Writing for the web: Getting into the habit of writing

Many people express, either to themselves or to others, a desire to write. Many of them won’t make the leap from wanting to be a writer, to actually being one. Maybe the urge to write isn’t strong enough. Maybe they just don’t know what to write or where to start, or they’re afraid of doing it wrong. But the only way to be a writer is to get into the habit of writing. These days, the internet is an invaluable resource and a great place to develop your craft. I don't claim to know everything but here are a few suggestions for getting started.

Start a Blog

Writing a blog can be a great way of encouraging yourself to write regularly. Blogs can be written like a personal diary, or they can be centred on a particular subject of interest, such as rock music or movies.

Blogging can train you to communicate better with an audience in your writing. Internet readers like relatively short, up-to-date blog posts that offer some interesting opinions or insights into the chosen topic. The best blogs are easy to read and updated at least once a week.

It is also possible to make some money by displaying advertisements on your blog through services such as Google AdSense, but don’t expect to get rich from it.

Join a Community

If you are serious about improving your writing, receiving objective feedback and constructive criticism is important. It’s nice to have supportive people around you, but the reason why so many terrible singers audition for Idol believing they are superstars is because their family and friends either can’t see or won’t tell them the truth.

Joining an online writing community can be a great way to find out what you’re good at and what you need to improve on. Communities are particularly helpful for fiction writers. Networking with other writers may also encourage you to keep writing. Just type “writing community” into a search engine and find one that suits you. Blogging community LiveJournal is also host to many writing communities.

Remember to keep an open mind and be prepared to read things you don’t necessarily want to hear. Don't take comments personally but ask yourself if they raise valid points.

Also, be aware that posting something publicly constitutes publication. If you are looking to get your work published later, make sure what you post in the community can only be viewed by members. For example, LiveJournal allows you to "lock out" anyone who is not a member or friend of the community.

Freelance Writing

There are lots of websites you can sign up to and receive payment for your writing and other content, such as Associated Content, Suite101.com, About.com, Triond and Squidoo. Some require you to apply to write for them and others merely require you to register an account. Some let you submit previously published content and others don't. Payment varies but usually depends on page views and click advertising. Again, don’t expect to get rich quickly. But over time, as you build your portfolio and become familiar with the business of web writing, you can start to earn reasonable amounts of money.

General Writing Tips

It’s okay to take breaks but make sure you’re writing regularly; it’s the only way to keep your skills sharp. Incorporate writing into your daily or weekly routine.

It doesn’t have to be perfect the first time. Or the second time. Or the third. Even the most talented and experienced writers go through multiple drafts and edits.

Proof-read your work. Read it aloud and make sure it flows well. It is best to communicate effectively with your audience than try to prove how intelligent you are by using an obscure word no one understands.