Writing is an exciting and creative journey, but for new writers, it can also be fraught with pitfalls. While mistakes are part of the learning process, being aware of common ones can help you navigate the early stages of your writing career with greater confidence. Here’s a guide to some frequent missteps new writers make and how to avoid them.
1. Failing to Plan or Over-Planning
- The Problem:
Some writers dive into their projects without a clear idea of where the story is headed, leading to aimless plots. Others spend so much time outlining that they never get to the actual writing.Plotter – Does a detailed outline - How to Avoid It:
- Find a balance between planning and spontaneity.
- Use a loose outline to guide your story while leaving room for creativity.
- If you’re a discovery writer (a “pantser”), make periodic notes to keep track of plot threads and character development.
- Panster – This person does not do an outline. They let the characters tell the story.
2. Ignoring Basic Grammar and Style
- The Problem:
Poor grammar, awkward sentence structures, or inconsistent style can distract readers and weaken your credibility as a writer. - How to Avoid It:
- Brush up on grammar basics using resources like The Elements of Style by Strunk and White.
- Use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid, but don’t rely on them entirely.
- Read widely to internalize how skilled authors use language effectively.
You have to be true to what you have written.
3. Writing Perfect or One-Dimensional Characters
- The Problem:
Characters who are flawless or overly stereotypical often fail to engage readers. They lack depth and relatability. - How to Avoid It:
- Give characters strengths and flaws.
- Develop their backstories, motivations, and unique quirks.
- Show growth by putting them in situations where they must change or make difficult choices.
4. Rushing the Beginning
- The Problem:
Starting a story with a lengthy backstory or diving straight into action without context can confuse or alienate readers. - How to Avoid It:
- Open with a hook that intrigues readers and introduces the main character or conflict.
- Weave in backstory gradually as it becomes relevant.
- Make sure your opening scene sets the tone for the rest of the story.
- Don’t forget your who, what, when, where and why.
5. Overloading with Description or Dialogue
- The Problem:
Excessive description can slow the pacing, while too much dialogue can make a story feel static. - How to Avoid It:
- Balance action, dialogue, and description.
- Ensure descriptions are vivid but concise, focusing on sensory details that enhance the scene.
- Write dialogue that sounds natural and serves a purpose—revealing character, advancing the plot, or building tension.
6. Neglecting Conflict and Stakes
- The Problem:
Without conflict, stories lack tension and fail to engage readers. - How to Avoid It:
- Introduce meaningful conflict early on, whether internal (emotional struggles) or external (situations or antagonists).
- Raise the stakes by showing what the characters have to lose or gain.
- Ensure conflicts escalate, keeping readers invested in the outcome.
7. Focusing Too Much on “Rules”
- The Problem:
New writers often get bogged down by trying to follow every piece of writing advice they’ve heard, stifling their creativity. - How to Avoid It:
- Learn the rules but remember they’re guidelines, not mandates.
- Experiment with style and voice to find what works for you.
- Trust your instincts and embrace your unique approach to storytelling.
8. Fearing Revision
- The Problem:
Some writers resist revising their work, thinking the first draft should be perfect. Others over-edit, endlessly tweaking without finishing. - How to Avoid It:
- Accept that the first draft is only the beginning. Writing is rewriting.
- Take breaks between drafts to gain perspective.
- Set clear goals for each editing round—structural changes first, then line edits, and finally proofreading.
9. Overloading the Reader with Information
- The Problem:
Info-dumps, especially in world-building or backstory, can overwhelm readers and slow the story’s pace. - How to Avoid It:
- Introduce information gradually through context, dialogue, or action.
- Focus on what’s essential for the scene or character development.
- Trust your readers to pick up on subtleties without over-explaining.
10. Not Reading Enough
- The Problem:
Writers who don’t read widely may struggle to understand genre conventions, storytelling techniques, or audience expectations. - How to Avoid It:
- Read extensively in your chosen genre to understand what works and what doesn’t.
- Explore other genres to broaden your perspective and inspire creativity.
- Analyze what you read—observe how authors structure their stories, create characters, and build tension.
11. Comparing Yourself to Other Writers
- The Problem:
Constantly measuring your progress or style against others can lead to discouragement and self-doubt. - How to Avoid It:
- Focus on your growth and unique voice rather than comparing yourself to established authors.
- Remember that every writer’s journey is different.
- Use other writers’ success as inspiration, not as a benchmark for your worth.
12. Not Finishing Projects
- The Problem:
Many new writers start multiple stories but never see them through to the end. - How to Avoid It:
- Commit to finishing your current project before starting something new.
- Set realistic deadlines to keep yourself accountable.
- Remind yourself that completed work, even imperfect, is better than unfinished ideas.
Final Thoughts
Mistakes are a natural part of the writing process and can be valuable learning experiences. By recognizing and addressing these common pitfalls, you can focus on developing your craft and producing work you’re proud of.
Remember, writing is a journey, not a destination. Embrace your growth as a writer, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, keep writing!