New writer

by 69 replies
70
Hi,

Im a new writer, still working on my first article now for a few months. Its very hard to be satisfied with my writing since Im a perfectionist and wont be satisfied easily. So im hoping to find some inspiration on this forum.

Im writing medical articles with content about different diseases.

I would like to know of you can share any tips that I can use to write good medical content.

Thank you, Maria
#copywriting #writer
  • Maria,

    Before it happens I should warn you that a few people may shout and scream "This is a copywriting forum! - not an article forum!"

    No need to pay too much attention.

    The same "techniques" apply to copy or article writing.

    First things first.

    What exactly do you want your readers to do - them aim your writing to get them to do it.

    Make the content interesting, illuminating and informative. Try and tell them stuff they don't already know.

    If they do - tell it in a more useful way (what else could this information do? How else could it be used?).

    Don't write too formally, be conversational, understandable and personal. Write one to one.

    So you connect with your readers and have them resonate with you.

    Back up all your statements with credible facts and figures, studies etc (maybe with graphs, pictures or illustrations) prove you are a true expert.

    Make it easy to read.

    No long rambling sentences. And keep the paragraphs 5 - 7 lines (max).

    Vary them. So the article is easy on the eye.

    Again - always keep in mind what it is you want your readers to do, think or conclude.

    And ensure your writing makes them do it.


    Steve


    P.S. Write, take a break, look at it again and edit.

    Add points that should be there. Delete points that shouldn't. Rewrite anything that doesn't flow precisely the way you want it to. Rewrite anything that doesn't convey exactly what you want it to.

    Do this 28 times.

    Make it "work" the way you intended.

    You mentioned perfection. Not always easy. And often massively time consuming. So cut yourself a little slack.

    Just make it exceptionally good.
    • [ 2 ] Thanks
    • [2] replies
    • Actually, I was going to point out an obvious inconsistency...a post full of typos and grammatical error by someone who claims to be a perfectionist.

      (The OP, not you Steve).

      Maria, I think you ought to work on mastering the language before you try to become a writer.

      Wouldn't you agree?
      • [ 3 ] Thanks
      • [2] replies
    • Thank you very much steve, this is very helpful. Do have any suggestions of copy that contains that what you described above? Im afraid when I back up my content with studies etc, my post will become too long and readers will stop reading. I do agree that If i want to be an expert at my field that I need to back up my statements.
      • [1] reply
  • I nearly and probably should have suggested she gets someone to check her English.

    My thought was she may be writing in her native language.

    If she is writing in English (it could take years to master) and she might be determined to be a writer before she "gets" all the nuances and grammar, so yes get it checked by an article/copywriting expert.


    Steve
  • How does it take months to write an article? At that point, overthinking everything will make everything worse.
    • [1] reply
    • Yes, I agree. Thats the whole problem. I dont get things done. I should probably write, post and then learn from my mistakes. Im just afraid that I will set a statement with my first articles and based on that people will or will not comeback.
  • Banned
    where you do write your articles? i am thinking about writing articles on ezine.
    • [1] reply

    • Im going to start my own website.
  • If I correct a few sentences, it won't turn you into an English expert.

    You need somebody you can show ALL your work to - and they can explain and adjust any errors.


    Steve
    • [ 3 ] Thanks
    • [1] reply
    • Yes ofcourse, but just to get an idea about what you mean.
  • Marie,

    You may already have seen it.

    If not have a good read.

    http://www.warriorforum.com/copywrit...e-grammar.html


    Steve
    • [1] reply

    • Steve, thanks I have seen it. I don't completely agree with you. But thanks for your effort.

      It would be more helpful if people would be more specific when they give critics. It demotivates when you just say you schould do something about your english. You have to understand that to take a step to see yourself as a writer is not easy.
      • [1] reply
  • Try this -

    "The Elements of Style" - William Strunk & EB White (get it on amazon).

    It's considered by most to be the definitive guide to english word structure and grammar.


    Steve
    • [2] replies
    • First, you say your errors (at least the specific one I pointed out) are merely "because I'm writing fast". How is anyone here supposed to know which of the numerous errors you've made throughout your posts are because you're at work and "writing fast", or due to weaknesses in your writing skills or grasp of English? (That's a rhetorical question, btw.)

      Second, critiquing a handful of short posts in this thread isn't going to help you. As Steve mentioned earlier, you really need to have someone review all your work rather than just a few sentences on a forum.

      Also, an article (or eBook, sales page, etc.) involves far more than decent grammar, punctuation, and syntax in order to keep readers engaged. Sadly, many freelance writers fail miserably when it comes to making a piece of content flow well and be interesting from beginning to end. That's a skill that goes far beyond understanding the rules of any language. It's also what sets talented / skilled professional writers apart from the myriad dime-a-dozen freelancers, bloggers, etc. who fancy themselves "writers" simply because they produce mediocre to downright awful content in one form or another.

      One of the best things you can do is get a few articles written first. Then hire someone to critique them who 1) is a native English speaker and 2) actually knows something about writing professionally.

      And spend some time using the resources Steve has graciously recommended.

      However, if you still haven't finished your first article after working on it for several months, neither inspiration nor feedback on your writing skills is what you need at this point. If you can't finish something because you're never satisfied, the rest is moot.
      • [ 3 ] Thanks
      • [1] reply
    • Thank you, I am going to look into it.
  • There's a fast track way to help her.

    If she looks up the word "petulant" and promises to stop acting like it…

    She'll start making lots of progress.


    Steve
    • [ 2 ] Thanks
    • [1] reply
    • Now it's not about giving advice anymore, but insulting people that don't completely agree with you. It doesn't make you any better than that word you just mentioned.

      Thank you for all your contributions Steve, but I find this very impolite. Maybe you can work on that part of your personality.
  • Maria,

    If people completed agreed with all I said I would be living in wanton luxury in my south sea island paradise.

    And this evening on my lear jet I would be flying out - directly to you - 3 English scholars, 2 A level copywriters and and a dozen of the internets top article writers to give you every assistance with your writing.

    Sadly though, not everyone agrees with my sage and wise words.

    So I'll have to leave you to vigorously debate the wonders and perfectionalization of english grammar, typographical errors (and whether the "speedy" omissions of apostrophes is acceptable or not) together with the correct word placement in article writing.

    And the pro's and con's of asking for critiques. And how best to analyse all the answers.

    And I'll do as you suggest and work feverishly to create the personality you wish for.

    And do all I can to improve my etiquette and manners.

    Perhaps you might consider just a slight adjustment in your attitude?

    Then I am sure we could get on famously.

    In the meantime I wish you well.

    Lots of Love,


    Steve xx


    P.S. Note to self - "perfectionalization" is not a proper word nor is it likely to be grammatically correct - but I think it's quite good. Must use it in a future epic masterpiece.

    P.P.S. Steve?…What now?...Maria is extremely unlikely to - in anyway - grasp your sense of humour (nothing to do with native languages she's just way too serious and a touch uptight) Proving as many suggest - don't use humour in copy.

    I know, I know but I just can't help myself. Maybe she might lighten up. And let herself have a bit of fun.
    • [ 4 ] Thanks
    • [1] reply
    • Insulting people, calling them names, while they are just trying figure out the meaning of certain advices, can really be hurtful. I hope you understand the impact of certain words you use which you call your wisdom and sage. Goodluck.

      All the best for you too.
      • [1] reply
  • Medical CONTENT takes three basic forms.

    Peer to peer, as you will find in medical journals and often from drug manufactures to doctors (very lucrative writing), this is a specialized writing form which is mostly outside the normal realm of the freelance copywriter.

    Medical information intended for the public. In this case your job is to minimize the lingo and lay things out, often in a 1, 2 and 3 manor.

    Medical "copy", which is seen in the promotions of many supplement promotions...and often used as support evidence.

    Accuracy is certainly a requirement for medical writing, however, perfectionism can be had cheaply via a skilled proof reader.

    For 20 years I had a great proofer, then she passed away, and today I use a young woman with her degree in Creative Writing, an English major.

    IF I were involved in medical writing, I'd search high and low for a good proof reader who can worry about the grammar, apostrophes, ellipses ... and so on.

    Cheap commodities. But writing for money, and I've been doing it for 40 years, seldom requires months and perfection...it does, however, require...

    writing.

    Good luck.

    gjabiz
    • [ 4 ] Thanks
  • Marie,

    If you have the determination, then of course just get on with it.

    One thing you can do on your website is just say that English is not your native language. But you are trying your best.

    Readers should then understand that your words won't always be perfect.

    It often helps build affinity with your audience by admitting to a "flaw"

    Rather than trying to wing it * and hope that nobody notices.


    Steve


    P.S. * you might not get a clear definition for "wing it" basically it means to pretend or carry on blindly - best NOT to do that.
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
    • [2] replies

    • Yes, I have the determination and will carry on. I once saw a website (ww.2knowmyself.com) of a non-native english article writer who made millions with his books and articles. I noticed a lot of mistakes regarding his english. But I guess his audience weren't bothered by it so much. Have a look and tell me what you think about it.
    • Best advice so far. Imperfect action trumps perfect inaction every single time.

      That other guy built an empire because he put himself out there even if it wasn't quite perfect.

      Take the next step. It's scary because you can't see the top of the staircase. But trust me - take the step (by putting your work out there and learning as you go).

      If you constantly take the next step instead of standing at the bottom wondering where the staircase leads, eventually you'll wind up on the next floor.
      • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • I can see it's a self help site and yes there is a huge market.

    As you said it doesn't seem matter if the English isn't perfect.

    So, get typing and launch your internet empire.


    Steve
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • Thing is, we are primed to expect ACTION STATIONS, as if the world were already formed as an eternally spinnin' balla beauty.

    An' mebbe because we now can see our home from alla the product of the Moon's adventurously advantaged reference point, we imagine ourselves to be hoverin' in undiminishingly perpetual air.

    We are wings, an' we are landings — flight gonna settle down an' walk a while.

    Gotta be a winger a-thinger over a walker kinda stalker.

    I am sayin' this cos summa our history's coolest catalytic volatileers of Onno couldn't spell to save their own pants.

    Agreed: grammar is kinda a stickler for a wordsmith, but all things transformatively felafocal gonna find their vocal or we are merely witnesses to some elsewhere kinda propulsed smackdown miasa.

    (I know, as writers, we are supposed to kill our darlings, but I am happy to release that last line into the world an' have it tattooed 'pon my leathery tittoes in the dungeon of any an' all future entrappo.)
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • Disclaimer Alert

    Before reading this - it is the opposite of the usual "think positive" attitudes.


    So...

    We tend not to take any action because we have a huge fear of failure.

    (Oh, the humiliation what will people think? …err 99.979% don't care)

    With over one billion active websites what do you think the chances of success are?

    (even if you had perfect English and endless money to promote it - others have always got more. And your copy and products are exceptionally good - others are better)

    So why on earth worry about failing.

    Do EVERYTHING you can to make your site work.

    Sit back.

    And hope for the best.


    Steve


    P.S. Steve? when all is said and done are you suggesting "hope" is all we really have?

    Yes.

    Why?

    Because it NEVER lets you down.
    • [ 2 ] Thanks
    • [1] reply
    • So hope is the answer, and a lot of hard work.
      • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • Hello i want to some suggestion from u for my small sister she is recently complete MA from English subject and she want to build him career in content writing but she don`t know how is possible friends if you any suggestion then please reply on this post
  • Do your best and remember nothing is perfect. If you seek perfection, you will hardly put any work ahead.
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • Try by reading some books in English. It will help you with all sorts of stuff. Also, it is a good opportunity to learn new words.
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • I was just like you when I was starting out. It took me days to write a 450-word article, and still, I made mistakes! Up to now, I'm a recovering perfectionist and overthinker. But I became a more productive writer when I learned that writing has two phases: the creative phase and the editing phase.

    When you're in the creative phase, write as fast as you can. The goal is just to get your ideas out. It's pretty much like throwing up. Just let it all out. The perfectionist in you might throw a fit, but remind her of what the great Ernest Hemingway once said, "The first draft of anything is s**t."

    When you're in the editing phase, you clean up your writing. You make sure that there are no grammatical and spelling errors. You double-check the facts. You rewrite sentences that are awkward. And so on.

    Author C.J. Cherryh also said, "It is perfectly okay to write garbage--as long as you edit brilliantly." Just don't overdo it or obsess on insignificant details.

    And speaking of Hemingway, there's an web-based app named after him, the Hemingway Editor. It's not perfect, but I like it. You might find it helpful.

    Good luck!
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • Since you will be writing in medical/health niche, try your best to provide useful, accurate information based on lot of research. If you can do that then you probably won't have to worry too much about minor flaws in your language. After all if readers can understand what you are trying to say and they are getting good quality information then they can certainly overlook minor grammar mistakes.

    And also remember that not all of your readers will be from USA, UK or English speaking countries. Many of them might be from India, Philippines, Middle East or other places. So don't need to worry too much about it.

    Suppose there is a doctor who is an expert in his field. Will people stop going to him just because his English is not perfect? I don't think so.
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • You can use article sites for best articles.
    You can rewrite these articles into unique one. It'll bring experience.
    You can post your articles on high traffic sites for getting best results.
  • Banned
    [DELETED]
  • There's a quote that really helped me when I was just starting out. I'll copy it here because I think it's perfect, and I'll likely butcher it if I try to recreate it myself.

    "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone told me...

    All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good. It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you.*

    A lot of people never get past this phase, they quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn’t have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this.*

    And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I’ve ever met.*

    It’s gonna take awhile. It’s normal to take awhile. You’ve just gotta fight your way through." - Ira Glass
    • [ 3 ] Thanks
    • [2] replies

    • GREAT quote! The trouble is, it's VERY hard finding work when you're starting off as a copywriter. I've gone through the threads, but it's still EXTREMELY challenging to find somebody willing to pay me money as I cannot prove that my copy leads to sales, since I have some spec work and some work I just completed for my first clients, but still no actual proven results.

      Everyone seems to want an online portfolio with fully designed work (I'm no designer, I only type the copy in Word!) and stats that prove your copy leads to sales.

      If you were in my position, what EXACTLY would you do? I've asked so many people and looked at so many threads, but I'm still struggling immensely to even get my shoe in the door.
      • [2] replies
    • Thanks a lot for this. It keeps me motivated.
  • Good. You win by showing up every day, learning something every day, and never giving up.

    One foot forward. Keep learning and getting better.
    • [ 1 ] Thanks
  • Finally managed to get my hands (digital hands) on Scientific Advertising. Within just a few minutes of reading, I noticed my problem immediately. In my emails, I say I can help them, I offer my services, and give a rough price.

    I SHOULD NOT HAVE EVEN MENTIONED THE PRICE!!

    I should smack myself in the face.

    SMACK!!!

    Okay, now that that's out of the way, it's pretty obvious that I should have rewritten a portion of the site and just sent it over to him on the get-go, without even asking for anything. If he likes it, he'll use it and want me to write more, quite possibly willing to compensate me for it.

    But I asked and that's where I went wrong.

    I'd ask for forgiveness, but that's still asking!
  • [DELETED]
  • [DELETED]
Join the discussion

Next Topics on Trending Feed

  • 70

    New writer

    Hi, Im a new writer, still working on my first article now for a few months. Its very hard to be satisfied with my writing since Im a perfectionist and wont be satisfied easily. So im hoping to find some inspiration on this forum.