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Mastering the Craft: Why Consistency is Key for Writers
In the world of writing, aspiring authors often seek guidance on how to overcome challenges and enhance their skills. Brandon Sanderson, acclaimed author and instructor, emphasizes the importance of good habits and consistency in his writing classes. Rather than presenting a one-size-fits-all approach, Sanderson tailors his advice based on individual student struggles, promoting sustainable practices that lead to long-term success.
In Brandon Sanderson’s Writing Exercises to Become a Bestselling Author, the discussion dives into essential strategies for writers, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end.
Effective Writing Exercises: A Habit-Based Approach
Sanderson's techniques revolve around the concept of habit formation. For instance, when students grapple with revisions, he recommends writing longhand to alleviate pressure. The logic here is simple: by taking the focus away from perfection and placing it on the act of writing itself, creators can free themselves to explore new ideas. This method encourages students to channel their thoughts onto paper without the immediate scrutiny of digital editing tools.
Similarly, for those who struggle with dialogue, Sanderson advises students to eavesdrop and transcribe conversations. This practice sharpens their ear for authenticity while allowing them to mimic various styles. The real-world experience of listening to dialogue boosts writing skills by translating realistic speech patterns into characters and narratives.
The Daily Writing Habit: Building Momentum
For most writers, consistency is the foundation of progress. Sanderson advocates for setting aside dedicated writing time several days a week rather than binge writing in sporadic bursts. Writing becomes part of a daily routine, akin to hitting the gym, helping authors build momentum. Establishing a writing habit means creating an environment conducive to creativity; something as simple as changing the location or atmosphere can significantly enhance focus.
Sanderson urges writers to take it a step further by aligning their writing time with existing habits. For instance, if an individual routinely exercises after work, he suggests writing as a follow-up action. This strategy reinforces productive cycles, ensuring that writing becomes as natural as other daily activities.
The Power of Goals: From Words to Novels
Throughout the course, students are encouraged to aim for quantifiable word counts, with a target of 35,000 words for a third of the year’s duration, translating to roughly 100,000 words annually—a common length for trade paperbacks. This methodical approach demystifies the writing process, reinforcing that successful authors aren’t born, but cultivated through rigorous practice and goal setting.
Brandon Sanderson himself strives for a writing output of 2,000 to 2,500 words per day, aiming for around 300,000 words annually. For aspiring writers, these figures serve as motivational benchmarks, illustrating what can be achieved with dedication and the right mindset.
Why Length Matters: Navigating Word Count in Publishing
Interestingly, word count and page density play a crucial role in reader engagement. Sanderson discusses how different genres vary in their formatting to accommodate pacing. He points out that thrillers often contain fewer words per page to create a sense of urgency, inviting the reader to zip through the book. In contrast, epic fantasies like Sanderson’s 'Stormlight Archive' invite immersion, often resulting in richer page content. Understanding these nuances can offer writers insights into their own works, particularly as they consider target audiences and marketing strategies.
Reflections on the Writing Journey
Aspiring authors often face self-doubt and uncertainty. However, embracing the processes and habits discussed by Sanderson can guide individuals on their creative journeys. The key takeaway is clear: writing is not just an art but a discipline built on practice, exploration, and consistency. By adopting habits that integrate writing into daily life and setting achievable goals, aspiring authors can nurture their dreams of creating compelling literature.
Join the Conversation
Your writing journey can start today! Dive into Sanderson’s techniques and reflect on how you can implement these strategies into your daily life. Praised for their effectiveness, these exercises underscore the value of persistence and creativity. For anyone passionate about writing, adopting good habits is the first step to achieving your goals.
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