10 Great Websites for New Writers
Published by MM Ryan 5/3/2023
The Internet can be a big and scary place for new writers. There’s much opportunity for advice, feedback, and helpful tips. Be wary however, there are also websites, that make unrealistic promises and claims—(Publish and sell 1 million books in 30 days??)
It doesn’t cost money to be a writer, although you may chose to pay for resources to help you in your journey. You can’t buy writing ability; you must put in the work Unless you believe the ChatGPT hype!
As a proofreader, beta- reader and writing coach, I provide resources to new writers. Listed below are some popular and reliable websites that provide value to all writers. I have and still use some of these in my writer’s journey.
1. Writer's Digest: This website offers a wealth of resources for writers of all levels, including articles, online courses, webinars, and competitions. Whether you're looking for advice on craft, publishing, or marketing your work, Writer's Digest has something for everyone.
2. Reedsy: Reedsy is a platform that connects writers with editors, designers, and other publishing professionals. The website also offers a blog with articles on writing, publishing, and marketing your book, as well as a free book formatting tool.
3. Grammarly: Writing well requires good grammar, and Grammarly is a powerful tool that can help you catch mistakes and improve your writing. The website offers a free browser extension that checks your writing for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, as well as a paid premium version with more advanced features.
4. The Write Practice: This website offers a variety of writing prompts, exercises, and challenges to help you improve your craft. The Write Practice also offers a paid membership program with additional resources and feedback on your writing.
5. Duotrope: Duotrope is a database of literary magazines and journals, with information on submission guidelines, response times, and pay rates. The website can help you find markets for your writing and track your submissions.
6. Writer's Relief: Writer's Relief is a submission service that helps writers research and submit their work to literary magazines and agents. The website also offers a blog with articles on writing and publishing, as well as a free submission tracker.
7. Scrivener: Scrivener is a powerful writing software that can help you organize your ideas and streamline your writing process. The website offers a free trial of the software, as well as tutorials and support for new users.
8. NaNoWriMo: National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is an annual challenge to write a 50,000-word novel in the month of November. The website offers resources and support for writers participating in the challenge, as well as a community of fellow writers.
9. Poets & Writers: Poets & Writers is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources for writers. The website offers articles on craft, publishing, and writing life, as well as a database of writing contests, literary agents, and grants.
10. Medium: Medium is a platform for writers to publish and share their work with a large audience. The website offers a variety of articles on writing, creativity, and self-improvement, as well as opportunities to connect with other writers and build your platform.
These are just a few of the many resources available to beginning writers. With the right tools and support, you can develop your skills, find your voice, and take your writing to the next level.
I've provided a cheat sheet with links to these resources for your use. The link is below. Happy Writing!
