Writing Exercises

Sometimes a writer needs to exercise his or her talents. Usually this is in response to writer’s block, a condition we previously addressed. Even when not working on a specific project, it is a good idea to keep writing on a regular basis.

Good Exercises

There are books filled with writing exercises. Unfortunately, most of the exercises stink — and that is generous. Fun or entertaining exercises are not necessarily useful. Good writing exercises share the following traits:

There is a clear purpose, such as improving the writing of dialogue.
The exercise and the results are meaningful.
There is an objective measure of completion or even success.
The exercise is ability and experience appropriate.
There is “room to grow” when repeating the exercise and comparing past results.

Ask yourself some questions before you begin an exercise. These questions allow you to evaluate the exercise based upon the criteria for a good exercise.

What skill will I be exercising?
What will I create and can I apply the results directly or indirectly to my writing projects?
How will I know when I am finished? Can I determine if the results are good?
Can I really do this without feeling frustrated?
Would I want to repeat this exercise?

Writing Exercises

Good Exercises

Exercises (Almost A to Z)