Rules for Writing

Rules for Writing

Robert Heinlein famously had six rules for writing. I used to have them framed in my office, but after a conversation with my nephew, I realized I now have my own rules. I have ten.

Rules for Writing

• Fingers-on-keyboard is the only way writing happens.

• Inspiration is nice. A high daily word count is nicer.

• Writing is challenging, not hard. Digging ditches is hard.

• Don’t start revisions until the first draft is finished.

• Laziness is the biggest hurdle.

• Get feedback. Everyone needs help.

• Revisions are not as fun as first drafts. Suck it up.

• Finish.

• Marketing is part of it. Stop whining.

• Start the next story.

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