6 Ways Reading Will Help Improve Your Writing
It isn’t too much of a stretch to say that reading and writing go hand in hand. They just do. The more you read, the more you improve at reading AND writing. Also, the more you write, the more you improve at writing AND reading. So, if you have set your sights on writing a novel, remember to include plenty reading in your weekly schedule too. Why? Because diving into books will give you a huge boost to your skills. Here are six ways (although there’s bound to be way more than just six) that it will:
1. Reading Expands Your Vocabulary
One of the quickest wins from reading is picking up new words. When you read a variety of books, you come across words you might not encounter in everyday conversation. And if you pay attention to the unfamiliar words, make sure you understand their meaning and how to use the word properly, you’ve just added something valuable to your writer’s toolbox. Then, when the time comes and you’re looking for a way to express your ideas more clearly or with more flair - BAM! You’ll have all the cool words you need for the job.
2. Reading Improves Your Grammar and Style
Reading different authors from different genres and different eras will expose you to a mix of writing styles and grammar rules in action. Seeing on the page how seasoned writers construct sentences and use punctuation can teach you many dos and don’ts via osmosis. Over time, you’ll naturally adopt these techniques in your own way, and you won’t even notice you’re doing it.
3. Reading Highlights Writing Rhythm and Flow
Good writing has a rhythm that keeps readers hooked. By reading regularly, you start to get a feel for this natural flow. You will notice how a mix of sentence lengths or a pause with a comma can make a story come alive. Reading widely will give you experience that can be employed in your own writing to keep your work smooth, engaging and easy to read.
4. Reading Sparks Inspiration and Ideas
Reading widely fills your mind with infinite ideas and perspectives. If you’re anything like me the biggest challenge is remembering the ideas long enough to write them down! Whether it’s a thrilling plot twist in a novel, an intriguing character flaw or a beautiful setting, books can light up your imagination and give you so much to draw from in your own writing.
5. Reading Teaches Storytelling Techniques
If you long to be a storyteller, reading is like a masterclass. Read with your writer’s hat on - paying attention to how authors build their worlds, develop characters and create tension. You can learn so much this way! The more you read the more you are able to identify and understand key techniques to help you write stories that are compelling and enjoyable for your readers.
6. Reading Sharpens Your Critical Thinking
Reading critically, by really diving into the text, sharpens your ability to think and analyse. This means questioning the author’s choices, assessing structure and considering what works and what doesn’t. These skills are super useful when you’re editing your own writing, so practice by learning to critiquing the work of others first. Then you’ll be well placed to identify areas for improvement in your own work.
So, we can agree that reading is a wonderful way to spend your time, but if you are a writer it is also much more than that. Reading is a powerful tool for honing your writing skills. If you read the kind of books you hope to write, this is a great place to start. But I challenge you to also read more widely, across genres and outside of your comfort zone. You might discover a new love as you do, but at the very least your writing will thank you.
Write on!
NOTE: What about reading books on writing craft? Great idea, yes! I will cover this topic in another post soon.