donhorizon
Member
I've been a freelance writer for almost 2 years now, but I still don't have a writing routine. So I was wondering if you could share some routine to make writing easier?
like tyleralecia said getting distracted while writing is the biggest challenge to overcome. Personally,, when i write i try to find a quiet corner in the house where i can be alone and away from distractions. I keep only the relevant tabs and browser windows open to stay on path. Oh and i also make mental notes about what needs to be done before starting my writing session and then check them off one by one. I find that i am more productive late night and very early in the morning.I've been a freelance writer for almost 2 years now, but I still don't have a writing routine. So I was wondering if you could share some routine to make writing easier?
If I'm not knowledgeable about the topic, the first thing for me to do is research thoroughly enough to have something to say. Then, I can typically bang out the article in an hour. Research period can be anywhere from five to 45 minutes, for me.Thank you, your replies are highly appreciated. But I am more interested in a writing process itself. Meaning how do you do your research step-by-step, and how quick are you able to write let's say a 500-word article for some topics that you are no expert in. You probably had some of these throughout your career.
These are all great ideas, Tyler. I was already doing a few of them but I think I'm going to try them all. Your suggestion to make an outline sounds like it may be the solution I've been looking for to get back on some sort of track this year with my own writing goals. Thank you.I'm easily distracted so when I try to write, I know that I won't get far if I'm around loud people, my phone, my friends, or a TV. I also like to have a drink and some snacks near me, so I'm not tempted to get food. Depending on what I'm writing, I like to put on music at a low volume that will match the tone. Before I write anything, I always make an outline as well. And even if what I'm writing doesn't need a thesis statement, I make something of that sort before I start, so I can remember what the purpose of my piece is.
For anything under 800 words I try to keep my research time under 2 hours (under one if I can manage it) I know this doesn't sound like much but in 300-500 words you are only going to be able to offer an overview at most on any topic. If you are getting paid to do these articles, any time over that 2 hour mark would have you in the red as far as profit. ($50 overall pay, 2 hours research, and hour getting your info together and an hour writing and 30 minutes proofing and editing, 30 minutes composing emails to client or replying to them and you are only at $10 an hour and most short articles don't pay that much if you are a newbie that doesn't have an in demand field of expertise)Thank you, your replies are highly appreciated. But I am more interested in a writing process itself. Meaning how do you do your research step-by-step, and how quick are you able to write let's say a 500-word article for some topics that you are no expert in. You probably had some of these throughout your career.