How can I and what can I do to develop my creative writing spike?

Pre-College Issues High School Life
1

Hi everyone,

I am a rising 9th grader who loves creative writing. My teachers have always told me that my writing is incredible, and I honestly love to write. How can I and what can I do to enhance my creative writing spike besides entering and winning writing competitions?

2

What do you mean by “writing spike”?

If you mean increase the frequency of which you have a sudden and intense desire to write… there probably isn’t a great way to do this. In order to improve your writing, you have to block out time each day to write, even if you don’t want to or have inspiration.

3

Writing activities other than contests:

  • Start or join a writers' group/club
  • Start or join a school literary magazine
  • Hold open mic nights at a local coffee shop
  • Connect with adult authors in your community

For contests make sure to check out the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

4

Try to get your work published. Check out Teen Ink or other publications geared to teens. Also, see what kinds of programs your local library has, either for writing classes or volunteering opportunities, like working on reading programs for little kids or seniors. The public library is a great, often untapped resource.

5

Thanks for the great suggestions!

6

do you have a local public access tv station? If so check out class offerings. The local one for me has classes such as citizen journalism which I think teaches a specific writing style and perhaps combined with pictures you can write articles that are published on their website.