A writer's words are the fundamental tools of their trade. In order to evoke a positive response in the reader, the writer must be able to use those tools effectively. In addition to using words to elicit emotion, writing well consists of several elements. If you build a house with a cardboard frame, it would be sure to crumble, correct? The same principles apply to writing. If your basic writing format is weak, then your entire message becomes ineffective! Proper use of the English language is essential. This includes the basics of spelling, punctuation, grammar, sentence structure and paragraph formatting.

When it comes to writing, contrary to popular belief, NO ONE is perfect! There is ALWAYS room for improvement no matter how over-inflated our egos may get! Whether you are a college student or a seasoned professional writer, I have compiled a list of the top 5 writer's guides to help you improve your writing skills regardless of your level of ability.

If you haven't taken an English class in years, you are not alone! Relax...with "What's the Rule" by Kathy Sole, you won't need to go back to school in order to write well. This handy-dandy reference guide is filled with a wealth of information about English grammar, punctuation, style and use. In an easy to understand format, all customers that reviewed this book gave it a top notch, 5-star rating! No matter what your writing level, this is a great writing guide that you can utilize for years to come. Best of all, it won't just sit on your bookshelf collecting dust!

Paragraphs are the building blocks of your thoughts. Formatting a persuasive paragraph can be challenging, to say the least. If you have paragraph paranoia then "A Writer's Guide to Powerful Paragraphs" by Vince Pellegrino will assist you in writing commanding introductions, strong conclusions, easy transitions and much, much more. Customers gave this book a 5-star rating and called it practical, smart and useful, as well as a tribute to the writer's intellect. If you need help organizing your thoughts on a page, then this is the book for you!

Originally written in 1957, "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White has been used in English Composition classes ever since. To quote a passage:

 "A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, 

  a paragraph no unnecessary sentences, for the same 

  reason that a drawing should have no unnecessary lines, 

  and a machine no unnecessary parts? This requires not 

  that the writer makes all of his sentences short, or that 

  he avoids all details and treat his subject only in

  outline, but that each word tells." 

289 customers gave this book a 5-star rating and consider it a timeless necessity for all writers. The book includes key elements and basic principles of English grammar, punctuation, use, misuse and writing style. Customers call it "the original grammar reference book."

"Techniques of the Selling Writer" was originally published in 1965, and is considered yet another timeless must have for all writers of fiction. With 10 chapters and 300 plus pages, customers consider it a "hefty read", but say that it is well worth the effort. Given primarily a 5-star rating, it is a great book for those who are serious fiction writers. Additionally, customers say it has a unique, up-front style that is pleasant and easy to read!

If you are searching for a realistic picture about how to make it as a freelance writer, veteran freelancer Jenna Glatzer may be able to help! "Make a Real LIving as a Freelance Writer" is like getting all the information you need straight from the horses mouth! Customers say it is just like "camping out in the office of a freelance writer" and that it provides newbies with everything they ever wanted to know about freelancing but were afraid to ask! The best part is that the sidebar of the book's pages are sprinkled with websites that a freelance writer should know about! A great price for a great book, this 5-star book is an invaluable tool for all aspiring writers!

The knowledge that lies within every storyteller is critical to their overall success. The power of writing lies in the simple fact that each writer has their own, unique set of eyes that when opened wide enough, can see a horizon full of undiscovered dreams.