Deana
What is the best way to get into writing articles?
I want to begin submitting my writing to independent zines and magazine style websites that feature writers, but I do not know where to begin. Do you have any advice on where I can find people to write for, as well as how to become a better writer? Thank you! #journalism #writing #creative-writing #online-journalism #magazines #editorial-writing
2 answers
Jock Stephens
Jock’s Answer
Find a style that fits your personality. To become a better writer, be a better reader; find styles that you like and want to emulate. Where possible, reach out to those authors and ask them where and how the got their start.
The more you read, the better your vocabulary will become. I suggest you invest in a comprehensive dictionary and a thesaurus, Roget's is pretty standard. Also, take some of your old work and re-write it... then re-write it again... and re-write it ad infinitum. Never become complacent in how you write.
If you have a particular style or topic that you want to write about, them just start writing. For example, I am a sports guy. If I were in high school, I'd start writing either about my high school team or my local sports scene. This will create an easy portfolio of your work to submit to potential clients. Once you have a few written samples that you have published online, don't be afraid to reach out to a local newspaper or publication and ask them to review your work. It will help build your network, whether or not you want to work for that company. Once you have a few of those out of your way and you have built a rapport, ask them about referrals. Sounds like a lot of work, but it is worth it. You can build a decent network before you even graduate high school.
Daniela Silva
Daniela’s Answer
Hi Deana,
First, you have to decide for which theme you would like to write. In my case, as I have graduation in Pedagogy, I write about educational issues.
After that, you can search on Internet, some sites, blogs,Institutions, Organizations, Magazines, Newsletters, in the area of the contents you choose to write.
Again, in my case, I write for Educational Organizations and develop contents for online courses, Magazines, Newsletters, Blogs, Literatures, Projects in order to improve the academic work of students, teachers, parents and educational community.
It´s a very rewarding work because through the word we can change minds, ideas, realities, lives!! And there is no price to pay for, it´s fabulous!
I wish you all the best on this brillant career!!!
Thank you so much. I think I want to try to be a voice for teenagers, or maybe my very specific demographic. I will focus on finding my theme and go from there!
Deana