creative writing abilities

What is Creative Writing? A Key Piece of the Writer’s Toolbox

Not all writing is the same and there’s a type of writing that has the ability to transport, teach, and inspire others like no other.

Creative writing stands out due to its unique approach and focus on imagination. Here’s how to get started and grow as you explore the broad and beautiful world of creative writing!

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of writing that extends beyond the bounds of regular professional, journalistic, academic, or technical forms of literature. It is characterized by its emphasis on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes or poetic techniques to express ideas in an original and imaginative way.

Creative writing can take on various forms such as:

• short stories
• screenplays

It’s a way for writers to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a creative, often symbolic, way . It’s about using the power of words to transport readers into a world created by the writer.

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

Creative writing is marked by several defining characteristics, each working to create a distinct form of expression:

1. Imagination and Creativity: Creative writing is all about harnessing your creativity and imagination to create an engaging and compelling piece of work. It allows writers to explore different scenarios, characters, and worlds that may not exist in reality.

2. Emotional Engagement: Creative writing often evokes strong emotions in the reader. It aims to make the reader feel something — whether it’s happiness, sorrow, excitement, or fear.

3. Originality: Creative writing values originality. It’s about presenting familiar things in new ways or exploring ideas that are less conventional.

4. Use of Literary Devices: Creative writing frequently employs literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, and others to enrich the text and convey meanings in a more subtle, layered manner.

5. Focus on Aesthetics: The beauty of language and the way words flow together is important in creative writing. The aim is to create a piece that’s not just interesting to read, but also beautiful to hear when read aloud.

Remember, creative writing is not just about producing a work of art. It’s also a means of self-expression and a way to share your perspective with the world. Whether you’re considering it as a hobby or contemplating a career in it, understanding the nature and characteristics of creative writing can help you hone your skills and create more engaging pieces .

For more insights into creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and is a degree in creative writing worth it .

Styles of Creative Writing

To fully understand creative writing , you must be aware of the various styles involved. Creative writing explores a multitude of genres, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques.

Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses expressive language to evoke emotions and ideas. Poets often employ rhythm, rhyme, and other poetic devices to create pieces that are deeply personal and impactful. Poems can vary greatly in length, style, and subject matter, making this a versatile and dynamic form of creative writing.

Short Stories

Short stories are another common style of creative writing. These are brief narratives that typically revolve around a single event or idea. Despite their length, short stories can provide a powerful punch, using precise language and tight narrative structures to convey a complete story in a limited space.

Novels represent a longer form of narrative creative writing. They usually involve complex plots, multiple characters, and various themes. Writing a novel requires a significant investment of time and effort; however, the result can be a rich and immersive reading experience.

Screenplays

Screenplays are written works intended for the screen, be it television, film, or online platforms. They require a specific format, incorporating dialogue and visual descriptions to guide the production process. Screenwriters must also consider the practical aspects of filmmaking, making this an intricate and specialized form of creative writing.

If you’re interested in this style, understanding creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree can provide useful insights.

Writing for the theater is another specialized form of creative writing. Plays, like screenplays, combine dialogue and action, but they also require an understanding of the unique dynamics of the theatrical stage. Playwrights must think about the live audience and the physical space of the theater when crafting their works.

Each of these styles offers unique opportunities for creativity and expression. Whether you’re drawn to the concise power of poetry, the detailed storytelling of novels, or the visual language of screenplays and plays, there’s a form of creative writing that will suit your artistic voice. The key is to explore, experiment, and find the style that resonates with you.

For those looking to spark their creativity, our article on creative writing prompts offers a wealth of ideas to get you started.

Importance of Creative Writing

Understanding what is creative writing involves recognizing its value and significance. Engaging in creative writing can provide numerous benefits – let’s take a closer look.

Developing Creativity and Imagination

Creative writing serves as a fertile ground for nurturing creativity and imagination. It encourages you to think outside the box, explore different perspectives, and create unique and original content. This leads to improved problem-solving skills and a broader worldview , both of which can be beneficial in various aspects of life.

Through creative writing, one can build entire worlds, create characters, and weave complex narratives, all of which are products of a creative mind and vivid imagination. This can be especially beneficial for those seeking creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Enhancing Communication Skills

Creative writing can also play a crucial role in honing communication skills. It demands clarity, precision, and a strong command of language. This helps to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, making it easier to express thoughts and ideas effectively .

Moreover, creative writing encourages empathy as you often need to portray a variety of characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. This leads to a better understanding of people and improved interpersonal communication skills.

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

One of the most profound aspects of creative writing is its ability to provide a safe space for exploring emotions and ideas. It serves as an outlet for thoughts and feelings , allowing you to express yourself in ways that might not be possible in everyday conversation.

Writing can be therapeutic, helping you process complex emotions, navigate difficult life events, and gain insight into your own experiences and perceptions. It can also be a means of self-discovery , helping you to understand yourself and the world around you better.

So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, the benefits of creative writing are vast and varied. For those interested in developing their creative writing skills, check out our articles on creative writing prompts and how to teach creative writing . If you’re considering a career in this field, you might find our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it helpful.

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

Creative writing can seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this creative field. Here are some steps to help you start creative writing .

1. Finding Inspiration

The first step in creative writing is finding inspiration . Inspiration can come from anywhere and anything. Observe the world around you, listen to conversations, explore different cultures, and delve into various topics of interest.

Reading widely can also be a significant source of inspiration. Read different types of books, articles, and blogs. Discover what resonates with you and sparks your imagination.

For structured creative prompts, visit our list of creative writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing.

Editor’s Note : When something excites or interests you, stop and take note – it could be the inspiration for your next creative writing piece.

2. Planning Your Piece

Once you have an idea, the next step is to plan your piece . Start by outlining:

• the main points

Remember, this can serve as a roadmap to guide your writing process. A plan doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s a flexible guideline that can be adjusted as you delve deeper into your writing. The primary purpose is to provide direction and prevent writer’s block.

3. Writing Your First Draft

After planning your piece, you can start writing your first draft . This is where you give life to your ideas and breathe life into your characters.

Don’t worry about making it perfect in the first go. The first draft is about getting your ideas down on paper . You can always refine and polish your work later. And if you don’t have a great place to write that first draft, consider a journal for writing .

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

The final step in the creative writing process is editing and revising your work . This is where you fine-tune your piece, correct grammatical errors, and improve sentence structure and flow.

Editing is also an opportunity to enhance your storytelling . You can add more descriptive details, develop your characters further, and make sure your plot is engaging and coherent.

Remember, writing is a craft that improves with practice . Don’t be discouraged if your first few pieces don’t meet your expectations. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on how to teach creative writing or creative writing activities for kids.

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Understanding what is creative writing is the first step. But how can one improve their creative writing skills? Here are some tips that can help.

Read Widely

Reading is a vital part of becoming a better writer. By immersing oneself in a variety of genres, styles, and authors, one can gain a richer understanding of language and storytelling techniques . Different authors have unique voices and methods of telling stories, which can serve as inspiration for your own work. So, read widely and frequently!

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, creative writing improves with practice. Consistently writing — whether it be daily, weekly, or monthly — helps develop your writing style and voice . Using creative writing prompts can be a fun way to stimulate your imagination and get the words flowing.

Attend Writing Workshops and Courses

Formal education such as workshops and courses can offer structured learning and expert guidance. These can provide invaluable insights into the world of creative writing, from understanding plot development to character creation. If you’re wondering is a degree in creative writing worth it, these classes can also give you a taste of what studying creative writing at a higher level might look like .

Joining Writing Groups and Communities

Being part of a writing community can provide motivation, constructive feedback, and a sense of camaraderie. These groups often hold regular meetings where members share their work and give each other feedback. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others who share your passion for writing.

Seeking Feedback on Your Work

Feedback is a crucial part of improving as a writer. It offers a fresh perspective on your work, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s from a writing group, a mentor, or even friends and family, constructive criticism can help refine your writing .

Start Creative Writing Today!

Remember, becoming a proficient writer takes time and patience. So, don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. Who knows, your passion for creative writing might even lead to creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Happy writing!

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024: 

Gratitude Journal Prompts Mindfulness Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Anxiety Reflective Journal Prompts Healing Journal Prompts Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Journal Prompts Mental Health Journal Prompts ASMR Journal Prompts Manifestation Journal Prompts Self-Care Journal Prompts Morning Journal Prompts Evening Journal Prompts Self-Improvement Journal Prompts Creative Writing Journal Prompts Dream Journal Prompts Relationship Journal Prompts "What If" Journal Prompts New Year Journal Prompts Shadow Work Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making Travel Journal Prompts Fun Journal Prompts

Inspiring Ink: Expert Tips on How to Teach Creative Writing

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What Is Creative Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 20 Examples)

Creative writing begins with a blank page and the courage to fill it with the stories only you can tell.

I face this intimidating blank page daily–and I have for the better part of 20+ years.

In this guide, you’ll learn all the ins and outs of creative writing with tons of examples.

What Is Creative Writing (Long Description)?

Creative Writing is the art of using words to express ideas and emotions in imaginative ways. It encompasses various forms including novels, poetry, and plays, focusing on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes.

Table of Contents

Let’s expand on that definition a bit.

Creative writing is an art form that transcends traditional literature boundaries.

It includes professional, journalistic, academic, and technical writing. This type of writing emphasizes narrative craft, character development, and literary tropes. It also explores poetry and poetics traditions.

In essence, creative writing lets you express ideas and emotions uniquely and imaginatively.

It’s about the freedom to invent worlds, characters, and stories. These creations evoke a spectrum of emotions in readers.

Creative writing covers fiction, poetry, and everything in between.

It allows writers to express inner thoughts and feelings. Often, it reflects human experiences through a fabricated lens.

Types of Creative Writing

There are many types of creative writing that we need to explain.

Some of the most common types:

• Short stories
• Screenplays
• Flash fiction
• Creative Nonfiction

Short Stories (The Brief Escape)

Short stories are like narrative treasures.

They are compact but impactful, telling a full story within a limited word count. These tales often focus on a single character or a crucial moment.

Short stories are known for their brevity.

They deliver emotion and insight in a concise yet powerful package. This format is ideal for exploring diverse genres, themes, and characters. It leaves a lasting impression on readers.

Example: Emma discovers an old photo of her smiling grandmother. It’s a rarity. Through flashbacks, Emma learns about her grandmother’s wartime love story. She comes to understand her grandmother’s resilience and the value of joy.

Novels (The Long Journey)

Novels are extensive explorations of character, plot, and setting.

They span thousands of words, giving writers the space to create entire worlds. Novels can weave complex stories across various themes and timelines.

The length of a novel allows for deep narrative and character development.

Readers get an immersive experience.

Example: Across the Divide tells of two siblings separated in childhood. They grow up in different cultures. Their reunion highlights the strength of family bonds, despite distance and differences.

Poetry (The Soul’s Language)

Poetry expresses ideas and emotions through rhythm, sound, and word beauty.

It distills emotions and thoughts into verses. Poetry often uses metaphors, similes, and figurative language to reach the reader’s heart and mind.

Poetry ranges from structured forms, like sonnets, to free verse.

The latter breaks away from traditional formats for more expressive thought.

Example: Whispers of Dawn is a poem collection capturing morning’s quiet moments. “First Light” personifies dawn as a painter. It brings colors of hope and renewal to the world.

Plays (The Dramatic Dialogue)

Plays are meant for performance. They bring characters and conflicts to life through dialogue and action.

This format uniquely explores human relationships and societal issues.

Playwrights face the challenge of conveying setting, emotion, and plot through dialogue and directions.

Example: Echoes of Tomorrow is set in a dystopian future. Memories can be bought and sold. It follows siblings on a quest to retrieve their stolen memories. They learn the cost of living in a world where the past has a price.

Screenplays (Cinema’s Blueprint)

Screenplays outline narratives for films and TV shows.

They require an understanding of visual storytelling, pacing, and dialogue. Screenplays must fit film production constraints.

Example: The Last Light is a screenplay for a sci-fi film. Humanity’s survivors on a dying Earth seek a new planet. The story focuses on spacecraft Argo’s crew as they face mission challenges and internal dynamics.

Memoirs (The Personal Journey)

Memoirs provide insight into an author’s life, focusing on personal experiences and emotional journeys.

They differ from autobiographies by concentrating on specific themes or events.

Memoirs invite readers into the author’s world.

They share lessons learned and hardships overcome.

Example: Under the Mango Tree is a memoir by Maria Gomez. It shares her childhood memories in rural Colombia. The mango tree in their yard symbolizes home, growth, and nostalgia. Maria reflects on her journey to a new life in America.

Flash Fiction (The Quick Twist)

Flash fiction tells stories in under 1,000 words.

It’s about crafting compelling narratives concisely. Each word in flash fiction must count, often leading to a twist.

This format captures life’s vivid moments, delivering quick, impactful insights.

Example: The Last Message features an astronaut’s final Earth message as her spacecraft drifts away. In 500 words, it explores isolation, hope, and the desire to connect against all odds.

Creative Nonfiction (The Factual Tale)

Creative nonfiction combines factual accuracy with creative storytelling.

This genre covers real events, people, and places with a twist. It uses descriptive language and narrative arcs to make true stories engaging.

Creative nonfiction includes biographies, essays, and travelogues.

Example: Echoes of Everest follows the author’s Mount Everest climb. It mixes factual details with personal reflections and the history of past climbers. The narrative captures the climb’s beauty and challenges, offering an immersive experience.

Fantasy (The World Beyond)

Fantasy transports readers to magical and mythical worlds.

It explores themes like good vs. evil and heroism in unreal settings. Fantasy requires careful world-building to create believable yet fantastic realms.

Example: The Crystal of Azmar tells of a young girl destined to save her world from darkness. She learns she’s the last sorceress in a forgotten lineage. Her journey involves mastering powers, forming alliances, and uncovering ancient kingdom myths.

Science Fiction (The Future Imagined)

Science fiction delves into futuristic and scientific themes.

It questions the impact of advancements on society and individuals.

Science fiction ranges from speculative to hard sci-fi, focusing on plausible futures.

Example: When the Stars Whisper is set in a future where humanity communicates with distant galaxies. It centers on a scientist who finds an alien message. This discovery prompts a deep look at humanity’s universe role and interstellar communication.

Watch this great video that explores the question, “What is creative writing?” and “How to get started?”:

What Are the 5 Cs of Creative Writing?

The 5 Cs of creative writing are fundamental pillars.

They guide writers to produce compelling and impactful work. These principles—Clarity, Coherence, Conciseness, Creativity, and Consistency—help craft stories that engage and entertain.

They also resonate deeply with readers. Let’s explore each of these critical components.

Clarity makes your writing understandable and accessible.

It involves choosing the right words and constructing clear sentences. Your narrative should be easy to follow.

In creative writing, clarity means conveying complex ideas in a digestible and enjoyable way.

Coherence ensures your writing flows logically.

It’s crucial for maintaining the reader’s interest. Characters should develop believably, and plots should progress logically. This makes the narrative feel cohesive.

Conciseness

Conciseness is about expressing ideas succinctly.

It’s being economical with words and avoiding redundancy. This principle helps maintain pace and tension, engaging readers throughout the story.

Creativity is the heart of creative writing.

It allows writers to invent new worlds and create memorable characters. Creativity involves originality and imagination. It’s seeing the world in unique ways and sharing that vision.

Consistency

Consistency maintains a uniform tone, style, and voice.

It means being faithful to the world you’ve created. Characters should act true to their development. This builds trust with readers, making your story immersive and believable.

Is Creative Writing Easy?

Creative writing is both rewarding and challenging.

Crafting stories from your imagination involves more than just words on a page. It requires discipline and a deep understanding of language and narrative structure.

Exploring complex characters and themes is also key.

Refining and revising your work is crucial for developing your voice.

The ease of creative writing varies. Some find the freedom of expression liberating.

Others struggle with writer’s block or plot development challenges. However, practice and feedback make creative writing more fulfilling.

What Does a Creative Writer Do?

A creative writer weaves narratives that entertain, enlighten, and inspire.

Writers explore both the world they create and the emotions they wish to evoke. Their tasks are diverse, involving more than just writing.

Creative writers develop ideas, research, and plan their stories.

They create characters and outline plots with attention to detail. Drafting and revising their work is a significant part of their process. They strive for the 5 Cs of compelling writing.

Writers engage with the literary community, seeking feedback and participating in workshops.

They may navigate the publishing world with agents and editors.

Creative writers are storytellers, craftsmen, and artists. They bring narratives to life, enriching our lives and expanding our imaginations.

How to Get Started With Creative Writing?

Embarking on a creative writing journey can feel like standing at the edge of a vast and mysterious forest.

The path is not always clear, but the adventure is calling.

Here’s how to take your first steps into the world of creative writing:

• Find a time of day when your mind is most alert and creative.
• Create a comfortable writing space free from distractions.
• Use prompts to spark your imagination. They can be as simple as a word, a phrase, or an image.
• Try writing for 15-20 minutes on a prompt without editing yourself. Let the ideas flow freely.
• Reading is fuel for your writing. Explore various genres and styles.
• Pay attention to how your favorite authors construct their sentences, develop characters, and build their worlds.
• Don’t pressure yourself to write a novel right away. Begin with short stories or poems.
• Small projects can help you hone your skills and boost your confidence.
• Look for writing groups in your area or online. These communities offer support, feedback, and motivation.
• Participating in workshops or classes can also provide valuable insights into your writing.
• Understand that your first draft is just the beginning. Revising your work is where the real magic happens.
• Be open to feedback and willing to rework your pieces.
• Carry a notebook or digital recorder to jot down ideas, observations, and snippets of conversations.
• These notes can be gold mines for future writing projects.

Final Thoughts: What Is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is an invitation to explore the unknown, to give voice to the silenced, and to celebrate the human spirit in all its forms.

Check out these creative writing tools (that I highly recommend):

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10 Creative Writing Skills and How To Improve Them

Discover 10 Creative Writing skills along with some of the best tips to help you improve these abilities.

Creative writing is a skill that can be used in many different ways. Whether you’re writing a novel, a short story, a poem or even just a grocery list, creative writing can be a helpful and rewarding skill to have. In this guide, we’ll discuss what creative writing is, how it can be used and how you can improve your own creative writing skills.

Imagination

Originality, flexibility, storytelling.

Imagination is an important creative writing skill because it allows you to create new worlds and characters. It also allows you to think outside the box and come up with original ideas. When you practice your imagination, you can improve your ability to think creatively and come up with new ideas.

To improve your imagination, try brainstorming new ideas, daydreaming, or writing short stories or poems. You can also practice visualizing a scene before you write it down. If you can see the scene in your head, it will be easier to write it down.

Creativity is an important skill for writers because it allows them to come up with new ideas and develop new stories. A creative writer can come up with unique characters, settings and plotlines that other writers might not think of. Additionally, creativity can help writers come up with different ways to say things and make their writing stand out.

To be a creative writer, you need to be able to think outside the box and come up with new ideas that haven’t been done before. You also need to be able to develop these ideas into full stories and write them in a way that is unique and interesting.

Originality is important in creative writing because it allows you to stand out from the crowd. When you’re writing a story, poem, essay or any other type of creative work, you want to make sure that it’s original so that it can be appreciated for its own merits.

To be original, you don’t have to come up with something completely new. You can take inspiration from other sources and then add your own twist to it. For example, you can take a plot from a movie you saw and then change the characters or setting. Or you can take a line of poetry and change the words or the order that they’re in.

Being original is a great way to impress your readers and win them over.

Fluency is the ability to read a text quickly, accurately and with proper expression. When we read fluently, we are able to focus on the meaning of the text rather than on decoding the words. Fluent readers are also able to understand multiple meanings of words and can use context to determine the correct meaning.

Fluency is an important skill for writers because it allows them to focus on the content of their writing rather than on the mechanics of writing. When writers are able to focus on the content, they are able to produce better writing.

Flexibility is important in creative writing because it allows you to be open to new ideas and to change your mind as you write. It also allows you to experiment with different styles and genres. When you’re flexible, you can try new things without feeling like you have to stick with one style or genre forever.

Flexibility also allows you to be open to feedback. If you’re flexible, you can listen to feedback and consider whether it would be helpful to change something about your writing. If you’re rigid, you might be less likely to take feedback seriously.

Eloquence is the ability to speak or write in a clear and effective way. It’s a skill that all writers need to have, whether they’re writing fiction or non-fiction. When you’re able to eloquently express your ideas, you’re more likely to engage your readers and keep them interested in what you have to say.

Eloquence comes from practice and experience. The more you write, the more comfortable you’ll feel with the written word. You’ll also start to develop your own style and voice. As you become more eloquent, you’ll be able to better communicate your ideas and tell your story.

Persuasion is an important skill for writers because it allows them to convince their readers to see things their way. When you’re able to persuade your readers, you’re able to influence their thinking and behavior. This is a powerful tool and should be used carefully.

To persuade your readers, you need to understand their perspective and then craft a compelling argument that will convince them to see things your way. You also need to understand the different types of persuasion, including ethical and unethical persuasion.

Storytelling is an important skill for writers because it allows them to connect with their readers and tell a compelling story. A good storyteller can capture their audience’s attention and keep them interested in the story. A writer who is skilled at storytelling can use language to create vivid images in the reader’s mind and build suspense.

Storytelling is also an important skill for public speakers. A good speaker can use storytelling to engage their audience and keep their attention. A skilled storyteller can use language to create vivid images in the mind of their audience and build suspense.

Vocabulary is an important skill for creative writers because it allows them to use language in new and interesting ways. A strong vocabulary can help writers to describe things in detail, create interesting characters and settings, and develop complex plots. Additionally, a good vocabulary can help writers to avoid using clichés and to write in a more original way.

Grammar is important in creative writing because it helps you to communicate your ideas clearly and concisely. Good grammar can also help you to build suspense and create a mood in your writing. Additionally, good grammar can help you to avoid common writing mistakes such as run-on sentences, comma splices and comma errors.

How to Improve Your Creative Writing Skills

1. Read, read, read One of the best ways to improve your writing is to read as much as you can. By reading widely, you expose yourself to different styles of writing and different ways of structuring stories and arguments. The more you read, the more you’ll develop an understanding of what makes good writing and what doesn’t.

2. Write, write, write The only way to get better at writing is to do it. The more you write, the more you’ll develop your own style and voice. It’s also important to experiment with different genres and styles of writing to find the one that suits you best.

3. Get feedback One of the best ways to improve your writing is to get feedback from others. Ask a friend or family member to read your work and give you their honest opinion. If you’re a student, ask your teacher for feedback. If you’re a professional writer, consider hiring a developmental editor.

4. Join a writers’ group Joining a writers’ group is a great way to get feedback on your work, as well as to meet other writers and learn from them. Many writers’ groups meet regularly to discuss their work and offer feedback.

5. Take a class Taking a creative writing class is a great way to improve your writing skills. You’ll get feedback from your instructor and your classmates, and you’ll be able to practice your writing in a structured setting.

6. Use prompts Writing prompts are a great way to get your creative juices flowing. By starting with a prompt, you’ll have something to focus your writing on, and you’ll be less likely to get stuck.

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What are Creative Writing Skills? Skill Up for Success 

August 7, 2023

The question regarding exactly what are creative writing skills comes up reasonably commonly for those who are only just getting into creative writing. It’s common to think that this covers only two things; being creative and having writing ability. But there is much more to it than that.

Creative writing skills cover a range of abilities that need to be developed to improve your writing. You need to practice your technical ability and writing skills, exercise using your imagination and have perseverance and patience when it gets hard with the confidence not to quit.

Let’s start by looking at the most obvious of these skills in more detail starting with creativity and imagination then writing skills, before looking at a few other essential skills to utilize.

Table of Contents

Creativity and Imagination

Let’s start by tackling creativity and imagination, which are often confused but are in fact quite different. Both are important in creative writing and are used together extensively in the writing process.

Creative writing is a rather vague term but put simply, it is any kind of writing that is not purely factual based, such as journalism or technical writing, for example. In addition to the standard fiction books, creative writing includes things such as poetry, song lyrics, television or movie scripts and even fact-based storytelling such as memoirs.

Imagination is the process of creating new things out of nothing, while creativity is taking these imagined things and combining them to produce a new creative work of some kind.

Many people think they do not have creativity or imagination, but in many cases, this is because something has happened in the past to make them believe this. For example, it could be a bad grade from a teacher for a creative class assignment or poorly in a childhood creative endeavor.

The good news is that you can improve these skills. Think of them as a muscle that you can work on and improve just as you would the gym for your body.

A great way to improve them is to go online and get some writing prompts or starting ideas and then use these to practice. You will find that you will soon be more confident in your skill to imagine new things and then create using them if you do this regularly.

Writing Skills

Running closely behind as fairly obviously an essential skill is to have writing skills. For any creative writer to be successful, they must know how to use language to create interesting, engaging writing.

Good command of the language, grammar, sentence structure and general word usage is critical to know how to write in a way that is both interesting and not repetitive. It is very easy as a beginning writer to slip into using very familiar words and phrases repeatedly throughout the book without realizing it.

These jump out a lot more obviously to readers as they are going through your writing far faster than you originally created it, and therefore, they stand out very clearly.

This is also something that can easily be improved quite dramatically with a bit of effort and determination. If you go online, there are plenty of resources that can help you improve every aspect of your writing skills, no matter what level you are at.

Find something suitable for your current level and just work at it regularly. Keep writing and practicing and you will soon find your skills increasing.

You will also quickly find that your writing is much improved and the creative process is far easier and more enjoyable.

Technical ability

Next is technical ability. We have already covered the technical aspect of language usage, but you should also have other related technical skills that can help support you.

These skills include having good knowledge about using your computer and its software effectively to help support your writing as well as good knowledge about the publishing process and web resources available to you.

These are more important than they may of first seem. For example, knowledge of the publishing process may first sound like knowing how to get a manuscript published as your first book.

But it’s important to know this also includes having information about all the different locations, web writer competitions, writers support groups and so on that can help you improve your work. This can be especially useful as you go through the learning process and look around for helpful feedback.

Under the technical section, I also generally include knowledge about the general construction and format of stories in your particular genre. This can be extremely helpful in making sure you are writing something that will appeal to a publisher and ultimately readers in your target genre.

Perseverance

As we all know, writing is difficult and turning it into a paid income and ultimately a full-time career is even harder.

Rejection is extremely common and is just something you need to expect and accept as part of becoming a writer. Obviously, this will require a lot of perseverance to push aside those negative experiences so that you can continue moving your writing skills and abilities toward success.

If you are not someone who has had much experience of something that is typically this difficult, then it is good to know this in advance to prepare yourself mentally for the required level of perseverance. It is not to be underestimated, but the good news is you don’t have to just try to handle this alone.

Ensure that you reach out to fellow writers who are generally in the same position as you and are often very understanding and supportive of each other.

Make use of this valuable resource and, of course, return the favor as you advance by helping others who are earlier in the process than you.

Closely associated with this is having plenty of patience. As we have already mentioned, if you are a reasonably new writer, you are more likely to need to spend longer practicing and improving your writing skills and technical abilities than someone with more experience.

Make sure you have the patience for your appropriate experience level to not become too frustrated with how long it is taking for you to improve and become successful.

“Patience is a virtue” is a well-known phrase that absolutely applies here, so keep it in mind.

We all handle this differently, so find your own method for addressing issues and staying patient.

Drive to Survive or Resilience

Combining all this together, we can sum it up as having the drive to survive or resilience.

We’ve already mentioned a couple of times just how long and difficult this process can be. Combining this with the intense competition of so many others who also want to be writers means you need to make sure you have a lot of resilience to get through this process.

So many people will attempt this journey and quit well before the end.

Make sure you have the drive to survive that you need to get through from beginner to successful author.

Keep constantly pushing to practice and improve yourself in all aspects of writing, all the way from essential foundational items like using language and beginning your plotting and outlining, all the way through to editing your manuscript.

Many people think creative writing skills just come down to language, grammar, spelling and similar items. Still, as you can see from this article, there are other highly critical items that we should classify under this grouping “creative writing skills.”

The good news is these are all skills that can be learned and therefore improved if you have the right mindset. So make sure you are one of those people and you can become a successful author.

What exercises do you use to improve your writing? Let us know in the comments below!

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7 Ways to Improve Your Writing Skills

Writing, like any other skill, is something you can get better at with time and practice. Learn how.

From sending emails to preparing presentations, writing is often a day-to-day task in many professions spanning diverse industries. Writing skills go beyond grammar and spelling. Accuracy, clarity, persuasiveness, and several other elements play a part in ensuring your writing is conveying the right message.

In this article, we'll explore various aspects of writing skills and offer tips for improving yours.

If you'd like to start enhancing your writing skills now, two popular options on Coursera are University of California Irvine's Academic English: Writing Specialization and University of Michigan's Good with Words: Writing and Editing Specialization .

What are writing skills?

Writing is a technical skill that you use to communicate effectively through the written word. Though these may vary depending on what you’re writing, there are several that transcend categories. Writing skills can more specifically include:

Sentence construction

Research and accuracy

Persuasiveness

Each of these components can influence the quality of writing.

Why are writing skills important?

Being able to write well is a form of effective communication , which many employers see as a crucial job skill . In fact, strong communication—spanning written, verbal, non-verbal, and visual—is among the nine common employability skills that employers seek in job candidates.

Regardless of your role, with good writing skills, you can clearly transcribe your thoughts into meaningful messages, enabling you to share your ideas, build relationships, and strengthen your professional image.

Learn more: Important Communication Skills and How to Improve Them

How to improve your writing skills

Writing, like any other skill, is something we can get better at with time and practice. Here are some strategies for developing your own written communication:

1. Review grammar and spelling basics.

Grammar and spelling form the foundation of good writing. Writing with proper grammar and spelling communicates your professionality and attention to detail to your reader. It also makes your writing easier to understand.  

Plus, knowing when and how to use less-common punctuation, like colons, semicolons, and em-dashes, can unlock new ways to structure sentences and elevate your writing. 

If you’re looking to strengthen your grammar and spelling, start by consulting a writing manual. The Elements of Style by William Stunk and E.B. White has long been considered a staple for writers. You can find similar resources at your local library, bookstore, or online.

2. Read what you want to write.

Knowing what a finished piece of writing can look like can guide your own. If you’re trying to write a humorous short story, read humorous short stories. Writing a book review? Find a few and take note of how they’re structured. Pay attention to what makes them good and what you want to emulate (without plagiarizing, of course). If you’re working on a school assignment, you can ask your instructor for examples of successful pieces from past students.

Make reading a part of your everyday life to improve your writing. Try reading the news in the morning or picking up a book before you head to bed. If you haven’t been a big reader in the past, start with topics you’re interested in, or ask friends and family for recommendations. You’ll gradually begin to understand what subjects, genres, and authors you enjoy.

3. Proofread.

While it’s tempting to submit work as soon as you’re done with it, build in some time to revisit what you’ve written to catch errors big and small. Here are a few proofreading tips to keep in mind:

Set your work aside before you edit. Try to step away from your writing for a day or more so you can come back to it with fresh, more objective eyes. Crunched for time? Even allotting 20 minutes between writing and proofreading can allow you to approach your work with renewed energy.

Start with easy fixes, then progress to bigger changes. Starting with easier changes can get you in the rhythm for proofreading, allow you to read through your work once more, and clear distractions so you can focus on bigger edits. Read through your work to catch misspellings, inconsistencies, and grammar errors. Then address the larger problems with structure or awkward transitions. 

If you could say something in fewer words, do so. Being unnecessarily wordy can cloud your message and confuse the reader. Pare down phrases that are redundant, repetitive, or obvious.

Read out loud. Reading out loud can help you find awkward phrases and areas where your writing doesn’t flow well. 

Should you use computer spelling and grammar tools?

Many computer-based tools—like spell check on your word processor, or Grammarly — can help you find and fix simple spelling and grammar errors. These tools are not perfect but can help even the most seasoned of writers avoid mistakes. Take note of any frequently highlighted words or phrases so that you can avoid the same mistakes in the future.

4. Get feedback.

Whether you’re writing emails or essays, asking for feedback is a great way to see how somebody besides yourself will interpret your text. Have an idea of what you’d like your proofreader to focus on—the structure, conclusion, the persuasiveness of an argument, or otherwise. 

Approach a trusted friend, family member, coworker, or instructor. If you’re a student, your school might also have a writing resource center you can reach out to. 

You might also consider forming a writing group or joining a writing class. Find writing courses online, at your local community college, or at independent writing workshops in your city.

5. Think about structure.

Grammar and spelling keep your writing consistent and legible, but structure ensures the big ideas get across to the reader.

In many cases, forming an outline will help solidify structure. An outline can clarify what you’re hoping to convey in each section, enable you to visualize the flow of your piece, and surface parts that require more research or thought. 

Structure might look different depending on what you’re writing. An essay typically has an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A fiction piece might follow the six-stage plot structure: exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution, and denouement. Choose what’s best for your purposes.

Like many skills, one of the best ways to improve your writing is to practice. Here are a few ways you can get started:

Start a journal or a blog.

Join a class or writing workshop.

Practice free writing.

Write letters to friends or family.

Put together an opinion piece for your local newspaper or publication you like.

7. Know some common fixes.

Even if a text is grammatically correct, you may be able to make it more dynamic and interesting with some polish. Here are some common ways you can sharpen your writing:

Choose strong verbs (for example, “sprinted,” “dashed,” or “bolted” instead of “ran”).

Avoid passive voice.

Vary sentence length.

Cut unnecessary words.

Replace cliches with original phrasing.

Showing your writing skills in a job search

Your writing skills will shine throughout the job search process , whether or not you intend to show them off. This is because job applications are largely written materials, including your cover letter , resume , and email communications . Use these opportunities to demonstrate your writing skills to prospective employers by submitting clear, accurate, and engaging materials.

Additionally, if you have specialized expertise, such as experience with legal writing, medical writing, technical writing, or scientific writing, you can note that in a resume skills section and further detail that experience within your cover letter or during your interviews .

Getting started

Whether you’re a scientist or a product manager, journalist or entrepreneur, writing effectively will enable you to communicate your ideas to the world. Through practice, exposure, and familiarizing yourself with basic rules, you’ll be able to use your writing to say exactly what you want to say.

If you’re looking for a structured way to expand your writing skillset, explore writing courses on Coursera —the first week is free.

Build job-ready skills with a Coursera Plus subscription

• Get access to 7,000+ learning programs from world-class universities and companies, including Google, Yale, Salesforce, and more
• Try different courses and find your best fit at no additional cost
• Earn certificates for learning programs you complete
• A subscription price of $59/month, cancel anytime

Give your team access to a catalog of 8,000+ engaging courses and hands-on Guided Projects to help them develop impactful skills. Learn more about Coursera for Business .

Keep reading

Coursera staff.

Editorial Team

Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

Creative Writer Skills

Learn about the skills that will be most essential for Creative Writers in 2024.

Getting Started as a Creative Writer

• What is a Creative Writer
• How To Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

What Skills Does a Creative Writer Need?

Find the important skills for any job.

Types of Skills for Creative Writers

Imagination and originality, command of language, storytelling and structure, character development and dialogue, editing and revision, adaptability and market awareness, top hard skills for creative writers.

• Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
• Adaptability and Flexibility

Storytelling and Narrative Development

• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Active Listening and Observation
• Time Management and Self-discipline
• Resilience and Perseverance
• Collaboration and Teamwork
• Creativity and Innovation
• Effective Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Top Soft Skills for Creative Writers

• Advanced Writing and Editing
• Storytelling Techniques and Narrative Development
• Research Skills for Authentic Content Creation
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for Writers
• Understanding of Publishing Tools and Digital Platforms
• Proficiency in Content Management Systems (CMS)
• Knowledge of Copyright and Intellectual Property Laws
• Scriptwriting and Screenwriting for Various Media
• Technical Writing and Documentation
• Data Storytelling and Visualization

Most Important Creative Writer Skills in 2024

Emotional intelligence and characterization, adaptability to publishing trends, strong research skills, digital literacy and online presence, editing and self-revision, mastering multiple genres and forms, collaboration and networking.

Show the Right Skills in Every Application

Creative writer skills by experience level, important skills for entry-level creative writers, important skills for mid-level creative writers, important skills for senior creative writers, most underrated skills for creative writers, 1. cultural sensitivity, 2. research proficiency, 3. active listening, how to demonstrate your skills as a creative writer in 2024, how you can upskill as a creative writer.

• Enroll in Advanced Writing Workshops: Participate in workshops led by esteemed writers to gain new perspectives and techniques in storytelling, character development, and genre-specific writing.
• Explore Diverse Reading Materials: Broaden your literary horizons by reading extensively across genres, cultures, and styles to inspire innovation in your own writing.
• Experiment with Different Writing Forms: Challenge yourself by writing in various formats such as poetry, flash fiction, or playwriting to enhance your versatility and creativity.
• Join Writing Communities: Connect with fellow writers through online forums, local writing groups, or social media networks to exchange feedback, support, and ideas.
• Attend Literary Festivals and Author Talks: Immerse yourself in the literary scene to stay abreast of industry trends and gather insights from successful authors.
• Practice Writing Regularly: Commit to a daily writing routine to sharpen your skills, build discipline, and foster a deeper understanding of your unique voice.
• Utilize Writing Software and Tools: Leverage the latest technology in writing software to aid with grammar, structure, and organization, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your work.
• Seek Constructive Criticism: Embrace feedback from editors, writing coaches, or peer review groups to identify areas for improvement and refine your writing.
• Study the Business of Writing: Understand the publishing industry, including marketing, agent representation, and self-publishing to better navigate the path to getting your work seen and sold.
• Invest in Personal Branding: Develop a strong online presence through a professional website, blog, or social media to build your audience and establish your reputation as a writer.

Skill FAQs for Creative Writers

What are the emerging skills for creative writers today, how can creative writers effectivley develop their soft skills, how important is technical expertise for creative writers.

Creative Writer Education

More Skills for Related Roles

Crafting compelling narratives, engaging audiences with powerful words and ideas

Crafting compelling narratives to drive brand engagement and consumer action

Shaping narratives, refining content to captivate audiences and uphold brand voice

Bringing sports stories to life, capturing the thrill and passion of the game

Translating complex tech jargon into clear, user-friendly content, bridging knowledge gaps

Start Your Creative Writer Career with Teal

Why learn creative writing? Truthfully, creative writing is one of the most misunderstood disciplines in the 21st century. When people think of a creative writing course, they often imagine a group of lofty, out-of-touch people who wear argyle sweater vests and have unproductive conversations about abstract concepts.

In reality, nothing could be further from the truth: the best writing classes remain engaged with the real world, and the skills gained in a creative writing course apply to nearly every facet of daily life.

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth picking up a course in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, we have five reasons to learn creative writing. But first, let’s talk about what actually happens in a creative writing course.

The Basics of a Writing Workshop

Whether you’re enrolled in a poetry, fiction, or nonfiction writing class, you can expect the following writing process – at least in a quality writing course like the ones at Writers.com.

• Weekly prompts and writing exercises to sharpen the precision and necessity of each word you use.
• Constructive critiques from a community of writers who are each growing their writing skills alongside you.
• A creative space to explore new ideas, experiment with language, and arrange words in new and exciting ways.
• Focused writing instruction from a master of the craft.

The benefits of creative writing come from engaging with the course material, the writing prompts, and the other class members. These elements help you become a better writer, both in creative realms and in everyday life. How? No matter what form of writing, a creative writing class pushes you to connect ideas and create effective narratives using the best words – and that skill translates into real world success.

Check Out Our Online Writing Courses!

The First Fifty Pages of the Novel

with Sandra Novack

May 1st, 2024

The first 50 pages sets up plot, characters, and voice, and it lays the groundwork for your book's overall structure and success. Receive critical, supportive feedback on your book's start from novelist Sandra Novack.

Poetry as Sacred Attention

with Nadia Colburn

May 7th, 2024

Poetry asks us to slow down, listen, and pay attention. In this meditative workshop, we'll open ourselves to the beauty and mystery of poetry.

Toying with The Truth: A Generative Nonfiction Workshop

with Shelby Hinte

May 8th, 2024

Experiment with creative nonfiction forms and find the best way to tell your personal stories. Write a short piece each week, and choose one draft to polish. 

Experiments in Poetry

with Elizabeth Winder

See poetry in a totally new light! Draw inspiration from the most radical, innovative, and imaginative poets in literary history, master their techniques, and write new exciting poems of your own.

Writing Circle Workshop: Moving Toward Creativity & Light

with Susan Vespoli

Connect with other writers, spark your creativity, and write light-filled poems in this writing circle workshop. 

The Benefits of Creative Writing

1. why learn creative writing: improved self-expression.

Improving your writing skills leads to stronger communication. When you practice finding the right word in a story or poem, you engage the same parts of your brain that are active in everyday writing and speaking. A creative writing course subconsciously turns you into a more effective communicator.

The importance of precise language and self-advocacy translates well into both interpersonal relationships and working environments. Take it from this expert on how writing and self-advocacy results in career and leadership success.

2. Why Learn Creative Writing: Job Success

This brings us to our next point: great writing leads to job success. Of course, your boss probably isn’t expecting you to write emails in the form of a short story or a sonnet – though if they are expecting this, you have a pretty cool boss.

In reality, almost every job requires some sort of written work, whether that’s simple written communication or something more elaborate, like publishing data or marketing materials. In a creative writing class, you practice the style and grammar rules necessary for effective writing, both within the realms of literature and in career-related writing. Sharpening your writing and creativity skills might just land you your next promotion.

3. Why Learn Creative Writing: Improved Thinking Skills

Strong writing leads to strong thinking. No matter what type of writing you pursue, learning how to write is another form of learning how to think.

That might seem like a bold claim, so think about it this way. Without language, our thoughts wouldn’t have form. We might not need language to think “I’m hungry” or “I like cats,” but when it comes to more abstract concepts, language is key. How would you think about things like justice, revenge, or equality without the words to express them?

When you hone in on your ability to find choice, specific words, and when you work on the skills of effective storytelling and rhetoric , you improve your ability to think in general. Good writing yields great thinking!

4. Why Learn Creative Writing: Empathy

Reading and writing both rely on empathy, especially when it comes to being an effective workshop participant. When we read and write stories, we situate ourselves in the shoes of other people; when we read and write poetry, we let language navigate us through emotion.

The importance of creative writing relies on empathy. We practice empathy whenever we listen to another person’s life story, when someone tells us about their day, and when we sit down with a client or work partner. When we write, we practice the ability to listen as well as to speak, making us more effective communicators and more compassionate human beings.

5. Why Learn Creative Writing: It’s Fun!

In case you’re not convinced that a writing course is right for you, let’s clarify one more fact: creative writing is fun. Whether you’re in a fiction writing course, starting a memoir, crafting a poem, or writing for the silver screen, you’re creating new worlds and characters. In the sandbox of literature, you’re in control, and when you invest yourself into the craft of writing, something beautiful emerges.

The Importance of Creative Writing

Simply put, creative writing helps us preserve our humanity. What better medium to explore the human experience?

To learn creative writing, like any art form, requires compassion, contemplation, and curiosity. Writers preserve the world as they observe it in stories and poetry, and they imagine a better world by creating it in their works.

Through the decades, literature has explored society’s profound changes. Literary eons like the Naturalist movement and the Beat poets responded to the increase in Western Industrialization. Confessional poets like Virginia Woolf helped transform poetry into a medium for emotional exploration and excavation. And, genre movements like the cyberpunk writers of science fiction helped popularize the idea of an “information economy.”

Thus, the importance of creative writing lies in its ability to describe the world through an honest and unfiltered lens. Anyone who engages in creative writing, no matter the genre or style, helps us explore the human experience, share new ideas, and advocate for a better society. Whether you write your stories for yourself or share them with a wide audience, creative writing makes the world a better place.

Jobs for Creative Writers

Because creative writing isn’t a STEM discipline, many people don’t think that learning it will help their job prospects. Why learn creative writing if it doesn’t make any money?

In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Creative writing skills are much sought after on resumes, since both creativity and the ability to write are soft skills in decline. Additionally, if you’re considering a career change—or ready to start one!—these are some popular jobs for creative writers.

• Average Starting Salary: $51,000
• Demand: High
• Skills needed: creativity, grammar, timeliness

Copywriters help companies put their branding into words. A copywriter might write emails, blogs, website content, or ad copy that encompasses the company’s voice and purpose. Copywriting requires you to write in a mix of styles and forms, flexing your writing muscles in new and exciting ways.

Grant Writer

• Average Starting Salary: $50,000
• Skills needed: storytelling, research, argumentation

Nonprofits and research facilities rely on local and national grants to fund their projects. Grant writers help secure that funding, writing engaging grants that tell the organization’s story in an engaging, tailored, and convincing way. Creative writers will enjoy the opportunity to tell a meaningful story and create positive community change through this career.

Communications/Public Relations Specialist

• Skills needed: creativity, communications, social media

A communications specialist helps drive a company’s image through various social channels. They may help create a positive narrative for their company through blogs, journalist outreach, social media, and other public-facing avenues. Much like copywriting, a PR specialist helps weave an effective story for a company.

• Average Starting Salary: $55,000
• Demand: Medium/High
• Skills needed: creativity, storytelling, organization, self-reliance

The dream job for many writers is to write and sell books. Being a novelist is an admirable career choice—and also requires the most work. Not only do you have to write your stories, but you also have to market yourself in the literary industry and maintain a social presence so that publishers and readers actually read your work. It’s a tough business, but also incredibly rewarding!

Reasons to Learn Creative Writing: Finding a Writing Community

Finally, creative writing communities make the writing struggle worth it. The relationships you foster with other creative writers can last a lifetime, as no other group of people has the same appreciation for the written word. Creative writing communities create transformative experiences and encourage growth in your writing; if there’s one reason to study creative writing craft, it’s the friendships you make in the process.

You don’t need a class to start writing, but it’s never a waste of time to learn the tools of the trade. Creative writing requires the skills that can help you in everyday life, and a creative writing course can help.

At Writers.com, we believe that creative writing can transform both individual lives and the world at large. See the importance of creative writing for yourself: check out what makes our creative writing courses different , then take a look at our upcoming course calendar today.

Sean Glatch

Would like to apply for a course to write a novel.

I’d be happy to help! Please email [email protected] with any questions, and we’ll find the right course for your writing.

[…] Sean. “Why Learn Creative Writing.” writers.com. June 7, 2020. https://writers.com/why-learn-creative-writing . Accessed November 7, […]

[…] And last of all it’s fun! I hope to live my life doing the things I love, with like-minded creative people who I love. I have many exciting things upcoming as I continue with the process of completing my first novel, Les Année Folles, such as publishing to my first magazine, journal, and working on the millions of short story ideas I have stored in my head. Stay tuned! References: Glatch, S. (2020, June 7). WHY LEARN CREATIVE WRITING? Retrieved from Writers.com: https://writers.com/why-learn-creative-writing […]

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How to Boost Creativity

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

Creativity is the ability to come up with or recognize ideas to solve problems, communicate with others, or entertain.

Creativity is all about finding new ways of solving problems and approaching situations. This isn't a skill restricted to artists, musicians, writers, or "right-brained" thinkers; it is a useful skill for people from all walks of life . If you've ever wanted to boost your creativity , these tips can help.

Commit Yourself to Creativity

The first step to increasing creativity is to devote yourself to developing your creative abilities. Do not put off your efforts. Set goals, enlist the help of others, and put aside time each day to develop your skills. For example, if you are interested in painting, schedule time regularly to learn and practice your skills.

Boost Creativity by Becoming an Expert

One of the best ways to develop creativity is to become an expert in this area. By having a rich understanding of the topic, you will be better able to think of novel or innovative solutions to problems. One way to develop expertise is by reading about creative people and listening to them speak.

Reward Your Curiosity

One common roadblock to developing creativity is the sense that curiosity is an indulgence. Rather than reprimanding yourself for following an internet rabbit hole, reward yourself when you are curious about something. Give yourself the opportunity and the time to explore new topics.

Rewarding yourself is important, but developing intrinsic motivation is also crucial. Sometimes, the true reward of creativity is the process itself, not the product.

Take Risks to Build Creativity

When it comes to building your creative skills, you must be willing to take risks to advance your abilities. Although your efforts may not lead to success every time, you will still be boosting your creative talents and building skills that will serve you well in the future.

For example, sharing your work in a creative writing course might feel intimidating. But the critique you receive from classmates and teachers can be invaluable.

Build Your Confidence

Insecurity in your abilities can suppress creativity, which is why it is important to build confidence. Note your progress, commend your efforts, and always be on the lookout for ways to reward your creativity.

Make Time for Creativity

You won't be able to develop your creative talents if you don't make time for them. Schedule some time each week to concentrate on some type of creative project.

Making time for creativity might involve saying no to some things that are draining your available time, or even choosing to let go of things in your schedule that are not bringing you joy. Sometimes, it might even involve asking others to help with tasks or take care of childcare and other household duties so you have some free time for your creative pursuits.

Overcome a Negative Attitude

Focus on eliminating negative thoughts or self-criticisms that may impair your ability to develop strong creative skills. Recognize these as roadblocks and work to overcome them.

When you find yourself dwelling on negative thinking, make an active effort to challenge those faulty ideas and replace them with more realistic or positive ones.

Fight Fear of Failure

The fear that you might make a mistake or fail in your efforts can paralyze progress. Whenever you find yourself harboring such feelings, remind yourself that mistakes are simply part of the process. While you may occasionally stumble on your path to creativity, you will eventually reach your goals.

Brainstorm New Ideas

Brainstorming is a common technique in both academic and professional settings, but it can also be a powerful tool for increasing creativity.

Start by suspending your judgment and self-criticism. Then start writing down related ideas and possible solutions. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible in a relatively short span of time. Next, focus on clarifying and refining your ideas in order to arrive at the best possible choice.

As unlikely as this may seem, recent research points to dim light as a trigger for creativity. Darkness may free you from perceived constraints and encourage you to take creative risks that may seem intimidating in bright lighting.

Explore Multiple Solutions

The next time you approach a problem , try looking for a variety of solutions. Instead of simply going with the first idea you have, take the time to think of other possible ways to approach the situation. This simple activity is a great way to build both problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

Keep a Creativity Journal

Start keeping a journal to follow your creative process and track the ideas you produce. A journal is a great way to reflect back on what you have accomplished and look for other possible solutions. This journal can be used to save ideas that can later serve as future inspiration.

Use Mind Maps and Flow Charts

A mind map is a way to connect ideas and look for innovative answers to questions. Create a mind map by writing down a central topic or word. Next, link related terms or ideas around the central word. While similar to brainstorming, this technique allows for branching ideas and offers a very visual way of seeing how ideas are linked.

As you start to develop a new project, create a flow chart to track the project from start to finish. Look for various paths or sequences of events that might occur. A flow chart can help you visualize the final product, eliminate potential problems, and create unique solutions.

Challenge Yourself and Create Opportunities

Once you have developed some basic creative skills, it is important to continually challenge yourself to further advance your abilities. Look for more difficult approaches, try out new things, and avoid always returning to the same solutions you have used in the past.

In addition to challenging yourself, you also need to create your own opportunities for creativity. This might involve tackling a new project or finding new tools to use in your current projects.

Try the Six Hats Technique

The "six hats" technique involves looking at a problem from six differing perspectives. By doing this, you can produce more ideas than you might have had you only looked at the situation from one or two points of view.

• Black hat : Use a negative perspective. Which elements of the solution won’t work?
• Blue hat : Think broadly. What is the best overall solution?
• Green hat : Think creatively. What are some alternative ideas?
• Red hat : Look at the situation emotionally. What do your feelings tell you?
• White hat : Look at the situation objectively. What are the facts?
• Yellow hat : Use a positive perspective. Which elements of the solution will work?

Find Inspiration to Boost Creativity

Never expect creativity to just happen. Look for new sources of inspiration that will give you fresh ideas and motivate you to generate unique answers to questions. Read a book, visit a museum, listen to your favorite music or engage in a lively debate with a friend.

Use whatever strategy or technique works best for you. Do you enjoy video games? Research indicates that playing video games can help increase your creativity.

Consider Alternative Scenarios

When approaching a problem, ask "what if..." questions to consider each possible scenario. If you take a specific approach, what will the outcome be?

By looking at these alternatives beforehand, you'll be better able to develop creative solutions to problems.

Try the Snowball Technique

Have you ever noticed how one great idea often leads directly to another? You can take advantage of this by using a "snowball technique" when you are generating ideas for a project. If an idea isn't appropriate for your current work, set it aside to work on later, or implement it in a future project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Strategies that can help stimulate creative thinking include challenging yourself to think about things differently, engaging in leisure activities that reduce stress, having social interactions with other people, and taking a break from a task to go for a walk.

Give yourself time to be creative. Engage in hobbies and pursue the things that spark your interests. Allow yourself to daydream or imagine different scenarios. Perhaps most important, allow yourself the freedom to pursue different ideas and take risks. Not every idea will pan out, but the process and practice will help you boost creativity and develop a stronger imagination.

Franken RE.  Human Motivation . 3rd ed. Brooks/Cole Publishing Company.

Steidle A, Werth L. Freedom from constraints: Darkness and dim illumination promote creativity .  J Environ Psychol . 2013;35:67-80. doi:10.1016/j.jenvp.2013.05.003

Tilly M. How to create a mind map (+examples) . The Institute of You.

De Bono E. Six Thinking Hats . Penguin, Limited.

Blanco-Herrera JA, Gentile DA, Rokkum JN. Video games can increase creativity, but with caveats .  Creat Res J . 2019;31(2):119-131. doi:10.1080/10400419.2019.1594524

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

• Career Blog

Top 200 Writing Skills for Professional and Creative Writing

Writing skills are the abilities and techniques used to create written content. It includes skills like grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, sentence structure, organization, and critical thinking. Good writing skills are critical for both professional and creative writing.

Writing skills can be defined as the combination of technical knowledge and creativity used to produce written content. It involves the knowledge of different writing styles, the ability to convey ideas in a clear and concise manner, and the ability to use language effectively to capture the reader’s attention. It is also about knowing when and where to use different tones and language to achieve the intended effect.

Importance of Writing Skills

Good writing skills are essential for success in both personal and professional settings. In the business world, writing is a critical communication tool. It is used to communicate with customers, colleagues, and stakeholders, including reports, emails, and proposals.

In creative writing, such as fiction or poetry, good writing skills can help in crafting an engaging story or crafting poetic verses. This makes the reader want to keep reading and ask for more.

Who Needs Writing Skills?

Everyone needs writing skills regardless of their profession. Some professions need writing skills more than others. For example, lawyers, marketers, journalists, public relations professionals, and bloggers need to communicate complex ideas and persuade their readers through writing.

At the same time, everyone needs writing skills in their personal lives. Writing is used for texting, emailing, and social media. It is important for writing good resumes or cover letters. Being able to write effectively also helps to express oneself clearly and succinctly.

Writing skills are essential for professional and personal success. Effective communication through writing is critical in virtually all fields. Regardless of one’s profession or personal pursuits, investing in good writing skills will benefit everyone in the long run.

Foundation of Writing

To become an excellent writer, it’s essential to have a strong foundation of writing skills. The foundation skills include grammar, syntax, spelling, punctuation, vocabulary, and diction. These skills are vital for both professional and creative writing.

A. Grammar and Syntax

Grammar and Syntax are the nuts and bolts of writing. Grammar refers to the rules and conventions of the language that govern how words are used to convey meaning. Syntax, on the other hand, refers to the arrangement of words in a sentence to convey meaning. A writer needs to have a good grasp of grammar and syntax to write clearly and effectively.

To improve your grammar and syntax, you need to read widely and pay attention to how sentences are constructed. You can also use online resources to study grammar rules and take quizzes to test your understanding. It’s also helpful to have a trusted friend, teacher, or colleague review your work and offer constructive feedback.

B. Spelling and Punctuation

Spelling and punctuation are essential writing skills that should not be overlooked. Misspelled words and incorrect punctuation can distract the reader and make your writing hard to understand. A good writer knows how to use punctuation correctly to clarify meaning, add emphasis, and create rhythm.

To improve your spelling, you can use spelling tools like autocorrect or install spelling apps on your phone. It’s also helpful to read widely and pay attention to spelling patterns. To improve your punctuation, you need to study the rules of punctuation and practice using them correctly. You can also use free online resources like grammarly to help you with punctuation.

C. Vocabulary and Diction

Vocabulary and diction refer to the words a writer uses to convey meaning. A good writer knows how to select the right words for the right situation. Vocabulary is the words you use, while diction is the way you use them.

To improve your vocabulary, you need to read widely and look up unfamiliar words. You can also make a conscious effort to use new words in your writing. Diction, on the other hand, is a matter of style. You need to develop your own unique writing style by experimenting with different words and sentence structures.

The foundation of writing skills is essential for both professional and creative writing. To become an excellent writer, you need to have a good grasp of grammar and syntax, improve your spelling and punctuation, and have a robust vocabulary and diction. With practice and dedication, you can develop these skills and become a better writer.

Writing for Professional Purposes

There are different types of writing skills that professionals must master in order to succeed in their chosen fields. These skills include business writing, technical writing, and academic writing. In this section, we will discuss each type in detail.

A. Business Writing

Business writing refers to any type of writing that is used in the business world. It includes emails, memos, reports, proposals, and even social media posts. Business writing is meant to be clear, concise, and informative.

When writing for business purposes, it’s important to keep in mind your audience and the purpose of your message. You should use professional language, avoid jargon and slang, and be polite and respectful.

In addition, you should organize your writing in a logical manner and use headings, lists, and tables when appropriate. You should also proofread your writing carefully before sending it out.

B. Technical Writing

Technical writing is a type of writing that is used to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences. It includes user manuals, specifications, and technical reports.

When writing for technical purposes, it’s important to use clear, simple language that is easy to understand. You should also organize your writing in a logical manner and use headings, lists, and tables when appropriate.

In addition, you should be concise and avoid unnecessary details. You should also use visuals, such as diagrams and pictures, to help explain complex concepts.

C. Academic Writing

Academic writing refers to any type of writing that is used in an academic setting. It includes essays, research papers, and dissertations. Academic writing is meant to be scholarly, objective, and informative.

When writing for academic purposes, it’s important to use formal language and follow a specific format, such as APA or MLA. You should also use credible sources to support your arguments and avoid plagiarism.

In addition, you should organize your writing in a logical manner and use headings and subheadings to guide your readers through your argument. You should also use footnotes and references to cite your sources.

Mastering these different types of writing skills is essential for success in the professional world. By understanding the purpose and audience of your writing, and by using clear, concise language and proper organization, you can effectively communicate your message to your readers.

Writing for Creative Purposes

If you’re a writer, there’s a good chance you want to write something creative. Whether you’re a novelist, a journalist, or a poet, writing for creative purposes is an opportunity to express yourself and articulate ideas that might not fit into a more formal or technical format.

A. Fiction Writing

Fiction writing is the art of telling a story. Whether you’re writing a novel, a short story, or a screenplay, you’re responsible for creating a plot, setting, and characters that will captivate readers and keep them engaged until the very end.

One of the most important skills in fiction writing is creating 3-dimensional characters that readers can relate to. These characters should be fully realized with distinct personalities, motivations, and emotions. Another key skill is plot development. You need to create a plot that builds tension and has a satisfying resolution.

B. Nonfiction Writing

Nonfiction writing covers a vast array of subjects, from history and biography to science and memoir. In nonfiction writing, the challenge is to take facts, research, and data and turn them into a compelling narrative.

Strong research skills are essential in nonfiction writing. You must know your topic inside and out in order to accurately present information to your readers. Organization is also important in this field. You’ll need to create outlines, timelines, and other organizational tools in order to keep your research and writing on track.

C. Poetry Writing

Poetry writing is all about expressing yourself in a way that others can appreciate. Poetry is often personal and reflective, utilizing language in a unique and creative way.

The most important skills in poetry writing are rhythm and meter. You’ll need to understand how the sounds and rhythms of language work in order to create poetry that flows and has a natural cadence. Another key skill is imagery. You’ll need to be able to paint pictures with words in order to create a vivid image in the reader’s mind.

Writing for creative purposes requires a different set of skills than technical or formal writing. Whether you’re writing fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, the key is to communicate your ideas in a way that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression.

Effective Communication

Effective communication is one of the most important aspects of any form of writing, whether it is professional or creative. Without effective communication, the message you are trying to convey might be distorted, misunderstood or worse, not conveyed at all. There are three important elements of effective communication: using active voice, leveraging tone and style, and ensuring cohesion and flow throughout your writing.

A. Active Voice

Using the active voice is essential for creating clear, concise and effective communication. In active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action, whereas in passive voice the subject is acted upon. Active voice is more direct, engaging and creates a sense of immediacy. For example, “The company increased sales by 50%,” is more effective and engaging than “Sales were increased by the company by 50%.” Passive voice can be ambiguous, lifeless and difficult to follow.

To identify if a sentence is written in active or passive voice try this simple trick: if the sentence easily answers the question, “who did what?”, then it’s written in active voice. On the other hand, if it’s unclear who performed the action or the actor is missing in the sentence, then it is probably written in passive voice.

B. Tone and Style

Tone and style are closely related, but have different meanings. Tone refers to the attitude or emotion that comes across in your writing, while style refers to the way you write. Having the right tone and style is crucial to creating successful communication. Your tone and style depend on your audience and the type of writing.

For example, if you are writing a business report or a cover letter, the tone should be professional, formal and knowledgeable. On the other hand, if you are writing a creative story or a social media post, the tone can be more informal, playful and relatable. A consistent tone throughout your writing can help create a personal connection with your audience and make your message more memorable.

C. Cohesion and Flow

Cohesion and flow are like glue that holds your writing together. Cohesion refers to the logical connections between sentences and paragraphs. An effective writing piece is one that doesn’t read like choppy sentences or random bullet points. Instead, it is a cohesive piece of writing that is easy to read and understand. Flow, on the other hand, refers to the way your writing progresses through each paragraph, making it a smooth and easy read.

To ensure cohesion and flow, use transitional words and phrases to create a logical connection between sentences and paragraphs. Make sure that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and follows a consistent format. Use appropriate headings and subheadings if necessary to guide the reader through the main points. Editing and proofreading can also help you spot any areas of poor cohesion or flow.

Effective communication is essential to create a clear and concise message that resonates with your readers.

Editing and Proofreading

Editing and proofreading are essential aspects of any writing process. In this section, we will discuss basic editing techniques, proofreading strategies, and common editing mistakes that writers should avoid.

A. Basic Editing Techniques

Editing involves reviewing and improving the overall quality of the written content. Here are some basic editing techniques that writers can use to polish their work:

• Read the content aloud : Reading the content aloud helps writers identify errors in sentence structure, grammar, and punctuation.
• Check for clarity : Editing involves making sure that the content is clear and easy to understand. Writers should ensure that their content delivers a clear message, has a solid structure, and presents ideas in a logical order.
• Eliminate unnecessary words : Tighter writing facilitates a clearer message. Writers should aim to eliminate any words or phrases that do not contribute to the overall quality of the text.
• Pay attention to flow and coherence : Editing also involves ensuring the content has a logical flow and coherence. Writers should check for transitional phrases, paragraph structure, and sentence structure to ensure the content flows well from beginning to end.

B. Proofreading Strategies

Proofreading involves reviewing and correcting errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Here are some proofreading strategies writers can use to improve their work:

• Take a break : It’s important to step back from writing and take a break before proofreading. This helps writers to view their content with a fresh perspective, making it easier to spot errors.
• Proofread systematically : Proofreading systematically means focusing on specific aspects of the content, rather than trying to spot everything all at once. For example, focus on spelling errors first, then move on to grammar and punctuation.
• Get a second opinion : It’s always beneficial to have another person proofread the content. Fresh eyes can bring new perspectives and help identify errors that the writer may have missed.

C. Common Editing Mistakes to Avoid

Editors make mistakes too. Here are some common editing mistakes that writers should avoid:

• Relying solely on spell-check tools : While spell-check tools are useful, they do not pick up on all errors. Writers should always proofread their work thoroughly.
• Editing too soon : It is important to give your content time to settle before editing. Taking a break from writing allows you to approach your work with fresh eyes, and you may see things that you did not notice before.
• Over-editing : Sometimes, writers can over-edit their content, which can reduce its quality. Editing is important, but it’s also important to know when to stop.
• Ignoring feedback : Receiving feedback is essential for improving your writing. Writers should be open to constructive criticism and use it to refine their content.

Editing and proofreading are crucial steps for any writing process.

Writing for Digital Media

In today’s digital age, writing for digital media has become an integral part of professional and creative writing. Whether you are a blogger, social media marketer, or content writer, it is essential to acquire the necessary writing skills to thrive in the digital space. Here are the top 200 writing skills for blog writing, social media writing, and content writing:

A. Blog Writing

• Find your niche and write your passion
• Create catchy headlines and subheadings
• Write clear and concise content
• Provide value to your readers
• Use relevant keywords and phrases for SEO
• Use subheadings and bullet points to break up content
• Use internal and external linking to strengthen your content
• Use high-quality images to enhance your blog posts
• Encourage engagement with your readers through comments and social media
• Edit and proofread thoroughly before publishing

B. Social Media Writing

• Know your audience and tailor your content to their interests
• Write attention-grabbing headlines and captions
• Use a conversational tone to connect with your audience
• Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility and engagement
• Use visuals, such as images and videos, to enhance your content
• Use storytelling to create an emotional connection with your audience
• Use social listening to engage with your audience and address their concerns
• Write in a consistent brand voice
• Test and measure your content to see what works best
• Use humor and personality to make your content stand out

C. Content Writing

• Know your target audience and their pain points
• Write attention-grabbing headlines and subheadings
• Provide valuable information to your audience
• Use formatting, such as bullet points and subheadings, to break up content

Writing for digital media requires a unique set of skills that are essential for success in today’s digital age. Whether you are writing blog posts, social media content, or other types of digital content, incorporating these top 200 writing skills can help you create engaging and effective content for your audience.

Research Skills

Research skills are crucial for professionals and creative writers alike, as research enables writers to gather the necessary information to create high-quality written material. In this section, we will discuss the three main aspects of research skills: conducting research, organizing research, and communicating research.

A. Conducting Research

The first step in conducting effective research is to identify the research question or topic. This will help guide your research and ensure that you are collecting relevant and useful information. Once you have identified your research topic, it is important to conduct a thorough search of available resources.

These resources can include books, journals, online databases, and interviews with subject matter experts. When conducting research, it is important to critically evaluate the sources you are using to ensure they are reliable and credible.

Additionally, it is important to take organized and detailed notes during the research process. This will help to ensure that you are able to accurately reference your sources and include specific details in your writing.

B. Organizing Research

Once you have conducted your research, it is important to organize the information in a way that is easily accessible and understandable. This can be done through the use of an outline or other organizational tool.

An outline can help you to identify key points and themes, and ensure that your writing flows logically and cohesively. It can also help you to identify any gaps in your research and provide a roadmap for further exploration.

C. Communicating Research

The final step in the research process is to effectively communicate your findings. This can be done through various forms of writing, including reports, articles, and presentations.

When communicating research, it is important to consider your audience and tailor your writing to their needs and interests. Additionally, it is important to clearly communicate your sources and cite them appropriately.

By conducting research, organizing information, and effectively communicating findings, writers can enhance their writing quality and credibility. Developing strong research skills is crucial for both professional and creative writers, as it enables them to write with authority and accuracy on a wide range of topics.

Time Management

Time management is a critical skill for anyone who wants to excel in professional or creative writing. When you’re working on a writing project, it’s easy to lose track of time or get bogged down in details, but effective time management can help you stay on track and meet your goals. In this section, we’ll cover three key aspects of time management for writers: working with deadlines, planning and scheduling, and staying focused and productive.

A. Working with Deadlines

Deadlines are a fact of life for most writers, whether you’re working on a blog post, a news article, or a novel. Meeting your deadlines is essential if you want to build a reputation as a reliable and professional writer. To work effectively with deadlines, there are a few key things you can do:

Set realistic goals

Before you even start writing, take some time to assess the project and set realistic goals for yourself. How much time will you need to research, write, and edit the piece? What other commitments do you have during that time? Be honest with yourself about what you can realistically accomplish in the timeframe you have.

Break the project into manageable chunks

Once you’ve set your goals, break the project down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Consider creating a timeline or a project plan, with specific deadlines for each stage of the project.

Prioritize your tasks

Not all tasks are created equal. Prioritize your most important tasks first, and tackle those when you’re feeling fresh and energized. Save less important tasks for when you’re feeling tired or have less time available.

B. Planning and Scheduling

To effectively manage your time, it’s essential to have a plan in place. Here are a few tips for planning and scheduling your writing projects:

Use a planner or calendar

Whether you prefer a paper planner or an electronic calendar, it’s essential to have a central place where you can keep track of deadlines, appointments, and other commitments. Make sure to schedule in time for writing, as well as for other important tasks like research and editing.

Create a routine

Many successful writers have a routine that they stick to every day. This can help you get into the writing mindset more quickly, and make it easier to focus. Consider setting aside a specific time each day for writing, and treat it as non-negotiable.

Take breaks

It’s important to take breaks throughout the day, especially if you’re spending a lot of time at your desk. You’ll be more productive and focused if you take short breaks every hour or so to stretch, walk around, or do something else to refresh your mind.

C. Staying Focused and Productive

Even with the best planning and scheduling, it can be easy to get distracted or lose focus when you’re writing.

Collaborative Writing

Effective writing involves a combination of individual contribution and collaboration. Collaborative writing is a process where two or more individuals work together to produce written content.

There are different forms of collaborative writing, but two common ones are team writing and peer editing.

A. Team Writing

Team writing is when a group of writers work together to create a piece of written content. This type of writing is common in the workplace or academic settings where a group project is required.

Effective team writing requires clear communication, shared vision, and mutual respect among team members. Members of the team should be aware of their specific roles and responsibilities to ensure that the overall goal is achieved. Additionally, it is important to establish a system for feedback, revision, and approval to ensure that the final product meets the desired quality.

B. Peer Editing

Peer editing is a process where a group of writers evaluate and provide feedback on each other’s writing. It is a valuable tool for improving the quality of writing, as it provides alternative perspectives, identifies gaps, and points out errors in the written content.

In order for peer editing to be effective, it is important to establish guidelines on the type of feedback that is provided. Feedback should be constructive, specific, and focused on improving the content of the writing. Additionally, it is important to create an environment where writers feel comfortable to express their opinions and receive feedback.

C. Diversity and Inclusion in Writing

Diversity and inclusion are increasingly becoming important aspects of writing. Embracing diversity means acknowledging and respecting differences in race, gender, age, religion, culture, and personal experiences.

In the context of writing, diversity and inclusion mean incorporating different perspectives and experiences in written content. Failing to include diversity can result in limiting the audience and failing to address the complexities of issues.

To embrace diversity and inclusion in writing, writers should strive to understand and appreciate different perspectives. Additionally, it is important to use inclusive language and employ techniques that appeal to diverse audiences.

Collaborative writing is an integral part of effective writing. Team writing and peer editing prove to be valuable tools for producing high-quality written content. Furthermore, embracing diversity and inclusion in writing not only adds value to the content but also promotes a more inclusive society.

Writing Samples and Examples

After learning about the top 200 writing skills for professional and creative writing, it’s important to put them into practice. One way to showcase your writing skills is through writing samples and examples. Here are three different types of writing examples you can use to demonstrate your skills:

A. Fiction Writing Examples

Fiction writing refers to any story that is made up by an author. This can include novels, short stories, and even poetry. Fiction writers use their creativity and imagination to craft compelling narratives that capture the reader’s attention.

To showcase your fiction writing skills, consider creating a sample of your work. This could be a chapter from a novel, a short story, or a poem. Be sure to highlight your writing style and voice, as well as your ability to develop characters and plot.

B. Business Writing Examples

Business writing encompasses a broad range of writing styles that are used in the workplace. This can include emails, reports, proposals, and even social media posts. Business writers need to be clear, concise, and persuasive in their writing, while still maintaining a professional tone.

To demonstrate your business writing skills, consider creating a sample of a report or proposal that you have written. Be sure to highlight your ability to communicate complex information in a clear and concise manner, as well as your attention to detail and professionalism.

C. Technical Writing Examples

Technical writing is a specialized type of writing that is used in technical fields, such as engineering, science, and medicine. Technical writers need to be able to explain complex concepts in a way that is easy for the reader to understand. This can include user manuals, instruction guides, and technical reports.

To showcase your technical writing skills, consider creating a sample of a user manual or instruction guide. Be sure to highlight your ability to distill complex information into clear and concise instructions, as well as your attention to detail and accuracy.

Writing samples and examples are a great way to showcase your writing skills to potential employers or clients. By creating samples that highlight your strengths in fiction writing, business writing, or technical writing, you can demonstrate your versatility and expertise as a writer.

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How creative writing can increase students’ resilience, students can find strength and community in sharing their stories through writing..

Many of my seventh-grade students do not arrive at school ready to learn. Their families often face financial hardship and live in cramped quarters, which makes it difficult to focus on homework. The responsibility for cooking and taking care of younger siblings while parents work often falls on these twelve year olds’ small shoulders. Domestic violence and abuse are also not uncommon.

To help traumatized students overcome their personal and academic challenges, one of our first jobs as teachers is to build a sense of community. We need to communicate that we care and that we welcome them into the classroom just as they are. One of the best ways I’ve found to connect with my students, while also nurturing their reading and writing skills, is through creative writing.

For the past three years, I’ve invited students in my English Language Development (ELD) classes to observe their thoughts, sit with their emotions, and offer themselves and each other compassion through writing and sharing about their struggles. Creating a safe, respectful environment in which students’ stories matter invites the disengaged, the hopeless, and the numb to open up. Students realize that nobody is perfect and nobody’s life is perfect. In this kind of classroom community, they can take the necessary risks in order to learn, and they become more resilient when they stumble.

Fostering a growth mindset

One of the ways students can boost their academic performance and develop resilience is by building a growth mindset. Carol Dweck, Stanford University professor of psychology and author of the book Mindset , explains that people with a growth mindset focus on learning from mistakes and welcoming challenges rather than thinking they’re doomed to be dumb or unskillful. A growth mindset goes hand in hand with self-compassion: recognizing that everyone struggles and treating ourselves with kindness when we trip up.

One exercise I find very useful is to have students write a story about a time when they persevered when faced with a challenge—in class, sports, or a relationship. Some of the themes students explore include finally solving math problems, learning how to defend themselves, or having difficult conversations with parents.

I primed the pump by telling my students about something I struggled with—feeling left behind in staff meetings as my colleagues clicked their way through various computer applications. I confided that PowerPoint and Google Slides—tools (one might assume) that any teacher worth a paperweight has mastered—still eluded me. By admitting my deficiency to my students, asking for their help, and choosing to see the opportunity to remedy it every day in the classroom, I aimed to level the playing field with them. They may have been reading three or four grade levels behind, but they could slap a PowerPoint presentation together in their sleep.

For students, sharing their own stories of bravery, resilience, and determination brings these qualities to the forefront of their minds and helps solidify the belief that underlies a growth mindset: I can improve and grow . We know from research in neuroplasticity that when students take baby steps to achieve a goal and take pride in their accomplishments, they change their brains, growing new neural networks and fortifying existing ones. Neurons in the brain release the feel-good chemical dopamine, which plays a major role in motivating behavior toward rewards.

After writing about a few different personal topics, students choose one they want to publish on the bulletin boards at the back of the classroom. They learn to include the juicy details of their stories (who, what, when, where, why, and how), and they get help from their peers, who ask follow-up questions to prompt them to include more information. This peer editing builds their resilience in more ways than one—they make connections with each other by learning about each other’s lives, and they feel empowered by lending a hand.

In my experience, students are motivated to do this assignment because it helps them feel that their personal stories and emotions truly matter, despite how their other academics are going. One student named Alejandro chose to reflect on basketball and the persistence and time it took him to learn:

Hoops By Alejandro Gonzalez Being good takes time. One time my sister took me to a park and I saw people playing basketball. I noticed how good they were and decided I wanted to be like them. Still I told my sister that basketball looked hard and that I thought I couldn’t do it. She said,“You could do it if you tried. You’ll get the hang of it.” My dad bought me a backboard and hoop to play with. I was really happy, but the ball wasn’t making it in. Every time I got home from school, I would go straight to the backyard to play. I did that almost every day until little by little I was getting the hang of it. I also played with my friends. Every day after lunch we would meet at the basketball court to have a game. … I learned that you need to be patient and to practice a lot to get the hang of things. With a little bit of practice, patience, and hard work, anything is possible.

Originally, Alejandro wasn’t sure why he was in school and often lacked the motivation to learn. But writing about something he was passionate about and recalling the steps that led to his success reminded him of the determination and perseverance he had demonstrated in the past, nurturing a positive view of himself. It gave him a renewed sense of investment in learning English and eventually helped him succeed in his ELD class, as well.

Maintaining a hopeful outlook

Another way to build resilience in the face of external challenges is to shore up our inner reserves of hope —and I’ve found that poetry can serve as inspiration for this.

For the writing portion of the lesson, I invite students to “get inside” poems by replicating the underlying structure and trying their hand at writing their own verses. I create poem templates, where students fill in relevant blanks with their own ideas. 

One poem I like to share is “So Much Happiness” by Naomi Shihab Nye. Its lines “Even the fact that you once lived in a peaceful tree house / and now live over a quarry of noise and dust / cannot make you unhappy” remind us that, despite the unpleasant events that occur in our lives, it’s our choice whether to allow them to interfere with our happiness. The speaker, who “love[s] even the floor which needs to be swept, the soiled linens, and scratched records,” has a persistently sunny outlook.

It’s unrealistic for students who hear gunshots at night to be bubbling over with happiness the next morning. Still, the routine of the school day and the sense of community—jokes with friends, a shared bag of hot chips for breakfast, and a creative outlet—do bolster these kids. They have an unmistakable drive to keep going, a life force that may even burn brighter because they take nothing for granted—not even the breath in their bodies, life itself. 

Itzayana was one of those students who, due to the adversity in her life, seemed too old for her years. She rarely smiled and started the school year with a defiant approach to me and school in general, cursing frequently in the classroom. Itzayana’s version of “So Much Happiness” hinted at some of the challenges I had suspected she had in her home life:

It is difficult to know what to do with so much happiness. Even the fact that you once heard your family laughing and now hear them yelling at each other cannot make you unhappy. Everything has a life of its own, it too could wake up filled with possibilities of tamales and horchata and love even scrubbing the floor, washing dishes, and cleaning your room. Since there is no place large enough to contain so much happiness, help people in need, help your family, and take care of yourself.   —Itzayana C.

Her ending lines, “Since there is no place large enough to contain so much happiness, / help people in need, help your family, and take care of yourself,” showed her growing awareness of the need for self-care as she continued to support her family and others around her. This is a clear sign of her developing resilience.

Poetry is packed with emotion, and writing their own poems allows students to grapple with their own often-turbulent inner lives. One student commented on the process, saying, “By writing poems, I’ve learned to be calm and patient, especially when I get mad about something dumb.” Another student showed pride in having her writing published; she reflected, “I feel good because other kids can use it for calming down when they’re angry.”

To ease students into the creative process, sometimes we also write poems together as a class. We brainstorm lines to include, inviting the silly as well as the poignant and creating something that represents our community.

Practicing kindness

Besides offering my students new ways of thinking about themselves, I also invite them to take kind actions toward themselves and others.

In the music video for “Give a Little Love” by Noah and the Whale, one young African American boy—who witnesses bullying at school and neglect in his neighborhood —decides to take positive action and whitewash a wall of graffiti. Throughout the video, people witness others’ random acts of kindness, and then go on to do their own bit.

“My love is my whole being / And I’ve shared what I could,” the lyrics say—a reminder that our actions speak louder than our words and do have an incredible impact. The final refrain in the song—“Well if you are (what you love) / And you do (what you love) /...What you share with the world is what it keeps of you”—urges the students to contribute in a positive way to the classroom, the school campus, and their larger community.

After watching the video, I ask students to reflect upon what kind of community they would like to be part of and what makes them feel safe at school. They write their answers—for example, not being laughed at by their peers and being listened to—on Post-it notes. These notes are used to create classroom rules. This activity sends a message early on that we are co-creating our communal experience together. Students also write their own versions of the lyrics, reflecting on different things you can give and receive—like kindness, peace, love, and ice cream.

Reaping the benefits

To see how creative writing impacts students, I invite them to rate their resilience through a self-compassion survey at the start of the school year and again in the spring. Last year, two-thirds of students surveyed increased in self-compassion; Alejandro grew his self-compassion by 20 percent. The program seems to work at developing their reading and writing skills, as well: At the middle of the school year, 40 percent of my students moved up to the next level of ELD, compared to 20 percent the previous year. 

As a teacher, my goal is to meet students where they’re at and learn about their whole lives. Through creative writing activities, we create a community of compassionate and expressive learners who bear witness to the impact of trauma in each others’ experiences and together build resilience.

As a symbol of community and strength, I had a poster in my classroom of a boat at sea with hundreds of refugees standing shoulder to shoulder looking skyward. It’s a hauntingly beautiful image of our ability to risk it all for a better life, as many of my ELD students do. Recognizing our common humanity and being able to share about our struggles not only leads to some beautiful writing, but also some brave hearts.

About the Author

Laura Bean, M.F.A. , executive director of Mindful Literacy, consults with school communities to implement mindfulness and creative writing programs. She has an M.F.A. in Creative Writing and presented a mindful writing workshop at Bridging the Hearts and Minds of Youth Conference in San Diego in 2016.

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Scriabin Association

Founded to celebrate scriabin, scriabinism and scriabinists…, on the tracks of scriabin as pianist.

by Simon Nicholls Revised version of an article first published in Russian translation, in Uchëniye Zapiski [Scholarly Writings] vol. 6, published by the Scriabin Memorial Museum, Moscow 2011

It pleases me as a pianist to play them…With me they sound well… Alexander Scriabin

In his memoirs of Scriabin Alexander Goldenweiser used the carefully chosen phrase: ‘Scriabin was a pianist, one may say, of genius.’ [1] And in the words ‘one may say’ is revealed the writer’s awareness of the controversy which surrounded Scriabin’s extremely individual playing during his lifetime. The first wife of the composer, Vera Ivanovna Scriabina, an excellent pianist, expressed the opinion that his playing hindered public understanding of the music: ‘Everything, though, in which people see shortcomings of the works comes from a performance which is exceedingly free and unrhythmical, which hinders understanding and assessment of the works.’ [2] On the other hand, no less a figure than A. V. Ossovsky stated in his reminiscences, writing of Scriabin’s performance at home of his own Prometheus: ‘This performance deepened my perception of this music exceedingly.’ [3] The review in The Times of the performance conducted by Henry Wood of Prometheus with Scriabin at the piano and after Wood’s discussion of the work with the composer was that Prometheus was ‘wonderfully clarified’ in comparison with a performance with the English pianist Arthur Cook the previous year. [4]

In order to make sense of these contradictory opinions it is necessary to examine the origins of Scriabin’s pianism and to compare  critical responses in the press and the  descriptions by friends and colleagues of Scriabin’s pianism and interpretative methods. Such descriptions are necessarily subjective. It is particularly important, therefore, to take into account the strictly objective evidence represented by the transcriptions into staff notation made by Pavel Lobanov from the composer’s recordings of his own works on reproducing pianos (‘player’ pianos which can play rolls which reproduce, with varying degrees of accuracy, previously recorded performances.) [5] The rolls were endorsed, with certain reservations, by  Leonid Sabaneyev, who frequently heard Scriabin perform in both domestic and public conditions, and was concerned that the tradition of his interpretation might be lost to succeeding generations:

‘There exist recordings of his playing on mechanical instruments, which, if they cannot reproduce his nervous technique, nonetheless to a high degree reproduce the play of rhythm.’ [6]

By  the phrase ‘nervous technique’ Sabaneyev intended to indicate the subtle nuances and colours, and perhaps also the refined pedalling, of Scriabin’s playing. These limitations of the recordings are acknowledged by Lobanov. [7] But what Sabaneyev does not mention in his account of the mechanical recordings is their preservation of the changes made by the composer in his own text, an aspect of the composer’s interpretation to which Sabaneyev himself attached great importance. [8] It should be remembered that Sabaneyev was writing purely from an aural impression of the recordings, and not from the study of a graphic representation. As the transcriptions into staff notation show the moment of depression and release of each key, much may be deduced from them about the composer’s instrumental technique. Thus, many aspects of the contemporary accounts may be checked against the testimony of these transcriptions, and we may come nearer to answering the question: was Scriabin’s playing some sort of wilful, nervous aberration, or did his freedoms of rhythm and modifications of his own text illuminate the meaning of his music?

Roots and early days

Scriabin’s mother, Lyubov Petrovna Scriabina, née Shchetinina (1849-1873), died only a year after his birth, but it is likely that he inherited his musical ability, both as performer and composer, from her. In a burgeoning concert career before her marriage to Nikolai Alexandrovich Scriabin in 1871 her wide repertoire included her own compositions, none of which, unfortunately, survive. Her period of study with Theodore Leschetizky in St. Petersburg overlapped by one year that of Vasily Safonov, the later teacher of Scriabin, and the director of the conservatoire at that time, Anton Rubinstein, referred to her as his ‘little daughter’. Thus, Scriabin also owed valuable connections in the musical world to his mother. [9]

In her touching and charming memoir, Lyubov’ Alexandrovna, the aunt of the composer, who took over his upbringing, recounts an informal early musical education. This was on the advice of Rubinstein. Hearing of Lyubov’ Petrovna’s death and of her gifted son, Rubinstein showed great interest in the child. Struck by the little boy’s musical talent, he recommended that Lyubov’ Alexandrovna, who was herself an amateur pianist, should not make him either play or compose unless he wished to; this was probably in Scriabin’s seventh year. [10] ‘Shurin’ka’ (the affectionate diminutive by which Scriabin was known as a little boy) played by ear at the age of five and also improvised at an early age, [11] but he was impatient with notation, which bored him, and was still playing more readily by ear and improvising than from music when he entered the cadet corps in 1882. [12]

This early preference seems to have stayed with Scriabin to some extent, leading later on to the difficulties with establishing a correct text recorded in the correspondence with Belyayev. Scriabin later became far more conscious of musical orthography, but retained the bad habit (against the advice of Taneyev) of correcting proofs at the piano. [13] As Sabaneyev remarked: ‘Every work exists fully, complete to the last detail, only in the mental image of its author.’ [14] In the case of Scriabin, he further observed, ‘His notation in relation to his conception is one of the most incomplete.’ [15] This incompleteness had its roots, Sabaneyev felt, in the capriciousness of Scriabin’s conception, but his waywardness with manuscripts and proofs is also an important factor.

In the summer of 1883 Scriabin commenced piano lessons with Georgiy Konyus, then twenty years old.  Konyus was not impressed by  their first meeting: ‘The little boy looked puny. He was pale, of small stature, looked younger than his years…he turned out not to know notation very well; he knew the scales and the tonalities, and with the weak sound of his little fingers which barely carried he played to me, what exactly, I don’t remember, but it was accurate and satisfactory… he learned pieces quickly, but his performance, it should be remembered, as a result of the shortcomings of his physique, was always ethereal and monotonous.’ [16]

The complaint of an insufficiently strong tonal quality was to haunt Scriabin in press notices of the less favourable tendency in later years:

‘The weakest point of Scriabin as a concert pianist is of course the insufficiency of strength of tone.’ [17]

In 1885 Scriabin commenced lessons with the well-known Moscow teacher Nikolai Zverev (1832-1893); this was on the advice of Sergei Taneyev, with whom Scriabin was studying musical theory. [18] There were  great advantages to studying with Zverev: he disciplined pupils in technical practice and taught them how to work seriously, [19] he taught always with regard for sound technical methods such as freedom of arms/hands and wrists and musical fundamentals such as rhythm and musical literacy . [20] During the years 1880/81- 1890/91, Zverev’s  pupils included, besides Scriabin, Alexander Siloti, Sergei Rachmaninov, Konstantin Igumnov, Yelena Bekman-Shcherbina – the last three of whom were friends and colleagues throughout Scriabin’s later life, despite fundamental disagreements between Rachmaninov and Scriabin.

During his study with Zverev, Scriabin performed Schumann’s Papillons , op. 2, in the Great Hall of the Charitable Society with evident talent despite some inaccuracy. [21] Schumann’s music was of lasting appeal to him, and he taught the Davidsbündlertänze with passion at Moscow Conservatoire. [22] A feature of the Papillons and, more strongly, of the Davidsbündlertänze is that,  although they do not tell a story, they express thoughts and states of mind [23] – something essential to the mature Scriabin’s music. For his graduation recital at Moscow Conservatoire Scriabin prepared, as one of the works to be studied without the help of a professor, the Capriccio on the departure of a beloved brother of Bach – a further example of interest in a work expressing thoughts and states of mind. [24] In order to convey the content of such works an especially ‘speaking’ quality of phrasing and agogics, a special ‘intonation’, is necessary, and this we find in the playing of  Scriabin with its manifold agogic and tonal variety, what Konstantin Igumnov described as ‘a quality of phrasing, vivid to a rare degree’. [25]

Moscow Conservatoire

Scriabin entered the Conservatoire in January 1888, joining the class of Vassily Safonov, who had selected him as a student while he was still studying with Zverev. [26] There was a musical affinity between professor and student, as Mark Meichik recounts:

‘Safonov was a student of Leschetizky, but it should be said that the ‘Chopinesque’ style, lacking depth of sound, of Brassin, appealed to him more. For Scriabin the school of Safonov was perhaps the only practicable one.’ [27]

Safonov, who often worked with his pupil at home, recalled:

‘One time I happened to drop off. I wake up to some sort of charming sound. I didn’t even want to move, so as not to destroy the magic spell. It turned out to be his D flat major prelude… Scriabin internalised to a high degree what I always impress upon my students: ‘The less the piano sounds like itself under the fingers of a performer, the better it is.’ Much in his way of playing was my own. But he had a special variety of tone colours, a special ideally subtle use of the pedal; he possessed a rare gift, exclusively his own: with him the instrument breathed.’ [28]

In considering Safonov’s high estimation of instrumental colour and its linking with a sophisticated use of pedal it should be remembered that he was an important conductor as well as teacher of piano. If there is to be colour in piano playing it must first be present in the imagination of the performer.

Critical opinions of Scriabin’s playing of other composers’ works during his time as a student were  mixed. On 26. 2.1891 the critic of the Novosti dnya (News of the Day), Kruglikov, commented on a  concert in which Scriabin performed the first movement of  Henselt’s F minor concerto:

‘Messrs Presman and Samuelson, and all the more Mr Scriabin, played with precision and accurately, but without that brilliance which distinguished [Miss] Yuon, a student of Pabst, and without the talented quality of Mr Rakhmaninov…’ [29]

However, two days later, the critic of the Moskovskie vedomosti [Moscow Gazette], reviewing the same concert, praised Scriabin’s calm and self-control, qualities not always shown in Scriabin’s  later concerts. [30] This later unreliability, and a high degree of stage fright, [31] were partly caused by his being, as he complained to a student, an intermittent pianist whose performances took place in the intervals between composing. [32] In the same paper on 21. 3. 1892 a perceptive critic observed of Scriabin’s performance of the Liszt concerto no. 1:

‘Perhaps he is fitted rather to more complex musical tasks, hardly to the task required by the concerto of Liszt which for the most part requires external brilliance.’ [33]

Critical opinion of Liszt’s work may have changed, but this impression may usefully be compared with Sabaneyev’s less sympathetic account of his first hearing of Scriabin, playing the sonata  op. 101 of Beethoven, probably in 1891:

‘I remember that neither his personality nor his playing made any special impression on me.’ [34]

In the strongest contrast is Ossovsky’s response to the young Scriabin’s playing of his own works in 1890-91:

‘Exquisite playing, captivating sound quality, a great, light technique, a refined, expressive, free and convincing performance, as befits the composer.’ [35]

Comparing these reports, it seems clear that Scriabin adopted a quite different, more personal and involved manner when playing his own music. As is well-known, he performed  no other composer’s music throughout his playing career.

Here should also be mentioned the well-known and catastrophic hand injury which befell Scriabin in the summer of 1891, led to the writing of the tragic 1st sonata and the Nocturne and prelude for left hand op. 9, and to a huge upheaval in his personal philosophy and outlook on the world. Less well-known, perhaps, is that the injury may have had more than one cause. Engel’ recounts the story of Scriabin’s study of Liszt’s Don Juan Fantasia and Balakirev’s Islamey throughout the summer in emulation of his fellow student Joseph Lhévinne, and Presman tells of his return to the Conservatoire and Safonov’s horrified reaction. [36] However, Safonov’s version of the event as reported by Engel’ attributes the cause to Safonov’s demand for a deeper touch, burying the fingers so to speak in the keys, which Scriabin carried out to an alarming and harmful degree. [37]   Through determination, Scriabin made a recovery against the prognosis of doctors, but the hand was never quite the same again. [38] To the end of his life Scriabin was unconsciously exercising the fingers of his right hand on the table or on his knee, checking their action. [39] It is possible that an accident at the age of fourteen, in which the driver of a horse-drawn vehicle, most likely a cab, collided with Scriabin, causing him to  break his right clavicle and necessitating  a prolonged period of writing and playing with the left hand, may have rendered him vulnerable to the later, playing-induced injury. [40]  

The mature performer

Amongst the many descriptions by contemporaries of Scriabin’s playing, two stand out for their vividness, both of performance in a domestic situation. Alexander Pasternak, brother of Boris, wrote as follows:

‘ [… I felt and understood that his fingers produced sound, not by falling on the keys, not striking them, […] but on the contrary by pulling away from the key and with a light movement flying above the keys…he sat leaning back and with head thrown back.’ [41]

This childhood memory of a well-informed musical amateur may be balanced by the professionally technical explanation of Mark Meichik:

‘As a pianist he was a typical product of the Safonov school, with a lifted wrist, freely positioned, only slightly curved fingers, a light but very quick and exact stroke of the lifted finger […] his use of the pedal was entirely unprecedented […] extremely precise and original, the result being a sort of special, transparent sonority of the instrument […] Scriabin actually mixed harmonies, creating by the use of the pedal unusual combinations of sounds[…]’ [42]

Ill. 1. Scriabin at the piano, by Leonid Pasternak (1909) (Scriabin Museum, Moscow)

Recordings on reproducing pianos

In 1908 and 1910 Scriabin made a number of piano roll recordings for the firms of Hupfeld and Welte. A number of the Welte recordings have been tape-recorded and transferred to LP and CD, for Melodiya, [44] and both Hupfeld and Welte recordings have been transcribed into staff and graphic notation by Pavel Lobanov. The staff notation has the double advantage of avoiding the vagaries of playback (particularly uneven speed) and enabling close examination and measurement of the performances. Though these early recordings have technical limitations in the areas of dynamic, tonal balancing and pedalling (in the sense that half-changes and other subtleties could not be shown), they are an invaluable guide to the  changes Scriabin made in his own published texts, to the rubato style of the composer and to his keyboard approach – whether notes were held by the pedal or the fingers, what articulation was employed, etc. The earlier Hupfeld rolls are cruder in their mechanism – though some accentuation was recorded, dynamics and pedalling were shown by typographical means on the roll and had to be added by the operator of the mechanism. However, they are  important in showing Scriabin dealing with larger-scale works – the sonatas nos. 2 and 3. The duplication on the two systems of certain works, in particular the Poème op. 32 no. 1, is a testimony to the correctness of the statement by Sabaneyev: ‘Scriabin plays his works not as they are written. But at the same time he plays them always in the same way, always with exactly the same deviations from his written texts.’ [45] In this work the alterations in notes are identical and the tempo changes  extremely close in the two versions.

The changes in notes made by Scriabin are mainly of two kinds: later afterthoughts and differences from the published version arising from mistakes in the original printed version or mistaken corrections in later editions. The second sonata shows alterations of both kinds. At the end of the exposition of the first movement (b. 57) Scriabin plays the right hand chord not twice as printed but once only, suggesting that ties were omitted in the manuscript and first edition  (mus. ex. 1). [46]

Mus. ex. 1. Sonata no. 2, 1 st movement, b. 57. (Graph at top shows tempo, and upper staff shows Scriabin’s performance as transcribed from the roll; lower staff shows the printed text as in the Russian complete edition of 1948)

Bars 31 to 35 of the first movement and the parallel passage  b. 107-110 show one difference in the first section and a number of differences in the second, enriching the variation between the passages and giving the effect  described by contemporaries as quasi -improvisatory [47] – though Scriabin stated that he was against actual improvisation in performance [48] (music example 2 a-b).

Mus. ex. 2a. Sonata no.2 , 1 st movement, b. 31-35 ( Articulation not shown. Variations in the transcription from the piano roll are shown  below the staff.)

Mus. ex. 2b. Sonata no. 2, 1st movement, b. 107-110 (Articulation and variations shown as in 2a)

In the performance of this movement the variation of tempo illuminates the form, tempos increasing through sections as they build in drama and dropping dramatically to show formal divisions with clarity. This is also the case in the second movement, where the sections, such as the first sixteen bars, are played at a flying speed, but a Luftpause is made between them. At bar 94 (before the final return of the second subject) the gap is so long that the transcription shows it as an extra bar. (An analogous, though shorter, caesura is introduced in  the prelude op. 11 no. 14 at the end of bar 14, just before the headlong dash to the conclusion.) All this is radically different from the perpetuum mobile  manner adopted by some players, and confirms Sabaneyev’s statement that Scriabin’s rubato was ‘profoundly natural’ . [49]

Scriabin makes textual alterations in this  movement also, including changing the upper note of the trill in the left hand, bar 69-70, from a to a sharp. This has a double effect: it softens the change from major to minor in bars 63-66 and 67-70 and the a sharp of bars 69-70 leads more naturally into the b of bar 71, making a smoother and more unified progression (see the harmonic reduction, music example 3).

Mus. ex. 3. Sonata no. 2, 2nd movement, b. 63-71 (harmonic reduction) (Variation in the transcription shown below the staves.)

In the first movement of sonata no. 3, the impetuous movement forward through the paragraphs (again with relaxations to define sections) gives the mood an expression of impulsiveness highly characteristic of Scriabin. It is remarkable that here and in a piece like the Etude op. 8 no. 12, though the tempo range is wide, the average tempo is close to the printed one (in the sonata, Scriabin relaxes in the second subject group rather than adopting the faster printed tempo.) In bar 92, Scriabin plays b on the second beat in the right hand, as was printed in the first edition, rather than  g sharp – an alteration made in later editions to bring the phrase into uniformity with its other appearances. But Scriabin’s b avoids collision with the left hand’s tenor part (music example 4).

Mus. ex. 4. Sonata no. 3, 1 st movement, b. 92 (Above: as played by Scriabin and as published in Belaieff edition. Below: text as in the Moscow edition of 1924 [see Zhilyaev’s list of corrections, p. 4 of that edition] and the complete edition of 1948.)

As P. V. Lobanov suggests, comparison of Scriabin’s interpretation of this movement with the account by E. A. Bekmann-Shcherbina of her study of the work with him shows a close resemblance in approach. [50]

The impetous character of the second movement as performed by Scriabin is a guide to the equivocal character of this movement (slower on average than the printed tempo but with a very considerable quickening in the coda sections.) As with the first movement, the contrasting second idea is played slower than the first, rather than quicker as suggested in the printed edition.

In the prelude op. 11 no. 1, at the return of the first section (bar 19) later editions print d2 at the end of the groups to achieve identity with the opening. Scriabin plays c2 as in the manuscript and first edition. The alteration d2 to c2 gives finality to this motive, and indeed Scriabin emphasises this quality with extra note attacks and dramatic pauses – Luftpausen within a constant motion, similar to those in the 2nd sonata finale.

A third type of alteration in text is rarer, and exists in pieces which were perhaps played very frequently in concert. A number of simplifications are adopted in the etude op. 8 no. 12, which certainly aid the impulsive onward movement of the performance. In contemporary concert conditions it seems impossible to adopt these. (Scriabin mentioned to Sabaneyev, possibly as late as 1913, that he was for the first time learning to play certain sections of the 4th sonata as written; he had previously sacrificed left hand details to achieve the tempo ‘on the border of the possible’ he wished for. [51] ) It is remarkable that Scriabin’s performance of the Etude coincides in some important elements with the much later ones recorded by Horowitz, most notably the non f  beginning and the headlong final accelerando. [52]

A very beautiful reversal of movement in the left hand arpeggio at bar 10 in the Poème op. 32 no.1 is a strong candidate for adoption in present day performances, leading expressively and with a sense of ‘upsurge’  into the high D sharp of the following bar. We may say that this partially confirms the statement of Y. Engel’ that Scriabin’s alterations to his text were ‘always for the better’. [53] The rubato in the middle section of this piece is most remarkable and radically different from most conventional performances: after a hesitant start with a long ‘resounding rest’ in bars 15 and 16 a sustained accelerando is made until bar 20. This confirms a pencil note in Scriabin’s hand at bar 19 in a printed copy held at the Scriabin museum: ‘ardently quickening’. [54]

These ‘resounding rests’ suggest the ‘flying’ gesture of the hand recorded in a portrait   in the Scriabin Museum attributed to Kustodiev (ill. 2). This allowed the music to ‘breathe’, defining such moments of rubato gesturally for player and audience. An example of such gesture in playing  may be deduced in the prelude op. 22 no. 1. Here the tempo and dynamic are considerably increased and the notes are ‘pulled out’ of the keyboard (compare the account by Pasternak) instead of being played legato as in the printed version. As Pavel Lobanov comments, Scriabin has moved some way from his original conception of the prelude. The tightening of the written rhythm  seems a demonstration of another ‘law’ stated by Scriabin to Sabaneyev:

‘After all, you can distort the rhythm as strongly as you like, but you must always make the listener feel that is the rhythm from which it came.’ [55]

It should be mentioned, however, that in other places (e.g. the Etude op. 8 no. 12 and the first movement of Sonata no.3) rhythms are indeed altered and broadened for emphasis.

Ill. 2. Scriabin performing on 2nd April 1915 in St. Petersburg (his last recital)  Attributed to B. Kustodiev. Scriabin Museum, Moscow

Non-synchronisation of voices is a further type of rubato governed by the need for  clarity and the law of the hierarchy of voices. The prelude op 11 no. 13 is a case particularly rich in examples: melody notes are anticipated (rarer than the habit of anticipating the left hand, and giving urgency to the expression) and where two voices sing alone together there is a gentle arpeggiation. This example also shows the free use of pedal to help with legato, freeing the hands for flexibility and colourfulness of expression, a ‘phrasing of rare vividness’.

The performance of Désir op. 57 no. 1 is also radically different from the dreamy mood evoked by many players. The impulsive rubatos and vehement manner of arpeggiation, whereby many chords are rearranged and at the climax the bass note is delayed till the end of the arpeggiation, convey a sense of urgency which is characteristically Scriabinesque.

To return to the prelude op. 11 no. 1,  a sophisticated and musically dictated technical process can be observed from the transcription. The long lines are not physically played legato, though the pedal covers gaps to some extent. Upbeat notes are emphasised by slight separation; elsewhere, overlapping of the fingers shows a desire for harmonic unity. Phrase endings are shown by a natural Luftpause.

The cumulative effect of these details of Scriabin’s performance is to show the truth of Sabaneyev’s saying: ‘Scriabin’s vision is unified and unequivocal, but his notation is incomplete.’ [56] It has only been possible to give a few examples here. The transcriptions are an inestimable resource which richly reward study. The present writer suggests that such study should be started by listening to the recordings with the transcriptions to hand. The graphics help explain what is happening in the performance,  and the experience will facilitate further reading of the transcriptions themselves. Such study brings with it a conviction that Scriabin’s performances, far from being arbitrary, were derived from and illuminate the content of his music – ‘as befits the composer’.

Acknowledgements: grateful thanks are due to the following:

Valentina Rubtsova, head of research at Scriabin Memorial Museum and editor of Uchënie Zapiski

Pavel Lobanov, senior researcher, Scriabin Memorial Museum (retired)

Andrei Golovin, composer, Moscow

Professor Vladimir Tropp, professor of piano at Moscow Conservatoire and Gnesin Academy

Evgeny Zhivtsov, chief editor, and the staff of the Taneyev research library, Moscow Conservatoire

Author’s Note: the book by Anatole Leikin, The performing style of Alexander Scriabin , Ashgate, 2011, which was in the press while the above article was written, covers the whole field very comprehensively, as well as reproducing many of Pavel Lobanov’s transcriptions – it is recommended as an invaluable resource for those who wish to study this subject thoroughly.

[1] A. B.Gol’denveizer, Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin (Iz moikh vospominanii ) [from my reminiscences], in: A. S. Scriabin, compiler, A. N. Skryabin v prostranstrakh XX veka [Scriabin in the expanses of the 20th century], Moscow 2009, p.298.

[2] Letter to  O. I. Monighetti, 7 th July, 1906. Manuscript, Scriabin Memorial Museum. Quoted from: A. Al’shvang, Zhizn ‘ i tvorchestvo  A. N. Skryabina [life and work of Scriabin], in S. Pavchinsky, compiler, A. N. Skryabin. Sbornik statei [anthology of articles], Moscow, 1973, p. 94-5. It should be remembered that in the previous year Scriabin and Vera Ivanovna had parted, and that Scriabin was himself irritated by Vera Ivanovna’s concert performances of his works under her married name (her maiden name was Isakovich). ‘He physically could could not bear the way she played them.’ Gol’denveizer, op.cit. , p. 297. Goldenweiser (1875-1961) was a prominent pianist and a long-standing professor of Moscow Conservatoire.

[3] A.V. Ossovskii, Skryabin. Kharakteristika tvorchestva i lichnye vospominaniya [characteristics of creative work and personal reminiscences], from: A. S. Scriabin, compiler, op.cit.. p. 324. The performance, in Scriabin’s flat, took place in 1911. Ossovsky (1871-1957), a pupil of Rimsky-Korsakov, was a highly regarded writer on music.

[4] The Times, March 16 th , 1914.

[5] Pavel Lobanov, A.N. Skryabin – interpretator svoikh kompozitsii  [Scriabin as interpreter of his own works] Moscow 1995. Aleksandr Skryabin: Izbrannye sochineniya v dvukh vypuskakh [selected works in two issues], Moscow 1998. Scriabin: Sonata no. 2 – Мoscow, 2007. Sonata no. 3, Moscow, Muzyka , 2010.  See also P Lobanov: Rasshifrovka zvukozapisei v analize tvorchestva pianistov. [The transcription of sound recordings in the analysys of the creative work of pianists . ] in: Uchënie zapiski vol. 4, Мoscow, 2002. A. Latanza , Avtorskie zapisi Aleksandra Skryabina na mekhanicheskikh fortepiano [The composer’s recordings of Alexander Scriabin on mechanical pianos] in Uchënie zapiski vol. 3, Moscow, 1998.

[6] L. L. Sabaneyev: Skryabin, Moscow, 1916/1923, p.143.

[7] P. V. Lobanov, A.N. Skryabin – interpretator ,  p.10 .

[8]   op. cit., p. 8. Sabaneyev, Skryabin , p.139.

[9] V. V. Rubtsova, Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin , Moscow, 1989, p. 20-21. E. Polishchuk, T. Rybakova, Rod khudozhnikov Shchetininikh [genealogy of the artist family Shchetinin] in Uchënie zapiski vol. 3, p. 100-101.

[10] L. A . Scriabina, Vospominaniya [Reminiscences], in Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin 1915-1940. Sbornik k 25-letiyu so dnya smerti [anthology for the 25th anniversary of the day of his death] Moscow/Leningrad, 1940, p.11.

[11] op. cit. p. 10, 9.

[12] Yu. Engel’, A. N. Skryabin. Biograficheskii ocherk [outline of a biography], in Muzykal’nyi sovremennik [Musical Contemporary] 1916, no. 4-5, p. 13, 17.

[13] I. Bélza, Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin , Мoscow, 1987, p. 49-51.

[14] L. L. Sabaneyev, Skryabin , p.137.

[15] op. cit. p.139.

[16] Yu. Engel’, A. N. Skryabin. Biograficheskii ocherk , p. 17.

[17] Emil Medtner , review of concert 16. 2. 1913, Muzyka 2/III 1913 No.119, p. 163.

[18] L. A . Skryabina, Vospominaniya , p.13.

[19] Yu. Engel’: A. N. Skryabin. Biograficheskii ocherk. p. 19.

[20] M. L. Presman: Ugolok muzykal’noi Moskvy vosmydesyatix godov [A corner of musical Moscow in the ‘eighties], in Z. Apetyan, compiler: Vospominaniya o Rakhmaninove [Reminiscences of Rachmaninov], Mosocow, 1961, vol. 1 p.161-162.

[21]   L. A . Skryabina, Vospominaniya ,  p. 13.

[22] M. Nemenova-Lunts: ‘A.N. Skryabin-pedagog’ [Scriabin as teacher], in Sovetskaya Muzyka 1948, vol. 5, p. 58-59.

[23] Robert Schumann, letter to his family, 17.4.1832, in Clara Schumann, ed: Jugendbriefe von Robert Schumann , Leipzig, 1886, p. 166-167. Letter to Clara Wieck, 6.2.1838, in B. Litzmann, Clara Schumann. Ein Künstlerleben, Leipzig, 1903 p. 179.

[24] M. P. Pryashnikova, O. M. Tompakova, Letopis ‘ zhizni i tvorchestva A. N. Skryabina [Chronicle of the life and work of A. N. Scriabin], Moscow, 1985, p. 37.

[25] Quoted from E. N. Rudakova, compiler, Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin , Мoscow, 1979/1980 p. 127.

[26] Yu. Engel’: A. N. Skryabin. Biograficheskii ocherk.  p. 26.

[27] Mark Meichik, Skryabin , Мoscow, 1935, p. 9. Safonov studied with Louis Brassin (1840-1884), a pupil of Moscheles, from 1879. L. L. Tumarinson, B. Rozenfeld, compilers, Letopis’ zhizni i tvorchestva V. I. Safonova [Chronicle of the life and creative work of V. I. Safonov], Moscow, 2009, p. 51.

[28] Yu. Engel’: A. N. Skryabin. Biograficheskii ocherk , p. 26-27.

[29] M. P. Pryashnikova, O. M. Tompakova, Letopis ‘ zhizni i tvorchestva A. N. Skryabina , p.  32.

[30] Loc. cit .

[31] L. L. Sabaneyev, Vospominaniya o Skryabine [Reminiscences of Scriabin], Moscow, 1925/2003, p.149.

[32] M. Nemenova-Lunts: ‘A.N. Skryabin-pedagog’, p. 60.

[33] M. P. Pryashnikova, O. M. Tompakova, Letopis ‘  zhizni i tvorchestva A. N. Skryabina , p.37.

[34] L.L. Sabaneyev, Skryabin , p.11.

[35] A.V. Ossovskii, Skryabin. Kharakteristika tvorchestva i lichnye vospominaniya , p. 318.

[36] M. Presman , Vospominaniya [Reminiscences], in Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin 1915-1940 , p. 34.

[37] Yu. Engel’: A. N. Skryabin. Biograficheskii ocherk , p. 26.

[38] Op. cit., p. 27.

[39] A.V. Ossovskii, Scriabin. Kharakteristika tvorchestva i lichnye vospominaniya , p. 326.

[40] L. A . Scriabina, Vospominaniya .  – C. 13.

[41] A. L. Pasternak, ‘Leto 1903 g . ‘ [Summer 1903], in Novyi mir vol. XLVIII No. 1,1972, p.209. [Included in English translation in  Alexander Pasternak, A Vanished Present , Oxford, 1984, p.79.]

[42] M. Meichik, Vospominaniya o Skryabine [Reminiscences of Scriabin]. Typescript, 1941, Scriabin Museum archive, p. 26-28.

[43] A. L. Pasternak, ‘Leto 1903 g . ‘ p. 210.

[44] A more recent recording, made by Ken Caswell, is available on Alexander Scriabin: The Composer as Pianist (Pierian 0018) .

[45] L. L. Sabaneyev, Scriabin , p. 139.

[46] [footnote added by V. V. Rubtsova, editor of Uchëniye zapiski :] It is possible that ties were put into the manuscript by Scriabin. We can neither refute nor affirm this, as the manuscript has not survived.

[47] Tatyana Shaborkina quotes, unfortunately without giving a source, a review stating:  ‘His playing began to resemble the most inspired improvisation’ .T. Shaborkina , Zametki o Skryabine-ispolnitele  [Remarks on Scriabin as a performer], in Aleksandr Nikolaevich Skryabin 1915-1940 , p. 220.

[48] L. L. Sabaneyev, Vospominaniya o Skryabine [Memoirs of Scriabin], Moscow 1925/2003, p. 93.

[49] L. L. Sabaneyev, Skryabin , p. 134.

[50] E. A. Bekman-Shcherbina, Moi vospominaniya [My Reminiscences], Moscow, 1982, p. 98-99.

[51] L. L. Sabaneyev, Reminiscences of Scriabin , p. 296-297.

[52] E.g. the1962 performance included in the CD Horowitz plays Scriabin, Sony 0904452001.

[53] Quoted from: A. Al’shvang, Zhizn’ i tvorchestvo A. N. Skryabina, p. 92.

[54] P. V. Lobanov, A.N. Skryabin – interpretator , p.113.

[55] L. L. Sabaneyev, Reminiscences of Scriabin , p. 298.

[56] L.L. Sabaneyev, Skryabin, p. 139.

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