(Please note - this page is still under construction.
Thank you for your patience.)
Resources
Handy hints for those of you who would like to see your writing published...
Writing for magazines can be very enjoyable and rewarding. Perhaps try writing a few articles first, though, before you write that novel! It will build your confidence as a writer and you will receive the feedback you need to improve your skills.
Write about things that inspire and interest you. This makes the job of writing fun and enjoyable, and the research becomes an adventure on your quest for knowledge! The other thing about writing with enthusiasm is that other people notice this... it makes for an interesting and lively piece of writing that will be fresh and enjoyable to read.
Choose your market carefully and adapt the style of your writing to suit the needs of the individual. Some magazines adopt a chatty, casual turn of phrase, while others prefer highbrow intellectualism. Make sure you get it right. If you don't, don't be afraid to ask the editor for help - they're usually quite happy to let you know what they are looking for and how you can improve (if you ask very nicely, that is).
Be persistent. Don't be put off by negative criticism or rejection from the editor. Sometimes you have to try a few different magazines or re-adapt an article before it's accepted.
Oh, and get your facts right! When you're unsure about a piece of information, if someone else is quoted as having said it - that's okay... otherwise just leave it out. Only challenge an accepted fact if you're a real expert on the subject and are qualified to back up your point - in which case go for it!
Last but not least, join the Writer's Bureau. Best thing I ever did...
Resources for writers -
www.tiscali.co.uk/reference/dictionaries/difficultwords/data/d0002494.html
www.writersbureau.com/resources.htm