How would one improve their writing skills?

[ChaoZ]

I came to the fact that my English skills suck. Over the years, it hasn't improved at all or only marginally. I guess it can be attributed to the fact that I've always have had crappy English teachers that couldn't teach if their life depended on it.

I've only been reading textbooks recently, but I do read fictions sometimes. When I read, I don't really pay attention to the writing structure, grammar and such. I just read.

When I write essays, it's really bad. I have no idea how I can get better. I don't really think writing more helps. Suggestions?

 

[mfs378]

When you write an essay and come to a part that you know is bad, go over it again and again until you find a better way of phrasing things.

 

[tweakmm]

Go to school?

 

[ChaoZ]

Originally posted by: tweakmm
Go to school?

I am and it ain't helping.

 

[Juno]

Originally posted by: ChaoZ

Originally posted by: tweakmm
Go to school?

I am and it ain't helping.

take some english classes and beg teachers for their help on improving the writing skills.

 

[tweakmm]

Originally posted by: ChaoZ

Originally posted by: tweakmm
Go to school?

I am and it ain't helping.

You're doing the wrong things then. Are you in highschool or college?
If you're in highschool ask your english teacher for help.
If in college then ask your english teacher for help or I'm sure they have writting labs or something similar.

 

[DainBramaged]

Do a lot of writing. Ask trusted friends/teachers/others to critique. Don't take anything as "in stone" unless a bunch of people agree with it.

 

[George P Burdell]

Just write. Every week. Write in a private journal. Start an anonymous blog. Every month, write a review for a movie you saw, a book you read, a new CD. Just keep writing, you'll get better.

 

[Xyo II]

Originally posted by: George P Burdell
Just write. Every week. Write in a private journal. Start an anonymous blog. Every month, write a review for a movie you saw, a book you read, a new CD. Just keep writing, you'll get better.

Although I hate writing journals, take this advice. BUT start reading books. Find a genre you like and are interested in, and start reading some good books. I have hardly ever paid attention during an English class, but everything makes sense since I have read so many Goddamn books as a child. Liking the story allows you to appreciate the literature and how the writer used different phrases and wit, and gives you a good base on which to learn on.