Improve Your Writing Skills By Reading
Surprising as it may sound, many writers dislike reading.
They may read a few excerpts or skim and scan a couple of paragraphs, but extensive reading is a no-go. We all get lazy sometimes, but studies show that great writers are avid readers.
In college, spark notes and cliff notes were my sidekicks. Those websites helped me when I was too lazy to read complete allegories, novels, plays, and short stories. Yes, I was too lazy to read SHORT stories. SMH!
Although spark notes and cliff notes provide great reviews, my lack of reading reflected in my written review of the assigned readings. Sometimes my professor would ask follow-up questions and I would fumble in my response. The professor was onto my lazy antics.
Once I started reading the assigned works from beginning to end, my grades improved and I was gradually becoming a better writer.
How Does Reading Improve Writing
Enhances Vocabulary
As you continue to read, you will be introduced to new words. Do a quick search through a dictionary to define those unfamiliar words. Eventually, you will continue to see and/or recognize those new words and will unconsciously use them in your daily dialogue. This will enhance your verbal and written communication skills.
Improves Analytical Skills
Life is all about making decisions. Everyday challenges arise and forces you to assess situations and make split-second decisions. Being able to problem solve and analyze information is a useful skill. Reading challenges your analytical skills when you use critical thinking to get a deeper meaning of the author’s message or when you peruse documents to retain information. Writers tend to do a lot of research. Properly analyzing your research material will be beneficial when you are developing a script or document.
Develops Writing Style
Have you ever watched a few shows by a comedian and started mimicking him/her without realizing it? It’s like their punchline is stuck inside of your head and you need to act on it to get it out.
I would go around my friends and say, “You gots to coordinate…cooorrrdinate. BANG.BANG.BANG!”
If you’re familiar with the late and great John Witherspoon, then you’ll recognize those two lines. The more I watched him, the more I started acting like him. The more you read, the better writer you will become. Reading works written by great authors or skilled journalist will assist in the development of your writing style. Studying and adapting their writing techniques without losing your originality is a great recipe for success. Michael Jackson studied James Brown and became one of the greatest entertainers of all time. You can do the same with renowned authors! (I’d recommend Stephen King’s book On Writing for great writing tips.)
It takes about 66 days to form and repeatedly perform a new habit. Attempt to read for 66 days to develop a habit that is effective towards becoming a better writer.
Read monthly. Read weekly. Read daily.
Read a little, read a lot, and then read some more.
Smile,
Bee