Ways To Generate Ideas For Writing

What should I write about? I find myself asking that question quite frequently as I sit down to write. Once you start getting writing jobs with different publications, you will notice that they will probably only ask you to write about a general subject. The details of each article aren’t discussed as they leave the creativity up to you. You are expected to think of ideas week after week without hesitation. So, where can you get your ideas? Good question. Below you will find some of my favorite ways to come up with what to write.
Write From Experience
Let’s say you’re asked to write about some aspect of volunteerism. I, myself, actually write about volunteering for the Fast Track section of ChannelOne.com. One of the main reasons I write on this topic is because I know a lot about it. I spent over 500 hours doing community service in high school, so I know what it’s like to volunteer with many different organizations. I’ve been there. Whenever I need a creative idea, I think of everything I have done that I feel others should experience as well. The knowledge I have on the subject is the key factor when I’m writing for the site. As you’ve probably heard before, write what you know. The more you know about a particular subject, the better equipped you will be to write about it.
Let’s pretend that you are a brand new writer, and you are asked to write an article. It might be very interesting to read about your experiences of just starting out as a writer. More readers would be able to relate and see where you’re coming from.
This comes in to play when creating characters too. Characters are the pivot of a novel, and can make or break a story if they don’t ring true to the reader. That doesn’t mean true in an abstract or modern sense, but true to their fictional situation, whatever it might be, with believable motivation and reactions. Which means the writer needs to think very carefully about what sort of person will be formed by those circumstances, and what sort of person will have the capacity to deal with a particular situation. It is always helpful if you’ve been in these situations, or similar situations, yourself. This will help bring a certain truth to the character’s creation.
Critique Groups
As writers, we each have a unique voice. However, if it isn’t exercised regularly and kept in good repair, it begins to fade or even worse – you lose it. The good news is that a critique group can help. A group can provide valuable feedback and help smooth rough edges. A critique group can provide other perspectives on your work, encourage to build on your strengths, and support us when yet another rejection slip darkens our mailbox. Unfortunately, your voice can be significantly affected if you are not aware of the potential problems of critique groups.
Writers go to critiques for validation as writers. They look to their critique buddies for words of wisdom. They watch their successes and milestones thinking that if they follow their advice, they will also be successful. Then, without even realizing it, they begin to integrate little bits and pieces of our buddies styles and voices into own writing. You need to write to please your critique group, but also to suit your own style.