It’s okay to admit it… writing is hard.
Writing is as complex as it gets. With so many styles, rules, and variables that play into writing, it can become so difficult to write down what it is you want to say.
Getting Started: The lead
Finding inspiration or an idea to write about itself can be a huge task. Understanding what message you want to put out there also has to do with your own writing style and who your audience is.
Every good writing piece starts with a strong lead. William Zinsser says in his book On Writing Well, “the most important sentence in any article is the first one.” Leads can be multiple sentences long if necessary. They must be captivating and interest the reader long enough to read the second sentence. Then the third, and so one. Leads are kind of the buildup of your message. Sometimes they might be mysterious and make the reader intrigued as to what the piece is. Other times they are straight to the point, but amusing or clear.
As a communications major, I learned about writing leads my first semester in college. I found it difficult when I was not able to use my own voice. However, once you understand what kind of voice or audience you have to write for, it becomes easier.
Tips on writing leads:
Sometimes, it is easier to come up with your lead or title after you write your piece. Other times, the lead you come up with can draw inspiration if you don’t know what to write about. According to Zinsser, the length of a lead depends on the audience you write to. Zinsser also suggests using freshness, novelty, paradox, or humor when creating a lead. Leads really can’t be boring. If I titled this post “Lead tips” I doubt anyone would read it. Be creative! Write with unity, it helps keep the reader engaged.
“If writing were easy, everyone would do it!”
Writing is difficult, I mean look at all the authors who talk about writers block. When it comes to writing for one’s self, it is important to write for yourself, and use your voice. When it comes to writing academically, there is some wiggle room on using voice and opinions. Find the loopholes to make academic writing slightly more enjoyable.
This article I highly recommend checking out. It is about nine authors talking about why writing is hard. While I am not trying to intimidate anyone reading this, I am just agreeing with everyone else. I think understanding your own voice and writing is key to finding it easier. I have always loved writing, but I was not always necessarily good at it. Practice makes perfect, and I still am learning everyday.
Source:
Zinsser, W. (2021). Chapters 8-10 In On Writing Well (pp. 49-91). essay, Collins.
