Writing is a skill that needs to be practiced. You can take all the creative writing courses in the world, but nothing replaces the act of sitting down and actually putting words on the page. That said, creative writing courses can offer great guidance, helping you structure your approach, give feedback, and connect you with other writers. They aren’t the be-all and end-all, but they can definitely be a valuable tool.
“How Do I Start Writing?”
This is a question I’ve been asked many times before, and my answer is always the same: just start writing. You don’t need the perfect idea, or a perfectly mapped-out story to begin. Writing is like any other skill, you get better by doing it. If you’re stuck, just start jotting down your thoughts, or ask Google for writing prompts to get you going. You’ll be surprised how often the simple act of writing leads to more ideas.
The Benefit of Writing Courses
There are so many different creative writing courses available, from local in-person classes to online workshops. I’ve done a few night school courses myself, and they’re a great way to meet and interact with people who are passionate about writing and who are at a similar stage in their journey. These in-person settings let you share your work, receive feedback, and learn from the experiences of others. It’s a collaborative environment that can help sharpen your skills. You’ll find people who have the same questions, the same struggles, and the same desire to improve, which is always reassuring!
Use the Course as a Guide
A course is just that, a guide. It can show you techniques, encourage you to write regularly, and help you find your voice. But don’t be discouraged if you’re not producing masterpieces right away. Keep practicing, keep learning, and use the lessons from your course as a tool to improve. No one becomes a writer overnight, and courses can help you stay motivated when you hit a rough patch. But at the end of the day, it’s your own hard work that will make the difference. I myself, took a number of courses intermixed with periods of writing by myself between terms. Personally, I found this a good way to build my skills.
How to Find Creative Writing Courses
Finding a creative writing course isn’t difficult. Many local educational organisations offer them. I signed up for night school courses through my local education board, following an advert in the local newspaper, but there are many more options. Your local library might also have some suggestions, and of course, there are online courses that offer a more flexible learning approach. Whether you prefer in-person learning or the convenience of an online setting, there are plenty of opportunities out there to get involved and grow as a writer.
Getting Your Work Heard
One of the best aspects of a writing course is the chance to get your work heard and discussed. Writing can be a solitary pursuit, but sharing your work with others brings it to life. Feedback is essential to improving, and a good course will give you that in a structured, supportive way. It’s scary at first, but you’ll get more confident each time you share, and that can be a huge boost to your writing journey.
So, if you’re considering a creative writing course, go for it. Use it as a stepping stone, keep practicing, and remember: the most important thing is to keep writing.
If you’d like to check out some of my other creative endeavors beyond writing, take a look at my YouTube channel, where I share my long-distance hiking adventures. For stunning nature photography, you can visit my Shutterstock portfolio. Also, stay tuned for my debut historical novel, coming soon! Subscribe for the latest news at this link. – Scrib
Paul J. Scribbans — Author 