Successful Writing Techniques

After taking in the wide variety of Hubpages, it dawned on me that each one is unique. In fact, every writer has his own unique style. Although hub formats sometime duplicate each other, there is a “quick pick up” tendency to adapt another's mode of dispensing their information or article. In fact, while textbook formats are quick to spot, other formats are very distinct to the authors life, vocation and style. You may at times find a hubpage with continuing works, each with the same style. Yes, you can identify a writers individual style if you read several of his works! In some cases it makes you feel “De-Ja Vu”, resulting with the sense that you are ingesting the same article over and over. Incidentally, this is typical of how information is scanned in speed reading courses; you are trained to delete super fluent text: But I ask; "Why should you become boring and complacent in your hub authoring?"

SO, my point is that it’s important to avoid copying a hub, or writing in a cookie cutter style filled with different content. I confess that I have done this myself. I try to be careful not to repeat the content, context and format lest I become repetitive or seem tedious in my writing. Being AWARE of this trap can help us make positive changes. Of course we would never copy another’s STYLE! It is allowed, but I would rather find my own. In retrospect, my hubs have tended to collect the same remarks and comments, but some I've intended to be inspirational and I'm happy with 95% of the feedback that I do get. OTHER hubs I've intended to be informational, such as the one “What about Alaska?". Sometimes I simply desire to introduce and deliver the reader a pre-determined theme. At this time I do not write fictional or anything that would present a plot, although I am familiar with those writing styles. in contrast some writers focus totally on factual, instructional or technical information.

Engaging, effective source of content can be included in lists, such as recipes, and directions; also by Illustrations, implemented with words, pictures, diagrams, or even video clips. Quotes are also very effective to emphasize a thought or concept. Things I have found that help entice more skilful as well as interesting content include utilizing the thesaurus; background reading, receiving critique from fellow writers, and alternating the method of approach to a particular subject.

Although public speaking media is different from writing, Writers can be just as adept at communication.. For instance, if you give me a choice, leave me alone with paper and a pen, and I will tell you exactly how I feel! Others have the gift to gab; so their gift is to be a great orator, excelling in verbal communication. The advantage of written media is that it is permanent, re-usable and to a writer, gratifying! Please do remember, the introduction and development of the story is essential to a good delivery and ending, just as in a good speech..

In “teaching” context, such as self helps, relationship advice articles and training context, the author perhaps wants to strategically format the subject with an illustration, use of humor, reference to an “opposite” context, or some other means to grab the reader’s attention. He then builds an outline for delivering his story and then he opens his boxes of knowledge and inserts the literary content. Recalling my school days I remind you of the use of a “module”, in which a set of tools is utilized to partition a segment a larger work. Organize your information! Don't be afraid to experiment with alternating paragraphs of conversational content if you have adequately defined the characters and subject matter; or you can use paragraph content such as the 4 W's; ie. (what?, why?,when?, and where?).

The Three Punches of Writing: A well known boxer once said, "I have three punches, The get to know him punch, the set him up punch and the knock him out punch!" One influential speaker said, "It is very effective to tell an audience 1) what I am going to say, 2) what I want you to know, and conclude with 3) what I have just shared with you.” As a writer I recommend this proven method of transferring information to the human brain. But bear in mind that this brief repetition refers to “reiterate”, and then “suspend” delivery. A pizza can only be delivered once, but it can also be drooled over as it is devoured, and can be savoured afterwards! ie.. you can describe its ingredients; or even say how great the chef is, But your readers had better be enjoying it at this point! -That being said, the "pizza" is now delivered!

Questions to ask yourself:

1. Did they receive enjoyment from reading my work?

2. Were they drawn into it and held captive?

3. Was the information considered valuable?

4. Did it receive an exclamation of surprise or delight?

-Perhaps you expect rave reviews of your presentation? Then you must create something exceptional or unusual. Or is it about reaching a solid conclusion? Does he/she have a heartfelt appreciation for what has just been read? Note: An author who is merely seeking approval as a writer may be driven by those responses. In contrast, at a doctorate level, it may be an exposition of data, or a thesis that draws its own accolades, and reaches its own success through association with advanced studies and colleagues.

But don't ever doubt; there is a impassioned and self-energized writer of imagination, suspense and intrigue; who knows how to suspend the reader in a live volcanic crater of molten lava without being scalded and gasping in terrifying suspense. Or he is totally immersed in a terrorist plot to rule the world, with a super-hero defeating the enemy using superior intelligence and daring; while ultimately foiling the plot of the dark invaders!

Or another genre; “Slipping out the front door, innocently expecting her young lover to appear outside in his old Chevy wearing his usual slacks and knit sweater, the young mistress received a grand surprise! For instead; smiling handsomely, he stepped out of a sleek, well polished limousine wearing the most elegant tuxedo, kissed her possessively, tenderly, then together magically sinking into the supple leather of the luxurious limousine. Heart fluttering wildly and excited beyond words, she is totally caught off guard and from her he sensed a soft sweet fragrance as they left all else behind. Suddenly, it was an immense relief that she was totally his for the evening!”

Review

1. Can you determine who is experiencing the relief of her being his?

2. Do you feel the romance being kindled?

3. Has the writer firmly grasped your attention?

At my graduation a few years ago, the president of the college announced a theme; “if other colleges are claiming to have the “cutting edge”, then this college will soon be known as the “bleeding edge” of education!” In his attempt to coin a new phrase, (though it came out like it sounds) he left us remembering his speech. If you notice, I just doubled italic’s within italic’s. I am not striving to improve the English language. I recommend to keep that little English manual next to your desk at all times and use it! Also it’s helpful to use the thesaurus and your favorite writer’s handbook.

Human nature demands a CONCLUSION: Once as I was flying my little Piper Cherokee through a mountain pass in Alaska, I looked over my shoulder to a 4000 ft. gap in the mountains called a “saddle” and remembered a fellow pilot described how a southwest commuter plane had tried to fly over that saddle under a low cloud system to make it home, and had clipped the saddle hard enough it took off one of his landing gear: It must have been very scary! It exemplified the importance of making it all the way home! Another time a super cub had literally bounced itself off the side this mountain pass, and wait!, another incident where a Cessna made a dangerous emergency landing over on the rocky river bed, forced down by inclement weather; and I began to think, This is the stuff that stories are made of!" I then asked myself, "How do I describe such vivid events?" The obvious answer is to describe them in a story that is about flying, or about adventures native to that region.

Why is the conclusion so important? In the above illustration the important thing to me was the implied question, did they survive? You would be fraught with anxiety if you did not know the ending. Do you expect it to be a "cliff hanger"? What story are you telling? And what do you hope to achieve? How does it end? Its for certain that a “good read” requires you to think it through and see how it concludes!

Summary

1. Format: Build the crust ahead of time. Create the theme, the presentation strategy, the outline, and the plot if it has one.

2. Add Data: Prepare the ingredients, including the introduction, the meat, mushrooms anyone? Create the body of the text, identify and collect your argument or information; Get it in there!

3. Add your Modules; Spread the salsa; Apply your tools of delivery; Create your style of presentation and let it simply flow. Develop your case, Incorporate some lists, charts, and illustrations. Use a thesaurus, as well as appropriate research sources.

4. Conclude the Work, Out of the oven into the box; Summarize the work, adding your closing remarks: Box it up hand it to the public. Don't forget to proofread. Do it right away so the pizza stays hot!

Personal challenge:

1) If you are a novice, develop your poise of pen, develop your dream, deflate your inhibitions and become an excellent writer!

2) If you are already an author and have not written for a long time, or creativity has grown stale; I encourage you to refresh your skills and make your mark in the career of writing!

My hope is that you will create your most awesome hubpage article, manuscript, poem, or novel in the very near future.

Written; 12/8/2012