alone, even with a partner I’m not as motivated as when I’m in a group lead by an experienced mentor. The same goes for writing. I have to join writing groups to find inspiration to work on my novel, otherwise I don’t have enough self-discipline to finish it. Yeah, maybe that makes those of us like me kind of lame, but if we know how to fix it we can get motivated greatness (:

Also, look into financial aid, grants, and scholarships if it’s not something you can afford. You’d be surprised at what is available to those from all walks of life.

Excellent advice, Katie!

I graduated with a Creative Writing degree. In some ways, it’s been beneficial for the reasons you mentioned. I feel like I’ve earned the right to call myself a writer. But if you’re boy putting those skills into practice, then what was the point of slaving for four years? On the flip side, I feel like I really didn’t understand the skills and techniques of other writers. Part of it was due to a lack of reading other works. Some of it was I was busy comparing myself to others that I didn’t pay attention to nuances in their work.

Sometimes, I feel like I entered the wrong field because I haven’t done anything with my degree. I haven’t published anything, nor am I working on something grand like a novel. But then I remember why I pursued the major in the first place: I have a passion for writing. The validation is nice and I can claim the fact that I graduated from college. At the heart if it all is the passion to create stories. Recently, after some soul searching, I decided to take up the pen again. But because I’ve been out of practice for so long, I feel like I beef to go back to school and brush up on my craft. Maybe take an online course or two or get involved in a writing group.

Degree or not, I love writing, and my desire is to get better at what I love.

For me, the greatest benefit of going to college and earning a degree in creative writing was that it broadened my worldview, which has little to do with a career or even writing. I gained a better understanding of the world on various levels. Much of the knowledge I gained isn’t practical as far as making money, but I feel like it made me a better person.

I think we in the western world are programmed to think that any kind of learning must translate directly to dollars. This leads someone to ask a question like what’s the use of my degree if I’m not working in the field? . But I think it’s safe to say that most of us who attended college gained something intellectual or emotional that can’t be measured in financial earnings or career development.

It’s never too late to get back into writing! If you’re feeling called to it, I say go for it, and have fun! Good luck to you.

Really interesting to read this post as I started my degree in Creative Writing last year through the Open University. Whilst I’ve always had a writer’s soul, I’ve been away from writing for around a decade (having picked up a camera instead) and felt doing the degree would give me the jump start I needed to get back on the writing path. It’s already doing that and I’m keen to start working for myself in the next year or so, whilst also finishing off my degree.

I have had people say to me, “Why are you doing that, it’s a pointless degree!” But, when I suddenly decided late last year that I wanted to get myself a qualification so I could leave my long-term career as a Paramedic, once and for all, I knew I should only take on a subject that I had a passion for, otherwise what was the point?!

I’m looking forward to getting started with the second stage this coming October and I can’t wait to start writing for a living as well!

Over the years, I’ve heard from a lot of writers whose decision to study creative writing was challenged by the people in their lives. I think a lot people view college as nothing more than a path to some kind of guaranteed high-paying job, such as a position in business, law, the medical field, etc. A career in writing is probably more risky, but it’s just as valid as any other career. Anyway, congratulations on your return to writing. I also think it’s great that you’re a paramedic and have something to fall back on or rely on while you launch your writing career.

I graduated in BSc Nursing in India…I did it because it has good scope but failed to develop interest in the field…I always loved writing and want to pursue my career in writing…I am not sure if it requires a bachelor’s degree in arts or literature or creative writing ! Also i am thinking of moving to Canada for my postgraduation …And this is the time when i can change my field from nursing to writing and finally do what i like doing… my question is ….is it necessary to have a bachelors degree in creative writing for doing master’s in it ?

Hi Prachi. You would need to check the requirements for the Master’s program that you’re applying for.

Thank you for your perspective on the value of obtaining a degree in creative writing. I found your argument balanced and, on the whole I agree with your view, which is (as I understand it “horses for courses”, I.E. what suits one person (a creative writing degree) will not, necessarily suit another individual.

I agree with you that a degree demonstrates commitment (mine is in history and politics, plus a MA in political theory). I don’t feel the need to obtain a degree in creative writing (and I understand the concerns of those who fear that doing so may actually stifle their creativity). I do, however no of several writers (who’s work I enjoy) who do hold degrees in creative writing. However I have another friend who writes extremely well but does not hold a creative writing qualification of any description. So it is, in the final analysis “horses for courses”.

Best – Kevin

Everybody has different learning styles and curves and talents. Writing is one of those fields in which if you’re willing to put in the work, you can do fine.

This is an interesting post, Melissa. Thanks for sharing. 🙂 — Suzanne

Thanks, Suzanne.

You’ve hit the nail on the head when you cite the people who are great in their fields without a degree to prove it. The creative writing degree probably didn’t exist when they were in education. It didn’t when I was at college. One of the important things to do at college is something you like, that you will put the necessary effort in to show that you know how to learn, how to express yourself, and how to get by in life. But if you want to write successfully now, you owe it to your readers to learn about the business, learn how to be a good writer, and a better writer, and to value the continuous process of learning. That doesn’t necessarily mean a degree. And yes, it might well stifle your creativity before you can let it free again.

That’s true. For many of them, such a degree might not have been available. At some point, I believe “English” would have the relevant degree. My degree is technically an English degree “with a concentration in creative writing.” Semantics. I agree with you 100% about putting in the work to learn the craft!

Great Article, Academic writing is so different from creative writing, and that is so different from Copywriting. I am a self-taught copywriter. Most of my learning had to do with learning how to market. My creative writing diploma was a big plus.

Yes, every form of writing is different. Some skills are necessary to all forms, however.

Thank you very much for this reading. I think it was exactly what I needed right now. 😉

You’re welcome, Dave!

Hi Melissa! My son is about to graduate high school and is not college bound, he has an extreme lack of interest in school. He is an extremely talented and creative writer and his passion is to have a career in writing. What would be your advice to a young writer, like him, who doesn’t know where to start or what his next steps should be to start working toward a career in creative writing? Have you had any experience with Masterclass courses? Any other workshops or clubs, etc that would be good for him to check out so he can meet with other like-minded individuals and network and find mentorship?

Hi Darcy! Well, the first thing I would say is that if college is an option, then studying creative writing in college is tremendously valuable. I realize your son isn’t interested in that path, but it would be my first suggestion. If a full college education is not an option (for whatever reason), then perhaps some courses in language arts, English, and creative writing. One can attend college (universities or local community colleges) and focus on certain classes rather than getting a degree, which requires a lot of general education. I don’t have experience with Masterclass yet, but I intend to take some of those courses. They look good to me.

Having said all that, there are other things that your son can do: read as much as possible, write every day, and study the craft — if not through courses then through credible books on the craft. Beyond that, each writer’s needs are very different, so I’m afraid I can’t be more specific. I wish you and your son much luck.

Hi Melissa, my name is Abi I very much enjoy writing and I graduate from high school this May. I’ve looked in to multiple possible career choices and I’ve realized that most of what I want to do is telling stories and I’ve also realized that writing is how I express myself when words fail me, I write. I’ve written some stories some are very short, and some still need finished. I’m struggling because I don’t know what I want to do in college but I know I want to go. I’m thinking about taking a gap year and figure stuff out and possibly travel a small bit and since I’ll hopefully have a decent amount of time, work on writing as well as my stories, do you have any advice for me when it comes to writing?

Hi Abi. Thanks for commenting here about your interest in writing. It’s a good sign that you’re already thinking about your future and planning at such a young age. Your path is yours alone, and nobody can make the decision about taking a gap year or choosing a major except you (although your parents might have significant say in these matters). I can tell you this: I majored in creative writing in college and I have never once regretted it. My only suggestion would be that if you take that route, include some business and marketing courses, even if it means taking an extra semester to graduate. All authors need business and marketing skills–no exceptions, and this was the one thing that was not covered when I was in school. This stuff is not fun or creative, but it’s necessary, and it will free you to do the fun stuff.

I wish you the best of luck with your future. Keep writing!

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How to Become a Writer in 2024: 10 Steps to Jumpstart Your Writing Life

by Joe Bunting | 35 comments

Start Your Story TODAY! We’re teaching a new LIVE workshop this week to help you start your next book. Learn more and sign up here.

So you want to become a writer.

Perhaps you write because it makes you feel alive. Perhaps you once read a book that made you think, “It must feel amazing to write something like this. Maybe I could be a writer.” Perhaps you feel like you can't not write.

So then, how do you do it? How do you become a writer ?

Get the Free eBook : 10 Steps to Becoming a Writer contains the best wisdom I've learned on how to become a writer. This post contains the steps from the full eBook. Click here to download the eBook .

Several years ago I became a writer. I'm not talking about the moment when I quit my job to write full-time. That happened much later. No, I became a writer when I started writing .

I still remember making the decision to write and publish one article per day on my blog. It wasn't much, but this small habit was the beginning of my life as a writer.

Since then, I've written numerous books and more than a thousand articles. I've been published in national magazines and became a bestselling author. But that one decision changed my life.

No one is born a writer. You must become a writer. In fact, you never cease becoming, because you never stop learning how to write. Even now, I am becoming a writer. And so are you.

Why do you want to become a writer? Share in the comments section .

10 Steps to Becoming a Writer

Below are the best pieces of wisdom I've learned about how to become a writer. To read more about becoming a writer, get the full guide below.

Really? Step number one is to publish?

It’s strange to begin a list of writing tips with a tip to publish. In fact, as I read books and articles about how to become a writer, most of them don’t even mention it. They usually say, “Just Write!”

However, writers write things other people read, and so the act of publishing is essential to being a writer.

What is stopping you from publishing something today?

Seriously. What is stopping you?

Think you need a writing degree or a formal writing background? You don't.

Think you need years of writing experience or a letter of introduction from Stephen King? You don't.

Let's rethink publishing for a minute.

Like most people, you probably think of publishing as the process of getting an agent who will attract Harper Collins or some other New York publisher to pay you a small advance and a portion of the royalties so they can print and sell your book.

However, publishing can also look like posting your articles on a blog or emailing your short stories to a friend. It doesn’t have to be groundbreaking, and it doesn’t have to be perfect.

If you want to become a writer, you need to get used to writing for others. You need to practice taking feedback and dealing with rejection. You also need to start earning some fans.

You do this by publishing: publishing small and regularly.

What is stopping you from printing out one of your writing pieces and giving it to a friend? Or publishing it online as a blog post or even a Facebook note?

Do you have one friend who would be interested in reading your writing today? I’m betting you do. Why not send them one of your writing pieces now? (Yes, now.)

Think of it as practice for when you publish with that big New York publisher. (It could be a while, so you may have a lot of time to practice.)

This one step of sharing your work stops so many writers from meeting their goals. Successful writers publish.

2. Set deadlines, or better, get someone else to set them for you (and then keep them)

I love deadlines. I love the whooshing noise they make as they go by. —Douglas Adams, author

Deadlines are meant to induce stress. I know none of us really wants more stress in our lives (do you?), but most writers I know struggle with two things: discipline and focus. A good deadline helps with both.

A little bit of stress focuses you. A good deadline can keep your butt in the chair and your fingers on the keys much better than “inspiration,” that fickle muse, ever could.

How, then, do you set good deadlines so they don’t whoosh by as they did for Mr. Adams?

The best deadlines are set by others, by editors or freelance writing clients or even your fans.

The most effective deadline I ever set was to write one article on my blog every day. I did this while maintaining a full-time job. What made this deadline especially effective was the people holding me accountable were my readers, a small group at the beginning but eventually a large, clamoring audience.

When you know people are waiting for your writing, you become a much more disciplined writer.

People are waiting for your writing. When are you going to give it to them?

3. Learn how to tell a great story

Writers tell stories.

If you want to write novels or memoir or short stories, this is obvious.

What if you're writing self-help or reference? You still need to learn to tell a good story. When firefighters hear stories about the close calls of their friends, it activates the same part of the brain as if they were going through that experience themselves. Then, when they experience a similar situation, they’re better prepared because of the stories they’ve heard.

Stories are the best teachers.

What if you’re writing marketing or sales copy? What is marketing but telling a story of how a consumer’s life could be different if they bought your product?

Whether you're a content writer or you do other business writing, fiction or creative writing, you will always tell stories.

All writers tell stories. Great writers tell great stories. Learn to tell great stories.

4. Read widely

I wanted to become a writer because I read a few books that made me feel like someone finally understood me.

I became a better writer because I read books that I didn’t fully understand and kept reading them until I did (some I’m still reading).

Professional writers are readers. If you want a writing career, add reading to your list of writing goals this year.

Read inside your genre. Read nonfiction in your area of expertise. Read the types of writers you hope to emulate in your own writing. Read outside your usual interests and genres to get a sense of how other talented writers see the world and use words to capture that reality (even when it's fiction!)

5. Commit to learn

Writers are learners.

When I’m writing an article or a chapter in a book, I often have ten or twelve tabs pulled up on my browser as well as a few books open in front of me, all of them research and resources to make my writing better, more detailed, more lifelike.

Writers bring information to people who have never heard it. We can turn a few words on a page into a whole universe inside our reader’s imaginations. We can look into the souls of our characters and share their story in a way that our readers fully understand them.

We do all of this through learning, learning about politics and current events, craftsmanship and science, about emotions and spirituality.

Writers should never become experts. Once you become an expert, you can no longer learn anything new, and if you don’t learn anything new you will become stale and uninspired. Be a novice in everything and you will never run out of things to write about.

“Good artists copy, great artists steal,” Steve Jobs liked to say.

He was “quoting” Picasso, but this quote has also been attributed to James Joyce and William Faulkner and Stravinsky among others.

But the quote actually originated with T.S. Eliot, the great modernist poet, who wrote, “ Immature poets imitate; mature poets steal; bad poets deface what they take, and good poets make it into something better, or at least something different.”

When Ernest Hemingway was first beginning as a writer, he would type out whole sections of books by writers he admired just to get a sense of the flow and rhythm of their writing.

When I was working my first job as a freelance writer for a local newspaper, I printed out ten of the best articles I could find from the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, and then carefully read through each one, taking notes and asking, “Why did the writer say this here? What is the purpose of this sentence? How does this word move the story forward?”

Whenever I begin a new writing project, I read something that I admire to inspire and motivate me.

Cormac McCarthy, author of The Road and All the Pretty Horses , once said, “The ugly fact is books are made out of books.”

There is nothing new under the sun. The question, then, is which books are you going to make yours out of? And how are you going to turn them into something better (or at least something different)?

I once read a short story about a boy who wanted to become a writer that stuck with me (although, I’m forgetting the title, so if you know it, email me!).

The story begins with the news that a man in their small ranching community had been killed. To help with the body, the boy and his father and uncle leave late at night and walk through the wilderness.

It would be the boy’s first time seeing death, and when they came upon the body, he was terrified and looked away.

“You want to be a writer?” his uncle asked.

The boy nodded.

“Then don’t you look away. Don’t you ever look away.”

I’ve seen things I have wanted to look away from. I’ve seen legless boys pull themselves around on a cart to beg for coins from passing cars. I’ve seen hillsides covered with slums, people living amidst trash and human waste with just cardboard and tin for shelter. I’ve seen death.

If you want to be a writer, you must know death and pain and evil and injustice, know it as intimately as you know your soul. A writer’s job is to bring the bad to life just as well as the good.

Don’t look away.

8. Become acquainted with boredom, comfortable with writing-induced misery.

At some point, I've wanted to quit every major writing project I've ever worked on, and most writers I know have similar experiences.

When I was finishing my first book, I became so frustrated and hopeless with my writing that I knelt on the floor, put my face in my hands, and cried (a very macho, manly cry, of course).

“I don’t want to do this anymore,” I thought. “I don’t want to write this book. I don’t want to be a writer at all anymore. I never want to feel this stupid again.”

But after a little while, I got up, and I wrote a few more words. The next day, I wrote a few more. A month later, the book was finished and sent off to the editor.

That moment on the floor was the turning point, the beginning of the end of writing my first book, and now I remember that moment every time writing is at its most frustrating and hopeless, and I know I’m nearly finished.

Write through the mess. Write through poor grammar and awkward tense changes and switches in POV. Keep writing even when you know as you’ve known nothing else before that what you’re writing is worthless. When you’re in the middle, good and bad are meaningless. Just keep writing.

9. Surround yourself with a writing community

We think of great writers as silent, brooding geniuses, but the truth is no one becomes a writer on their own. It takes a team, a community, to sustain the passion, creativity, and sheer willpower to become a writer.

The truth is, the best writers have always had a community. Ernest Hemingway had F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and the expats in Paris. Jack Kerouac had William Burroughs and the Beats. J.R.R. Tolkien had C.S. Lewis and the Inklings. Virginia Woolf had Leonard Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group.

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with,” said Jim Rohn.

If you aren’t spending time with creative people and fellow writers who inspire you and challenge you to do your best writing, perhaps you need to make a few new friends.

Don’t know where to find one? Join ours! thewritepractice.com/join

10. Oh, and don't forget to write

Let me close with one last story.

Several years ago, I did something that changed my life. I started writing. In fact, I finished one writing piece every day.

I had, of course, written before. I had even started a few novels (that were soon abandoned). I had written essays for school and a few bad poems for fun. I had haphazardly practiced my writing skills.

However, when I started finishing one writing piece per day, something happened to me. I started to think of myself as a writer.

A real writer.

This led to getting small jobs as a writer, freelancing for a local paper, editing books for friends. It took a while (and a lot of practice), but eventually, I was able to quit my job and support myself and my family full-time through my writing.

It all started by finishing ONE writing piece regularly. That small habit changed my life.

I’m passionate about helping other writers go from being aspiring writers to becoming daily writers. If you’re ready to step into your writing habits, start with practice exercise below.

No matter what you do next, know that I’m rooting for you and your success.

Are You Ready to Become a Writer?

Some people will tell you it's easy to become a writer. They'll say, “Just write!”

But if you're like me, “just writing” isn't enough for you. You want to write something important, something that touches people at their very core, something that changes the world.

That's not too much to ask, right?

Writing like this is hard. But of course, if it's so important, it should be hard. Let's do it together.

Download the full eBook, 10 Steps to Becoming a Writer .

Today, set a timer for fifteen minutes and write one small section or post you've had burning inside you. Here are some ideas in case you get stuck:

If you're writing fiction or memoir, write a scene about a choice one of your characters made that they regret, and have the character justify their choice.

If you're writing nonfiction, omplete the sentence: Everyone thinks _____ when really _____. Explain what you mean. If you've just finished reading something, spend the fifteen minutes writing a review of it. Who would love it and why?

When you finish, post your practice in the comments below, and give feedback to a few other writers. When complete, give yourself a high-five because in just fifteen minutes, you'll have completed at least four of the steps above. Come back tomorrow and let's do it again!

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

35 Comments

It was strange getting published as the first step to being a writer, but it makes a lot of sense. We have to put ourselves out there; be willing to be vulnerable and show what we can do. One of my goals for the upcoming year is to submit more stories to journals and blogs. There’s a blog I follow that posts short story and flash fiction contests. As such, there are opportunities to get published and, at the same time, refine my craft.

Thank you for sharing these steps. It certainly takes discipline and dedication to be a writer. But the reward is worthwhile, even if it isn’t instantaneous.

Indeed, George! It is absolutely worthwhile.

And regarding publishing, I think we need to start looking at publishing differently. We need to stop looking for approval from some corporation in New York (not that there’s anything wrong with them or they’re approval), and start sharing our work through whatever means we have. It really is the best and fastest way to improve.

Being a “writer” is easy. It’s fun to get inspiration and drift away into meandering stories. It’s so easy to put words together when we know that no one else will ever read them. Sure there are times when writing is for my eyes only, but what you have said is so true and encouraging: writing is meant to be shared. Being a writer that shares her work is definitely something I’m not as comfortable with, but it’s an area that I want to keep improving. Oh! And thank you for the new e-book! I’m looking forward to reading it!

For some reason, I don’t run into not wanting to share, unless I truly think something I’ve written is terrible. I love to write, edit, and share. It seems that most writers dislike some part of that process, but I enjoy all three of them. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to stand next to something that you’ve created with two hands, and say, “I made that!”

It is usually more than the next guy can say. More over, it is probably inspiring to the next guy. Why not share it?

You should be proud of yourself. Look how much time you spent actually doing something, as opposed to how many people came home from work and plopped down in front of the tube?

James I can relate so much to your statement about standing next to something you’ve created with your own two hands. For me writing is like art work, you start with a blank canvas – your blank piece of paper- (or a mound of clay for a sculptor) and create then when you edit you chip away words you don’t need as a sculptor chips away and smooths out sections of their finished piece. It can be so rewarding- especially when the finish product is what we were aiming to create.

That is so cool, James. Thank you for sharing that!

Oh, I figured it was going to be: 1. Write. 2. Write some more. 3. Keep writing.

I could also go for: 1. Write 2. Revise 3. Share

I wanted to keep you on your toes, James. Anyway, I think that post has already been written a few times. 😉

cried (a very macho, manly cry, of course).

If there were tears it can’t be very macho. You might should use a better verb. 😛 Cry baby! 😀

I just need to FINISH my first novel, it’s at 150k and still not done. It is quickly becoming the never-ending story. Where the heck are the bounds of Fantasia!

I started a NaNoWriMo book and I’ve almost finished it. My second novel looks like it will be my first.

Haha. Real men cry, James.

150K is a lot of words James! You should break it up and make it into a series.

Congrats on winning NaNo!

Joe thank you for this post, and the e-book I was at that place last night as I was finishing a story ( with a deadline). For this assignment for class we had to write a 1,000 word story and I could not first finish the story and second figure out how to write this piece so it not only mattered to me but also would matter and touch someone else as well.

Sitting at my computer I had moments of saying” I quit, forget this, I don’t want to write anymore”. But another part of me wouldn’t give up- writing for me is like breathing, if I don’t do it I don’t exist, so I kept writing and eventually I did finish with 10 more words than allowed, but that can be fixed during editing. My final project became a cross between it’s a wonderful life and scrooge. My secret if it is a secret is to see and keep the end sentence in mind – And I did.

Now on to the next project.

Congratulations on finishing your story, Debra! If you’ve written seriously at all, you’ve been in that “I quit, forget this” place before. Good job powering through (although for me, wimpering through would be a better way to put it.) And great tip to keep the last sentence in mind!

Hey Joe….

Thank you for sharing your heartfelt insights with us!

Your post did make me smile because – in my opinion – the best article that I have ever written was titled: “Just Write”, and I wrote it while waiting for my husband to finish his racquetball session! My argument was simple: you can either wait forever for inspiration – and the ‘right’ setting – to write or JUST WRITE!

I get what you mean though. I do believe that writing SOMETHING is a prerequisite to creating meaningful work. If you never write, you will never evolve and can never offer any value. But even if your writing sucks (initially), just putting out your words consistently will make a difference in the future. I have read some random ramblings that are far more empowering than structured posts written by the elite writers. So trust your passion and PUBLISH 😀

Thank you so much for making me think 😉 Kitto

I absolutely agree with, Krithika. Too many people believe the myth that you have to wait for inspiration to write. I hope you didn’t read this post as me disagreeing with you!

Becoming a writer, to me, is an identity shift. We may be “writing,” whatever that looks like, but we still don’t feel like a writer. This post is about getting to a place where you not only feel like a writer, you KNOW you are one at your core. I think publishing in small ways is an important step.

This is SO COOL, Joe. Congratulations. The book is beautiful…you give great advice, and I look forward to seeing this new community unfolds.

Thanks Marcy!!!

I’ve enjoyed writing since I was 7. Now I’m half a century old, and I’m still writing, but more seriously, and improving my craft by leaps and bounds.

I think I came to The Write Practice in 2011. I don’t contribute very often, but I’ve read every post. This blog is a big part of the above mentioned “improving my craft in leaps and bounds”.

In 2011 I also started keeping a “goals” journal that stared with “write every day”. When I look back at my entries I see “I want to quit”, “why am I putting myself through this”, “I’m not good at this”, etc., sprinkled in almost every other entry. And I almost did quit. But for some reason I didn’t (or maybe couldn’t).

Fast forward to 2014, and my goal was to submit one work/quarter to a contest or writing website. I know, not much, but I’m a slow writer. Well guess what, one of my stories was published on the Every Day Fiction website (one was rejected), and two weeks ago I submitted another story to a contest. In all, I submitted 5 stories this year. (1 over the goal!). And I write deliberately every day. My journal entries are so much more ebullient than they were 3 years ago. I’m so glad I didn’t quit. Thank you Joe, and the Write Practice community for helping me improve my craft and becoming a writer!

I love this so much, Wanda. It’s amazing how much practice can change your life. It’s such a gift to see how far you, one of our earliest readers, have come. Thank you for sharing this with me, Wanda. 🙂

LOVE THIS JOE! I so needed this today. You have spoken to me in a way that has rekindled my fire and desire to write. Writing is a struggle for me but I know I will not quit till I’ve become, and keep becoming, a writer. Thanks so much for this post!

Hint: You are a writer, Miriam! But someday, I think you could definitely be a professional writer, if that’s what you want. You’re on your way. Thanks for your comment.

Thanks for this. The post was a nice pick-me-up as I’m trying to gather the courage to write my first short story (via your short story eBook).

I’m nervous as heck and I can’t seem to get over “planning” to write: bullet points, charts, lists, brainstorming session and I feel a lot more at ease with these than writing the first sentence. How can I just let go and let the pen flow?

Good luck with your short story, Harvey. I think planning is great but it can become a avoidance mechanism, a way to replace the fear of uncertainty (which is present in all writing) with busywork. Here’s what I think you should do: pick one part of your plan (your favorite bullet point, index card, chart, etc), and then trash the rest. Seriously. Throw it away or delete it from your hard drive. Then start writing, and if you need to, you can use your one piece of plan for help. But you’ll be free to be imperfect and uncertain, and most of all, free to have fun!

I have a “mini” blog and have written letters to editors on a few subjects over a 30-year period, but I want to do memoir writing (lots of stories to tell), but lack confidence. I recently finished my first piece (2,000 words) and am submitting it for possible publication in a literary magazine. I hope it’s the beginning of a chapter, then a book.

What a timely post. I wanted to give up this morning. It’s my editor’s birthday, and someone asked her clients to contribute pithy phrases from her editing so they could be organized into a poem. I found some funny ones from the first draft–but they were all negative. “This book has the potential to whisk readers away to another time in another place. But it doesn’t.” Or, “He’s an old warrior, not an old fart.” Or, the worst, “Her son is dying. Why would she give a shit about your protagonist?” And I said to myself, Yeah, really. Why would anyone? So I’ll put it down, like you said, and see if my interest resurges tomorrow.

Honestly, it sounds like you need a new editor Nancy! I’m all for giving tough feedback but only if it’s slotted between encouragement. Maybe your editor is doing that but it doesn’t sound like it. Don’t give up!

So you are right again. Today I’ll pick up my pen and set a new goal: to make sure someone gives a shit about my protagonist!

I just want to become a writer because I need to put all the imagination out of my mind. Write to expurge sadness, feelings, dreams and finally feel better with myself.

I am from Brazil and being a writer here is difficult. I have read all the articles and i purchased your book to learn how can I be a writer. I just want to write in english, because I know I will have more chance. Next week I will post my first short story here. I have no problem to be criticize. All I want to do is becoming a writer.

Thanks Joe for your support.

Best regards,

André Valle

I put a number of these blog posts away for a rainy day. (Saved them ‘unread’, in an email folder) I read this one today and it resonated big time with my writing at present. Through reading and doing 15 minute writing practice on here and replying to yet another blog, I have begun to put my writing out there for others to read, and my writing self us grown at the same time.

I agree wholeheartedly that deadlines are good and a needed part of my writing. I began with Nanowrimo two years ago. I didn’t make my goal of 50,000 words but it got me started. Last year I made it and continued to write.

When the short story contest email came in I decided to join in and once there I found the critique, camaraderie and all round general support was where I wanted to be. Every Friday post is great, posted my first last week, and I am collecting posts for a writing blog of my own. I plan to start publishing them when I have a few to spare, though likely not the best idea, it is in my comfort zone at present.

I’m currently writing a travel blog which I have lots of friends eagerly awaiting each day (or so they tell me), so writing each day is becoming easier to do; I have lots of incentive.

I even have an idea for Nanowrimo this year which will provide yet another deadline.

To being a person m very great full to u that u share your thought with us but by dyeing hart I really will became a writer I wish u always encourage those people who loved writ….

Hi Joe! I don’t know if you’re going to read this because it has been two years since the last comment, but anyway, I just want to tell you “Thank you for this article”, it made me feel a little of confidence about starting my life as a writer. It’s not I haven’t felt secure about it, it’s just that while I was reading your article I was thinking “He’s right, I feel the same way, if he could make it I will too.”

I have to admit it, I usually (if not always) get into panic in front of my computer when it’s the moment to clic on the “publish” button. Actually, I thought the last step of the process “becoming a writer” was *publishing*, but I think you’re right, no matter what you’re writting, or if you think it would be better… DON’T WAIT, JUST PUBLISH IT, if it would be better, it will get better while you’re in the path of becoming a writer.

So often I start writing and then feel that what I’ve written isn’t good enough. I have so much to say and convey, but when I start to get it all down on paper it just doesn’t seem to convey what I’m thinking in my head. But I love reading and writing, always have. I want to tell a story that no one else can tell. So I preserver. thanks for the opportunity to vent !!!

Came back here after the email reminder about giving feedback.Thank you :). I have published in academic journals, blog, and on FB. I have yet to cry because of writing induced stress, mainly due to a flexible approach to deadlines. I write because I love too, I have tried to build audience for my timid writing in blog and FB, but I seem to lack feedback. I am in absolute joy to have found this site and the owner who’s ‘forcing’ me to write 🙂 English is my second language, so forgive my grammar oversights. Thank you.

…”If I hadn’t grown up on Latin and Greek, I doubt if I would know so well how to draw the very subtle line between what I call a vernacular style and what I should call an illiterate or faux naif style. There’s a hell of a lot of difference, to my mind.” precisamente esse,,,

Though am studying college 1st year.my aim is to become a writer.so that i can motivate students.there are many students who are hiding the talents.so I thought to become a writer.i need your help.i don’t know how to make a perfect quote.totally I have wrote 22 quotes. I need your help so that I can become a perfect writer.i want to let out my talent outside so that I can my post my quotes in magazines .

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How to Become a Writer in 2024 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Wherever you look, you’ll see tons of words: on product packing, in your mobile banking app, or across billboards in town. Behind those are amazing people like yourself.

Wondering how to become a writer and get paid for your craft?

This guide covers:

• Popular writing careers
• Average writer salaries
• Ways to sell your own writing
• In-demand writing jobs

…and step-by-step instructions for breaking into the writing industry.

Types of Writing Careers

Writers get paid for their words, and many industries need them.

Here are popular types of writing you can do.

Creative Writing vs. Nonfiction Writing

Creative writing  includes prose and poetry writing. Fiction writers invent worlds, populate them with characters, and artfully build a compelling narrative using various canons of storytelling and poetics.

Nonfiction writing  is a broader category featuring all written materials that are not based on a fictional storyline. Nonfiction writers can specialize in biographies or memoirs, create instructional materials, or use their writing skills to create business communication and marketing materials.

Nonfiction writing has three subcategories:

• Academic writing . Producing scientific research articles and creating various instructional materials — textbooks, curriculums, instruction manuals, and other types of educational workbooks.
• Journalism . Writing timely, accurate reporting of recent facts, events, and ideas. You can specialize in investigative reporting or write personal essays, have a regular column, or switch between different beats.
• Business writing . This niche has the widest subset of jobs, ranging from copywriting and blogging to proposal writing and grant writing. Business writers create various content for the industry they work in.

Overall, beginning writers have no shortage of career options today.

Popular Types of Writing Careers

• Advertising copywriter
• Health writer
• News writer
• Technical writer
• Editor/copyeditor
• Scriptwriter
• Content marketing specialist
• Medical writer
• Resume writer

How Much Money Does a Writer Make?

As in any other profession, compensation for writers varies by industry, seniority level, and area of expertise.

In the publishing industry, authors make money from advances and royalties. Authors receive an average advance of  $49,360 , based on “ Publishing Paid Me”  spreadsheet data.

Royalty rates vary depending on the publishing method.

Self-published authors retain up to  70% royalty per book sold . In  traditional publishing , authors get  5%-8% royalties on paperbacks , 1 5% on hardcovers , and  20% on eBooks .

Compensation for professional writers, working full-time, part-time, or freelance writing varies a lot by profession.

Here are median salaries for full-time writing careers as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Technical writer salary : $78,060
• News reporters and journalists : $49,300
• Public relations specialists : $62,810 ‍
• Editors : $63,400

How to Become a Writer in 2024: 6 Step-Guide

If you want to seriously pursue writing as a career, here’s how to get started.

1. Decide on Your Writing Niche

You have many writing careers to choose from. But too many choices breed decision paralysis.

To narrow down your options, ask yourself: do you want to primarily do nonfiction or fiction writing?

You can always do both and change niches later on. But you have to channel your efforts into one lane to make progress faster.

Next, think about a narrower writing specialty, also known as your niche.

A writing niche is your area of expertise, where you are familiar with the subject matter, content requirements, and popular formats.

Each type of writing — medical, UX, or technical writing — requires knowledge of the industry’s best practices. For example, technical writers need to know the industry jargon, have a sharp, instructional tone of voice, and understand technical documentation formatting requirements. You can develop these skills both on the job or via formal training.

You can select your writing niche based on:

• Type of writing . Journalism, academic, fiction, or industry-specific.
• Content format . Blog posts, emails, web copy, eBook, business reports.
• Industry . Law, marketing, healthcare, retail, etc. ‍
• Your background.  Personal or professional. For example, as an accountant, you can work with finance brands.

By selecting a writing niche, you concentrate your effort on understanding the market better. This helps you develop the right knowledge and skill set, do better work — and earn more money eventually.

What Type of Writing Makes the Most Money?

Specialized writing, requiring niche expertise, pays the best.

For example, entry-level UX writers earn a median salary of  $90,000 , and senior professionals earn north of  $150K .

Medical writers have a median pay of  $95,609  annually. Content strategists, in turn, earn  $102,989/year  on average.

Fiction writing can be lucrative as well as you have no earning cap. Popular authors receive six-figure advances per book (plus royalties).

For example, Hanya Yanagihara, fashion editor and published author, received a  $1 million  advance on her third book. Elizabeth Gilbert got  $200,000  for the cult  Eat, Pray, Love  novel.

At the same time, popular self-published authors can also make it big.

Former lawyer, L.J. Ross,  sold over 4.5 million copies  of her first novel via Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing. She now earns a comfortable living from 19 other self-published novels.

But not every writer is as successful. More often, budding writers don’t make a bank from fiction alone.

Many also hold a day job, writing or non-writing, to pay the bills.

The publishing world is hugely competitive. Careers in business writing or journalism offer better job security and more stable income.Want more? Read more about  how to make money from writing .

Interviews With Writers Who’ve Done It

We interview writers from all fields and ask them how to get where they’re.

• How to Become a Technical Content Producer
• How to Become a Sportswriter
• How to Become a Freelance Content Writer
• How to Become a Published Author
• How to Become a Freelance Writer
• How to Become a Psychology Writer
• How to Become a Creative Content Writer
• How To Become a Freelance Journalist
• How To Become a Sustainability Copywriter
• How to Become a Freelance B2B SaaS Copywriter
• How to Become a B2B SaaS Technology Writer
• How To Become a Health Writer

2. Practice Writing Every Day

Good writing isn’t just talent — it’s tradecraft.

You need to continuously practice your ‘technical’ writing skills — sentence structure, narrative flow, tone of voice — and build your core skills to advance your career.

A good writer has:

• Impeccable grammar
• Rich vocabulary
• Strong research skills
• Adaptable tone of voice
• Editorial and fact-checking skills
• Interviewing skills
• Business acumen (in their niche)

Perhaps, you were taught some of those skills at high school or as part of your bachelor’s degree. But theory alone isn’t enough to produce good writing. You also need regular practice.

As Stephen King  says :

“Sometimes you have to go on [with writing] when you don’t feel like it, and sometimes you’re doing good work when it feels like all you’re managing is to shovel shit from a sitting position.”

The point of writing regularly is to build your writing muscle. The ability to produce good writing even when you are not inspired, face writer’s block, or battle your impostor syndrome.

That’s called professionalism.

To help you get to this stage, try these simple  writing exercises.

Practice free writing . Block 20-30 minutes each morning or evening to put down just about any ideas on paper. Don’t sweat about making it perfect. Try to use a tone you’d want to assume in your writing.

Transcribe others.  To develop a distinctive voice, fit for the type of writing you do, rewrite content from authors you admire. This can be a top-performing copywriting ad or a reported article. The point of this exercise is to internalize the other writer’s syntax , cadence, and ton — and absorb it into your writing.

Start a (micro)blog . If you want to specialize in online writing, which is most writing these days, start your blog. You can publish short posts on  LinkedIn ,  Medium , or  Typeshare . That’s an easy way to create several writing samples and start building a personal brand as a writer.

3. Fill In the Gaps in Education

Do you absolutely need to have a writing degree to make it big? No.

Many writers obtained unrelated associate degrees or never even went to college. Instead, they relentlessly practiced their craft.

Formal education can accelerate your writing career in the early days, especially if you’ve developed some industry connections in school. You also get to study literature, learn copy-editing basics, develop fact-checking skills, plus…expand your vocabulary and improve your grammar.

But you can also develop marketable writing skills at your own pace and on a much smaller dime.

These are some of the best ways to learn more about writing.

Books . Pick up several  books on writing  to grasp the basics of building a good story, doing reported writing, and writing at a good pace.

Online courses.  You can find free courses on  Coursera ,  edX , and  Udemy  (including those from top universities).

Alternatively, you can invest in an authored online course from a successful writer.  Copyhackers  and  Copybloggger  have two highly sought-after writer certification programs.

Writing communities  offer a great way to network and bounce ideas with peers. You can get your pressing questions answered, plus receive feedback on your work.

Some communities are free (and less structured) e.g.  Female Freelance Writers  or  Writers Unite!  Others are paid and offer carefully curated information and original content such as  The Copywriter Club  or  Workfrom Slack group .

Mentorships and apprenticeships.  Some pros offer personalized mentorship services to aspiring writers, where they share tips for building a successful career. Less often, experienced writers hire and train apprentices. Oftentimes, by subcontracting their client work to you and coaching you on the quality standards. Freelance writer Kaleigh Moore discusses these arrangements in  greater detail .

Short-term academic programs.  If you want to get a professional credential and mingle with academic advisors, you have  many MFA programs  at a four-figure price tag.

4. Start Writing Part-Time

To become a writer, you don’t need to go all-in immediately.

Elizabeth Gilbert writes in  Big Magic :

“I never wanted to burden my writing with the responsibility of paying for my life. I knew better than to ask this of my writing, because over the years, I have watched so many other people murder their creativity by demanding that their art pay the bills.”

Gilbert herself lived by that principle. Despite writing short stories and pitching book deals most of her adult life, she also held another job until Eat, Pray, Love became a roaring success.

Many other talented writers also began their careers in other niches:

• David Ogilvy , Father of Advertising, used to  train as a chef  and sell cooking stoves.
• Aaron Orendorff , pro copywriter and former Editor-in-Chief at Shopify, was once a  pastor .
• Sally Rooney , the first great millennial author, used to be a  professional debate participant .

Writing part-time is a safe way to start your professional career (unless you already have a job offer at your desk).

You can give yourself time to find your niche, create a small portfolio, and make yourself more employable by developing complementary skills.

Below are some of the most  in-demand skills for writers  (apart from writing).

Fact-checking.  Verifying facts and data; investigating sources and claims. Requires accuracy and attention to detail.

Interviewing and transcription.  Ability to interview subject matter experts (SMEs) and sources, then transcribe their input to incorporate into your writing.

Target audience research.  Requires basic market research skills and experience in working with primary and secondary data sources to create audience segments for marketing.

Search engine optimization (SEO)  includes knowledge of keyword research techniques and on-page SEO best practices — related to content structure, keyword placements, interlinking, and so on.

Content strategy.  Creation of frameworks and systematic approaches to content production based on the set marketing goals. Requires knowledge of content marketing.

Editorial planning.  Content and  editorial calendar  development and ongoing maintenance. Helps you ensure that you are producing the right content and publishing it at the right time.

Content management system (CMS) knowledge . Familiarity with WordPress, Webflow, or Squarespace CMS interfaces. Basic HTML/CSS skills are a plus.

Email marketing.  Familiarity with different types of email marketing emails. Newsletters, promo sequences, transactional emails, onboarding emails, and so on.

Conversion rate optimization (CRO).  User research, heatmap session analysis, and other types of investigations and improvements performed to optimize conversion rates.

Social media marketing.  Visual and written content creation for popular social media networks. Copy performance analysis and optimization for higher click-through rates.

Line editing and copy-editing.  The first means editing for clarity, lengths, and grammar. The second is checking the text for accuracy and consistency.

Set some basic writing goals for each month. Divide them into three groups:

• Income : target earnings cap.
• Education : training or knowledge you want to get.
• Client outreach : number of pitches or job applications to make.

Then block time to work on each. Prioritize gigs that would help you develop new skills rather than do the same work repeatedly.

Should Writers Work for Free?

It’s something you need to decide for yourself.

By publishing your writing as a guest post or magazine submission, you can land your first byline and build your credibility as a writer.

But doing bigger client projects for free devalues your qualifications and often leads to a lifecycle of poorly paid work. Writing is a job and therefore entitles you to compensation.

5. Find Paid Writing Opportunities

As a professional writer, you have plenty of options.

At the basic level, writing jobs can be:

• Contract-based

The first two usually come with an official employment contract, fixed annual salary, and extra benefits or perks.

Contract-based and freelance jobs assume self-employment. You are hired as an independent contractor, meaning you get to set your rates (mostly), but also pay income taxes and social security contributions.

You can also double as a freelance writer on the side while having a regular job. That’s a good way to supplement your income and progressively transition to full-time freelancing (which often pays more!).

Also, full-time in-house roles may be hard to get as a newbie. So you can try to combine  writing internships  with gig-based work to build out your portfolio first.

Where to Find Writing Jobs?

Job boards  like  Best Writing Jobs  curate full-time and freelance jobs. You can also check industry-specific job boards like  Mediabistro  (for marketing and copywriting jobs) or  Journalism Jobs .

Freelance writer platforms.  Instead of joining general platforms like  Upwork , look into writer-specific talent networks such as  ClearVoice ,  Contra , or  Skyword .

LinkedIn  is an easy way to connect with employers directly through networking, apply for relevant jobs (based on your profile data), and  list your freelance services  on your profile.

Online writing communities  are a great way to connect with peers, plus receive a fresh scoop on possible jobs and leads from others.  Peak Freelance ,  Superpath , and  Freelance Writers Den  are the best.

Where to Publish Your Writing?

Online and print media.  You can pitch individual publishers, follow editors on Twitter and respond to posted calls, or use  Pitch Whiz  to get centralized updates.

Trade journals  specialize in industry content for B2B decision-makers. They accept reported articles, interviews, educational and informational content from experienced writers. Muck Rack has a great guide for  pitching trade editors .

Literary journals and almanacs  publish short stories, personal essays, and narrated pieces across all genres, from love writing to sci-fi.

Most have monthly or quarterly calls for submission. Book Fox has a  list of top 100 literary magazines  to pitch.

Self-publish via Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP ). You can publish fiction and non-fiction eBooks yourself  using the KDP platform from Amazon .

6. Work on Your Brand

To become a writer, you need to publicly present yourself as one.

In other words: develop a personal brand, a promotion strategy for cultivating a certain perception of yourself. So that when people look up you online, they can understand what type of writing you do and what makes you a pro in it.

The main elements of your personal brand are the following.

Portfolio or personal website . A place where you communicate your niche, curate your clips (writing samples) and explain what services you provide.  Clippings.me  lets you create a simple portfolio website for free.  Webflow  is a more advanced builder to try out.

Social media accounts.  LinkedIn and Twitter, for example, the two platforms where people can connect with you and chat up on things. Follow  Kat Boogard  on Twitter for tips on freelancing or  Liz Willits  for advice on LinkedIn branding for writers.

Online appearances.  These range from bylined posts to personal blog posts and podcast appearances. Think of these as “breadcrumbs” you leave for potential clients to hire you.  Copyhacker’s guide  explains how to build your personal brand using guest appearances.

You don’t have to get each element perfect immediately. Treat personal branding as a work in progress.

Start with a simple portfolio website to organize your clips. Refresh your LinkedIn profile and connect with more people in the industry.

Block some time to strategize your positioning as a writer.

To do so, answer these questions:

• What industries do you want to work with the most?
• Which size of the company is ideal for you?
• What type of writing services do you excel at?
• What makes you more competitive than others in this space?

Then summarize all of the above into a short professional statement.

For example,  Marijana Kay  positions herself as a  “Freelance writer for SaaS & marketing brands, specializing in long-form, actionable blog content.”

Copywriter  Kira Hug  is a conversion copywriter for businesses who are  “ready to own who you are — the good, the bad, the surprising.”

Source:   Kira Hug .

Your positioning statement helps you communicate who you are and what type of work you like.

Also, by narrowing down to a specific niche, you can quickly develop an acute skillset and become an in-demand writer with a glowing reputation.

Conclusion: Where Do I Start as a Writer?

To start writing for a living, you should first decide on your niche, and the type of writing you want to (mostly) specialize in. Then work on creating your first writing samples.

First, mimic what other writers in your industry are doing. Pay attention to copy structure, formatting, titles and subheads, tone of voice, the pace of the narrative, and story flow. Try creating content in a similar style.

At the same time, learn extra skills. If you want to specialize in online writing, learn about SEO and content marketing. There are plenty of online courses and industry blogs with in-depth content.

Once you have some working samples, look for part-time gigs. If you can afford to, sign up as an intern or apprentice to get some on-the-job training from others (but likely no pay). Alternatively, look for entry-level freelance jobs, offering guidance and instructions to new writers.

To become a better writer, always ask for feedback on your work and try to improve each time.

Fill in the knowledge gaps and learn new things about the industry you are covering. To be a well-paid writer, you need to have an open, curious mind, passion for learning, and dedication to constant self-improvement.

FAQs About Becoming a Writer

Here are answers to several other questions new writers have.

Can you become a writer without a degree?

Yes, absolutely.  Formal education in a relevant field is helpful, especially at the early stages of your career. But it becomes less of a factor as you gain real-life work experience.

Published authors like Ray Bradbury and William Faulkner and many professional business writers became successful without a degree.

What is the difference between a copywriter and a content writer?

Copywriters specialize in persuasive and promotional copy (printed ads, landing pages, sales copy). Content writers create informational, educational, or entertainment content (blog posts, articles, news reports).

While both try to speak to a target audience in the most appealing way, copywriting attempts to encourage concrete action. Content helps develop familiarity and affinity towards the brand that publishes it.

How do I start freelance writing with no experience?

Create a set of writing samples.  These don’t have to be commissioned pieces for clients.

You can write personal blog posts, landing page samples, or short-reported pieces in your niche. Then show these to clients as a sample of what you could do for them.

Most clients are interested in your skills, not your resume. So focus on building out a small portfolio in your niche first.

What kind of careers involve writing?

Nearly every job these days involves a lot of writing — from emails to meeting notes and team reports. But if you want to primarily do writing, look into careers in content marketing, communications, PR, or journalism.

Do writers have day jobs?

Yes, many authors and freelance writers also have day jobs. In fact, it’s better to keep a day job as a published (or unpublished) author instead of living from one advance to another. Likewise, many people grow a writing business on the side and switch to it full-time when they reach a certain level of income.

Where can I sell my writing?

You can sell your creative writing to literary magazines, anthology publishers, almanacs, and individual magazines. Online platforms like  Medium  and  Narratively  also pay writers per story or per number of views. Also, you can sell non-fiction writing to print and online magazines, newspapers, and blogs. Many have open calls for submissions. You can (and should!) also connect with individual editors and pitch them your ideas.

How do authors get paid?

Authors get paid in two ways — via advances on books and through royalties. Publishers offer signed-on writers an advance to help them complete their books. Then pay out a percentage of each copy sold. Self-published authors make money from royalties only. But they get to keep a bigger percentage.

Are professional writers in demand?

Absolutely! The demand for online content writers, in particular, surged as businesses shifted to online marketing over the past 18 months. Also, writers are actively employed by tech firms to provide copy for new and current products. Between 2020 and 2030, the employment of writers and authors is projected to  grow by 9% .

How do beginner writers make money?

New writers often end up working for ‘content mills’ — platforms that pay peanuts for an unreasonable volume of work. Some also sign up for popular freelance marketplaces like  Upwork ,  Fiverr , and  PeoplePerHour .

Again, these don’t always offer great pay. A better way to make money is to apply for freelance writing jobs directly or build relationships with clients online — via LinkedIn, niche communities, or social media. In this case, you can name and negotiate your rates.

Tomas Laurinavicius

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How to Become a Writer in 9 Simple Steps [2024]

by Sarah Lentz

on Aug 12, 2024

You’re here because you want to learn how to become a writer.

A quick Google search led to mountains of advice, leaving you with more questions than when you started!

But you’re determined to figure out, once and for all, how to grow your talent on a career path that not only puts food on the table but changes your life in ways you can’t put a price on.

In the simple steps below, you’ll learn how to decide what kind of writing to focus on and where to find the best writing jobs once you do.

Ready to take those first steps toward becoming a professional writer ?

Let’s dive in.

How to Become a Writer in 9 Steps

Who doesn’t love a step-by-step approach to making great things happen?

No one’s saying it’ll happen overnight. But, by giving each of the following steps your full and patient attention and taking action every day, you’ll make steady and measurable progress.

This is how you go from being an aspiring writer to landing a great writing job.

1. Choose a Path

Your decision to become a writer is just the beginning. When it comes to professional writing for an income, you have several rewarding paths to choose from:

• Blogging : Build an audience by writing on your own platform (or guest post on other blogs)
• Freelance writing : Write high-quality content for clients and publications
• Copywriting : Write marketing copy and assist with branding
• Writing nonfiction books : Share knowledge and earn royalty income
• Fiction writing: Tell stories and earn royalty income
• Ghostwriting : Merge your skill with another’s voice to write books or create viral content
• Journalism: Write for a newspaper and/or magazines
• Technical writing: Write technical manuals, instructions or reports

Some of these probably excite you more than others. And you wouldn’t be the first writer to try more than one path before settling on the best fit.

How do you decide where to begin?

• Learn as much as you can about the paths that interest you.
• Talk to experienced bloggers, journalists, ghostwriters , etc.
• Try your hand at writing jobs for different paths (part-time).

Whatever you try, be honest about your inclinations. For example, if you have a passion for creative writing, you probably wouldn’t enjoy working as a technical writer. The truth is, when you’re writing what you love (or what you don’t), it shows.

2. Get Over Yourself and Just Get Started

You’re sitting there in front of a blank page, wondering, “Why did I think becoming a writer would be easy? How do I start a writing career if I can’t think of what to write?”

Both are fair questions. The first step to writing more easily, though, is to stop self-editing in your head before the words get a chance to come out.

Get over the idea that every sentence you write has to be perfect. Your fear of making mistakes, or of making something less than perfect, is the monster behind writer’s block and procrastination.

But to be a great writer, you need something stronger: R esilience .

It’s in there, I promise.

And it’s what makes it possible for all types of writers to face harsh criticism, to get back up, and to keep on writing .

3. Write Every Day

Writer’s write. And professional writers write every day.

That might sound inflexible. But those who take their writing seriously make time for it in their daily routines.

If it’s something you only do when you feel inspired, it’s a hobby, not a career.

Unless you’re nocturnal, you probably have more energy in the morning than you do in the evening; carve out some of that time for your new writing habit.

Here are some ideas on what to write:

• Journal entries
• Blog posts and ideas
• Emails or letters
• Freewriting with prompts
• Creative writing exercises

Along with using a habit tracker app (like this one ), many writers find it helpful to set a minimum word count target for the day – or a minimum number of minutes spent writing.

Apps like PomoDoneApp use the Pomodoro technique to help you accomplish more in manageable chunks of time.

Start with something you know will be manageable for you, even when you’re tired and your brain just doesn’t wanna (because those days will come).

But a year from now, if you stick with your daily practice, you’ll have sharpened your writing skill and learned how to keep going when the going gets tough. And both will serve you well.

4. Focus on “Deep Work”

In order to do your best work, you need a writing space that’s free of distractions. Only when you immerse yourself in your writing can you enter a flow state, where the “deep work” happens.

It isn’t so much about working “smarter, not harder.” It’s working smarter and harder to get the best possible results. And that doesn’t happen when you multitask.

It happens when you take the following steps seriously (including #6):

• Clarify your goals and prepare. Know what you want to accomplish before each day, each week, each month, etc., begins.
• Automate what you can. Use project management tools to automate your workflow and free up more time for deep work.
• Focus on one thing at a time. Choose one task and give all your attention to that for 40 minutes to an hour or two.
• Create a daily ritual. Create a dedicated space and allocate a specific time period for your daily deep work sessions.
• Silence social media. It’s a distraction you don’t need. Allocate separate, small blocks of time for this.
• Quit when you’re done. No points for overdoing it. Your brain needs quality rest to do quality written work.
• Read the book, Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World , by Cal Newport, and keep it as a helpful reference and reminder.

5. Read More

Being a good reader is essential to being a good writer. And what you choose to read will often influence the way you write.

With that in mind, we’d like to recommend a few good books on writing :

• On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction by William Zinsser (best book on the mechanics of the language)
• Save the Cat by Blake Snyder (best book on story structure)
• Story Engineering by Larry Brooks (storytelling and novel writing)
• CA$HVERTISING: How to Use More than 100 Secrets of Ad-Agency Psychology to Make Big Money Selling Anything to Anyone by Drew Eric Whitman (structure and mechanics for copywriting)
• On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King (best book on being a writer)

You don’t know what you don’t know yet. And you’ve yet to discover how the books you read will change your path as a writer.

One way to make sure you get some quality reading in during the year is to make yourself a monthly reading list with books in the following categories:

• Books on the craft of writing
• Books like the ones you want to write
• Books you read for fun

Your list doesn’t have to look like every other writer’s, but don’t underestimate the value of a sincere recommendation.

6. Always Be Learning and Leveling Up

If you’re wondering what kind of education you need to be a better writer , we have some good news: you don’t need a college degree to earn a good income with your craft (though, it doesn’t hurt ).

What you do need is to keep learning and developing as a writer.

Aside from reading good books, there are other ways to continue your education:

• Take online courses on platforms like Udemy , Skillshare , or MasterClass.com
• Level up with certification-based writing programs like those offered by Smart Blogger
• Take a college writing course or earn a writing degree, such as an MFA, a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, Communication Studies, or Journalism, or an industry-focused Associates degree
• Submit your best work to writing contests
• Set up a writer’s website and learn how to develop it into an asset

As you’ll see in the next tip, you can learn plenty from your fellow writers as well as from readers (particularly those who read the kinds of written content you want to write).

Leveling up your interaction with them should be an integral part of your plan.

7. Join a Writing Community

No writer is an island. That’s especially true if you plan on getting paid.

It’s never too early to join a writing community and to start learning from other members and sharing what you know.

• Facebook groups for writers (Search “writing,” and you’ll find plenty)
• Facebook groups for your chosen genre or writing path
• LinkedIn groups
• Local writing groups (Look up “[nearest city] writing groups”)
• Online communities like CampNaNoWriMo and Critique Circle
• Networking events for writers like the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference

Put yourself in situations where you’ll meet other writers, particularly those drawn to the same paths that interest you.

Whatever stage you’ve reached, you have valuable insights to share, and so do they.

Learn what you can to help each other grow.

8. Find Paid Writing Opportunities

Once you’re ready to start writing for money, it’s time to get acquainted with all the best places to find paid writing opportunities:

• Job boards: Problogger , FlexJobs , and FreelanceWriting.com
• LinkedIn: in writing or industry-specific groups
• Facebook: in content writing or niche-specific groups
• Writer guidelines for magazines and book publishers
• Social media channels like Twitter and Instagram

Make time for daily checks of job boards .

Look through guidelines for magazines and publishers that interest you. And allocate some time for job searching on social media channels where you’ve built connections with fellow writers, editors, and publishers.

9. Cultivate Credibility

Once you’ve received your first payment from a client, don’t forget to ask for a testimonial. Think of it as a way to ensure you’ve met all their expectations.

Each well-crafted testimonial benefits you in the following ways:

• Shows client satisfaction, gratitude, and even loyalty
• Articulates exactly how you benefited each client
• Acts as a referral to build trust in potential clients
• Gives you a chance to increase a good client’s visibility
• Helps you discover areas that need improvement

With that last one, you may have to read between the lines and ask your client for clarification. But none of these benefits come without asking.

And when you’re starting out, it’s an easy thing to forget.

If you’re worried the client will be annoyed by your request, we can tell you (from experience on both sides) if your client is happy with your work, they’ll be happy to write something complimentary about it.

If they’re not sure exactly how to write a testimonial , you can even write one for them to review and approve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do writers get paid well.

It’s not hard to find success stories of writers who earn six figures (or more) with their craft. Famous authors like Liane Moriarty and Stephen King come to mind.

That said, no content writer starts out with the promise of a six-figure income, no matter how good they are. And it’s best not to quit your other job until you’ve met one of the following enviable conditions:

• You’re consistently earning enough with your writing to replace the income you’d lose, or
• You have solid evidence your writing income, plus any other household income, will more than make up for it.

Do I Need a Writer’s Website to Be Successful?

While you can host your writing profile on sites like Contently or LinkedIn , you wouldn’t own the platforms. With a self-hosted website, you can create a profile on your own piece of online real estate.

But those aren’t the only benefits of owning your own platform:

• You can start a blog of your own with niche-focused content
• You can earn affiliate income with your blog posts
• You can create stylized links to your writing samples and portfolio

Your writer’s website displays your qualifications and gives future clients a taste of your personality, too.

Don’t worry, maintaining an online platform doesn’t have to be a full-time job. And using a site builder like Elementor (affiliate link) makes it that much easier.

The sooner you create one, the sooner you can share your new online address.

How Do I Start a Writing Career When I Still Have a Job?

You don’t need to be unemployed or have loads of free time to get started on building a profitable writing career.

Whatever path you choose, you can set aside time for the following:

• Daily writing
• Skimming job boards
• Creating a writer website
• Taking an online class
• Connecting with other writers

Do what you can every day to get closer to your writing goals.

Final Takeaways on How to Become a Writer

Whatever writing path you choose, nothing happens until you take action.

The secret to becoming a successful writer isn’t magic or destiny. It lies in what you do consistently, even when you’d rather do something else.

Take a moment now, look through the steps again, and jot down some ideas for this week to get the wheels in motion.

Then hit the Freelance Writing Hub and read up. Or make time for some of our favorite podcasts for writers .

Setting S.M.A.R.T. goals is just the beginning . Smart habits are what will get you there.

Sarah Lentz

The ultimate toolkit for becoming one of the highest-paid writers online. Premium training. Yours for free.

Written by Sarah Lentz

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10 Best Degrees for Writers What to study if you want to write for a living

Ready to start your journey.

Get a personalized list of degree programs that fit your needs.

If you’re a great writer, you have a versatile skill that is useful in just about every occupation. If you’re a storyteller, you might want to major in a subject that teaches you how to craft a narrative that elicits emotion. Writers with other interests can combine their passions. For example, if you’re fascinated by engineering, you could major in technical writing. The following degrees allow you to learn marketable skills and are ideal for someone who wants to write for a living.

Recommended Online Degrees for Writers

Explore our featured online programs to find the right match for you today.

1. Liberal Arts

A liberal arts degree is one of the most general and flexible options for writers. Some schools offer distinct majors under the liberal arts umbrella. Others offer specific degrees in liberal arts.

You can take courses in several categories for a liberal arts degree. This area of study includes science, technology, engineering, art, communications, economics, political science, history, psychology and sociology. Once you begin, you’ll likely narrow down your path to match your interests and talents.

A history degree can give you the foundation to research and write scripts for documentary films, for example. An economics degree can spur a career in finance writing.

Liberal arts degrees often teach soft skills, which are not easy to quantify. For example, this adaptable degree program enhances creative thinking, interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. Students can round out their knowledge by taking some courses that teach hard skills, such as statistical analysis or medical writing.

Who Is This Degree Good For?

A liberal arts degree prepares you for a broad range of professions. It’s a good option for people who are interested in writing and creative pursuits but aren’t sure what career path they’d like to follow. Many liberal arts students are interested in expressing themselves, helping their communities and enhancing their communication skills.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Liberal Arts Degree?

A liberal arts degree can help you get a job in just about any field. If you’re a writer, some career paths that might interest you as a liberal arts major include public relations, non-profit administration, marketing, human resources and academic research. You’ll have a chance to use your writing and communication skills in any of these positions.

Recommended Online Liberal Arts Programs

A degree in English exposes students to a wide variety of literature. You’ll read works by historic and contemporary authors, writing analyses and critiques. Students will also learn effective communication, time management, critical thinking and creative skills.

There are typically two concentrations within an English degree program. You can choose to major in English language and literature or composition and rhetoric. If you want to be a writer, getting plenty of time to practice is important.

Some people think that an English degree is too general to help you secure a good job. However, the major allows you to be flexible. It teaches marketable skills that will help you succeed in any industry.

English majors do a lot of reading. You’ll become better acquainted with the classics and learn what made them impactful. You may not receive direct instruction on the business of writing. However, you can complement this major by minoring in a specialty to which you can apply your skills. You might want to take courses on blogging or social media marketing, for example.

People who want to develop strong written communication skills are excellent candidates for an English degree. This is a flexible option for creative thinkers who enjoy reading and writing and want to set up a flexible foundation for their career and further studies.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With an English Degree?

Surprisingly, the most common jobs for English majors are in education and law. However, many graduates with this degree also work in proofreading, editing, copywriting, technical writing and journalism. Some other career choices for writers with an English degree include grant writing positions and public relations. The average salary for someone with an English degree is $75,096.

Recommended Online English Degree Programs

3. creative writing.

A creative writing degree is ideal for someone who is extremely verbal and drawn to expressing themselves with words. A creative writing major will spend a lot of time reading, interpreting and examining existing works of literature. They’ll also practice expressing emotions, thoughts and messages in a variety of ways.

Analyzing other writers’ work exposes you to different ways of structuring your own writing. Creative writing majors do a lot of reading. You’ll learn how to critique other artists’ work as well as your own. Regular feedback will help you improve your skills. You’ll also be required to write under pressure and meet deadlines, which are valuable skills in any market.

Do you write in your spare time? A creative writing degree is ideal for people who already spend a significant portion of their life writing. You’ll be assigned plenty of writing homework while you pursue this major. If composing essays is your least favorite task, this may not be the degree path for you.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Creative Writing Degree?

While you don’t need a formal academic degree to get your work published, you will learn how to infuse your projects with expression and meaning if you pursue a creative writing degree. This can help you find work as a novelist or poet. But it takes time to write a book, and you need a job immediately after college.

A specialization in creative writing fosters skills that are in demand across industries, such as effective communication, critical analysis and self-discipline. Many creative writing majors go on to work in marketing and advertising, copywriting, ghostwriting, editing, screenwriting or journalism.

Interestingly, approximately 50% of creative writers are age 40 or older. This may indicate that graduates with this degree pursue jobs in other fields before writing the next great novel or take on other roles early on in their careers.

Recommended Online Writing Degree Programs

4. media and journalism.

A journalism or media degree sets you up to write for newspapers, magazines and broadcast news. It focuses on communication skills and using rhetoric to generate a clear, persuasive message. Creativity is important in this field, but so are accurate research, fact-checking and non-fiction writing. Students will learn how to present accurate information in an objective but engaging way.

Media and journalism majors may also study politics, ethics and law. They should have a good grasp on current events and have interest in learning about the political landscape. The media shapes many of society’s conventions and beliefs. Journalism majors will learn principles of persuasion, which help you build solid relationships in any workplace. Students pursuing this degree will also learn how to analyze data and statistics.

The journalistic environment is constantly evolving. The best media and journalism majors offer up-to-date courses that resonate with today’s media landscape. You might want to learn about social media influence and video editing along with formatting principles for news environments.

A journalism degree is ideal for individuals who want to make an impact on the world using their communication skills. You’ll round out your proficiency in writing by learning how to adapt your message to other media channels. If you enjoy working with people, have a curious nature and excel at organizing information into a clear, accurate message, you may be an excellent candidate for a journalism degree.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Media and Journalism Degree?

Many journalism majors work for print and broadcast news outlets. They may write the scripts for news stories or work as investigative journalists in the field. Journalists earn an average base salary of $62,000 per year . A degree in journalism can also prepare you for a job in marketing. The ability to transform data into an engaging message is essential in marketing. The confidence and communication skills that you gain in this area of study also position you to adapt well to a career in public relations or law.

Recommended Online Journalism Degrees

5. theater and film.

Theater and film majors aren’t just for actors. These degrees help writers develop the necessary skills for screenwriting, playwriting, arts journalism and film criticism. Courses often require students to read scripts and watch performances that are crafted by stage and cinema masters. You’ll learn about the structure and artistry behind story development in plays and movies.

Most theater and film degree programs offer plenty of courses in writing. You will develop a strong grasp of different storytelling devices. By the time you graduate, you should be well-versed in different areas, such as dramatic, expository and episodic writing. You’ll supplement your writing skills by learning about visual storytelling elements and different genres too.

People with an interest in performance art make good candidates for a theater and film degree. Many students seek to enter this field because they have a strong interest in watching films and plays. You’ll have to be able to collaborate with others and adapt your work based on external feedback.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Theater and Film Degree?

Students with this degree will be ready to write for the screen and stage. Film and theater graduates often pursue jobs in the motion picture industry, advertising and computer technology. Learning more about the back end of performance art prepares you to work behind the scenes in a variety of production categories.

6. Professional and Technical Writing

Professional and technical writing majors are extremely specific subsets within the liberal arts category. Some schools offer specialty courses in this category under other degree programs, such as creative writing or business. Others have distinct professional and technical writing degree programs.

Some of the subcategories of technical writing programs include technical communication, medical writing and scientific writing, and business communications.

Technical and professional writers must have a solid grasp of the English language. They must be able to organize complex information into structured documents. This degree is ideal for people who enjoy doing in-depth research and can adhere to deadlines. A love of learning helps; technical writers have to familiarize themselves with the subjects that they write about. This field usually requires technological proficiency.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Professional and Technical Writing Degree?

Many companies hire technical writers for instruction manuals, journal articles, professional documents and training handbooks. Many professional writers also compose press releases, draft memos and document policies. They may work in health care, law, business or the arts. The median annual salary for technical writers is $74,650, and the growth outlook is above average.

7. Linguistics

Linguistics degrees are often packaged with liberal arts, literature and creative writing programs. However, some educational institutions offer linguistics degrees as standalone majors.

Linguistics teaches you the basics of language history, semantics, grammar and rhetoric. You might study the way that different cultures have used language. Linguistics compares languages and studies their evolution. Delving into the details of language can help you craft your own writing more effectively.

You’ll develop the ability to recognize various writing styles, which makes you a more adaptable writer. Students will also learn about different aspects of discourse and persuasion.

People who love language generally enjoy diving into its particularities. Those with an affinity for writing will benefit from understanding the background of various words. Critical thinking skills are important because students will learn how to analyze language from a data-driven perspective.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Linguistics Degree?

A linguistics degree sets you up to be an excellent communicator. You can work in education, business, creative pursuits or the public sector. This field of study interconnects with anthropology, philosophy, psychology and sociology. Many linguistics majors go into publishing, information technology, international relations, speech therapy and language education. If you want a job that makes the most of your writing skills, you could work as an interpreter, translator, marketing specialist or editor.

8. Marketing

A marketing degree allows you to hone your writing skills while learning how to research, plan and implement effective promotional strategies. Students will learn how to research target markets, use visual, audio and verbal communication strategically and analyze the results of their efforts.

Successful marketing involves some knowledge of psychology. It’s important to understand why people behave and think the way that they do. That knowledge allows you to craft promotional strategies that will achieve the desired results.

A marketing degree program will provide some insight into psychology, linguistics and philosophy. Many marketing programs offer education about specific niches, such as digital and social media marketing.

Strong communication skills are essential for marketing. You could choose this degree program if you have a passion for sharing information in unique, creative and convincing ways. Marketing students must also be dynamic and flexible. You have to keep up with the ever-changing needs of the industry. You’ll have many opportunities to collaborate with others, which is an essential part of the marketing industry. You should be able to brainstorm with other people and develop ideas as a team player.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Marketing Degree?

A marketing degree is practical and highly adaptable. Every business should use strategic marketing to promote their offerings. Someone with an interest in writing can look for jobs that require top-notch verbal and language skills, such as developing social media campaigns or writing copy for printed brochures. Anyone with strong communication skills can write marketing material. A marketing degree lays the framework for you to understand intricate concepts and put them to use in industries such as entertainment, law, business, health care, retail and blogging.

9. Publishing

A publishing degree provides writers with an alternative way to influence the literary environment. Studying the publishing industry will give you a comprehensive background on business, marketing, communications and technology.

Students will learn traditional and contemporary publishing techniques. They’ll focus on industry trends and advancements. They’ll combine their visual and verbal skills to build their knowledge of design and layout standards.

Business skills are crucial for people in the publishing industry. Students who pursue this degree will learn about financial and operational functions in business. You must be able to recognize a profitable piece of literature, which involves understanding consumer markets, sales strategies and publishing channels.

Undergraduate degrees in publishing exist, but they’re not plentiful. Many students choose a more general major for their bachelor’s degree and pursue publishing at the master’s level.

If you have a love of the written word, you may want to immerse yourself in the industry. Studying publishing lets you approach writing from a business perspective. Ideal candidates for this degree are passionate about sharing important messages with the world.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Publishing Degree?

With a publishing degree, you can work in any department of a publishing company. You may have a hands-on position that requires some writing and editing. Alternatively, you may work in a business-oriented department, such as sales or marketing. Other publishing jobs include publicist, literary agent, production manager and contract manager.

10. Business

There is more to a writing career than putting pen to paper or fingers on a keyboard. To earn money by writing, you have to understand concepts such as supply and demand, management, entrepreneurship and economics. A business degree allows you to work behind the scenes in any field. It also provides a solid background for writers who want to self-publish or become entrepreneurs.

A business degree helps students develop soft and hard skills. You’ll learn leadership and motivational strategies that are applicable to any industry. You’ll also receive training on quantitative skills, such as accounting, data analysis and project management.

Many writers want to create content. However, others become interested in the business of writing. A business degree complements strong communication, leadership and teamwork skills. It can be an ideal area of study for people who want to expand their abilities beyond writing. You won’t have as much writing-specific coursework in this degree area as you might in English or creative writing. Still, business majors are required to complete a good amount of writing assignments.

What Kind of Work Can You Get With a Business Degree?

Strong writing skills enhance any company’s quality and reputation . If you understand business concepts and have excellent verbal skills, you will be an asset to businesses in any industry. If you’d like to use your written skills in your job, look for a position as a business writer, marketing content creator, curriculum developer or research analyst. You could also start your own business as a publisher, literary agency or publishing relations firm.

Recommended Online Business Degrees

Related Articles:

10 Best Degrees for Journalism

10 Best Degrees for Artists

10 Best Degrees for Digital Nomads

10 Best Degrees for the Music & Entertainment Industry

Accredited Online English Degrees

• Good Writing
• Revising & Rewriting
• Nonfiction Writing
• Academic Writing
• Travel Writing
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• Pitching Query Letters
• Working With Editors
• Professional Writers
• Newspaper Writing
• Making Money Writing
• Running a Writing Business
• Literary Agents
• Getting Published
• Fiction Writing
• Self-Publishing
• Marketing & Selling Books
• Building a Blog
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• Boosting Blog Traffic
• Online Writing
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• Non-Fiction Writing
• Midlife Blossoms

How to Decide if You Should Go to School to Become a Writer

• June 27, 2017

Do you need an English Literature, journalism, or writing degree if you want to become a writer? It depends. These tips for deciding if you should go to school, college, or university to learn how to write in a formal setting, as well as a few tips about what type of writer’s education you should pursue.

I was inspired to write this article for a reader, who said:

“Hello Laurie, thank you so much for taking the time to write this article!” says Chandra on What You Need to Know About Making a Career Change at 40 . “It’s refreshing to see so many people here that are interested in this. I am 42. I want to start a new career, as a Writer/Author. I actually made a career change once in my 30’s and it worked out well, but it still wasn’t what I wanted ultimately. I’ve been writing for years but have not been able to find a lucrative enough income to finance my life. So I’ve always remained moderately employed and continued to write as a hobby. I finally know that I want this to be my career full time.I finished writing my first book and it will be published soon. But getting a book published doesn’t automatically guarantee a steady paycheck.”

That’s amazing that she wrote her first book and it’ll be published soon! Awesome. That means she’ll become an author, in addition to being a writer. Being an “author” means you have a book published; being a “writer” means you write as a hobbyist or professional. Or both. But you’re not traditionally published.

Chandra goes on to say:

“I’ve always wanted to finish my degree. I’m wondering if I should pursue a degree in English Literature or something that will give me a guaranteed career in the writing field to fall back on. Or is it unnecessary and a waste of time and money? I love education, teaching, writing, and researching so I figure it’s not off the path. What do you think? I just want to make a smart decision, and you obviously know a little bit about this! : ) Thanks Laurie!”

How to Decide if You Should Go to School to Be a Writer

When I wrote Do You Need a Writing Degree to Make Money as a Writer?  back in 2011, I didn’t discuss something very important: you don’t need to go to school and get a degree in writing, Journalism, or English Literature…unless you want to be a specific type of writer.

Deciding if you should go to school to become a writer depends on what kind of writer you want to be. This means you need to take time to think about where and what you want to write.

In Creative Writing Career: Becoming a Writer of Film, Video Games, and Books , Justin Sloan shares tips on how to become a novelist, screenwriter, or video game writer. He offers information on the writing process and improving the craft, but mostly focuses on how to get discovered and where to concentrate energy in the meantime.

Creative Writing Career is a guide for aspiring writers who know how important it is to position themselves in an extremely competitive field. This book includes writer interviews with some incredibly gifted people who share the wisdom they have gained. Justin says, “With writing, as with most aspects of life, I have chosen to rely on those with demonstrated wisdom to move ahead.”

Explore different types of writing careers

Here’s a quick list, off the top of my head:

• Graphic Novelist
• Literary Writer
• Screenwriter
• Catalogue Copywriter
• Online Copywriter
• Freelance Magazine Writer
• Science and Research Writer
• Autobiographer
• Ghostwriter
• Academic Writer
• Comic Book Writer
• Children’s Writer
• Speech Writer

And that’s only the beginning. For more writing jobs and ideas, read 10 Careers for Writers Who Want to Make Money .

Learn which writing jobs and careers require an education

What if you want to be a political speech writer in the President’s Office? I’ve met several speech writers, and only a few had writing degrees from universities and colleges so I know you can work your way up the ladder to the President. That said, however, an education in Political Science and Communications would be extremely beneficial for your writing career.

Same if you want to be a graphic novelist or comic book writer because of the complex interactions between illustrations and writing, as well as a literary writer because of the literary techniques. If you want to write “serious literature”, you need to learn what makes literature serious and how the masters (eg, Hemingway, Shakespeare) wrote.

Start dipping your quill

Here’s another question from a reader:

“I’m 16 and really struggling about the future,” says Ashleigh on  Making Money Freelance Writing – 5 Ways to Support Yourself as a Writer . “I don’t know what to do yet, so much pressure has been put on me. I want more than anything to just write. Write what I see, touch, smell – but my mum is nagging on at me saying that ‘Egotistic people like you need a job y’know!’ I’ve no idea what kind of job I’m looking for.

Should I go to college and take a Journalism course? Go to University and get a degree in English so I can become a full-time journalist? My teacher gave me some local newspaper e-mails. ‘Send them some of your stuff Ash,’ she said, ‘Get yourself recognized. They will love it.’ I have my doubts, but do YOU think it’s a good idea?”

Before you think about the content of her comment, note her writing style. Natural voice or what, huh? See Ashleigh write! She didn’t go to school to learn how to become a writer; she simply loves to write. But she’s not published yet.

Now think about what she was saying…her teacher is encouraging her to send her writing to the local paper, but she’s uncertain. That’s natural – it is hard to share your writing with the world! Really hard. But if you want to be a writer, you have to do things that are hard.

So I said to her:

“Yes, Ashleigh, I do think it’s a good idea to send your writing clips to your local newspaper. It’s a low-risk activity (that feels scary) – but it can reap big rewards! Or, maybe nothing will come of it at all. Either way, you win. If you sit on your writing, you gain nothing at all.”

Learn how to break into the writing career of your choice

I just finished reading The 101 Habits of Highly Successful Screenwriters: Insider Secrets from Hollywood’s Top Writers  by Karl Iglesias – not because I want to become a screenwriter, but because I love reading about writing.

This is the book you need to read if you want to become a screenwriter. You’ll learn more about writing movies for Hollywood in that book than in a semester of screenwriting classes at college or university. You’ll learn why you shouldn’t move to Hollywood until you’ve already written a script you want to sell, and the number one secret to getting your screenplay published.

As with most of the different types of writing jobs and careers, you don’t necessarily NEED to go to school to succeed in the field because you can learn a ton about writing from books, blogs, online courses and other resources… but getting a writing degree probably won’t be a waste of time or money.

Go to school – but not to learn “how to become a writer”

Okay, back to Chandra’s question at the top of the article. YES I think she should go to school or college or university and get a writing or English Literature degree! But not so she can “become a writer.” I think she should go to school because she loves education, learning, writing, and changing careers. If Chandra was sitting in front of me right now, I would say:

“If you don’t go back to school, will you always regret it? I went back to university for my MSW (Master of Social Work) because I thought I was done writing. Blogging sorta got dull because I’d be doing it for a few years, and I needed a break. I thought I wanted to be a social worker instead.

Now, three years after getting my MSW, I still haven’t found time to look for a job as a social worker because I’m too busy writing! My love for blogging has been renewed, revived. So even though I ‘wasted’ those two years getting a MSW…I am so glad I did it. I totally would’ve regretted it if I didn’t take the leap when I did.

There are no guarantees that an English Lit degree will get you a writing job…but boy, those might just be the happiest, most fulfilling years of your life. And if they’re the worst years of your life, then at least you know that it’s not your thang. Go to school! Get thee to a university! Go study. Where will you apply? What do you want to major in? I’m so excited for you! In fact I think I’ll join you…. 🙂 ”

Do a cost/benefit analysis of going to school to be a writer

I’ll help you by listing some of the benefits of getting a formal education in the field of your dreams. I invite you to add more benefits in the comments section below.

Benefits of going to school for a journalism or English Literature, or other type of writing degree:

• Gaining exposure to textbooks, courses, materials, and resources you’d never find in a book
• Networking with other aspiring writers and published authors
• Learning “the tricks of the trade” from experienced professional writers
• Learning discipline to overcome “writer’s block” by having to submit papers, essays, reports, interviews, etc.
• Feeling the satisfaction of earning a degree in Writing, Journalism, or English Literature
• Getting certification in your chosen field so you have formal references and education to back you up as you apply for writing jobs

If you’re leaning towards a career as a journalist or newspaper reporter, read How to Decide if You Should Major in Journalism .

Learn how to become a writer

In  The Wealthy Freelancer  Steve Slaunwhite, Pete Savage, and Ed Gandia proven share ideas and real-world examples from dozens of successful freelancers.

In this book, you learn:

• Why striving to be the “best writer” in your field almost never works, and what to do instead
• How to charge more – and earn more – by creating new income streams closely related to your core business
• How to “test the waters” and land freelance writing work now, even if you’re already employed
• Stories of real-life freelancers who destroy the myth that freelancers barely scrape by

I do not believe writers need creative writing degrees, journalism degrees, literary arts degrees, English degrees – or any type of degree at all, in fact – but they do need to educate themselves in their chosen field.

I’ve written for several national print magazines and many online e-zines and content sites, and have never once been asked what degrees I have. Of course, that’s me as a freelance magazine writer – it’s not me applying for a formal reporting job on a newspaper or overseas with the BBC or National Geographic , or for a job as a speechwriter or copywriter.

That’s why you need to figure out what type of writing job you want.

Talk to working writers who did not go to school

The answer to the “Should I go to school to learn how to become a writer?” depends on who you ask. I think you should ask the most important person: you . (Actually, God is the most important but let’s stay focused).

If you want to give yourself an educated answer, find writers who are working in the field you’re aiming for and talk to them. Remember that there are so many different jobs for aspiring writers, and all have different education or certification requirements. For instance, you don’t need a writing degree to learn how to become a freelance magazine writer – you just need drive, perseverance, motivation, creativity, and self-discipline.

Try different types of writing jobs and careers (it’s called “pivoting” now)

I taught grade 8 Language Arts and high school Journalism. I didn’t really like teaching about writing – I’d rather be writing! I worked as a freelance writer for a couple of years, and didn’t like pitching feature article ideas to editors. Then I wrote monthly health articles and various projects for BC Women’s Hospital, which I loved at the time but now all I want to do is Blossom on my blogs.

No matter how old you are – 16 or 66 – you don’t have to make a decision now that you’ll have to live with for the rest of your life. You can start getting a writing or journalism degree, and switch to a different type of certification if you choose. You can start a career as a freelance writer, and switch over into owning your own business or blogging or teaching surfing in Hawaii.

Don’t pressure yourself to figure out your future right now…just take it one step at a time. The first step may be sending writing clips to your local newspaper, or applying to a journalism school or university, or working retail for a year while you write a book. Don’t get hung up on the details; just take it one step at a time.

If you need to work while you learn how to become a writer, read Best Jobs for Introverts and People Who Love to Work Alone .

Two final thoughts for becoming a working writer

Are you still wondering if you should go back to school to become a writer? That’s okay because I have two more things to tell you.

• Professional working writers do not succumb to “writer’s block”
• Working writers do not take advice from people who don’t have writing experience

Here’s a comment about full-time freelance writing from a reader who was responding to Chandra, on that same article about making a career change at midlife:

“Before you dive into the whole writing thing don’t quit your day job even though you want to,” says Ayla. “Can you live on virtually no income? Just because two people were saying they worked at jobs making a moderate income and writing on the side doesn’t mean it’s a real career possibility. If you weren’t making any money writing when you had a full-time paying job, what makes you think you will make money writing when you don’t have a job? The only difference is a lot less money. If you quit your job to write full-time you’ll have more stress and more free time which doesn’t mean you’ll spend those extra 40 hours a week writing the great American novel. What if you get writers block?”

Ouch. Don’t believe everything she says! Why? Because you can prove her wrong. And because:

1. Professional working writers do not succumb to “writer’s block”

Full-time freelance writers may feel stuck for ideas sometimes (though that has never happened to me – the world is full of ideas!), but they don’t get “writer’s block.” Not if they want to pay the bills and keep working as a writer. Professional freelance writers work at their job the same way as doctors, lawyers, accountants, entrepreneurs, and teachers: they keep learning about their industry, they update their training and credentials, and they stay on top of new developments in their field.

Invest in the current  Writer’s Market if you tend to get stuck for ideas. Look through the thousands of print and online magazines, periodicals, ezines, and other places to get published. Get advice from writers and authors who are actually making money writing.

Don’t fall into the trap of believing writer’s block can stop you from becoming a writer! Fight the darkness by learning what opportunities exist for you and how you can get your writing published – even if you decide not to go to school to become a writer.

Jack London said he doesn’t “wait for inspiration to strike.” He shows up every morning at 9 am and sees to it that he is inspired. Because his job is to write.

2. Working writers do not take advice from people who don’t have writing experience

If you get advice about writer’s block or making money freelancing – or deciding if you should go to school to become a writer – make sure you’re talking to someone who has actually worked in the writing world and made money freelancing and decided to (or not to) go to journalism or other school.

Stay open-minded, but stay on track. Seek advice from experienced freelancers. Gather information…and then make a decision for yourself based on your gut instincts.

And don’t be afraid to start over if and when you need to.

Are you thinking about becoming a freelance writer? Read 8 Things You Need to Know About Succeeding as a Freelancer .

Your comments are welcome below, fellow scribes. What did you think of the cost/benefit analysis of going to school, college, or university to learn how to become a writer?  What would you add? I’m also curious…do you think you should go to school to be a writer?

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6 thoughts on “How to Decide if You Should Go to School to Become a Writer”

Hey, I have a question I’m also thinking of going to school for writing because I don’t really have the good enough skills I read books and get writing advice from other authors and guides but is going to school worth it, and yes I do pray to Jesus Christ that he will guide me and answer my prayers, But I seen other writers on write on episode and Wattpad and some of them get paid but mostly went to school to help their career but I saw some claim they didn’t go to school which is a much needed for writing I don’t want school to be a wasted of time but I also don’t know the skills or levels and yes, I look up on youtube and google but hey those websites don’t know everything nor does the people. A few people do but not everyone, I don’t have the skills as much no matter how many guide books or youtube videos is it really enough should I just watch the rest of my life and not go to school. Like I don’t wanna regret not going to school at all, but I wanna write novels published them I do poetry and novels ask I disagree authors who are paid do get writer blocks I don’t believe writers do make a lot of money or that its easier because its not there are writers who have other jobs and still write awhile doing other jobs to make more income. And even if you make a lot of money whose to say you wanna do that for a lifetime or that you don’t wanna explore other career or different job of writing.

I often wonder if I should go to school to learn how to write, but I can’t afford it. Appreciate the encouragement, thank you.

Hello Christina,

Thanks for being here! It sounds like you’re passionate about writing but you don’t know where to start.

If I were you, I’d consider going back to school and learn the craft of writing. I don’t know where you are in life or your career, but if you’re introverted and shy, then you need to learn how to put yourself out there. Writers need to have thick skins, because a writing career is filled with rejection, disappointment, and all manner of writing problems.

What do you think of going to school to become a writer?

I really want to pursue writing as a career, but am not quite sure where to start. I’ve been writing poetry and short stories for a few years now and am looking to expand upon it, hopefully make an income in the process. Any thoughts or ideas would be ideal. I’m quite the introvert and have a somewhat difficult time putting myself out there. Please help.

Yes, writing as a career is getting more difficult in some ways…but with the internet, it’s also getting easier to make money as a writer! And not by going to school to become a novelist 🙂

I’m glad you don’t regret going to journalism school, Drew. If you write an article about the benefits of getting a journalism degree in college or university, I’d love to read it! Post the link here, and I’ll be your first reader from this blog.

Let’s be honest, writing is a tough field, and in many ways it’s only getting harder.

But I don’t regret going to school for journalism. It’s not right for everyone, but it was right for me.

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Author/Writer Education Requirements

The educational requirements for an author/writer vary, with some holding no degree, while others having a high school diploma, associate, bachelor's, master's, or even a doctorate degree. Majors often include English, business, communication, psychology, and journalism. According to Dr. Wilma Davidson , Instructor at the University of South Florida, "All businesses need good writers. You can work remotely as a freelancer or an employee without concern about where your employer is located." She further adds, "If you'd like to be a technical writer, there is an advantage to being close to the engineers you may be working with as you write their manuals, but that can be handled-and already is-being handled remotely."

What education do you need to become an author/writer?

What degree do you need to be an author/writer.

The most common degree for author/writers is bachelor's degree, with 59% of author/writers earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are master's degree degree at 17% and master's degree degree at 12%.

• Bachelor's , 59%
• Master's , 17%
• Associate , 12%
• High School Diploma , 5%
• Other Degrees , 7%

What should I major in to become an author/writer?

According to Emily Griesinger, Ph.D. , Professor of English at Azusa Pacific University, "don't give up" if you're an aspiring author or writer. She suggests that those with English majors, in particular, can excel in this field due to their critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. Therefore, a bachelor's degree in English stands out as one of the best majors for an author/writer.

• English , 15%
• Business , 14%
• Communication , 11%
• Psychology , 8%
• Other Majors , 52%

Most common colleges for author/writers

Author/writers often get their degrees at University of Phoenix, Temple University, and University of Central Florida. Here are the most common colleges for author/writers in the US based on their resumes.

Best majors for author/writers

Best colleges for author/writers

The top colleges for author/writers, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, are chosen based on admissions rate, retention rate, and graduates' earnings. These institutions offer Bachelor's and Master's degrees, which are crucial for author/writers seeking higher salaries and better job opportunities.

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA • Private

In-State Tuition

2. Harvard University

3. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

4. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

5. University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, CA • Private

6. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • Private

7. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA • Private

8. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • Private

9. Emory University

Atlanta, GA • Private

10. University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • Private

20 best online courses for author/writers

1. Fiction for Young Writers (Writing Mastery)

A fun, interactive workshop to help young writers unlock their creativity, improve their craft, and write better stories...

2. Bestseller Book Marketing: Amazon Kindle KDP Self-Publishing

2023 Amazon book marketing & Kindle KDP self-publishing! Paperback books & Kindle (KDP) ebooks. Amazon Kindle KDP sales!...

3. Become a Freelance Content Writer - Get Paid to Write Online

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a freelance writer - Work from home!...

4. Reverse Engineer Riveting Fiction & Write Best Selling Books

You will be writing page turning fiction that your readers will love when you plot, outline and write the right way...

5. Write & Publish Your First Nonfiction Book on the Side

Learn how to write a bestselling kindle book while working a full time job (even if you don't have lot of time)...

6. Helping Writers to Write and Keep Writing

This limiting factor with most writers is their mind. This course will help get your state of mind into Success Mode...

7. Conquering Writer's Block (Writing Mastery)

Proven strategies and tools to overcome writer's block, renew your motivation, and write novels with confidence...

8. Write A Book - Share Your Story

Write, Self Publish and Market your Non-Fiction Book, Launch on Amazon and Learn How to Become a Best Seller on Kindle...

9. COMPLETE Creative Writing - All Genres - THE FULL COURSE!

Learn to write engaging Fiction, Poetry, Drama, & Creative Non-Fiction and become the successful writer you want to be...

10. How To Become a Bestselling Author on Amazon Kindle

Learn how to make money writing with this complete guide to writing, formatting, publishing and marketing Kindle ebooks...

11. How to Write a Nonfiction Book That Actually Sells

The Step-by-Step System for Writing Non-fiction Books in 30 Days from #1 Bestselling Author Tom Corson-Knowles...

12. Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy

Turn your idea into a published novel or screenplay in one of today's hottest genres...

13. The Foundations of Fiction (Writing Mastery)

Become a creative writing master and write killer novels, memoirs, or short stories...

14. Publish Your Novel: Self-Publishing & Marketing Masterclass

The Complete, Step-by-Step Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing Your Book and Launching Your Author Career...

15. 3-Step Writing System: Blogging & Writing Secrets

Blogging & writing tips for beginners to pros. Become an expert blogger/freelance writer. Ultimate blog writing course!...

16. Writing Fiction That Sings: Write Novels With Great Voice

Writing novels, blogs, or nonfiction books? Learn editing techniques in this writing course and up your writing skills...

17. Writing Revenue: Write Well, Get Published, & Earn Money

A practical guide to become a successful writer, get published in big publications, and generate a healthy income...

18. Amazon Self-Publishing - Create Kindle Books Fast

Advanced Techniques to Create Books Fast and Build your Publishing Empire...

19. Writing Tools & Hacks: Copywriting/Blogging/Content Writing

The best FREE writing tools & apps + Hacks to take your copywriting, blogging, & content writing to the next level...

20. Kindle Launch Plan: Publish and Market an Amazon Bestseller

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Top 10 most affordable universities for author/writers

The most affordable schools for author/writers are Baruch College of the City University of New York, university of florida, and brooklyn college of the city university of new york.

If the best universities for author/writers are out of your price range, check out these affordable schools. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, the average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price, and mean earnings after six years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for author/writers.

1. Baruch College of the City University of New York

Cost of Attendance

2. University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • Private

3. Brooklyn College of the City University of New York

Brooklyn, NY • Private

4. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

5. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

6. USF St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, FL • Private

7. California State University - Los Angeles

8. SUNY Farmingdale

Farmingdale, NY • Private

9. Lehman College of the City University of New York

Bronx, NY • Private

10. University of South Florida

Tampa, FL • Private

Top 10 hardest universities to get into for author/writers

The hardest universities for author/writers to get into are Northwestern University, Harvard University, and Northeastern University.

Some great schools for author/writers are hard to get into, but they also set your career up for greater success. The list below shows the most challenging universities to get into for author/writers based on an institution's admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted, and mean earnings of students six years after admission.

1. Northwestern University

Admissions Rate

SAT Average

3. Northeastern University

Boston, MA • Private

4. Boston University

5. University of Tulsa

Tulsa, OK • Private

6. Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX • Private

7. Columbia University in the City of New York

8. massachusetts institute of technology.

9. New York University

10. emory university, top 10 easy-to-apply-to universities for author/writers.

The easiest schools for author/writers to get into are University of the Incarnate Word, notre dame de namur university, and rochester university.

Some schools are much easier to get into. If you want to start your career as an author/writer without much hassle, check out the list of schools where you will be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores, and average salary of students six years after graduation to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into for author/writers.

1. University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX • Private

2. Notre Dame de Namur University

Belmont, CA • Private

3. Rochester University

Rochester Hills, MI • Private

4. Grand View University

Des Moines, IA • Private

5. Centenary University

Hackettstown, NJ • Private

6. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Valley, PA • Private

7. Nyack College

8. Wayland Baptist University

Plainview, TX • Private

9. Curry College

Milton, MA • Private

10. San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA • Private

Average author/writer salary by education level

According to our data, author/writers with a Doctorate degree earn the highest average salary, at $68,722 annually. Author/writers with a Master's degree earn an average annual salary of $64,827.

Author/Writer Education FAQs

What is the best college for author/writers, search for author/writer jobs.

Updated April 5, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Watch CBS News

Map shows where RFK Jr. is on the ballot in the 2024 election

By Caitlin Yilek , Allison Novelo

Updated on: August 23, 2024 / 3:25 PM EDT / CBS News

Washington — Unlike the Republican and Democratic presidential nominees, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced a costly and time-consuming process to appear on general election ballots as an independent candidate before he suspended his campaign . 

Rules  vary from state to state , but independent candidates typically have to collect thousands of signatures or be supported by a minor party in order to apply for ballot access. 

Kennedy opted to run as an independent last October, abandoning his Democratic primary bid. Democrats and Republicans questioned whether the independent candidate would pull support from their voters. 

Seeing no path to victory himself, Kennedy endorsed former President Donald Trump in a speech in Phoenix on Friday. But he said his name would remain on the ballot in non-battleground states and encouraged voters there to still vote for him.

In battleground states, "where my presence would be a spoiler, I'm going to remove my name, and I've already started that process and urge voters not to vote for me," he said. He added that campaign's polling consistently showed that he would "likely hand the election over to the Democrats" if he was on the ballot in battleground states. 

"He's a well-known name," said Dan Mallinson, an associate professor at Pennsylvania State University at Harrisburg. "He's different than a lot of other third-party candidates that run." 

Kennedy is currently on the ballot in three tightly contested states — Michigan, Nevada and North Carolina. Recent CBS News estimates show Harris and Trump are statistically tied in Michigan and North Carolina, with Kennedy having 2% support. Michigan said it's too late for Kennedy to pull his name from the November ballot. The deadline to withdraw his name in Nevada has also passed, though a judge could issue a court order to remove him. In a court filing on Friday, Kennedy asked a court in Pennsylvania to remove his name from the ballot there.

"Some of these states are such tight margins that it can matter," Mallinson said before Kennedy made his announcement. 

Democrats saw a bump after swapping their nominee from President Biden to Harris, largely coming from voters who had previously expressed support for Kennedy, according to a  Pew Research Center poll . 

Polling from Marquette Law School found that when independent candidates were included on the ballot question, Trump had a slightly larger drop in support than Harris. In an Emerson College poll , Harris' and Trump's support evenly decreased by two points with third-party candidates on the ballot. Kennedy's support dropped in recent months in both polls. 

It's typical of third-party candidates to see their poll numbers drop as it gets closer to Election Day, according to Matthew Foster, a professor at American University. 

"When you're polling months beforehand, people's choices are a bit mushy," he said. "They're more willing to support a third-party candidate at that moment. But when the election comes down to the wire and it really becomes time for the decision, they tend to go either Republican or Democrat." 

Kennedy's campaign said it secured enough signatures in every state and Washington, D.C., except for Kentucky, Mississippi, Rhode Island and Wyoming. 

In the map below, states where Kennedy's campaign says it has met the threshold to appear on the ballot but are still awaiting official confirmation are light blue. 

So far, about half of states — those that are dark blue on the map — have confirmed that he will appear on the November ballot. 

Kennedy was on the ballot in Arizona, a battleground state, but withdrew his candidacy as he weighed whether to stay in the race . New York is the only state where he  failed to qualify after a judge said Kennedy falsely claimed a New York residence on his nominating petitions. Kennedy was appealing the decision. 

Even if he ends up on a majority of ballots, "he won't make any impact if it's not the battlegrounds," Foster said.  

• Alaska 
• California 
• Colorado 
• Delaware 
• Hawaii 
• Indiana 
• Louisiana 
• Maine 
• Michigan 
• Minnesota 
• Nebraska 
• New Mexico 
• North Carolina 
• Oklahoma 
• Oregon 
• South Carolina 
• Tennessee 
• Texas 
• Vermont 
• Washington 
• West Virginia 

Where RFK Jr.'s ballot status is awaiting official confirmation: 

• Alabama 
• Arkansas 
• Connecticut 
• Florida 
• Georgia 
• Idaho 
• Illinois 
• Kansas 
• Maryland 
• Massachusetts 
• Missouri 
• Montana 
• New Hampshire 
• New Jersey 
• North Dakota 
• Pennsylvania 
• South Dakota 
• Virginia 
• Washington, D.C. 
• Wisconsin 

States where he will not be on the ballot: 

• Arizona 
• New York 
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
• 2024 Elections

Caitlin Yilek is a politics reporter at CBSNews.com, based in Washington, D.C. She previously worked for the Washington Examiner and The Hill, and was a member of the 2022 Paul Miller Washington Reporting Fellowship with the National Press Foundation.

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JD Vance says he would welcome RFK Jr. endorsement

Arkansas rejects efforts to put abortion initiative on ballots

12 highlights from the 2024 Democratic National Convention

In-Text Citations

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Everything You Need To Know About The GRE Test And How To Crack It

Gre scores play a key role in global education aspirations, with indian institutions also embracing the gre for admissions..

By Sachin Jain

According to a recent data released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the number of Indian students studying abroad is well over 13 lacs in the current year. Compared to 2019, the number of students has almost doubled in 2023, showcasing the demand for international education.

In a remarkable development, last year India surpassed the United States in the number of GRE test-takers for the first time in the 80-year history of the test. This reflects the growing aspiration among Indian students to pursue higher education abroad, as also underscores the relevance of the GRE test in getting admission to international universities.

In an increasingly globalized world, students now have access to a much broader spectrum of opportunities to pursue education abroad. Indian students, conventionally known to pick technology courses, are also opting for non-STEM courses, indicating a diversity in programmeme selection. One of the key enablers for international education is the GRE General Test, a globally accepted admission criteria for graduate and post graduate programmes in international universities.

Amongst its several advantages, GRE is accepted across a wide range of disciplines including Social Sciences, Management, Law and Humanities, thereby making it a universal test for any field of study.

GRE & Its Importance

The GRE evaluates critical skills such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. More recently, the GRE was shortened to under two hours, making it the shortest major assessment for admission to graduate and professional programmes. Held throughout the year, the GRE offers flexibility in scheduling and candidates can take the test as per their convenience as the test is conducted more than 20 times in a month.

GRE scores are valid for five years, allowing students to apply to graduate, post graduate or doctoral programmes during this period. Additionally, test-takers have the option to select and send their best scores to institutions, enabling them to present their strongest performance. Accepted by top global universities across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany and several other destinations, the GRE remains a vital assessment in evaluating candidates' readiness for higher education.

Writing Assessments And AI Concerns

Recently, Harvard Business School mandated an additional writing assessment for MBA applicants, highlighting the importance of writing skills. With the rise of AI-generated content, obtaining an authentic writing sample is more important than ever. GRE retained its writing assessment even after shortening the test, providing schools with a solid measure of a candidate's writing and critical thinking skills. Hence, unlike other assessments, GRE test takers are not required to take any additional writing assessment thereby saving precious time and money.

The GRE General Test Structure

Verbal Reasoning : This section evaluates the test-taker's ability to analyze and interpret written material, evaluate arguments, and understand the meanings of words and sentences. It consists of questions related to reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence.

Quantitative Reasoning : This section measures the test-taker's ability to understand, interpret, and analyze quantitative information. It includes questions on arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data analysis, assessing problem-solving skills using quantitative methods.

Analytical Writing : This section tests critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It comprises one task: An Issue task. The GRE Issue Task requires students to write an essay taking a position on a given statement, supporting their position with evidence and examples.

GRE Preparation Strategies

ETS offers a host of preparation resources through official GRE prep materials, including GRE Mentor Courses, expert guidance, practice tests, and quizzes. Preparing for the GRE requires a strategic approach, and below are some suggested strategies:

• Start by downloading the GRE Information Bulletin to familiarise yourself with administrative procedures like registration, scheduling, costs, and score reporting.
• Understand what is tested in each section: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing.
• Utilize free resources, including a full math review, a guide on math conventions, and two POWERPREP Online simulated practice tests.
• For further preparation and guidance, consider paid resources like POWERPREP PLUS Online, which offers three real full tests with on-the-dot questions and immediate scoring.

Below are some additional preparation strategies that can help test takers:

• Understand the Format : Check out the layout of a section, understand the kind of questions you may encounter and sit for a mock test. It is advisable to use both official guidebooks and other resources, since the first group helps achieve scores that the second group evidence.
• Set a Study Schedule : The preparation time needs to be properly monitored and managed, thus a good timetable is strongly recommended. There must be a proper schedule for each section and the use of review sessions is also effective. They help to focus on the weak areas, as test takers will be able to diagnose and concentrate on them.
• Attempt Practice Tests: Regularly taking full-length practice tests helps to develop test-taking stamina and familiarity with the test's timing. For some, enrolling in a GRE prep course provides added structure and guidance, personalized feedback, and a wider set of practice materials.
• Manage Time: Budget enough time to think, analyze, and respond to every question. When attempting the GRE General Test, you can skip questions that seem difficult and revisit them later. The testing software allows marking and reviewing questions during the allocated section time.

GRE vs. GMAT: Comparison

Test Structure:

GRE:  The GRE test includes three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. You can choose the order of sections and change your answers as many times as you want within each section. The Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning measures are section-level adaptive,

GMAT:  The GMAT consists of 3 sections: Verbal, Quantitative and Data insights. The GMAT Focus Edition is question-level adaptive, hence the test format limits your ability to change your answers in each section. Further, some schools may require the candidate to take a separate writing test since GMAT doesn’t include writing.

Test Length:

GRE:  1 hour and 58 minutes

GMAT:  2 hours and 15 minutes

GRE:  There is no penalty for answering a question incorrectly. You won't lose points for wrong answers.

GMAT:  There is penalty for unanswered questions. You can lose points for wrong answers.

Send your best scores:

GRE:  Choice to send only the best score report (not an average score of overall attempts).

GMAT:  The score report will include all exams you have taken in the past five years.

Also Read: NIRF Management Rankings 2024: Maharashtra Dominates With Most MBA Colleges in Top 50 — Full List Here

Financial Aid Opportunities For Students

Financial aid, including scholarships, is available for GRE test takers to help cover tuition and related expenses. For example, Arizona State University offers a Merit-Based Scholarship that can cover up to 50% of tuition, depending on the course and profile, for students with GRE scores of 315 and above. Additionally, the University of North Carolina, Charlotte provides tuition discounts ranging from 20% to 30% for students with similar GRE scores, particularly those pursuing a Master’s degree.

Acceptance Of GRE In Indian Colleges

Notably, an increasing number of Indian institutions also accept the GRE test scores as part of their admission process & below is a list of some key institutions.

• Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (ePGP)
• Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (ePGP)
• Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode
• Indian Institute of Management Lucknow IPMX - Noida Campus
• Indian Institute of Management Raipur (FPM)
• Indian Institute of Management Udaipur
• Indian Institute of Management Visakhapatnam (PGP-DGM/PGPEx)
• Indian School of Business (ISB)
• Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI)

Summarily, the GRE is a vital component of the graduate school application process, assessing a broad spectrum of academic skills. With a clear understanding of the test format and applying effective preparation strategies, test-takers can enhance their performance and improve their chances of gaining admission to their desired international programme.

(The Author is the Country Manager at ETS India & South Asia)

[Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP News Network Pvt Ltd.]

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Program Assistant/CCSPP at McFarland Unified School District

Application Deadline

8/25/2024 12:00 PM Pacific

Date Posted

Number of openings, add'l salary info, length of work year, employment type, job summary.

Under the direction of the Coordinator of Health and Community Services. The position will coordinate communications, secretarial-type duties, data entry, and record-keeping to support the CCSPP Coordinator and the CCSPP operational programs. This is a grant-funded position.

Requirements / Qualifications

Must pass Clerical Test with a score of 70% or better. Qualified applicants will be notified through email prior to the test date of the location, date, and time. Applicants that pass the test are not guaranteed advancement in the selection process. If we determine that you meet the minimum requirements for the position, you will be notified of the date and time of the written exam which is the first phase of our recruitment process.

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED Please submit the following documents:

• Letter(s) of Reference (Two (2) signed professional letters of reference dated within the last year)
• Proof of HS Graduation (Copy of High School Diploma or equivalent)
• Resume (Resume showing recent education and experience)
• Typing Certificate (Typing certificate of 35 wpm)

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Teaching Markets and Morality

The need for students to consider the touch points between big moral questions and today’s political and financial issues is more pressing than ever, write Peter Boumgarden and Abram Van Engen.

By  Peter Boumgarden and Abram Van Engen

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Diki Prayogo /iStock/Getty Images Plus

At the start of a new school year, tensions run high. An election looms. Markets waver. The war in Gaza grinds on. Ukraine invades Russia. And all of it comes back to campuses, where students face each other across entrenched differences with a great deal at stake.

Students care about all these issues. And at the same time, they are looking down the line, farther ahead. They come to college wondering what it is for—how it sets them up for the life they hope to achieve. What is the purpose of this education, and where does that purpose meet their ideas of a life well lived? These questions stretch across a landscape of larger macro conditions and the desire to land a good job.

The need to prepare our students to thoughtfully approach the touch points between big moral questions and the various markets in play—whether political, institutional or financial—feels more pressing than ever. One way to do so is to ask larger questions about the stories that frame our values, purposes and moral positions. Literature offers a rich way to open such questions and reflections, even (or especially) in settings where stories are seldom assigned.

In his book on narrative economics , the Nobel Prize–winning economist Robert Schiller proposed that stories drive economic events. To understand financial panic, Schiller argues, we must pay attention to the spread of narratives much in the same way as we would need to account for the spread of a virus between people to understand public health.

The power of stories can be found in anything from tales spun across a dinner table to narratives crafted by politicians and great works of literature. Each campaign at the current moment, for example, seeks a story that will stick—a story about America, about the last presidency, about the present candidates and the future of this country. Seeing story everywhere, Schiller recently quipped, “I’m starting now, with my more recent work, to think that we have to look at the humanities as well.”

Literature and Business

In a popular course called Markets and Morality at Washington University in St. Louis, we do precisely that. Paying attention to the power of story, we move students across social science research, literature and modern market dilemmas. This combination allows us to ask students a host of hard questions about ethics, success, purpose, meaning and happiness as they are lived out in a world of markets. Part of the university’s Beyond Boundaries program, the course caps at 75 students and regularly has a wait list.

Beyond Boundaries, by design, draws together professors from two or more disciplines to address big issues from radically different perspectives. The results can be astounding. In our class, for example, we begin by asking students what they think counts as a successful life. Many have assumed a certain story of success—usually based around a career that rises into power, wealth and prestige. Still others tend to see such trajectories as mere projects of vanity. But across different worldviews, few have asked how their narrative of success relates to happiness, what costs it might entail, where it comes from or whether other possibilities exist.

To test students’ alignment with different stories of success, we begin by comparing Benjamin Franklin’s vision of the good life in his Autobiography with Henry David Thoreau’s view of simplicity in Walden . Then we use both to consider the protagonist of Mohsin Hamid’s How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia , a story where the central character rises to massive wealth without seeming to find happiness. What has gone wrong? At one point in the story, dining on wine, tiny chocolates and a plate of exotic berries in a fancy seaside hotel, he thinks, “This must be success.” The “must be” is telling. Is this what he always wanted? Has he made it?

Like many of the stories we explore, Hamid’s novel involves both financial rise and financial loss. But the protagonist’s happiness seems unrelated to either. The Rise of Silas Lapham , written in 1885 and considered by some people to be the first real novel about a modern businessman, leaves open-ended what actually constitutes Silas’s rise. Is it his coming to wealth before the book opens? Or is it the new courage of his convictions that arises in the face of bankruptcy?

Each of these stories allows us to bring into the classroom relevant social scientific research. For these books, we look into the links between income and happiness. Since an influential paper by Danny Kahneman and Angus Deaton in 2010, scholars have assumed a kind of a flattening impact of income on happiness above salaries of $75,000. More recent extensions have added nuance , showing that experienced well-being can continue to rise even while greater wealth has no ability to mute events of heartbreak or bereavement. How might careful attention to these realities—explored in both science and literature—shape the choices of an 18-year-old freshman in college?

Exploring Unexamined Assumptions

In each case, questions of purpose and relationship become central to the larger tale. Our course does not drive an angle on what counts as success. Instead, we try to open possibilities and opportunities in order to explore unexamined assumptions. We want our students to consider deeply the narratives they have always taken as fact, and we do so by giving them a multitude of new stories to consider alongside rich resources from social science research.

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Consider A Gentleman in Moscow , Amor Towles’s best-selling novel. In this novel, a Russian aristocrat loses everything during the revolution and ends up confined to a hotel in Moscow. For all its charm, the book ultimately turns on deep and sometimes dark questions of purpose: Can the count find meaning under endless house arrest? And how? What he finds, ultimately, is lower-class labor: He becomes a waiter. And through that work he makes close friends. He builds community. He even, it seems, begins to thrive.

This movement across time is another pillar of the course’s value. In Towles’s book, the count’s adventure inside the hotel also opens up a keyhole to the human consequences of the Soviet Union’s economic project of the 1920s. James Baldwin’s novel Go Tell It on the Mountain provides a route to explore the 1930s’ racial capitalism of Harlem from the perspective of a 14-year-old boy, all the while raising larger questions about the role of religion and self-determination within the market. In Ayad Akhtar’s play Junk , we move forward to the 1980s and experience a leveraged buyout of a family-owned steel company.

In each case, the stories we assign open difficult ethical dilemmas. In reading Hamid’s novel, for example, we ask a seemingly simple question: Is it wrong for the poor to steal from the rich? Is it ever wrong? Always? Sometimes?

As we tease out answers, qualifications arise: It depends on how much is stolen, or the manner of theft, or the object stolen, or whether it was really needed (a loaf of bread versus a television). We then ask students to define who counts as poor, who counts as rich. The top 10 percent? The top 1 percent? We show what counts as the top 10 percent, 5 percent and 1 percent in Missouri, and we share the median family income of the students at our university. Then we ask: Is it wrong for a poor person to steal from a student in the top 5 percent?

The resulting disagreements, when experienced in a classroom of empathy across difference, are what make the class thrive. Each disagreement is an opportunity to ask bigger questions about underlying moral frameworks and overriding narratives of success, purpose and meaning. Such disagreements become especially productive because students come equally from the business school and Arts & Sciences. Stereotypes should be avoided, but it is safe to say that undergraduates drawn to the business school tend to differ from undergraduates who major in English. When you include racial, socioeconomic and geographical diversity, perspectives rapidly multiply. Hamid’s novel reads quite differently for a student from Cairo than for a student from the suburbs of New York.

Each student brings their own narrative identity to the course. And that becomes its own special session. Using research from our colleague Dan McAdams , we ask students to reflect on the stories that shape their lives and the shape of the story they present to others. One of the final small writing assignments is to compose a preliminary statement of purpose for life in light of the texts we have read. Ultimately, we want students to begin their college careers thinking about higher questions of purpose and meaning—what counts as a successful life.

In that way, we join other booming courses on the good life and life design across the country—at the University of Notre Dame , Stanford University , Yale University and many others. Students seem hungry for courses organized around such questions. We satisfy that hunger by setting ultimate questions in the context of morality and markets through a unique combination of business and literature. The more we teach Markets and Morality, the more our wait lists grow.

Based on our own experience, we would strongly encourage cross-collaboration first-year seminars focused on big questions. Thinking imaginatively across disciplines and subject areas, professors from very different starting points can together meet contemporary students where they are, exploring the complications of our moment and opening the riches of college to the deepest issues these first-years face—from their first semester forward.

Peter Boumgarden is Koch Professor of Practice for Family Enterprise at Washington University in St. Louis. Abram Van Engen is the chair of English and Stanley Elkin Professor in the Humanities at the university. Together with Daryl Van Tongeren of Hope College, they write a Substack exploring many of these issues called A Rich Life .

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