6 quick ways to upgrade your writing

1.Disconnect:

Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pintrest, the Internet in general … we know how invasive social media and technology is in our lives these days. Although social media is perfect for promotion and branding but you know what else social media and technology is really good for? Procrastination, distraction, and countless wasted hours. Being able to unplug for long periods of time is more important than you may think.

2. Read, Read and Read:

Break away from social media. Read more books, newspapers, print magazines, books, ads, catalogues, and anything else you can get your hands on. Just like Teju Cole suggested read and discipline yourself to great writers.

READ: Teju Cole on inspiration, originality and the 4 brilliant people every writer must read

3. Get to the point:

Redundancy spoils writing. Remove unnecessary words, jargons that clog up your work. You need to understand that using big words does not make you sound sophisticated. Instead of cramming jargon or filler into every sentence, write in a clear and simple voice. Explain what you mean in plain English.

4. Proofread and get expert advice:

Spelling and grammatical errors will drain your credibility. Have friends proofread your writing and you can invest in a professional editor too. If you make claims, back them up with articles, examples, or experiences. If you use statistics, cite your sources. If you discuss a complicated topic, break it down into manageable concepts. Make your writing easy to understand, and readers will love you for it. The more polished and refined your work is, the more favorably it will be received when you publish it.

5. Ask yourself questions:

What am I really saying? Am I communicating something useful? Am I including unnecessary information? Would anyone actually want to read this?

6.  Remember the Three “P’s”:

There are so many tips on writing perfectly on the Internet, but it all comes down to three things I believe writers need to remember above all else: "Patience, Perseverance, and maintaining your sense of Purpose."

Compliment this with Chimamanda Adichie's thought on writing and Chinua Achebe advice to young writers.

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