Word meaning good at writing

INDEX:

1. able to do something well

2. very good at doing something

3. good at something because you have experience or training

4. having a natural ability to do something well

5. likely to become good at something

6. good at doing a lot of different things

7. the ability to do something well

8. something that you are especially good at

RELATED WORDS

opposite

↑ BAD AT DOING STH

see also

↑ GOOD AT

↑ CAN/CAN’T

↑ KNOW/NOT KNOW

↑ BEST

↑ BETTER

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1. able to do something well

▷ be good at /biː ˈgʊd æt/ [verb phrase]

to be able to do something well :

▪ When she was at school she was good at art.

▪ She loves her job, and she’s very good at it.

be good at doing something

▪ You’ve never been much good at lying.

▪ Robson is particularly good at dealing with people, and should make an excellent manager.

▷ good /gʊd/ [adjective]

able to do something well :

▪ The school orchestra is surprisingly good.

good singer/player/teacher etc

▪ Frank had always been a good football player, and it was no surprise when he was chosen for the team.

▪ I can refer you to a good dentist.

be good with somebody/something

be good at dealing with someone or something

▪ Mrs. Hill is very good with children.

▪ The two Drew girls are unusually good with animals.

be good with your hands

be good at making or repairing things with your hands

▪ Jeremy’s good with his hands — he built our kitchen cupboards.

▷ proficient /prəˈfɪʃ ə nt/ [adjective] formal

having reached an acceptable standard in something, by learning or practising it :

proficient in

▪ Before you can study at a British university, you have to be proficient in English.

proficient skier/climber/actor etc

▪ The black runs are for proficient skiers only.

proficiency [uncountable noun]

▪ Once children have achieved a certain proficiency in reading, they prefer to read silently rather than aloud.

▷ able /ˈeɪb ə l/ [adjective usually before noun]

good at doing something, especially at doing a difficult or important job that involves a lot of responsibility :

▪ Mrs Thomas is a very able teacher.

▪ She was widely regarded as one of the most able members of the president’s staff.

▷ capable /ˈkeɪpəb ə l/ [adjective]

someone who is capable can be trusted to do a job or piece of work well and without needing other people’s help or advice :

▪ Mr. Young is a very capable attorney.

▪ The team desperately needs a capable quarterback.

▷ competent /ˈkɒmpɪtənt, ˈkɒmpətəntǁˈkɑːm-/ [adjective]

someone who is competent has enough skill and knowledge to be able to do something to a high or satisfactory standard :

▪ Competent skiers should find no difficulty with the course.

▪ Though the country is poor, the doctors and nurses are qualified and competent.

highly competent

very competent

▪ Tomita is a highly competent translator.

competent in

▪ New students are expected to be competent in mathematics.

2. very good at doing something

▷ great /greɪt/ [adjective only before noun]

great actor/player/scientist etc

one of the best actors, players etc in the world, and famous and respected because of this :

▪ Olivier was a great actor.

▪ Some of the world’s greatest athletes will be competing in the Olympic Games.

▪ McEnroe was possibly the greatest tennis player of all time.

the greats [plural noun]

▪ Fitzgerald is one of the all-time jazz greats.

▷ brilliant /ˈbrɪljənt/ [adjective]

extremely clever and skilful at something, so that people admire you a lot :

▪ Have you seen her dance? She’s absolutely brilliant.

▪ Paganini was a brilliant violinist, famous for his technical skill in both playing and composing music.

brilliant at

especially British

▪ She’s brilliant at handling difficult clients.

brilliance [uncountable noun]

▪ Hendrix’s brilliance as a rock guitarist remains unsurpassed, even to this day.

▷ excellent /ˈeks ə lənt/ [adjective usually before noun]

extremely good at something :

▪ Andrew had always been an excellent student.

▪ She’s enthusiastic and hardworking and has the potential to be an excellent teacher.

▷ outstanding /aʊtˈstændɪŋ/ [adjective]

so good at doing something that you are noticeably much better than other people who do the same thing :

▪ Woods is an outstanding golfer.

▪ The book is a series of interviews with outstanding artists and writers.

▪ A lot of my teachers were good, but Farley was outstanding.

3. good at something because you have experience or training

▷ skilful British /skillful American /ˈskɪlf ə l/ [adjective]

someone who is skilful does something very well because they have had a lot of training or experience :

▪ the artist’s skillful use of color

▪ Success in business depends on skilful management.

▪ Skilful and confident, Donaldson should become one of the game’s best players.

▷ skilled /skɪld/ [adjective]

someone who is skilled at a particular job has the training and skill to do it well :

▪ There is a demand for carpenters and other skilled craftsmen.

skilled job/work

requiring special skill, especially when you use your hands

▪ Shoeing a horse is a skilled job, and no unskilled person should try it.

highly skilled

very skilled

▪ Keeping highly skilled sailors in the Navy is a priority.

skilled at doing something

▪ Our advisors are skilled at dealing with financial problems.

▷ expert /ˈekspɜːʳt/ [adjective]

extremely skilful at doing something because you have gained a lot of knowledge or experience of this particular subject or activity over a long period of time :

▪ Students learn to cook French food with the help of expert chefs.

▪ My grandmother was an expert dressmaker.

expert at/in

▪ Politicians are usually expert at turning a crisis to their advantage.

expert help/advice/opinion etc

given by someone who knows a lot about it

▪ Tennis coaches will be available to provide expert advice.

expertly [adverb]

▪ The campaign was well-publicised and expertly co-ordinated.

▷ know what you’re doing /ˌnəʊ wɒt jɔːʳ ˈduːɪŋ/ [verb phrase] spoken

use this to say that someone is good at doing something and you admire and trust them because of this :

▪ Kids can tell if a teacher doesn’t know what he’s doing.

▪ You seem to know what you’re doing — I’ll leave you to it.

▷ adept /ˈædept, əˈdeptǁəˈdept/ [adjective]

good at doing something that needs care and skill, for example dealing with people or with difficult social situations :

adept at/in

▪ Of all our staff, Peter is the most adept at dealing with difficult customers.

▪ McCrea was equally adept in comedy and drama.

▷ accomplished /əˈkʌmplɪʃtǁəˈkɑːm-, əˈkʌm-/ [adjective]

someone who is very good at writing, acting, or other artistic skills, especially as a result of a lot of practice and training, but who does not usually have a special natural ability for it :

▪ His two daughters are both accomplished athletes.

highly accomplished

▪ Johann Sebastian Bach had three sons who all became highly accomplished musicians and composers.

▷ have a good command of /hæv ə ˌgʊd kəˈmɑːnd ɒvǁ-ˈmænd-/ [verb phrase not in progressive]

to know a subject, especially a language, well and be good at it :

▪ Candidates should have good typing skills and a good command of English.

▪ She has an excellent command of all the facts.

▷ can do something in your sleep /kən ˌduː something ɪn jɔːʳ ˈsliːp/ [verb phrase] informal

to be able to do something very easily because you have done it a lot of times before :

▪ I’ve played this piece so often I can practically do it in my sleep.

4. having a natural ability to do something well

▷ talented /ˈtæləntɪd, ˈtæləntəd/ [adjective]

very good at doing something because you have a lot of natural ability :

▪ The show has talented actors, but the writing is poor.

highly talented

very talented

▪ The Brazilian team includes some highly talented young players.

▪ The musicians are talented and enthusiastic about their new venture.

▷ gifted /ˈgɪftɪd, ˈgɪftəd/ [adjective]

very good at doing something, especially art, music, or sport, because you were born with natural ability :

▪ Picasso was one of the most gifted artists who ever lived.

▪ It’s a difficult subject, even for a writer as gifted as Mathers.

gifted children

▪ Most school systems offer programs for gifted children.

highly gifted

very gifted

▪ He is a highly gifted young singer, who combines a beautiful voice with unusual musical sensitivity.

▷ a natural /ə ˈnætʃ ə rəl/ [singular noun]

someone who has a natural ability to do something and thinks it is easy as soon as they start to do it :

▪ His sense of humor made him a natural for the TV talk shows.

a natural at

▪ McAvoy is a natural at public relations.

natural/natural-born [adjective only before noun]

▪ She is a natural leader.

▪ a natural-born story teller

▷ have an aptitude for /ˌhæv ən ˈæptə̇tjuːd fɔːʳ ǁ-tuːd-/ [verb phrase not in progressive]

to have a natural ability to learn a particular subject or skill very easily and quickly :

▪ The school is for children who have an exceptional aptitude for math and science.

▷ have a gift for /ˌhæv ə ˈgɪft fɔːʳ/ [verb phrase not in progressive]

have a gift for languages/painting/music/dancing etc

have a special natural ability to do something very well, especially something artistic :

▪ Mozart had a gift for music even when he was very young.

▪ As a director, he has a gift for inspiring his actors to give their best performances.

▷ born /bɔːʳn/ [adjective only before noun]

born leader/teacher/writer etc

someone who clearly has a natural ability to lead, teach etc well, so that it seems as if they do not need to be taught how to do it :

▪ When I read his first essays I knew that he was a born writer.

▪ He seemed to be a born leader, someone who inspired confidence and loyalty.

5. likely to become good at something

▷ promising/shows promise /ˈprɒmɪsɪŋ, ˈprɒməsɪŋǁˈprɑː-, ˌʃəʊz ˈprɒmə̇sǁ-ˈprɑː-/ []

someone who is promising or shows promise, especially someone who is young, is good at something and seems likely to become very good and successful at it :

▪ The new England team members show a lot of promise.

promising actor/musician/player etc

▪ Promising researchers are allowed to take time off teaching and administrative duties.

▷ potential /pəˈtenʃ ə l/ [uncountable noun]

natural ability that could be developed so that you become extremely good at something :

▪ Stephen is a player with real potential.

have/show potential

▪ He’s young but he shows a lot of potential.

▪ She may not be a great violinist yet but she has potential.

potential to do/be something

▪ One of their children has the potential to be a brilliant scientist.

▷ have the makings of /ˌhæv ðə ˈmeɪkɪŋz ɒv/ [verb phrase]

to have the qualities or skills needed to become a particular type of person or thing :

▪ They have the makings of a good team this year.

6. good at doing a lot of different things

▷ versatile /ˈvɜːʳsətaɪlǁ-sətl/ [adjective]

good at doing a lot of different things and able to learn new skills quickly and easily :

▪ Meryl Streep is a wonderfully versatile actress.

▪ Few musicians are as versatile as he is: he plays, composes, arranges, and teaches.

▷ all-rounder /ˌɔːl ˈraʊndəʳ/ [countable noun usually singular] British

someone who is good at doing a lot of different things :

▪ We’re looking for a good all-rounder — someone who can run the office, deal with customers’ complaints, and so on.

▪ At the school, children were encouraged to be ‘all-rounders’ — they were to aim for success in games as well as study.

7. the ability to do something well

▷ skill /skɪl/ [countable/uncountable noun]

the ability to do something well especially because you have learned and practised it :

▪ Most of us learn the knowledge and skills needed to drive a car fairly easily.

▪ The Australians played with great skill and determination.

computer/management/language etc skills

▪ You need good communication skills for this job.

skill in

▪ On the course you will develop skills in business management.

with skill

▪ Price handles the role of the angry wife with great skill.

▷ ability /əˈbɪlɪti, əˈbɪləti/ [uncountable noun]

the ability to do something well, either because you have learned how to do it or because you are naturally good at it :

▪ Maria will be a fine musician; she shows a lot of ability.

ability to do something

▪ No one doubts his ability to get work done quickly.

spelling/reading/writing etc ability

the level of ability in spelling, reading etc

▪ The children are divided into groups according to their reading ability.

▷ talent /ˈtælənt/ [countable/uncountable noun]

a natural ability to do something very well :

▪ John Lennon’s talent as a songwriter was matched by McCartney’s talent as a composer.

have a talent for doing something

▪ Porter has a talent for making a difficult subject understandable and interesting.

talent for

▪ Teachers soon recognized and encouraged his talent for sculpture.

hidden talents

ones that people do not know about

▪ I never knew you were so good at making speeches. Do you have any other hidden talents?

▷ flair /fleəʳ/ [singular/uncountable noun]

a special ability to do something very well and in a way that shows a lot of imagination :

▪ Being a good salesman requires skill, flair, and a good knowledge of your product.

▪ One of the best new players, he shows flair and creativity at the game.

have a flair for something

▪ If you have a flair for languages, there are some good career opportunities in Europe.

▷ have a knack /ˌhæv ə ˈnæk/ [singular noun]

to have a special skill or ability that you usually gain by practice :

have a knack for doing something

▪ She has a knack for making everyone feel comfortable and relaxed.

have a knack for

▪ The family seems to have a knack for success in business.

▷ craftsmanship /ˈkrɑːftsmənʃɪpǁˈkræfts-/ [uncountable noun]

the special skill that someone uses to make something beautiful with their hands :

▪ Hopi baskets are beautiful in both color and craftsmanship.

▪ Fabergé eggs are famous for their intricate craftsmanship.

8. something that you are especially good at

▷ strength /streŋθ, strenθ/ [countable noun]

something that you are particularly good at in your job, in a sport, or in your life in general :

▪ Before choosing a career you should spend time identifying your personal strengths and weaknesses.

▪ His ability to charm people is one of his greatest strengths.

▷ be somebody’s forte /biː somebodyˈs ˈfɔːteɪǁ-ˈfɔːrt/ [verb phrase]

to be the activity that you are best at :

▪ Love songs have become Bolton’s forte.

▪ She’s much better in the longer races. Short distances are not her forte.


Longman Activator English vocab.

     Английский словарь Longman активатор .
2012

If you know a good writer, you might be interested in finding a good word to describe them. Someone who writes well deserves to be complimented if you’re impressed by them. This article will explore some of the best words you can use to flatter them.

Best Words For A Person Exceptional At Writing

The preferred words are “wordsmith,” “articulate,” and “succinct.” Each word allows you to show that someone is able to write in a way that flows. It’s easy to understand what they’re trying to convey, which means that they’re a particularly effective writer in all situations.

Wordsmith

“Wordsmith” is the best way to compliment a writer. It shows that they have skills when using words. It’s a great way of showing that you can’t achieve the same level of detail or quality, but you’re always impressed with the wordsmiths that make it look easy.

The definition of “wordsmith,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “a person who has skill with using words, especially in writing.”

  • Paul is a wordsmith. If you ever need help coming up with a way to word something like this, he’s your guy. He’ll know what to write.
  • I like to think of myself as a wordsmith. I always enjoy writing short stories and such things whenever I get the chance to do so.
  • She’s quite a wordsmith. We’re always blown away by her talent. I really think you should give her a chance to see what she can do.

Articulate

“Articulate” is a great way of showing that a writer is able to express things with words alone. It can be particularly hard to convey thoughts and feelings in writing, so using “articulate” for a writer shows that they have this rare talent that helps you connect to their work.

The definition of “articulate,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “able to express thoughts and feelings easily and clearly, or showing this quality.”

  • He’s an articulate writer. You might not think much of him, but he’s certainly got a way with words that other people just don’t have.
  • You’re very articulate when it comes to this type of thing. I wish I had your talent with words! That would save me so many issues.
  • I think you’re a very articulate writer. Have you ever thought about taking this further and seeing what you might be able to do with it?

Succinct

“Succinct” shows that someone is able to write in a clear and concise way. It allows them to express everything they need to with very few words needed. They will only use words that are absolutely necessary to continue the narrative of their writing.

The definition of “succinct,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “said in a clear and short way; expressing what needs to be said without unnecessary words.”

  • Your writing style is so succinct. It’s easily one of the most interesting for me to read, and it feels like I can actually keep up with you.
  • I like how succinct you can be with these types of things. It really shows that you put a lot of care and effort into your writing.
  • I love his succinct style. Have you ever read one of his books? They’re well worth the read! You won’t regret it.

Lucid

“Lucid” is a solid choice if you’re trying to show that a writer can express their work in an understandable way. It works really well to show that you have a great time reading their work because of how clear and easy it is to follow.

The definition of “lucid,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “clearly expressed and easy to understand, or (of a person) thinking or speaking clearly.”

  • I’ve never known a writer to be as lucid as you are. You just find a way of capturing my imagination from the very first word.
  • She’s a lucid writer. You’ll easily understand what she’s trying to convey, and it feels like every single word is included for a good reason.
  • I like to think of myself as quite lucid when it comes to writing my books. I know what I want to get out of them, and I deliver that.

Eloquent

“Eloquent” usually relates to speaking, but you can also use it to show that someone is a fantastic writer. If someone writes eloquently, it means they are able to clearly and concisely convey the message and meaning that they’re trying to establish with their work.

The definition of “eloquent,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “giving a clear, strong message.”

  • You’re very eloquent for someone so young. If I didn’t know you, I would have thought this short story was written by a trained adult.
  • I love being eloquent because people always express how amazed they are by my writing talent. I want to get that from everyone.
  • You’re the most eloquent writer I’ve seen around here. You must send me some of your books to read sometime. I’d like that.

Fluent

“Fluent” is another word that generally refers to spoken English. People are fluent when they have a smooth flow in their language structure and choices. This can also apply to someone who is writing. Fluency comes when they write sentences in smooth and interesting ways.

The definition of “fluent,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “flowing in a smooth, attractive way.”

  • I’m a fluent writer because I’ve spent so many years trying to hone my craft. I think I’ve finally found my style, and that feels great.
  • I want to sound more fluent in my writing. My father is so good at creating stories, and I just want to sound a little more like him.
  • Dan is very fluent in his writing. I’d recommend reading some of his stories to learn more about what he’s got to say.

Literary Artisan

“Literary artisan” is a great way of showing that someone excels at writing. “Literary” is used as an adjective here to show that it relates to their writing skill. “Artisan” means that someone is skilled at a particular subject (in this case, writing).

The definition of “artisan,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “someone who does skilled work with their hands.”

  • It’s quite clear that you’re a literary artisan. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who was able to create stories in the same manner as you.
  • I’m a literary artisan. Don’t worry; I didn’t come up with that myself. My mom said it to me once, and it’s managed to stick with me.
  • I think you’re a literary artisan, and it would be foolish for you not to try and get these stories published for the rest of the world.

Literary Craftsman

“Literary craftsman” also uses “literary” as an adjective to help establish someone’s written skill. “Craftsman” is used here to show that someone is a brilliant writer because they’ve spent so much time trying to hone their skills in the craft.

The definition of “craftsman,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “a person who is skilled in a particular craft.”

  • She’s a literary craftsman, so it’s best to leave her to do her thing. I think you’ll be quite surprised by some of the things she can come out with.
  • I like being a literary craftsman. All of my friends are always shocked at the skill of my work, and I love that feeling more than anything.
  • You’re a literary craftsman, and it’s a crime that other people don’t get the chance to read your books. I want to publish them!

Clear

“Clear” might be a simple word to describe a good writer, but it’s effective. Many writers want nothing more than to be clear in the things they write. If they can write something and everyone can understand it, they’ll know that they’re a great writer.

The definition of “clear,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “easy to understand, hear, read, or see.”

  • Your writing is clear beyond belief. It’s so easy to follow along with the story, and it allows you to really connect with the characters.
  • I’m a clear writer, and I’ve spent a great deal of time trying to develop the skills that I’ve got to show off today.
  • I’m not as clear as I’d like to be, though a lot of people seem to really enjoy the things I’ve got to say in my work.

Shakespearean

“Shakespearean” generally relates to the works of William Shakespeare. You can also use it as an adjective to describe someone who seems to possess talents like his. It can be said about someone whose work impresses you beyond any normal writer’s work.

The definition of “Shakespearean,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “written by William Shakespeare, or relating to or typical of his work.”

  • I’ve been called Shakespearean in my time because of the way I allow words to flow on the page. I suppose that’s a compliment.
  • I like his books because he’s so Shakespearean in his delivery. I hope I can read more of his stuff going forward.
  • Sheila is the most Shakespearean writer out there right now. It’s like Shakespeare himself is living through her once again.

You may also like: 8 Words For Someone Who Is Good With Words

martin lassen dam grammarhow

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here.

good writing

What’s the difference between bad and good writing?

How important is it for a writer to be able to discern the difference between good writing and bad writing?

Pretty important, if you ask me.

I know some writers aren’t concerned with quality. In today’s do-it-yourself and get-it-done-fast world, quality plays second fiddle to quantity. Who cares if your books are full of typos, bad grammar, and poor logic as long as you have published lots and made a bunch of money?

Readers care. Agents, publishers, and reviewers also care. And while you can still make a million with a bunch of badly written books and a stellar marketing scheme, your work won’t be taken seriously. Also (and this is critical), while it’s possible to make it big by writing badly, it’s not likely. It happens, but it doesn’t happen often. The better your writing, the better your chances for securing a readership and building a career.

The Characteristics of Good Writing

So, what constitutes good writing? Opinions on the matter vary widely. There will be different traits that make good fiction versus good poetry or good nonfiction. However, we can cull together a general list of the characteristics of good writing (in no particular order):

  1. Clarity and focus: In good writing, everything makes sense and readers don’t get lost or have to reread passages to figure out what’s going on. Focused writing sticks with the plot or core idea without running off on too many tangents.
  2. Organization: A well organized piece of writing is not only clear, it’s presented in a way that is logical and aesthetically pleasing. You can tell non-linear stories or place your thesis at the end of an essay and get away with it as long as your scenes or ideas are well ordered.
  3. Ideas and themes: Is the topic of your paper relevant? Does your story come complete with themes? Can the reader visualize your poem? For a piece of writing to be considered well crafted, it has to contain clearly identifiable ideas and themes.
  4. Voice: This is what sets you apart from all other writers. It’s your unique way of stringing words together, formulating ideas, and relating scenes or images to the reader. In any piece of writing, the voice should be consistent and identifiable.
  5. Language (word choice): We writers can never underestimate or fail to appreciate our most valuable tools: words. Good writing includes precise and accurate word choices and well crafted sentences.
  6. Grammar and style: Many writers would wish this one away, but for a piece of writing to be considered good (let alone great), it has to follow the rules of grammar (and break those rules only when there’s a good reason). Style is also important in ensuring that a piece of writing is clear and consistent. Make sure you keep a grammar book and style guide handy.
  7. Credibility or believability: Nothing says bad writing like getting the facts wrong or misrepresenting oneself. In fiction, the story must be believable (even if it’s impossible), and in nonfiction, accurate research can make or break a writer.
  8. Thought-provoking or emotionally inspiring: Perhaps the most important quality of good writing is how the reader responds to it. Does she come away with a fresh perspective and new ideas? Does he close the cover with tears in his eyes or a sense of victory? How readers react to your work will fully determine your success as a writer.

I want to add an honorable mention for originality. Everything has been done before, so originality is somewhat arbitrary. However, putting old ideas together in new ways and creating remixes of the best that literature has to offer is a skill worth developing.

Why You Need to Know the Difference Between Good and Bad Writing

To write well, a writer must be able to recognize quality in a piece of writing. How can you assess or improve your own work if you can’t tell the difference between mediocre and better writing in others’ work? This is why it’s so important for writers to be dedicated readers!

Writing is also an art form and therefore subject to personal taste. Can you read a book and dislike it but acknowledge that the writing was good? Have you ever read a book and loved the story but felt that the writing was weak?

A writer should be able to articulate why a piece of writing succeeds or fails, and a writer should also be able to recognize the qualities in a piece of writing even when it doesn’t appeal to their personal taste. These skills are especially necessary when writers are reviewing or critiquing other writers’ work and when revising, editing, and proofreading their own work.

Where do you stand? Do you rate other people’s writing? Do you worry about whether your own writing is any good? Would you add or remove any characteristics of good writing from this list? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment, and keep writing.

10 Core Practices for Better Writing

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There are two kinds of people: Those who think they can write, and those who think they can’t. And, very often, both are wrong.

The truth is, most of us fall somewhere in the middle. We are all capable of producing good writing. Or, at least, better writing.

Why does good writing matter? Isn’t the best content marketing very often something short, snappy, and non-text? Like Skype’s Born Friends video, Lowe’s Vines, or Chipotle’s haunting video commentary?

Sometimes, yes. But here I’m not just talking about content in a marketing context. I’m talking about content, period.

Text is the backbone of the Web, and it’s often the backbone of any content you watch or listen to, as well. That Born Friends video started with a story and a script.

Words matter. Your words (what you say) and style (how you say it) are your most cherished (and undervalued) assets.

Yet, so often, they are overlooked. Think of it this way: If a visitor came to your website without its branding in place (logo, tagline, and so on), would he or she recognize it as yours? Are you telling your story there from your unique perspective, with a voice and style that’s clearly all you?

Here, in no particular order, is what I’ve learned about the necessary qualities of good writing (or content, in our digital vernacular), based on my own 25 years’ working as a writer and editor… and even longer career as a reader.

1. Good writing anticipates reader questions.

Good writing serves the reader, not the writer. It isn’t indulgent. “The reader doesn’t turn the page because of a hunger to applaud,” said longtime writing teacher Don Murray. Rather, good writing anticipates what questions readers will have as they read a piece, and (before they ask them) it answers them.

That means most good writers are natural skeptics, especially regarding their own work. They relentlessly think of things from their reader’s point of view: What experience is this creating for the reader? What questions might they have?

(I did this above, when, before listing the qualities of good writing, I thought, “Why does good writing even matter to you? Why should any of us care?”)

George Orwell said the “scrupulous writer” will ask himself at least four questions in every sentence: “What am I trying to say? What words will express it? What image or idiom will make it clearer? Is this image fresh enough to have an effect? And he or she will probably ask himself two more: Could I put it more shortly? Have I said anything that is avoidably ugly?” (Hat tip to The Economist style guide for that one.)

Here’s where marketing can really help add value in a business context, by the way, because “simple” means “making it easy for the customer.” It means being the advocate for them. As Georgy Cohen writes, “The marketer should be identifying (and ruthlessly refining) the core messages and the top goals, then working with the web professionals to create a website supporting them.”

2. Good writing is grounded in data.

Data puts your content in context and gives you credibility. Ground your content in facts: Data, research, fact-checking and curating. Your ideas and opinions and spin might be part of that story—or they might not be, depending on what you are trying to convey. But content that’s rooted in something true—not just your own opinions—is more credible.

Said another way: Data before declaration. If you are going to tell me what you think, give me a solid reason why you think it.

3. Good writing is like good teaching.

Good writing strives to explain, to make things a little bit clearer, to make sense of our world… even if it’s just a product description.

“A writer always tries… to be part of the solution, to understand a little about life and to pass this on,” says Anne Lamott in Bird by Bird.

4. Good writing tells a full story. 

Good writing roots out opposing viewpoints. As Joe Chernov says, “There’s a name for something with a single point of view: It’s called a press release.” Incorporate multiple perspectives when the issue lends itself to that. At the very least, don’t ignore the fact that other points of view might exist; to do so makes your reader not trust you.

So make sure he or she knows you’re watching out for them. To quote Hemingway: “The most essential gift for a good writer is a built-in, shockproof, shit detector.”

5. Good writing comes on the rewrite.

That implies that there is a rewrite, of course. And there should be.

Writing is hard work, and producing a shitty first draft is often depressing. But the important thing is to get something down to start chipping into something that resembles a coherent narrative.

As Don Murray said, “The draft needs fixing, but first it needs writing.” Or Mark Twain: “Writing is easy. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words.”

6. Good writing is like math.

I mean this in two ways: First, good writing has logic and structure. It feels solid to the reader: The writer is in control and has taken on the heavy burden of shaping a lumpy jumble of thoughts into something clear and accessible.

It might not follow a formula, exactly. But there’s a kind of architecture to it. Good writing has more logic to it than you might think.

Second, good writing is inherently teachable—just as trigonometry or algebra or balancing a balance sheet is a skill any of us can master. Journalism professor Matt Waite writes in his essay, How I Faced My Fears and Learned to Be Good at Math: “The difference between good at math and bad at math is hard work. It’s trying. It’s trying hard. It’s trying harder than you’ve ever tried before. That’s it.”

I think the same is true about writing. Ta-Nehisi Coates, a senior editor at The Atlantic, spent a year teaching writing to MIT students. He later wrote, “I felt that the rigor of math had better prepared these kids for the rigor of writing. One of my students insisted that whereas in math you could practice and get better, in writing you either ‘had it’ or you didn’t. I told her that writing was more like math then she suspected.”

7. Good writing is simple, but not simplistic.

Business—like life—can be complicated. Products can be involved or concepts may seem impenetrable. But good content deconstructs the complex to make it easily understood: It sheds the corporate Frankenspeak and conveys things in human, accessible terms. A bit of wisdom from my journalism days: No one will ever complain that you’ve made things too simple to understand.

“Simple” does not equal “dumbed-down.” Another gem from my journalism professors: Assume the reader knows nothing. But don’t assume the reader is stupid.

If you think your business-to-business concept is too complex to be conveyed simply, take a look at the very first line of The Economist’s style guide: “The first requirement of The Economist is that it should be readily understandable. Clarity of writing usually follows clarity of thought. So think what you want to say, then say it as simply as possible.”

8. Good writing doesn’t get hung up on what’s been said before.

Rather, it elects to simply say it better. Here’s where style is a differentiator—in literature and on your website.

Mark Twain described how a good writer treats sentences: “At times he may indulge himself with a long one, but he will make sure there are no folds in it, no vaguenesses, no parenthetical interruptions of its view as a whole; when he has done with it, it won’t be a sea-serpent with half of its arches under the water; it will be a torch-light procession.” He also might’ve said: “Write with clarity and don’t be indulgent.” But he didn’t.

That doesn’t mean you need to be a literary genius, of course. It only means you have to hone your own unique perspective and voice.

9. A word about writers: Good writers aren’t smug.

Most of the really good writers I know still feel a little sheepish calling themselves a “writer,” because that’s a term freighted with thick tomes of excellence.  But like many achievements in life—being called a success, or a good parent—the label seems more meaningful when it’s bestowed upon you by others.

“Most of the time I feel stupid, insensitive, mediocre, talentless and vulnerable—like I’m about to cry any second—and wrong. I’ve found that when that happens, it usually means I’m writing pretty well, pretty deeply, pretty rawly.” —Andre Dubus III (House of Sand and Fog)

BONUS: Good writing has a good editor.

Writers get the byline and any glory. But behind the scenes, a good editor adds a lot to process.

Remember what I said above about there being two kinds of people? Those who think they can write, and those who think they can’t? And very often, both being wrong? A good editor teases the best out of so-called writers and non-writers alike.

The best writing—like the best parts of life, perhaps—is collaborative.

And by the way, is it odd that I’m seeding what’s essentially business advice with insight from artists? And if so, why is that odd?

Because in a world where we have an opportunity and responsibility to tell our stories online, we need to find not just the right words… but the very best ones.

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My entire life, I’ve refused to accept that I’m good at writing. It’s really weird…

You see, it’s always something that I loved to do. It comes naturally to me.

People have ALWAYS told me, “Wow, Sal, you’re really good at writing.”

I would thank them and quickly forget it.

It probably goes back to deep, inner-seated issues around self-esteem and my dream to become a “noteworthy” and “famous” entrepreneur.

I always thought of writing as kind of a B.S. career that doesn’t have any money or fame in it.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to be extremely thankful for my writing abilities. These skills have allowed me to build my online business. They’ve helped me understand myself better with journaling.

Writing has helped me every step of the way.

With this article, I want to share with you EXACTLY how you can use your writing skills to earn income, make an impact, and live a life that you love.

This is taken directly from my experience earning thousands and thousands of dollars online. I’ve written multiple books, which are available on Amazon. I’ve written more than 700 blog posts.

If you are good at writing, and wondering what to do with this superpower, you’re in the right place.

The entire subject of writing can be boiled down into three core categories. Whether you’re a struggling novelist or a millionaire marketer, you will fit into one (or multiple) of these categories.

Writing is good for three things:

  1. Educating and informing
  2. Persuading (think Sales)
  3. Entertaining

I’ve thought about this a lot, and these are the ONLY categories that you can fit into with your writing career. You might be in multiple categories, but these are the three that comprise writing as a whole.

I’m going to go into the income opportunities with each of them, along with how you can use your skill to create a lifestyle that you enjoy.

1. Educating and Informing

This is what I’m really, really good at. But, you don’t have to take my word for it. Just look at the MILLIONS of people online that have read my blog, CrowdCrux.

On this blog, I share tips, advice, and strategies that you can use to raise money with crowdfunding. I’ve written blog posts and books on the topic.

In this context, writing can be used to explain “how to do something,” whether it’s start a business, make more money, build up muscle, or get a girlfriend.

People use your writing to better understand the RIGHT way to go about getting results in an area of their life. The writing is simply the medium used to share tips, information, mindsets, and strategies.

Under this category, you are physically writing words, but you’re actually more of a teacher. The writing is just the teaching medium.

I’ve found that individuals that have a strong “nonfiction” or “education” writing skill set tend to do very well with blogging. It’s easy for you to write helpful blog posts that get thousands of views online.

Your ability to educate readers through writing will end up getting you attention, potential students, and from a business perspective, generate a lot of “leads” which you can later turn into sales.

Your skills in this area will make it easy to write blog posts, ebooks, physical books, and anything that is of educational value.

It’s going to be difficult to strictly make money from your writing, unless you are writing for someone else. You’re educating on behalf of their organization or their business.

However, you CAN use your writing abilities to generate leads, which you then turn into clients or students. You can also do very well with email marketing, online courses, and affiliate marketing.

The main takeaway is to view yourself as a TEACHER rather than a writer.

Your money will be made from:

  • Books (though not much)
  • Freelancing clients
  • Your audience/students

2. Persuading (think Sales) – Copywriting

Now… if you have a flair for educational writing AND you enjoy a bit of fiction writing, this is the perfect marriage of your skills.

These writers are usually the highest paid of the three, and for good reason. They turn words into dollars!

Your well-written sales page or email can result in thousands and thousands of dollars in sales for a business!

The goal with this style of writing is to persuade readers to make a particular decision. That decision could be to attend an event, buy a product, or sign up for a service.

It’s a mix of sales and marketing. It’s a very specific type of writing called copywriting.

This category of writing includes elements of education, sales, and even some fiction writing. The ultimate goal is to make readers FEEL something when they read your “copy.” You are trying to change their state of mind.

In fact, the best copywriters typically study fiction writers to see how they invoke curiosity and lead a reader through a story. These elements can be included in an email sequence that leads to a sale.

For example, let’s say you’re selling a product. You’re telling a story about wrestling with some kind of problem.

Then, you could say “I was about to give up… when I discovered something that would change my life forever and lead to a dramatic improvement in the results I was seeing.

Literally, this changed everything! No more fear, frustration, or confusion.

Without it, I’d still be worrying whether or not I can afford to buy groceries for my family.

Instead, I’m happy, healthy, and enthusiastic about coming to work every day.

I can rest assured, knowing that I’m able to provide for myself and my family from the comfort of my home. All I need is a computer and an internet connection!

Tomorrow, I’m going to share with you what I discovered. It’s free and anyone can use it to see remarkable success with _____. No joke!”

What I like about copywriting is that it combines different elements of writing AND it makes readers more likely to read every single word that I write.

We all have come across educational articles (like this one). You probably didn’t read it word from word. You skimmed it.

When you’re drawn into a story, you’ll read every word of it, waiting to find out what happens next.

This is a very effective way to evoke emotions, curiosity, and capture attention.

Copywriting is a powerful way to enhance educational-style writing. You can use it to sell your books, products, and services. I think everyone into writing should learn it.

It’s not really talked about very much. I’m angry I wasn’t ever introduced to it in school.

Your money will be made from:

  • Copywriting clients
  • Sales of your own info products
  • Sales you generate for your business

3. Entertaining – Novelists

The final category can be summed up in one: entertainment. You could also use the word “artistic.”

I’d lump novelists, fiction writers, poets, and really anyone who is writing something that’s meant to simply be enjoyed into this category.

Copywriters will use stories and emotionally evocative words to sell products. Novelists, entertainers, and artistic writers use these techniques to tell a story that makes someone think differently about the world.

It might take them feel something, or have a change of attitude about an experience in their life.

Usually, after reading the book, they’re not looking to purchase a product, a course, or become a student. If they liked the book, they’ll just be waiting for the author to write their next book.

The book is the main product.

Unlike the other categories, which focus on getting the reader to take action, or become informed about their world, this category is designed to serve as a happy or interesting distraction from every-day-life.

You can read a story and get lost in it for a few hours. It might cause you to have thoughts about your real life, but at the end of the day, Harry Potter is meant to be enjoyed because it’s an alternative realty.

Under this category, most of your energy and focus will not be on actual writing, though of course this is essential. You do need good descriptive, concrete, and punchy writing. However, there are many books that have great writing, but fail to sell copies.

Instead, your success will depend on your grasp of storytelling.

Think of it this way… you can have a beautiful written book that fails to garner attention. On the flip side, you can have a book that has a 3rd grade reading level writing and it sells millions of copies.

Think Twilight, James Patterson, Nora Roberts, etc.

Storytelling skills are what make the difference between a bestseller and a book that sells less than 1,000 copies (which is most books).

Your money will likely be made from:

  • Book sales
  • Speaking (maybe)
  • Teaching creative writing

What should you do, if you’re good at writing?

This comes down to both a personal choice and your own inclinations.

I dabbled in fiction writing when I was in high school and college. I also wrote poetry. I even wrote a book during a nanowrimo contest.

I was always told I had good descriptive language and a powerful voice, but I lacked quality story structure.

Personally, I didn’t fully understand what “being creative” meant. I also wasn’t as committed as I needed to be with fiction writing.

There are times when I wish I was a writer, but when I examine that desire, I realized it’s mainly the “rewards” I want. I don’t want to take the time to study character development and story structure in-depth.

Frankly, I’d rather be in the limelight. I’d rather be an actor in a big movie than the director. I want to be the center of focus and attention.

A few years ago, I was confused, just like you are.

I had always been good at writing, but I didn’t know what to do with it!

When I started blogging, my skills easily translated into the online world. I had people say they loved my blog posts. I started to get more and more traffic.

I realized that my skills really were in the “educational” sphere.

Once I incorporated copywriting techniques into my writing, I started to see sales of my online courses and products.

I came to see that I can use storytelling and the lessons I learned from my fiction writing classes to be able to sell products (and get attention for my personal brand).

Going back in time, one of the things that has impact my success most has been making my work public.

So many writers are afraid to go public with their writing for fear of criticism.

The sooner you share your voice with the world, the faster you’ll start to see success with your craft.

If, after reading this, you’d like to explore becoming a blogger, I can show you exactly how to set up a blog writing about something that you love. More importantly, I can show you how to make it profitable.

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