Keys to Writing Success - Part 10

I once read about a writer who specialised in writing teenage fiction. To help keep her target audience in mind she had a picture of a teenager on her desk. This was a constant reminder of who (and the age range) she was writing for and allowed her to write in the best and most appropriate way.

As you plan and set about your writing, this is something which can be of great help. Visualise the type of person most likely to read your material. By doing so your writing will be more relevant, applicable and, if sent to the right magazine or publisher, have greater chance of acceptance.

Do bear this important Writing Key in mind - I am sure it will serve you well.

Keys to Writing Success Part 9 - Successful Timing

Before mentioning a new writing tip, many thanks to all who have contacted me through this blog. Also, some have also enquired about my new book, Your Chinese Horoscope 2008. For American readers this is now available for purchase from Barnes and Noble. If you would like to order a signed copy, please visit my website, http://neilsomerville.com

My writing tip this week is this: plan and look ahead. Magazines often work several months ahead and although we are in early October, many Christmas editions have been or are about to be finalised. If you write for magazines, you do need to write seasonal or time-related items well in advance. Similarly with newspaper submissions, if you have an idea for an article, try and submit this as soon as you can. In publishing time is of the essense and, as the saying reminds us, 'the early bird catches the worm,' and in writing it is often the early and appropriate submissions that catch the editor's eye.

For magazine and newspaper writing, plan your work well in advance.

Good Luck.