helpful websites for writers

The 17 Best Writing Websites to Become a Better Writer

In the competitive world of writing, no one is perfect. Even the best of the best can make improvements to their craft. No matter how accurate you think you are, there are always things to learn.

This can be done in a few ways, with writing websites being one. These websites exist with the sole purpose of helping writers of all levels and types.

Writing websites can provide many things to a writer looking to improve themselves:

Tips to strengthen your stories.
Tighten up your publishing knowledge and skills.
Empower writers to work hard and do a good job.
Improve your methods of writing and storytelling.
Provide daily motivation, inspiration, and general advice.

These are resourceful places to get all the information we might need as writers. The owners of these websites are, usually, genuine people who want to help growing writers become the best they can be.

Writing websites are a comfort zone for writers. You can go to them in times of distress, writer’s block, or uncertainty around your plotting. You will be able to find resources to help you know how to write a novel or a helpful nonfiction book.

Benefits of Using Writing Websites

Writing websites give specific pieces of writing advice to all writers – established and aspiring.
Writers get the ultimate guidelines from successful authors, whether they are looking for help writing or publishing.
These sites offer literary techniques to help writers reach their full potential in their writing endeavors.
Writers will learn how to correct mistakes and create credible work.
Writing websites will provide resources, exercises, and things you can do to improve your writing skills.
They offer writers free courses on a variety of subjects, so you are sure to learn a lot.
Writing websites help writers learn how to market themselves and their work. This can help them get both published and hired.
All the learning, whether from people or courses, is (mostly) free.
Writing prompts are posted daily on some writing sites which can be useful for many writers struggling to find inspiration.
Writing sites help a writer to keep on writing; it can give writers a boost and a push when they are feeling down and unmotivated.

Classification of Writing Websites

The following are five writing website categories depending on the content:

The 17 Best Writing Websites

There are so many helpful writing websites online. They all help writers learn different things. Listed below are some of the best ones.

The guides, tools, and advice on these writing websites are fantastic when used in conjunction with quality writing software. A good example of this is Squibler.

Squibler helps a writer do the actual writing. Organization, research, development, settings – it can help you put into practice everything you learn from these resources. Its Smart Writer enables you to begin writing your stories. You can also improve your stories with the Smart Writer. In addition, Squibler has an advanced feature that allows you to generate an entire book using a title and number of pages. You can also use an existing draft for your storybook.

Daily Writing Tips

This writing website helps writers improve their grammar construction and word usage. The site gives writing tutorials and advice to writers.

The tips provided here are free, but if you want to gain some additional features, a $5 monthly price can be paid to get premium access. This includes comprehensive courses to help you improve your writing.

Janice Hardy’s Fiction University

This website will help a writer who has a rigorous weekly schedule. You will be able to develop the discipline that can help you get through the week without giving up on your writing halfway through.

This blog publishes articles about writing, with a focus on novels. There are many areas in which you can find advice:

Planning your novel
Writing your novel
Common writing problems
Editing your novel
Selling your novel
The general life of a writer

With over 2500 articles published, there is a lot of good information here. In addition to their own articles, they also offer a comprehensive list of other resources. Some of these include:

Other writing sites
Agents and querying resources
Writer’s conferences
Editing and writing services
Publishing-themed websites
Communities
Critique sites
Writing blogs
Book review blogs

The website is run by Janice Hardy, a writing teacher who is passionate about helping everyone learn to write. She offers her own expertise as well as plenty of posts and articles from guests who offer a different perspective.

Helping Writers Become Authors

This writing website is run by K.M Weiland, who has written a number of books – both fiction and nonfiction. She strives to help writers make the transition to authors.

She has many articles about the most basic elements of writing a novel. These include:

Story structure
Character arcs

She has published several books that are also written to help writers become authors. These books are an extension of the information found on the blog.

She offers a couple of freebies to start, with the rest being available for purchase on her website.

Kristen Lamb

Best-selling author Kristen Lamb runs a blog that offers tips, advice, and help for writers. She has a fun and casual demeanor that is welcoming to readers.

Her posts are relatable and easy to understand.

She also offers a number of courses where she will teach different aspects of writing. Some of these are downloadable courses while others are live classes.

At its core, Reedsy wants to create beautiful books. They do this by giving authors and publishers access to quality professionals, useful tools, and educational content.

If you are looking for a professional to help you make your book better, Reedsy offers a diverse team including:

Ghostwriters
Web designers

In addition to this, they also offer a free writing tool that helps you with the actual process of writing your book. The software provides a space to create and organize your different sections and elements – such as characters, research, etc.

You can use the software yourself, but it also has a fantastic collaboration feature. With this, you can seamlessly write with others. This is especially useful for new writers who are still learning how to write a book .

Lastly, Reedsy offers a large database of writing prompts to get you started.

You can pick from a list of different genres, and get some specific ideas to start writing about. You can use these to begin your next big novel or to do some practice.

Write to Done

Write to Done is a writing website that covers many different areas of writing. They have sections for:

Freelancing
Copywriting

They have articles from several different writers who all have different perspectives and opinions to offer.

Writers in the Storm

This is a unique writing blog that focuses on inspiration and motivation. If you are in a metaphorical writing “storm” this is a good place to go before deciding to give up.

The blog is run by a few different writers who all come from separate genres. This offers a wide range of perspectives.

They also have some articles and information on improving your writing craft.

The Book Designer

This site is one that focuses more on the physical book itself and the publishing process.

It is run by Joel Friedlander who uses his own extensive experience to create articles on design and self-publishing. His wealth of information has already helped thousands of writers.

Jerry Jenkins

Jerry Jenkins is a 21-time New York Times best-selling author who is revealing his secrets.

One thing he offers on his site is an extremely helpful free guide: How to Become an Author: Your Complete Guide.

Once you’ve downloaded this, you can join his network of thousands of other writers and sign up for his newsletter which sends writing advice right to your inbox.

He also offers a list of writing tools to help you learn how to write a book. These are tools that assist with editing, organization, and distraction. These are programs that he endorses personally, so you can be sure they offer a quality service.

Lastly, his blog covers pretty much everything you need to know to learn how to write a novel or nonfiction book . From ideas to characters, to plot, you can find advice right from the mouth of a seasoned writer.

Writers Helping Writers

This writing website does exactly what it says – it has writers helping other writings. They offer coaching services in addition to their articles on writing and publishing.

They also have a series of writing tools available for download. These are designed to help writers in a few different areas:

Character arc progression
Setting planner
Character profile questionnaire
And many more

The website is run by two women: Angela Ackerman and Becca Puglisi. n addition to running the site, they have co-authored a series of books to help writers.

The books are all part of the “Thesaurus” series. It includes titles such as The Emotion Thesaurus and the Positive Trait Thesaurus.

Language is a Virus

Here you will find some articles on the writing craft. However, this is not their focus. This website contains several tools to help you either get started or keep going in your writing.

Their home page itself has a writing prompt right on it, with the option to generate another if you don’t like it.

They have a series of writing games, exercises, and generators to help you get inspired and motivated.

This is a fantastic resource for writers who may be feeling stuck or defeated.

Story a Day

Story a Day is an initiative that hopes to inspire creativity. They run two month-long challenges each year – one in May and one in September. The challenge is to write a short story every day.

This alone can be inspiring for writers, but they offer many extras:

Accountability group. On the first of each month, you can publicly post your commitments for the coming month.
Weekly writing lessons and prompts.
A blog with regular posts on writing and creativity.
Twice-monthly podcasts with writing prompts and pep talks.

This writing website provides a community-based challenge. this not only stimulates a writer’s imagination, but it does so with the support and accountability that others can provide.

The Intern Archives

While no longer an active blog, this archive can be extremely helpful to those embarking on a publishing journey. “The intern” also known as Hillary Smith, worked as an intern for several years.

In these archives, she shares insider information about the publishing industry that she thinks will be helpful to new and aspiring authors.

Positive Writer

This site was created to help writers stay positive. The blog contains posts on many positivity-themed categories:

Writer’s doubt
Positive thinking
Goal setting

In addition to these inspiring and motivational articles, you can also find information on writing, blogging, and publishing

Writer’s Digest

This site is for writers who want to be successful. The website is vast and extensive, but a few of the key features include:

Writing Prompts
Competitions
Online writing workshops

From poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, you can find advice, tips, and resources to help you. The workshops and communities available will only serve to enhance your ability by connecting you to others.

Poets & Writers

Poets and Writers is a non-profit that looks to serve creative writers of all kinds. In addition to their helpful and informative website, they offer a number of other services:

A magazine.
Financial support for readings and other events.
sponsorship of writing prizes and awards.

The website offers articles on writing itself, as well as publishing, agents, awards, and writing news.

Writer Beware

Everyone appreciates getting help with their writing and publishing efforts. There are many people out there telling writers what they should do, or at least consider doing.

Authors everywhere choose some programs or websites to endorse, and they send their readers on their way. Writer Beware has taken it upon themselves to warn writers and authors of scams, schemes, and fraud they should be avoiding in the writing world.

Founded in 1998, they have been around long enough to see a lot of shady things go down. They know what they’re talking about.

Especially if you are close to publishing, take a look around this website. Make sure you don’t fall victim. This would make your experience learning how to write a book more negative, where you should only be doing positive things to move forward.

Improve Your Craft with These Writing Websites

This collection of writing websites should be enough to get you going. With a combination of advice, tips, insight, prompts, inspiration, and tools, you have more than enough to start learning how to write a novel or book of any kind.

Here are some frequently asked questions related to the best websites for writing stories:

Which website is best for writing?

For young writers starting their writing journey and looking for writing resources, Daily Writing Tips is a great website for improving writing skills and learning about crafting your own story.

Is 17 too old to start writing?

No, 17 is not too old to start writing. Whether you’re exploring your writing style, using a writing app, sharing your story online, or seeking a professional editor, it’s a great age to begin. Look into story starters to spark creativity and dive into your writing journey.

What is the best platform for new writers?

For new writers, platforms like Daily Writing Tips, Reedsy, and Tumblr offer great resources, community support, and opportunities to develop and share their writing.

Which site pays for writing?

Several sites that pay for writing include Medium (through its Partner Program), Copyhackers, The A.V. Club, and Bustle.

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The 28 Best Writing Websites of 2020

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Written by Scribendi

Updated in Feburary 2020 to reflect the best writing websites currently online.

Every writer needs a toolbox.

A writer's toolbox is filled with gadgets and gizmos that help a writer craft a story when he or she cannot do it alone. There are literal writers' toolboxes filled with assorted caffeinated beverages, napkins with plot outlines scribbled on them, and USB devices with novels backed up on them, and then there are metaphorical writers' toolboxes packed with character tics, favorite quotes, and—you guessed it—writing websites!

Writing websites are excellent resources to stash away in your toolbox (or browser bookmarks) to whip out in times of absolute distress (e.g., an existential crisis), piled-up excuses (i.e., writer's block), or uncertainty about the stages of writing (e.g., the publishing process ).

Scribendi's got a writer's toolbox fully stocked for you right here! Even better, these writing websites are categorized so you can find just what you're looking for at just the right moment. With everything from creative writing advice to publishing guidelines (and everything in between!), this list of the best websites for writers will be perfect for you to stow away in your bookmarks for when you need a helping hand.

Creative Writing Advice

These writing blogs give concrete advice for implementing literary techniques in your writing to help your work reach its full potential.

1. NaNoWriMo

The National Novel Writing Month blog provides inspirational posts year round for when you're stuck with writer's block, and offers guidelines on everything from the publishing process to finding feedback.

2. Write It Sideways

The articles for writers that can be found on Write It Sideways outline real-life advice (like writing grants, author branding, and gift buying) as well as writing tips and tricks, like spotting dialogue mistakes and learning how to build tension in your writing.

3. Helping Writers Become Authors

K.M. Weiland, the writer behind Helping Writers Become Authors, is an award-winning author who shares creative writing advice on story structure, character arcs, common writing mistakes, and much more!

4. Warrior Writers

Warrior Writers is run by the best-selling author Kristen Lamb, who guides writers using comprehensive and detailed posts that have a humorous and easy-to-read tone.

5. The Write Practice

Looking for articles and advice on creative writing? Consider checking out The Write Practice, which offers writing free (as well as paid) courses, and even holds writing contests for aspiring authors.

Writer's Lifestyle

The following resources are great for writers who have some extra time, or need to take a quick, productive break.

6. Write to Done

Write to Done clearly outlines useful topics for writers, like treating imposter syndrome, recovering from destructive criticism, and finding a pen name.

7. Brain Pickings

Maria Popova's writings on culture, books, and other eclectic subjects are always extremely interesting reading material for any writer with some spare time.

8. Daily Writing Tips

With a blend of fun and fun damental writing topics, this writing website provides the tips you need to succeed.

9. Well-Storied.

Run by Kristen Kieffer, this writing website offers more than just blog articles; it links authors with writing communities on social media, provides tutorials on Scrivener (a word-processing software designed for authors), and offers free courses on a variety of subjects.

10. Writers in the Storm

This blog, written by a group of authors who specialize in different genres, is meant to inspire writers and help them to hone their craft. If you are struggling with the storms that rage internally (e.g., self-doubt) and externally (e.g., the publishing industry), this site will be a haven for you.

Marketing/Blogging

These blogs help writers market their books and create blogging personas to engage an audience more effectively.

11. The Write Life

This writing website offers solid ideas for blogging, including working from home, pitching ideas, guest posting, and much more.

12. Goins, Writer

National best-selling author Jeff Goins shares real-life experiences and reflections on building an audience, shortcuts to success, and engaging a community in the age of Internet fame.

13. The Book Designer

As stated in its tagline, The Book Designer gives "practical advice to help build better books," which includes writing creative disclaimers, choosing the right platforms, and using social media efficiently.

14. Angela Booth

Angela Booth, a copywriter, ghostwriter, author, marketer, and writing coach, writes ample posts to help authors improve book sales and ensure that a book will be a financial success.

15. Create If Writing

Need marketing advice on promoting your writing without coming off as too pushy? Create If Writing "is all about authentic platform building" for writers seeking to sell their work. Kirsten Oliphant, the site creator, offers relatable advice in her blog articles and podcasts.

Find some of the best writing blogs below for help with the publishing process, from behind-the-scenes intel to publishing tips and tricks.

16. Jane Friedman

Jane Friedman has more than 20 years of experience in the book publishing industry. She provides informative articles on both the writing process and the publishing process.

17. The Creative Penn

Run by New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Joanna Penn, this site offers articles and other resources related to book writing, publishing, and marketing.

18. Writers Helping Writers ®

This one-stop shop for writing resources includes links to informative sites on publishing, marketing, and professional services for writers. You can also find information on protecting your writing from scammers and online plagiarists.

19. Publetariat

Publetariat gives practical information on networking, author websites, and the publishing process. It also shares links to big news stories in the world of publishing.

20. The Independent Publishing Magazine

The Independent Publishing Magazine hosts articles about many different parts of the publishing process, such as growing a following, avoiding authorship problems, and finding the right editor.

21. The Complete Self-Publishing Guide for Authors

Thinking about the self-publishing route? If so, this writing resource is invaluable! Kirkus's free Self-Publishing Guide for Authors, available as a PDF or in print, covers everything you need to know about a book's design, format, distribution, and more.

Writing Inspiration/Prompts

These sites are excellent for writers who are stuck in a rut and need some inspiration or concrete prompts to get them writing again.

22. Writing Prompts

Writing prompts are posted here daily, offering inspiration for writers in all genres. Some of the prompts focus on breaking through writer's block, while others focus on building characters or refining your dialogue-writing skills. If you're feeling as though you're in a writing rut, the site also posts inspirational quotes from famous authors.

23. Positive Writer

Positive Writer was created for writers with doubt—like the website's author, Bryan Hutchinson—to provide inspirational posts that help writers keep on writing.

24. Blots and Plots

The Blots and Plots blog instructs writers to stay in the habit of writing, targeting specific problems and demonstrating how it's possible to write a novel even with a full-time job.

25. Writer's Digest

This well-known and comprehensive site offers all manner of advice and resources for authors. Of particular interest are the site's many creative writing prompts. New prompts are published weekly, and writers post their results in the comments section.

26. Poets & Writers

Poets & Writers is a non-profit organization that fosters creative writers. On this site, you can learn about professional development, connect with other authors in your area, and find weekly writing prompts on poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction.

With Reedsy's list of over 250 writing prompts to get you started on your next creative project, this is one of the best websites for writers to find inspiration. It also offers a search filter to help you find prompts from your writing genre (e.g., romance, fantasy, mystery). If you'd like to contribute to the site and help other aspiring authors, there is an option to submit your own writing prompts, too.

28. Live Write Thrive

Run by C. S. Lakin, an accomplished novelist, copyeditor, and writing coach, Live Write Thrive provides a wealth of information from proficient guest bloggers with the intent to instruct, motivate, and encourage aspiring and veteran writers alike.

We hope these tools are just what you need to continue crafting masterful writing. With a list of writing websites designed to help writers with everything from brainstorming to proofreading to publishing, you'll be unstoppable!

Don't forget about Scribendi’s very own blog , which provides writers with all the guidance and tools they need to perfect their writing. Our articles cover every stage of the writing process, from planning and drafting any type of academic document to revising and finalizing it. Whether you’re looking for grammar tips, writing resources, or advice on any facet of the written word, Scribendi’s blog is the place for writers to perfect their craft.

Happy reading!

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The 25 Best Writing Websites for Authors in 2024

There are many writing websites that are useful hubs of information for aspiring authors of all types and genres.

Apart from the desire to become an author and a bit of determination, what makes a successful writer? According to veterans of the industry, it’s lots of reading, writing, and a supportive community .

The writing websites in this blog can provide you with all three. So, without further ado and in no particular order, let me introduce these top book writing websites to learn more about the craft, stay up-to-date with industry news, and find fellow writers in your network.

The blog on the best writing websites will cover:

The 25 best writing websites.

Here are our favorite writing websites that can help you perfect your craft:

1. selfpublishing.com

What kind of writing website would we be if we didn’t include ourselves in this list of writing websites?

At selfpublishing.com , we are proud of our educational blog and are always creating new content to help writers turn their dream of publishing a book into reality.

If you’re looking to improve your writing skills, learn how to self-publish a book , market a book , or even create your own author website – this is the ideal place to learn.

2. Self-Publishing School

Self-Publishing School is the leading educational self-publishing company . It’s our second choice for the best writing websites to keep on your radar.

If you’re interested in learning all about Amazon self-publishing to how to create an online course to build your author brand, Self-Publishing School produces informational articles, videos, and podcast content on a variety of topics.

In addition, there are several author education programs offered, depending on what your goals look like.

3. Self-Publishing Advice

Self-Publishing Advice is a watchdog community organized by the Alliance of Independent Authors. It aims to protect self-publishing writers from untrustworthy publishers. It also reviews other writing websites (mostly in the independent and self-publishing services spaces).

The site has a collection of reviews on various publishers, with rating scores ranging from “excellent” to “watchdog advisory”. The authors themselves report dishonest publishers and regularly update their base. However, the site’s usefulness isn’t restricted to that.

There is also a blog with loads of advice on self-publishing (obviously!), audiobook creation, inspiration, and everything of interest to an indie author.

4. The Book Designer

Joel Friedlander is a graphic designer with an extensive background in book design and advertising. He has created The Book Designer , which is a treasure trove of articles on book marketing, self-publishing, and, of course, book design (including book covers , typography basics, and text layout).

His series “eBook Cover Design Awards” is particularly instructive, since every nominated book cover is dissected with respect to genre aesthetics, intended audience, and all the minute details that can make a difference between a bestseller and an obscure title no one notices.

Even if you don’t create covers yourself, it’s always good to know what to look for when you outsource the task to a designer, which is what makes this one of the best writing websites.

Apart from valuable advice, Friedlander shares free book cover templates, a book launch toolkit, and a media kit for authors to optimize the marketing of your book.

5. Paper Help

Typos are the worst. I have yet to meet a writer who could be 100 percent sure their text was absolutely typo-free, even after rounds of editing. Because it never is.

Authors are notorious for their typo blindness because by the third draft, they know the text like the back of their hand and familiarization handicaps your ability to pick out mistakes.

That’s why we need editors – or at least editing services that will comb through the text for misspelled words and other pesky oopsies.

Paper Help is a service that specializes in writing and editing of all sorts of papers. If you need a second pair of eyes to go through your manuscript before its debut, it can be a nice low-cost compromise between a literary editor and doing it yourself, which has earned it a spot on our list of the best writing websites.

6. Grammar Girl

Of course, to make your editing less of a struggle, it’s better to make fewer mistakes in the first place. That’s why one has to have go-to writing websites for all things grammar. Mignon Fogarty’s blog is just the right sort of resource for that.

Grammar Girl is a section on the Quick and Dirty Tips portal devoted to everything that a writer needs to know about spelling and grammar.

You can read your daily dose of nicely summed-up linguistic wisdom and build your competency bit by bit – and have lots of fun in the process.

7. AutoCrit

Okay, with grammar off the table, you still need to edit your drafts with regard to consistency, adverbs, repetition, readability, useless filler words, etc. Here is where AutoCrit comes in.

This is not so much a book writing website, but a word-processing tool with editing features and guidance based on real-world publishing standards.

AutoCrit makes our list of writing websites because it analyzes your text and gives recommendations on how to improve it. For example, it can flag poor dialogue , misuse of adverbs, or relying on clichés. This tool has subscription plans with more robust professional features, but they also offer a free option with essentials that every author needs.

Plus, the site has a collection of articles with tips about the craft and the business of writing, from adding depth to your characters to DIY proofreading techniques.

8. Janice Hardy’s Fiction University

Janice Hardy, a teen fantasy novelist, is the founder of Fiction University . With the help of fellow writers and guest contributors, she has amassed more than 2,500 articles on fiction writing. They deal with every stage of penning a novel – from brainstorming ideas and developing a story to self-publishing your finished opus.

Starting soon the creators of the website plan to organize workshops where they will introduce some practice to go with the theory. Still, the scope of the material on the website is impressive as is, making it one of the best writing websites.

Fiction University is comprehensively organized by relevant topics, making it a true writing encyclopedia and a go-to place for anyone who starts their writing career or simply wishes to improve their skills.

9. 750 Words

You know what makes you a better writer? More writing. 750 Words is a simple website for writers that has just one goal – helping you to build a good habit of writing every day.

You have probably heard about the technique called “morning pages”. Morning pages are three pages of text (or 750 words) that you write, preferably in the morning to get everything distracting out of your head and shift focus on putting thoughts into words.

With gamification devices like badges and competitiveness (via anonymous statistics), 750 Words encourages you to stick to a schedule and write those pages every day. It’s minimalistic and private – no one will see your writing but you.

10. Build Book Buzz

Marketing strategy is often overlooked by self-publishing authors. Too bad, even the best books don’t sell themselves.

This website for writers has some tips on how to prepare the launch and how to promote a book when it’s already out and about. The blog section is full of detailed how-to guides on working with beta readers, coming up with promotion strategy, boosting sales via various social media channels, partnering up with influencers, and more.

Build Book Buzz is one of the best writing websites with just the right ratio of figures and statistics vs. insider tips on how to build an online presence.

11. Language is a Virus

With writing games and exercises galore, Language is a Virus makes a perfect playground for word enthusiasts. It never fails to spark imagination and get your creative juices flowing.

From the prompt of the day greeting you on the homepage, to avant-garde techniques of Jack Kerouac and Salvador Dali, this is one of those writing websites that is truly committed to getting you writing.

Poem visualization, surrealistic word definitions, generating reverse poetry from your text, or adding your line to a never-ending story by thousands of other writers – not one bizarrely mesmerizing activity here will leave you indifferent.

So next time you need a little writer’s block help , don’t waste your time and head here straight away.

12. Six-Words Memoirs

Six-Word Memoirs is a charming little project with a big goal. It aims to inspire the participants to get to the essence of who they are and what matters most. To do that, they have to answer some pretty existential questions in six words – no more, no less.

This can be quite a challenge even for experienced writers, which means it’s a great writing tool to get down to the basics. Sci-fi and fantasy stories in six words, seismic shifts in six words, your personal paradise in six words – a nice exercise in eloquence and one of the best writer’s block remedies I’ve seen.

13. The Writing Cooperative

The Writing Cooperative is a diverse resource for writers by writers. A piece of advice on any situation under the sun from writer’s block to existential crisis and burnout. Everything is specifically tailored for a fellow writer like yourself, so this is a true hub for diverse topics.

Anyone with something to say can submit a post and the community is quite diverse and supportive. There are also some secrets of the craft shared here, from where it is best to share your writing to why digression can sometimes be a boon for your story. These tips make The Writing Cooperative one of the best writing websites.

14. The Write Life

At first glance, The Write Life seems geared more towards bloggers and freelancers, yet it has much to offer to anyone whose livelihood depends on their writing talent. How to come up with great titles, how to find a critic to improve your text, how to self-publish your book, how to market it, how to hire a freelance editor , how to prevent burnout, and other secrets of the craft.

In the tools section, there are eBooks and courses for writing professionals as well as some handy tools, such as editing apps, invoicing software, marketplaces, and communities for freelance writers.

15. Helping Writers Become Authors

For those of you who have long been creating content for a living but never dipped your toes into long-form prose, Helping Writers Become Authors is a perfect boot camp.

Award-winning author K.M. Weiland tells how to create a compelling character with a story arc, what mistakes authors most often make, how to make readers love every page of your novel, and why even movies falling short of our expectations is always a bad writing problem.

If for some reason blog is not your preferred format, there are instructional eBooks, vlogs, and a podcast.

16. Association of Ghostwriters

If you want to find a ghostwriter or are just curious to know more about this particular specialization, Association of Ghostwriters has answers to your questions. Although it has paid membership plans, lots of valuable information is free for grabs, making it one of the best writing websites.

How to write a memoir , what to do when your work on a big project slows down, and why ghostwriting might be an intermediate step between freelancing and getting a good publishing deal on your own book. If you want to learn how to publish a book traditionally, Association of Ghostwriters has you covered.

17. NaNoWriMo

NaNoWriMo (National Novel-Writing Month) is an epic creative writing event where participants work towards writing a 50,000-word novel in the month of November. Although professional writers are ambiguous about this marathon, it can work for some authors who understand how speed drafts fit into the entire writing process.

The NaNoWriMo website was created especially for the event. Here you can track your progress, set milestones, and get pep talks and support from other writers in an ever-growing community. There are online and offline events that help you finish your novel.

Whether you are a seasoned writer or an enthusiastic beginner, NaNoWriMo is one of the best writing websites, with inspirational posts, a company of fellow contestants, tips, tools, resources, and encouragement. Just remember, if your word count is lower and you didn’t get that badge – you are still a writer. It’s only a game!

18. Scribophile

Every writer needs feedback to improve, and it’s always better when this feedback is detailed, informed, and comes from someone who knows what they are talking about.

Better still, if you get this feedback before you publish your work and start receiving bad reviews from underwhelmed readers. (That’s what beta-readers and writing workshops are for.)

At Scribophile , you will find a supportive community of writers like yourself. Here, they are willing to give you feedback to improve your text with their critique instead of tearing you down.

If you are still tentative, there are writing tutorials and publishing tips available without even signing in.

Do clichés and passive voice actually have a place in your prose?

How to start writing poetry if you never had done it before?

Come and have a look at one of the best writing websites.

19. Self-Publishing Formula

Mark Dawson is an author who makes a living by self-publishing . On Self-Publishing Formula , he shares his journey with other writers who want to take this path.

Blog posts with valuable tips, resources, and guides are available for everyone and there are free, paid, or limited-access courses you can subscribe to.

Mark also co-hosts weekly free podcasts with James Blatch where they interview top-selling indie authors, successful debutants from traditional publishing , and industry insiders to shed light on the process of publishing and promoting a book independently.

20. Almost An Author

Almost An Author provides a wealth of resources for writers at various stages of their careers. It has new content every day, from writing tips and craft advice to publishing insights and author interviews. You can get genre-specific advice or emotional support to get you through your publishing journey.

21. Creativity Portal

As the name suggests, Creativity Portal is a treasure trove of inspiration and resources for writers looking to tap into their creativity. It offers writing prompts, exercises, and articles on topics like mindfulness and overcoming creative blocks, making it an invaluable resource for writers and one of the best writing websites around.

22. Writer’s Digest

Writer’s Digest might just have more resources than any of the other writing websites on this list. It’s like an encyclopedia of knowledge for writers, after all, the magazine has been around for almost a century! You’ll discover a plethora of articles, events, competitions, webinars, templates, tutorials, and various other resources neatly organized by genre and vocation.

23. Insecure Writer’s Support Group

Writing can be a solitary and often daunting endeavor, and the Insecure Writer’s Support Group aims to provide a supportive community for writers grappling with self-doubt and insecurity.

Through blog posts, forums, and online events, members of the group can connect with fellow writers, share their experiences, and receive encouragement and advice, creating a nurturing environment for writers to grow and thrive.

24. LitReactor

With its focus on the craft and business of writing, LitReactor offers a range of courses, workshops, and articles designed to help writers hone their skills and navigate the publishing industry. Whether you’re looking to improve your writing craft, learn about the latest trends in publishing, or connect with other writers, LitReactor provides a valuable platform for writers at all levels.

25. Now Novel

Now Novel is a comprehensive platform that helps writers plan, outline, and write their novels. With tools like step-by-step writing courses, personalized feedback from experienced coaches, and a supportive community of fellow writers, Now Novel provides the structure and guidance that writers need to turn their ideas into finished manuscripts.

Make use of the best websites for writers

So there you have it! Those are 25 writing websites that you should absolutely be following.

Of course, in the sea of online blogs, there are plenty of other valuable writing websites to follow. We just had to choose our favorites.

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Home » Writing » 50 writing websites and online resources

Sites for notes and writing

6. evernote.

This bookmarking tool is a great way to collect moments of inspiration and ideas for your story together in one place, where they can be filed and organized, ready to be put to good use. It might be a ‘how to’ article you want to read, a quote that reminds you of one of your characters, or an image that would be the perfect setting for your next scene. Inspiration strikes in the most unexpected places, but as Evernote is available on almost every platform, you can collect notes wherever you are. You can choose to have one notebook that you throw everything into, or you can set up separate notebooks to help you organize your thoughts and ideas as you go. If you’re working on a novel, why not set up separate notebooks for each character or each chapter?

7. Scrivener

While some writers prefer to stick with the traditional pen and paper or word processor, for others, technology can be a game-changer. Scrivener is a powerful writing tool that allows you to organize your notes, research, and writing all in one place. You can create separate documents for each chapter, scene, or character and easily move them around as needed. You can also set word count goals and track your progress, making it an empowering tool for both planning and writing your work.

8. Storyist

Another popular writing app is Storyist , which offers a wide range of features for novelists, screenwriters, and playwrights. From corkboard view to character and plot development tools, Storyist helps you bring your stories to life in an organized way. It also has a distraction-free writing mode, making it easier to focus on your writing without any distractions. Plus, with its built-in formatting tools, you can easily export your work into a professional-looking manuscript when it’s time to self-publish.

9. Calmly Writer

For those who prefer a clean and minimalist interface, Calmly Writer is a great option. This writing app allows you to focus on your writing without any clutter or interruptions. You can also save your work as you go, making it easy to come back to where you left off. And with its auto-save feature, you don’t have to worry about losing your work in case of any technical issues. It’s available on both desktop and mobile devices.

10. Ommwriter

For writers who need a tranquil and calming environment to get their creative juices flowing, Ommwriter is the perfect writing app. With soothing background music, minimalistic design, and customizable backgrounds, this app offers a meditative experience for writers. It also has a “focus mode” that allows you to hide everything on your screen except for your writing, helping you stay in the flow and avoid distractions. Ommwriter also has a mindfulness timer that reminds you to take breaks and practice self-care while writing.

Writing community resources

In the realm of writing, the adage “It takes a village” is extremely true. Having a community as a writer isn’t just important—it’s essential. While writing is often seen as a solitary endeavor, there’s nothing like the support, inspiration, and feedback from fellow wordsmiths. It’s about belonging to a group that gets the highs and lows of the creative process and turns struggles into shared successes.

Here are a few of our favorite sites to find your village.

11. Catapult’s Don’t Write Alone

The blog Don’t Write Alone was created by the team at Catapult, a publisher and magazine dedicated to nurturing and enhancing writers’ talents. Founded in 2005, Catapult showcases a diverse range of literary works and is now sharing its vast knowledge. The platform offers a huge collection of content, including insightful interviews, detailed essays on the craft of writing, and explorations of the writer’s life. Its mission is to offer comprehensive support and inspiration to writers at any stage of their journey.

12. Gutsy Great Novelists

Are you a novelist seeking motivation, accountability, and encouragement? Look no further than Gutsy Great Novelists , a free online community just for you. With the tagline “where serious creative writers gather to finish their novels,” you can’t really go wrong. Award-winning novelist Joan Dempsey founded this platform to help writers feel less isolated. Members get access to critique groups, lots of online resources, and events and classes that will keep you on track until your novel is complete.

13. Lambda Literary

For writers and readers alike, Lambda Literary is a community-driven organization that champions LGBTQ+ literature. With a mission to elevate voices and stories that have been historically marginalized, this platform offers various resources for writers, including workshops, literary events, and publishing opportunities. It also hosts an annual writing retreat for emerging queer writers, providing a safe and supportive space for creative expression. Sign us up!

15. Writing.com

Writing.com is one of the largest online writing communities out there. It’s a super supportive environment for writers of all levels—and you have a portfolio to store and share your writing. You can also join various groups based on your interests or genres, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration with other writers. Plus, Writing.com regularly hosts contests and challenges to help improve your writing skills and gain recognition for your work. Whether you’re seeking support or looking to expand your audience, this community has something for everyone.

16. Reddit’s r/WritersGroup

If you’re a Reddit fan, you probably already know about r/WritersGroup . This subreddit serves as a testament to the strength of community in the writing process, offering a space where writers from all walks of life can share their drafts, seek advice, and provide constructive criticism. Whether you’re battling writer’s block, seeking feedback on a new chapter, or just in need of inspiration, this is your go-to sanctuary.

17. She Writes

Created by women, for women, She Writes is a supportive community that celebrates their diverse voices and experiences. With more than 32,000 members and 350 groups, it’s the largest online community of women writers in the world! With forums and tons of articles, this platform provides a safe space for women to share their work and receive feedback from other writers.

18. SFF Chronicles

For science fiction and fantasy writers, SFF Chronicles is a valuable resource for learning, connecting, and honing your craft. With forums dedicated to discussing the latest trends and tropes in the genre, as well as sections for feedback and critique, this is your virtual writing workshop. It also hosts contests and interviews with established authors, if you’re seeking insight and inspiration.

19. The Insecure Writer’s Support Group

Imposter syndrome is hard to battle alone. Step into the Insecure Writer’s Support Group , where those whispers are drowned out by the resounding voices of support, encouragement, and understanding. This haven is dedicated to writers at any stage of their journey, providing you with resources, advice, and, most importantly, a community that gets it. Conquer your insecurities by reading their blogs and monthly newsletters, joining their social media groups, and joining their pitch event to find an agent or publisher (every January).

20. Underlined

Formerly known as Figment , Underlined is a website that provides story starters, writing inspiration, and advice from published authors . You can also join a community of aspiring writers, share excerpts of your work, and provide feedback to each other—all valuable parts of the creative life.

Writer using 750 Words to practice writing.

Sites for improving your writing

Now that you’re equipped with a plethora of platforms to connect and expand your creative horizons, it’s time to take your writing to the next level. Improving your craft is a continuous, evolving process—whether you’ve just penned your first poem or are on your tenth novel.

Here are the resources you need to refine your skills, find your unique voice, and perfect the art of storytelling. From grammar guides to story structure tips, these sites offer the tools you need to elevate your writing.

21. 750 Words

As with any skill, the best way to improve your writing is to practice, practice, practice. The website 750 Words provides a daily nudge to get your creative juices flowing. Based on The Artist Way ‘s morning pages , the goal is to write 750 words (roughly three pages) every day, without any distractions. By just writing without an agenda and without judgment, you’ll make writing every day a regular productive habit and steadily build your confidence.

22. Helping Writers Become Authors

The Helping Writers Become Authors site, created by award-winning author K.M. Weiland, offers practical tips and advice on story writing, from structure and plot to character identity and dialogue. It’s a great, regularly updated resource to take you from writer to professional.

23. Grammar Girl

Get a grip on the quirks of language and the rules of good grammar with this entertaining and useful podcast based on the hugely popular blog by the same name. Top listened-to Grammar Girl episodes include “Affect Versus Effect” and “Active Voice & Passive Voice.”

24. Coursera

Looking for a more structured approach to learning? Coursera offers online courses on writing, from writing your first novel to academic writing . With options from top universities such as Stanford and Wesleyan, you’ll have access to expert instruction and peer feedback to hone your skills.

25. Masterclass

Masterclass brings together some of the biggest names in writing, like David Sedaris , Margaret Atwood and Neil Gaiman , for online video courses on pretty much any aspect of writing you’re looking to learn. With a subscription, you’ll have access to their wisdom and techniques for crafting powerful stories that captivate your readers.

26. Critique Circle

Join a community of writers, both published and aspiring, on Critique Circle to get feedback on your writing and provide critiques for others. With tools for tracking your progress, finding beta readers, and connecting with fellow writers, this platform offers valuable resources for improving your craft. Plus, the supportive atmosphere encourages growth and development as a writer.

27. Now Novel

For those looking for a more structured approach to writing, Now Novel offers personalized coaching and guidance throughout the writing process. From outlining and character development to editing and publishing, their team of experts will provide valuable feedback and support to help you bring your story to life. Whether you’re just starting or need help revising, Now Novel offers a community and resources tailored to your specific needs as a writer.

Resources for characters and plot

We’re betting you have more than one favorite character from more than one book. Characters like Elizabeth Bennett, Albus Dumbledore, and Bilbo Baggins live on in our minds long after we’ve turned the final page. Your characters should become like old friends that you know inside and out to add depth and humanity to your story. These are the resources you need to make it happen.

28. Writer’s Digest’s Character Development Sheets

Subscribing to the Writer’s Digest mailing list gets you access to this free worksheet designed to flesh out each of your characters. Working through a series of questions, you’ll develop their key hopes, fears, and skills, their personality quirks, how they might act in different situations, and how all of this will be revealed to the reader throughout your story.

29. The Write Practice’s Characterization 101

This free course from The Write Practice guides you through seven key steps to creating memorable characters, covering important character archetypes, character motivations, how not to introduce a character to your story, and much more.

30. The Novel Factory’s 150+ Character Questions

Building on the idea of character development sheets, The Novel Factory offers a comprehensive list of over 150 questions to help you fully flesh out each character in your story. From physical appearance and background to their biggest secrets and flaws, this resource will help you create well-rounded and dynamic characters that readers will connect with.

31. TV Tropes

Ever come across a character or plot twist that seems oddly familiar? That’s because many writers use common tropes and archetypes in their stories. TV Tropes is a user-edited wiki page that outlines these common patterns and themes found in media, providing examples and analysis for each one. It’s a helpful resource for understanding how to effectively use, subvert, or avoid these tropes in your writing.

32 Fantasy Worldbuilding Questions

Need some guidance in creating a fictional world for your story? This list of 123 questions from Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America can help you think through all aspects of your world, from its physical laws to its social structure and cultural customs. By taking the time to fully develop your world, you’ll make it feel more immersive and believable for readers.

33 Reedsy’s Plot Generator

When you’re stuck on where to take your story next, Reedsy’s plot generator can help spark new ideas. Simply select a genre and hit “generate” to receive a random plot outline that you can use as a starting point for your own story. It’s a fun tool for getting unstuck and exploring new directions for your plot.

Writer editing a script on paper after using online writing resources.

Resources for editing and reviewing

In addition to proofreading for spelling, language, and grammar errors, two other forms of editing should form part of your review process. Developmental editing, which is editing for the structure, flow, and consistency of your story, and substantive editing, which is concerned with clarity, accuracy, and reader comprehension.

When your manuscript or first draft is complete, let it sit a while before reviewing. It also helps to have a second and third set of eyes on your work. Even better, if your budget allows, hiring a professional editor can give your story the polished finish it deserves.

34. Grammarly

Available as a Google Chrome extension or device app, Grammarly works across your web pages and documents as you write to help you catch common writing errors. It highlights and fixes grammar, punctuation, and contextual spelling mistakes. The premium version can also suggest alternative vocabulary choices.

Remember not to rely on online spell checks alone to proofread your work. Always give your text a thorough check yourself, too.

35. ProWriting Aid

ProWriting Aid takes your writing beyond mere spell checks, offering a holistic approach to improve your writing style, tone, and clarity. What sets it apart from Grammarly is its in-depth focus on your writing’s overall readability and engagement level. It provides detailed reports on style, overused words, sentence length variation, and even readability scores, making it invaluable for writers looking to polish their manuscripts to perfection. While Grammarly excels at real-time grammar and spelling corrections, ProWriting Aid is the go-to tool if you’re looking for comprehensive feedback on your structure and style.

36. Hemingway Editor

As the name suggests, Hemingway Editor is an online editing tool and website that will help make your writing clearer, bolder, and more direct—just like the author it’s named after. Simply copy and paste your text into the tool to check for overly complex sentences, overuse of adverbs, and the passive voice. It will also highlight instances where a shorter word could serve the same purpose.

Every writer needs a good editor, and Reedsy only works with the best. Their hand-picked, experienced, professional editors can review your story development, structure, consistency, and style, helping to perfect and polish your manuscript. Reedsy also offers a tool to easily write and format a book , the same way a professional typesetter would. (You can print from their tool with Blurb, too!)

Code, showing the backend of AI tools for writers.

Artificial Intelligence for writers

AI gets a bad rap, but in our digital age, its emergence is nothing short of a revolution in creativity. Whether you’re battling writer’s block, seeking the perfect synonym to elevate your prose, or plotting a novel, AI-powered writing assistants can offer a wealth of resources at your fingertips. These innovative tools are not doing the writing for you—they’re about enhancing your creativity and offering insights and suggestions that might not have crossed your mind.

38. Sudowrite

Using artificial intelligence, Sudowrite offers suggestions and ideas to help you improve your writing. It can generate plot twists, character names, and even entire paragraphs based on the information you provide. While it’s not meant to replace human creativity and imagination, Sudowrite can be a helpful tool for sparking new ideas and breaking through writer’s block.

Claude has emerged as a dynamic counterpart to ChatGPT, due to its ethical and safer approach to AI. What sets Claude apart is its focus on nuanced, open-minded text generation—working to understand context and intent before replying. It can help you with brainstorming, research, structural analysis, line edits, critique, and even productivity—with writing sprints, prompts, word count, and positive reinforcement. It’s not replacing creativity, but supporting you from blank page to final polish.

40. Jasper.ai

Jasper is another AI-powered writing tool that can assist with plot development, character creation, and even research for your story. Jasper also has a feature that allows you to collaborate with other writers in real time, making it a useful tool for team projects or brainstorming sessions. What’s great about Jasper is that it has a document feature, so you can write, edit, and save your work like you would in Word or Google Docs, rather than chatting back and forth with AI.

Writer signing books at a book promotion event.

Resources for promoting and marketing

Once your masterpiece is polished and ready to shine, the next thrilling chapter of your author’s journey begins: promoting and marketing your book. This can seem like a Herculean task, especially in a world flooded with content. But with the right tools and strategies, you can cut through the noise and get your book into the hands of eager readers.

We’ve lined up the best resources to transform you from a writer into a savvy marketer!

41. Wattpad

Use this storytelling platform to connect with writers and readers around the world, build an audience, and even get discovered. On Wattpad , you start by sharing a story, and then if you build a big enough fan base, you may have a chance to work with entertainment companies and publishers looking to feature your work. Just remember, some publishers won’t print work that appears online, so be sure to do your research before uploading your entire novel!

On this writing and reading hub, you’ll find stories, articles, and inspiration that are curated to your taste and written by people like us. Want to share your own writing, photos, or videos? You can do that on Medium —and potentially earn money. The platform lets you see how your stories are performing and what kinds of readers like your writing. It also offers tips for starting a newsletter, submitting to publications, and curating your work.

43. Kindlepreneur

Kindlepreneur is a treasure trove of resources for authors, especially those venturing into self-publishing. From book marketing and advertising strategies to optimizing your Amazon sales page, author Dave Chesson has got you covered with his helpful blog posts, videos, and courses. He also offers free downloadable templates and worksheets to help you plan and execute your book marketing strategy.

44. NY Book Editors

Need help proofreading your manuscript or marketing your book? NY Book Editors provides editing and proofreading services, as well as an extensive blog full of helpful advice for writers. They also offer a free guide to writing the perfect query letter to help you attract agents or publishers—and plenty of other useful publishing and marketing information.

45. Agency Query

If you want to get an agent or a publisher, use Agency Query to build your list of potential agents and publishers. The website also provides features like tracking the status of pitches sent out to agencies, keeping notes on each agency’s submission requirements, and more.

46. The Creative Penn

The Creative Penn is a website run by bestselling author Joanna Penn . It offers a wealth of information on how to, “write, publish and market your book—and make a living with your writing.” Penn also has a vibrant YouTube channel and podcast where she shares advice for authors, helpful if you are a visual or auditory learner.

47. Publishers Weekly

Stay up to date on the publishing industry and get insider tips from publishers, editors, and literary agents with Publishers Weekly . This website offers news, reviews, job postings, and other helpful resources for writers. They also have a dedicated section for independent authors if that’s you.

48. Storiad

Storiad is a tool designed to help you promote and market your book through social media, website creation, book trailers, and more. They offer various packages for authors at different stages of their careers, from beginners to established writers. Storiad can also help you create a professional author website with built-in marketing tools.

49. BookBub

BookBub is a popular platform that lets you promote your book to millions of readers through daily email newsletters, targeted ads, and featured deals. You can submit your book for consideration or use their blog for free marketing advice and trends in publishing. BookBub also offers webinars, courses, and other resources for writers.

50. Author Marketing Club

Author Marketing Club is a community of authors helping each other promote their work through free and paid book promotion tools, tutorials, webinars, and more. They also offer a powerful search engine that allows you to find relevant blogs, websites, and book promotion sites to submit your work for exposure. Joining this club can help you reach a wider audience and get more readers interested in your writing.

How Blurb can help

From collecting inspiration to the final finishing touches, there’s a whole world of tools , websites, support, and advice out there to help you with every stage of writing your own story and making your own book. You have all the tools you need. Now write!

And when you’re ready to publish and share your work with the world, Blurb can help. Our self-publishing platform allows you to turn your manuscript into a professional-quality book, whether it’s a novel, memoir, poetry collection, or any other genre. With customizable book formats and design tools, as well as tons of options for distribution, we make it easy to bring your writing to your fans.

So what are you waiting for? Start creating and sharing your stories with the world today. We believe in you!

Blurb is your platform designed to turn the dream of publishing your book into reality. Whether you’re crafting a photo book, a novel, or a poetry collection, we’ve got the tools and support to help you professionally design, self-publish, promote, and sell your work.

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EveryWriter

A New Community of Writers

110 websites every writer should know

March 16, 2024 by Richard Leave a Comment

Are you ready to explore a treasure trove of online resources designed to help you hone your craft, find inspiration, and connect with fellow writers? Look no further! We’ve compiled an extensive list of 110 websites every writer should know, covering everything from writing tools and blogs to news and community forums. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting your writing journey, these sites offer a wealth of information and support to help you navigate the world of writing.

Take some time to click through these websites and familiarize yourself with the unique features and benefits each one offers. From AI-powered writing assistants like Grammarly to comprehensive world-building platforms like World Anvil, there’s something here for every type of writer. Discover literary magazines showcasing the latest in fiction and poetry, connect with professional organizations for your genre, and explore a variety of tools to help you stay organized, focused, and productive throughout your writing process.

We’ve created this list for fun and to provide a go-to resource for writers seeking to expand their online toolkit. While we’ve done our best to include a diverse array of writing-related websites, we know there are countless other fantastic resources out there. That’s where you come in! If you have a favorite writing website that hasn’t made our list, please share it in the comments below. Just remember to keep your suggestions focused on writing and writing-related sites, as any off-topic comments will be deleted. Happy exploring, and may these websites inspire and support you on your writing journey!

Here is a list of 100 websites for writers, including tools, blogs, news, and more

Grammarly ( https://www.grammarly.com/ ) – An AI-powered writing assistant that checks for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Scrivener ( https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener/ ) – A powerful writing software for organizing and writing long-form projects.
ProWritingAid ( https://prowritingaid.com/ ) – A comprehensive writing tool that analyzes your writing and provides suggestions for improvement.
Hemingway Editor ( https://hemingwayapp.com/ ) – A tool that helps you write in a clear, concise, and bold style.
The Write Life ( https://thewritelife.com/ ) – A blog featuring practical advice, inspiration, and resources for writers.
Writer’s Digest ( https://www.writersdigest.com/ ) – A website offering writing tips, prompts, and resources for writers of all levels.
NaNoWriMo ( https://nanowrimo.org/ ) – A non-profit organization that supports writers during National Novel Writing Month and beyond.
Reedsy ( https://reedsy.com/ ) – A platform connecting authors with professional editors, designers, and marketers.
Query Tracker ( https://querytracker.net/ ) – A tool for tracking and organizing literary agent queries.
Publishers Marketplace ( https://www.publishersmarketplace.com/ ) – A website providing news, deals, and resources for the publishing industry.
Poets & Writers ( https://www.pw.org/ ) – A non-profit organization serving creative writers with resources, advice, and community.
Creative Writing Courses ( https://www.creativewritingcourses.org/ ) – A directory of online writing courses and programs.
Writing to Publish ( https://writingtopublish.com/ ) – Free videos and resources that teach you how to get published in 10 weeks through their workshop.
The Creative Penn ( https://www.thecreativepenn.com/ ) – A blog and podcast offering tips and resources for writing, publishing, and marketing your book.
Jane Friedman ( https://www.janefriedman.com/ ) – A website providing business advice and resources for authors and publishers.
Writer Beware ( https://www.sfwa.org/other-resources/for-authors/writer-beware/ ) – A watchdog group that warns writers about scams and questionable practices in the publishing industry.
The Passive Voice ( https://www.thepassivevoice.com/ ) – A blog that covers the latest news and trends in the publishing industry.
Alliance of Independent Authors ( https://www.allianceindependentauthors.org/ ) – A non-profit professional association for self-published authors.
Kindle Direct Publishing ( https://kdp.amazon.com/ ) – Amazon’s self-publishing platform for e-books and paperbacks.
Draft2Digital ( https://draft2digital.com/ ) – An e-book distribution platform that helps authors publish and distribute their books to multiple retailers.
Smashwords ( https://www.smashwords.com/ ) – An e-book distribution platform for indie authors.
BookBub ( https://www.bookbub.com/ ) – A book discovery platform that helps readers find great deals on e-books.
Goodreads ( https://www.goodreads.com/ ) – A social network for readers to share book recommendations and reviews.
K-Lytics ( https://k-lytics.com/ ) – A data-driven book marketing and research tool for authors and publishers.
PublisherRocket ( https://publisherrocket.com/ ) – A keyword research and book marketing tool for Amazon Kindle authors.
Kindlepreneur ( https://kindlepreneur.com/ ) – A website offering marketing advice and resources for Kindle authors.
Self Publishing Formula ( https://selfpublishingformula.com/ ) – A website and podcast offering tips and resources for self-published authors.
The Book Designer ( https://www.thebookdesigner.com/ ) – A blog offering advice on book design, formatting, and marketing for self-published authors.
Poetica ( https://poetica.com/ ) – A poem, lyrics and spoken word editor and feedback tool.
WriteMapper ( https://writemapper.com/ ) – A cross-platform mind mapping tool designed specifically for long writing projects.
Freedom ( https://freedom.to/ ) – A productivity app that blocks distracting websites and apps so you can focus on writing.
750 Words ( https://750words.com/ ) – A writing platform that encourages you to write 750 words every day.
Squibler ( https://www.squibler.io/ ) – A writing tool that helps you structure and write your book using an intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
The Most Dangerous Writing App ( https://www.themostdangerouswritingapp.com/ ) – An app that keeps you writing by deleting your progress if you stop typing for too long.
Write or Die ( https://writeordie.com/ ) – A writing tool that uses positive and negative reinforcement to help you reach your writing goals.
Writer’s Bloc ( https://writersbloc.io/ ) – A collaborative writing platform that allows you to write with others in real-time.
National Novel Writing Month Young Writers Program ( https://ywp.nanowrimo.org/ ) – A version of NaNoWriMo designed for young writers.
The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators ( https://www.scbwi.org/ ) – A professional organization for children’s book writers and illustrators.
Writers Who Care ( https://writerswhocare.wordpress.com/ ) – A blog that advocates for social justice and equity through writing.
Publishing Perspectives ( https://publishingperspectives.com/ ) – A website offering news and analysis of the international publishing industry.
The Bookseller ( https://www.thebookseller.com/ ) – A British magazine and website covering the publishing industry.
The Millions ( https://themillions.com/ ) – An online literary magazine featuring book reviews, essays, and interviews.
Electric Literature ( https://electricliterature.com/ ) – A digital publisher and literary magazine that publishes fiction, essays, and criticism.
LitHub ( https://lithub.com/ ) – A literary website featuring news, essays, and excerpts from the world of books.
Tor.com ( https://www.tor.com/ ) – A website featuring science fiction and fantasy stories, articles, and reviews.
Fantasy-Faction ( https://fantasy-faction.com/ ) – A website and community dedicated to fantasy literature.
Crime Reads ( https://crimereads.com/ ) – A website exploring crime fiction and non-fiction, with articles, interviews, and book recommendations.
Mystery Writers of America ( https://mysterywriters.org/ ) – A professional organization for mystery and crime writers.
Romance Writers of America ( https://www.rwa.org/ ) – A professional organization for romance writers.
Horror Writers Association ( https://horror.org/ ) – A professional organization for horror writers.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America ( https://www.sfwa.org/ ) – A professional organization for science fiction and fantasy writers.
The Author’s Guild ( https://www.authorsguild.org/ ) – A professional organization for published authors.
National Writers Union ( https://nwu.org/ ) – A labor union that advocates for freelance writers.
Editorial Freelancers Association ( https://www.the-efa.org/ ) – A professional organization for freelance editors, proofreaders, and writers.
Association of Writers & Writing Programs ( https://www.awpwriter.org/ ) – A professional organization for creative writing programs and writers.
Writer’s Relief ( https://writersrelief.com/ ) – A submission service that helps writers target their submissions to literary agents and editors.
Duotrope ( https://duotrope.com/ ) – A subscription-based service for writers to find and submit to literary magazines and publishers.
Submittable ( https://www.submittable.com/ ) – A submission management platform used by many literary magazines and writing contests.
The Time Is Now ( https://www.pw.org/writing-prompts-exercises ) – A weekly writing prompt from Poets & Writers.
The Story Starter ( https://thestorystarter.com/ ) – A tool that generates random writing prompts and story ideas.
Writing Exercises ( https://www.writingexercises.co.uk/ ) – A collection of writing exercises and prompts for fiction writers.
One Word ( https://www.oneword.com/ ) – A writing prompt website that gives you one word and 60 seconds to write about it.
Random First Line Generator ( https://getfirstline.com/ ) – A tool that generates random first lines for stories and novels.
Seventh Sanctum ( https://www.seventhsanctum.com/ ) – A website with a variety of random generators for writing prompts, characters, and more.
Name Generator ( https://www.name-generator.org.uk/ ) – A tool for generating random character names.
Fantasy Name Generators ( https://www.fantasynamegenerators.com/ ) – A collection of name generators for fantasy characters, places, and more.
Behind the Name ( https://www.behindthename.com/ ) – A database of name meanings and origins.
The Character Questionnaire ( https://thecharactercomma.com/character-questionnaire/ ) – An extensive questionnaire to help you develop well-rounded characters.
Character Trait Generator ( https://www.character-generator.org.uk/ ) – A tool that generates random character traits and quirks.
Random Plot Generator ( https://www.plot-generator.org.uk/ ) – A tool that generates random plot ideas for stories and novels.
Chaotic Shiny ( https://chaoticshiny.com/ ) – A website with a variety of writing tools and generators, including prompts, worldbuilding, and more.
The Writer’s Grimoire ( https://writinggrimoire.tumblr.com/ ) – A writing advice blog covering a range of topics, from characters to worldbuilding.
Critique Circle ( https://www.critiquecircle.com/ ) – An online writing workshop where writers can give and receive feedback on their work.
Scribophile ( https://www.scribophile.com/ ) – An online writing community where writers can get feedback, participate in contests, and more.
Critters Workshop ( https://critters.org/ ) – An online workshop for science fiction, fantasy, and horror writers.
The Next Big Writer ( https://www.thenextbigwriter.com/ ) – An online writing workshop and community for all genres.
Absolute Write Water Cooler ( https://absolutewrite.com/forums/ ) – A writing forum covering a wide range of topics, from craft to publishing.
The Writer’s Cafe at KBoards ( https://www.kboards.com/index.php/board,60.0.html ) – A forum for writers to discuss writing, publishing, and marketing.
Writer’s Forum ( https://www.writers-forum.com/ ) – A UK-based magazine and website offering writing advice and resources.
The Writer ( https://www.writermag.com/ ) – A magazine and website offering writing advice, inspiration, and industry news.
Narrative ( https://www.narrativemagazine.com/ ) – An online literary magazine featuring fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
The Sun ( https://www.thesunmagazine.org/ ) – An ad-free magazine featuring personal essays, short stories, and poetry.
Ploughshares ( https://www.pshares.org/ ) – A literary magazine publishing fiction, poetry, and non-fiction.
The Paris Review ( https://www.theparisreview.org/ ) – A literary magazine featuring fiction, poetry, interviews, and more.
Tin House ( https://tinhouse.com/ ) – A literary magazine and book publisher.
Guernica ( https://www.guernicamag.com/ ) – An online magazine of global arts and politics.
The New Yorker ( https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/fiction ) – A magazine featuring short fiction by well-known and emerging writers.
The Atlantic ( https://www.theatlantic.com/fiction/ ) – A magazine featuring short fiction and poetry.
Harper’s Magazine ( https://harpers.org/subjects/fiction/ ) – A monthly magazine featuring fiction, essays, and poetry.
Glimmer Train ( https://www.glimmertrain.com/ ) – A quarterly literary magazine featuring short fiction.
One Story ( https://www.one-story.com/ ) – A literary magazine that publishes one short story per issue.
Zyzzyva ( https://www.zyzzyva.org/ ) – A San Francisco-based literary magazine featuring fiction, poetry, and non-fiction.
Every Writer ( www.everywriter.net ) – A literary site of markets, poetry, stories and resources.
The Believer ( https://believermag.com/ ) – A bimonthly magazine featuring interviews, essays, and reviews.
The Rumpus ( https://therumpus.net/ ) – An online literary magazine featuring essays, reviews, and interviews.
The Missouri Review ( https://www.missourireview.com/ ) – A literary magazine featuring fiction, poetry, and essays.
Kenyon Review ( https://kenyonreview.org/ ) – A literary magazine featuring fiction, poetry, essays, and reviews.
The Southern Review ( https://thesouthernreview.org/ ) – A literary magazine featuring fiction, poetry, and essays.
The Threepenny Review ( https://www.threepennyreview.com/ ) – A quarterly magazine featuring fiction, poetry, and essays.
Granta ( https://granta.com/ ) – A literary magazine featuring fiction, non-fiction, and photography.
World Anvil ( https://www.worldanvil.com/ ) – A comprehensive world-building platform with tools for creating maps, timelines, and detailed articles about your world’s history, cultures, and characters.
Campfire Write ( https://www.campfirewriting.com/ ) – A writing software that includes world-building features such as maps, timelines, and character profiles.
Fantasia Archive ( https://fantasiaarchive.com/ ) – A world-building resource with articles, tutorials, and tools for creating fantasy worlds.
Seventh Sanctum ( https://www.seventhsanctum.com/ ) – A collection of random generators for various world-building elements, such as names, creatures, and magic systems.
Donjon ( https://donjon.bin.sh/ ) – A set of random generators for fantasy world-building, including maps, dungeons, and treasure.
Medieval Fantasy Town Generator ( https://watabou.itch.io/medieval-fantasy-city-generator ) – A tool for generating random medieval fantasy town maps with customizable parameters.
The Cartographer’s Guild ( https://www.cartographersguild.com/ ) – A community of map-makers offering tutorials, resources, and feedback for creating fictional maps.
Mythcreants ( https://mythcreants.com/blog/category/worldbuilding/ ) – A blog with articles and advice on various aspects of world-building, from creating religions to designing magic systems.
Worldbuilding Stack Exchange ( https://worldbuilding.stackexchange.com/ ) – A question and answer site where writers can ask for help and advice on specific world-building challenges.
r/worldbuilding ( https://www.reddit.com/r/worldbuilding/ ) – A Reddit community dedicated to sharing ideas, resources, and feedback on world-building projects.

As we conclude our exploration of these 110 websites every writer should know, we hope you’ve discovered some new and exciting resources to add to your writing toolkit. Whether you found a new favorite writing app, connected with a supportive community of fellow writers, or stumbled upon a treasure trove of writing prompts and exercises, we hope these websites have left you feeling inspired and empowered to pursue your writing goals.

Remember, this list is just a starting point. The online world is vast, and there are countless other websites out there designed to support and nurture writers like you. As you continue to explore and engage with these resources, don’t forget to share your own discoveries with others. Building a strong, supportive writing community is essential for growth and success, so let’s work together to expand our collective knowledge and resources.

If you have a personal writing website or blog that you’d like to share with our community, we encourage you to leave a link in the comments below. This is a great opportunity to showcase your work, connect with other writers, and potentially discover new collaborators or readers. Whether you’re a fiction writer, poet, essayist, or blogger, we want to hear from you and learn more about the online spaces you’ve created to share your writing with the world. So don’t be shy – drop a link to your site and let us explore the incredible diversity of voices and perspectives within our writing community!

About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry. Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

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5 ChatGPT Prompts to Create Awesome Content

Learn how to create effective prompts so that ChatGPT produces awesome content. Here you can find 5 ChatGPT prompts to help you get started.

by Editorial Team • 1 August 2024

How do you feel about awesome authentic texts that reflect the author's voice? Personally, I appreciate such texts. But the problem is that ChatGPT, which we often rely on, doesn't know how to write authentic texts. Unless, with the right prompts, we teach it how to do so.

So, in this blog, we’ll show you 5 ChatGPT prompts to create awesome content.

There are several ways to create excellent content. One of them is to use well-written ChatGPT prompts . Let's explore 5 ChatGPT prompts that will help you get the content you need.

Prompt #1: Tell ChatGPT to Play a Role

This type of prompts should be categorized separately. They are designed to tell ChatGPT who it is pretending to be when it generates the text we request.

For example, we might say to ChatGPT:

You are an experienced technical writer who writes for non-technical audiences or business owners/investors.
You are a novelist specializing in nautical fiction, writing in the style of Hemingway .
You are a junior researcher preparing a paper for first-year students, and so on.

The content, style, and quality of the generated text depends on the level of detail we provide ChatGPT about its role.

Learn more about how to use ChatGPT .

Prompt #2: Ask ChatGPT to Write in a Certain Style

To get a text written in the style you want, start by showing ChatGPT examples of your texts. Ask it to identify what makes these texts unique - the writing style, tone, and mood.

For example:

"Imagine you're a hiring manager conducting a presentation to a web development team of senior engineers. Use simple language to explain stress management clearly so that everyone understands. Here's a sample text. Analyze its style, repeated words, mood and purpose".

After ChatGPT provides its analysis, you can ask it to write a text in the same style.

Prompt #3: Instruct ChatGPT to Write Like a Famous Writer (Provide the Writer's Name)

A few years ago, there was a fascinating experiment with ChatGPT where it was asked to write a paragraph on an abstract topic in the style of Ernest Hemingway. The result was crafted so well that even a new reader couldn't tell it apart from a famous writer's work.

Now, let's take this further and structure your ChatGPT prompts this way:

"Write an essay mimicking the style of [name of writer/journalist/online publisher/blogger - not just one, but several]."
"Expand the text below [insert already written text] in the style of [name of writer/journalist/online publisher/blogger - not just one, but several]."

Interestingly, this technique works with ChatGPT in much the same way it works with humans: if you treat ChatGPT as a professional with deep knowledge on a particular topic, it will generate results that match those expectations.

Prompt #4: Share Your Experience with ChatGPT so it Can Write as if it were You

ChatGPT doesn't have details about the author's experience and expertise needed for writing the text. How can ChatGPT get these insights? It depends on the topic at hand.

If you're writing an article about cinematography, like giving movie lovers advice on how to watch films, start by sharing your taste, style, and understanding of movies with the ChatGPT.

You can achieve this by encouraging ChatGPT to ask you questions about movies, taking your time to respond, and allowing the chat to understand your movie-related experience. In essence, you're providing the chat with details about yourself.

With all that said, you can create a ChatGPT prompt like this:

Imagine we are chatting as friends. Ask me questions like the following:

What's my favorite movie?
Who's my favorite director?
Why don't I have just one favorite movie or director?
What movie do I watch most often?
What do I love about the movie?
What do I think makes the movies/directors of [movie title/director name] related?
What is the standout moment in the movie [movie title]?
What movies would I recommend to understand themes such as loneliness or isolation?

The idea is for ChatGPT to take your point of view. After you have given your answers and ChatGPT has collected them, use this prompt:

"Imagine you're an expert on auteur cinema, interested in films about the quiet lives of artists. You uncover hidden meanings in the movies of Wes Anderson and François Ozon, making their complexities easy for readers to understand. Write a 3000-word article on how to watch a movie using [movie title and director's name] as an example. Base it on our discussion. Include lists, quotes, and use catchy subheadings like movie phrases."

This training should help ChatGPT produce the desired output, which can be further refined.

Prompt #5: Ask ChatGPT to Write an Email to Encourage the Customer to Pay

Emails require clear and concise communication. Blaise Pascal once said, “This letter is longer only because I had no time to write a shorter one,” highlighting the challenge of brevity.

To craft an effective reminder email to a client who hasn't paid, use this prompt for ChatGPT:

“Write a polite email to remind our client to make their payment promptly. Emphasize the benefits of continuing to work with our experienced team in a respectful manner. Keep the email under 300 words, structure it with an introduction and conclusion, and make it persuasive without being pushy.”

I hope that by crafting your prompt in this manner, you can expect a concise and compelling letter written by ChatGPT with your intentions in mind.

Ask ChatGPT to Write an Email to Encourage the Customer to Pay

5 Key Tips on How to Get the Most out of ChatGPT Prompts

Now that we've covered the basics, let's move on to some hands-on tips for using ChatGPT prompts. By following these tips along with the specific prompts mentioned earlier, you can improve the quality of your texts today.

1. Keep your language clear and unambiguous

When talking to ChatGPT, use clear and direct language, just as you would with a person. When you express your thoughts clearly, you'll be understood accurately. So if you want to get quality content from ChatGPT without much hassle, start by stating your request clearly. To improve your chances of getting the right content, give ChatGPT context, such as background information or relevant materials on the topic. For example, you can ask ChatGPT to write in the style of a particular online publication or blog.

2. Use simple sentences and stay consistent

When communicating with ChatGPT, use complete sentences and introduce your ideas gradually. ChatGPT works best with clear, structured questions and phrases. If your topic or question is complex, focus on one request or question at a time. You may have noticed that ChatGPT tends to simplify and shorten longer texts. Conversely, providing ChatGPT with the same text in separate paragraphs rather than one large block may result in better results.

3. Specify the writing style you want

ChatGPT is primarily a text generator , so feel free to dictate the style you want for the text. For example, you can say, "Write in a casual, conversational style similar to that used by young tech startups in California.” Or you could request a more formal, concise style suitable for academic use.

Remember, the answer you get from ChatGPT depends on how you ask for it.

4. Request multiple text options from ChatGPT and refine one of them

To save time, ask ChatGPT to generate multiple versions of the text you need. Specify different styles for each version, such as conversational with short sentences or more artistic. When you find a text you like, ask ChatGPT to improve it if necessary - make it simpler, improve the flow between sentences, or add more narrative.

5. Use a "do the same" training approach

The key to ChatGPT's effectiveness is learning. When you interact with ChatGPT using prompts, you're teaching it what you want it to do. To consistently get the results you want, give ChatGPT feedback. If you like a particular text, you can tell ChatGPT that it's good and ask for the next text in a similar style. Eventually, you can simply say "do the same" to guide ChatGPT in the future.

What is a ChatGPT Prompt?

A ChatGPT prompt is a description of the task ChatGPT is supposed to perform. It is a kind of instruction or technical specification. The more precise and detailed the task description is, the better response ChatGPT will give you.

ChatGPT prompts can be used in many ways. You can ask ChatGPT to write content for social media or a blog, brainstorm online business ideas or content for future content, or improve existing blog posts. The possibilities are endless.

One thing is certain: with the right ChatGPT prompts, you can get nothing but awesome content.

Are you ready to embrace the power of ChatGPT with well written prompts?

To sum it up, using well-crafted prompts with ChatGPT helps you achieve great results - like awesome content tailored to your style and expertise. By giving clear prompts, you ensure that ChatGPT will reflect your unique voice and experience. What's more, prompts discussed above will help you create engaging and authentic content that resonates with your audience. Now that you know these ChatGPT prompt techniques, you can use them or create your own based on what we've covered.

Ready to unleash the full potential of ChatGPT prompts to create amazing content for your business? Let's do it.

Editorial Team

With diverse backgrounds and expertise, the Dorik editorial team is committed to producing high-quality, informative, and engaging content for our readers. Whether you're a long-time reader or a new visitor, we hope you find our content valuable and informative.

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Legionnaires’ cases in Melbourne are growing. Here’s what you need to know about this serious lung infection

Adjunct Associate Professor School of Biology, Flinders University

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Richard Bentham works for Built Water Solutions as a risk management consultant for Legionella contamination.

Flinders University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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Melbourne is experiencing an “explosive” and unusual outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease.

Since Friday afternoon, Victoria’s Department of Health has confirmed 33 cases (with ten more suspected) of this severe and sometimes life-threatening lung disease. Most of those infected have ended up in hospital.

Investigations are under way to identify the source of the outbreak.

Here’s what we know so far.

What is Legionnaires’ disease and how does it spread?

Legionnaires’ disease is a bacterial infection caused by inhaling contaminated water droplets. The water droplets need to be small enough to be inhaled deeply into the lungs to cause disease.

The disease isn’t transmitted between people.

Legionnaires’ disease usually only infects people with weakened immune systems or underlying health problems. People are at greater risk of infection if they:

are over 40 years old
are smokers
have a chronic lung disease or existing respiratory conditions
have a weakened immune system, such as transplant recipients
have other underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart or kidney disease.

Legionnaires’ disease usually causes a severe pneumonia , which is a chest infection with symptoms such as cough, headache, fever, chills, and muscle aches and pains.

Less common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and confusion. In extreme cases, Legionnaires’ disease can cause kidney impairment.

How is Legionnaires’ disease treated?

Early diagnosis and treatment with the right antibiotics is important to prevent the disease becoming severe.

If no action is taken, or the wrong antibiotic is prescribed, Legionnaires’ disease can lead to serious illness and hospitalisation.

GPs in Victoria are now on alert not to prescribe inappropriate antibiotics for people presenting with respiratory symptoms.

That’s because it may take several days of taking antibiotics for people with Legionnaires’ to realise the drugs are not effective – and that window for treatment is crucial.

What do we know about the Melbourne outbreak?

The current outbreak in Melbourne is an example of this community-acquired disease.

Investigations are under way to identify its source. The large number of cases in a short period indicates a single source, likely some equipment releasing contaminated aerosols into the environment, usually outside the building. This type of outbreak is sometimes described as “explosive”.

Microscopic image of bacteria on a red background.

A cooling tower attached to a building is most likely responsible. Most explosive outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease are associated with cooling towers.

The strain is another indicator: the Legionella pneumophila S1 subtype that has been identified in Melbourne is very different from Legionnaires’ disease caused by potting mixes .

The Victorian government has advised all cooling tower operators to ensure they’re up to date with testing, servicing and auditing requirements. But it’s not unusual for the source to remain undetected.

The high density of cooling towers in a city like Melbourne make identifying a single source incredibly complex.

How are Legionella bacteria released into the air?

It’s unusual for an outbreak like this to occur mid-winter. Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks associated with cooling towers usually happen in late summer/autumn, when air conditioning systems are being turned on after a cool period.

In winter the biofilm (biological slime) dies back and Legionella do not multiply below 20°C. If towers operate all year round then Legionella can proliferate all year round.

Cooling towers are common devices used to recycle and evaporate water for buildings, especially air conditioning systems. As part of their operation they must release water into the environment. They release large amount of aerosol into the air, even when operated optimally.

This aerosol can travel considerable distances (a kilometre or more ) from the source. If it is contaminated, there is the potential for inhalation and disease.

Without good management the cooling tower may act as an incubator for the Legionella bacteria. The warm and nutrient-rich conditions inside cooling water systems are ideal for the biological slimes (biofilms) Legionella need to grow.

If sediment and slimes are disturbed – for example, when the system is turned on after months of dormancy – a sudden “bloom” of Legionella may escape in the aerosol.

The fact the outbreak is occurring in winter indicates cooling towers being used to cool something other than air conditioning, such as computer or phone systems. It is likely there has been some disruption to the system operation to initiate the outbreak.

What should I do if I’m worried?

Healthy people may inhale droplets contaminated with Legionella and experience no infection.

But for those with compromised immune systems or lung damage, the disease can be serious.

Victoria’s Department of Health advises people with symptoms to seek urgent medical care if they live in, or have visited, metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding areas. Symptoms may be flu-like and include muscle pain, a dry cough, fever and loss of appetite.

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‘Your Voice At IRS’ Is Optimistic About Levels Of Taxpayer Service After Difficult Years

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS. TAS’ job is to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and that taxpayers know and understand their rights.

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Erin Collins, national taxpayer advocate speaks during a Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee hearing on "Internal Revenue Service: Narrowing the Tax Gap and Improving Taxpayer Services," on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, May 19, 2021. (Sarah Silbiger/Pool via AP

At the height of the pandemic, between October 1, 2020, and September 30, 2021, the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) received 2,976,415 calls—a 990% increase from the prior 12 months. Those calls were largely from taxpayers seeking answers at a time when the IRS was struggling to process returns and issue refunds. Unsure of where to go next, taxpayers reached out to the TAS, an organization that had gone under the radar for many until that moment.

TAS is an independent organization within the IRS. TAS’ job is to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and that taxpayers know and understand their rights.

While it feels like the TAS has been around forever—that’s not the case. An early version of the organization surfaced in 1979 after the IRS created the Office of the Taxpayer Ombudsman to serve as the primary advocate within the IRS for taxpayers. That office was eventually codified in the Technical and Miscellaneous Revenue Act of 1988— section 7811 of the tax code granted the Ombudsman the statutory authority to issue Taxpayer Assistance Orders (TAOs) when taxpayers were suffering or about to suffer significant hardships. The law also directed the Ombudsman and the IRS Assistant Commissioner (Taxpayer Services) to provide an annual report to Congress about the quality of the IRS’s taxpayer services.

Nearly a decade later, in 1996, Congress officially replaced the Ombudsman with the Office of the Taxpayer Advocate, considered the “voice of the taxpayer.” At the same time, Congress gave the Advocate the authority and responsibility to make Congress aware of recurring, unresolved problems and difficulties taxpayers encounter in dealing with the IRS. The new law also tasked the Advocate with bringing two annual reports to Congress. Those reports are due June 30 (objectives of the Taxpayer Advocate for the coming fiscal year) and December 31 (includes a summary of at least 20 of the Most Serious Problems facing taxpayers) of each year.

In 2014, the IRS formally adopted a new Taxpayer Bill of Rights , a document repeatedly proposed by then-National Taxpayer Advocate Nina E. Olson. The document enumerated taxpayer rights, making them clear, understandable, and accessible for taxpayers and IRS employees.

Today , has at least one local taxpayer advocate office in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, and self-styles as “your voice at the IRS.”

National Taxpayer Advocate

Heading up the agency? The National Taxpayer Advocate (NTA). The NTA is appointed by the Secretary of the Treasury and reports to the IRS Commissioner.

Erin M. Collins is the third and current NTA. She earned her undergraduate degree at the University of California, Irvine, before attending Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles, California.

Appointed in 2020, Collins has a long history with the IRS, having served as IRS Chief Counsel for 15 years. While at the IRS, she worked complex tax cases. Litigating with the IRS, she told Forbes , helped her develop a tax policy focus and an understanding of the national impact of tax administration.

Collins left the IRS to join the Big Four accounting firm KPMG, finding a home in its controversial West Coast practice. At KPMG, she assisted taxpayers by advising positions on returns, drawing on her years of experience at the IRS to handle examinations and appeals.

In 2019, two things happened. First, Collins retired from KMPG after more than 20 years at the firm. Second, Nina Olson—the then-serving NTA—stepped down from her role after 18 years of service.

Collins had not planned on continuing in tax as a profession—she had decided that it was time for a change. The vacancy at the NTA, however, made her rethink her plans. It was, she says, an amazing position. She knew she could add value and bring a different voice, so she threw her hat in the ring.

She was appointed NTA in March 2020. If that sounds familiar, a national emergency was declared on March 13, 2020, due to Covid. Collins had signed on just as some of the most challenging times at the IRS, and by extension, the TAS, were about to begin.

Collins describes the time as “such a difficult four years,” specifically noting the challenges of the filing seasons during the pandemic—and playing catch-up afterward. The IRS typically processes nearly 170 million individual tax returns each year. During the pandemic, they had to sort out processing with a reduced in-person workforce, even as the numbers of returns were increasing to include those filed to claim pandemic-related credits and obtain refunds.

The Sausage

Today, the TAS boasts 2,000 employees and an annual budget of $271 million. Collins notes that the TAS is hiring (“Thank you to Congress for additional funding,” she adds) but says that the results of those new hires might not be immediately apparent.

Historically, some new hires came from the IRS, but the TAS is not seeing that right now.

Some IRS and TAS hires may also boomerang—not unlike Collins—meaning that they leave to go somewhere else and come back to the organization. They bring more experience when they return, which is a good thing.

But there are still a lot of new faces: sixty percent of case advocates have less than three years of experience, says Collins, while the average case advocate has just two to two and a half years.

Since case advocates may touch a bit of everything in their job, they are expected to be familiar with the entire agency and taxpayer experience—from processing returns and interacting with IRS systems to examinations and collections. That can take some time to get up to speed. And, Collins notes that “we train our own.” That means that senior workers may have to be removed from the line to train new employees, slowing down the chain of service even more.

On the plus side, however, these efforts should eventually pay off. Collins says that, 12 months down the road, she expects the TAS to be in “a really good place.”

TAS Workloads

One of the trickier issues to manage is that TAS is downstream from IRS problems. That means that when problems begin to bubble up at IRS, they eventually make their way to TAS. As those IRS issues trickle down, they may significantly impact the level of service at TAS.

For example, when taxpayers were experiencing issues related to delays in processing paper returns, the TAS was limited in how it could assist taxpayers. “We would reach out to our counterparts at the IRS,” Collins explains, “but we couldn’t get the returns.”

It can be especially challenging if those matters hit at once, since case advocates may have 100 to 150 open cases at any given time (overall, the TAS works about 250,000 cases per year).

That may surprise taxpayers who assume that the TAS is simply an extension of the IRS. That’s not true, explains Collins, adding, “We are not a second IRS.”

So, what exactly does the TAS do? The TAS typically steps in to help taxpayers whose tax issues fall into one of three main categories:

Financial Hardship (Are you or will you experience a significant economic burden due to your tax problem?)
IRS System Issue (Have you experienced a significant delay while trying to resolve your tax problem, or has an IRS system or procedure failed to operate as intended or failed to resolve your tax-related problem or dispute?)
Fair & Equitable Treatment (Are the ways that the tax laws being administered raising concerns of equity or will impair your taxpayer rights?)

You can find out more about how the TAS assists taxpayers here .

Cases that dominate TAS dockets currently include processing of returns, identity theft, and Employee Retention Credit (ERC) matters. And, Collins says, she expects that as processing and collections pick up, the TAS will start seeing more collections matters.

Despite heavy caseloads and challenges, Collins says the TAS is doing a “pretty good job.”

That doesn’t mean that things have been perfect.

Taxpayers and tax practitioners alike have voiced concerns about slow response times from TAS—a particularly frustrating pain point for taxpayers who have already attempted to resolve problems directly with the IRS.

Taxpayer letters may not be clear, offering shifting dates for a resolution—and limited options to respond.

Phone calls may go unanswered and callback wait times can take weeks—one practitioner shared that a case advocate’s voicemail advised that the wait for a return call would be between four and six weeks.

There also appears to be a disconnect between the information provided by the intake representative and the case assignments. One practitioner reported that the intake representative advised that there could be a wait of up to two weeks for a matter to be assigned to a case advocate. In reality, the wait times were closer to four months (the case advocate later said that wait was typical for his office). Others reported being turned down by the TAS because extraordinary processing times at the IRS made taking the case impractical, but the TAS was not able to offer a firm follow-up date or advice other than to wait.

Collins admits that TAS can do better and says they are working to make improvements.

Those complaints about confusing correspondences? That should be changing, she says. TAS is working to redesign its letters, which the IRS has also been doing . In addition to making the letters easier to understand, the new look will include better contact information for case advocates.

TAS is also examining ways to improve customer service in other areas, such as shortening wait times and instituting callback features.

As for the intake issues? TAS doesn’t answer that line, says Collins. That falls to IRS Taxpayer Services, which does an initial layer of screening. Better training and communication could help with those disconnects.

Annual Report

Collins is mindful that eyes are on the TAS—even as she has her eyes on the IRS. Each year, the NTA presents an Annual Report to Congress, identifying at least 10 of the most serious problems facing taxpayers.

In her most recent report, Collins identified the following issues :

Processing (Ongoing processing delays burden and frustrate taxpayers awaiting refunds and other account actions.)
IRS Hiring, Recruitment, and Training (Shortcomings in the IRS’s employee hiring, retention, recruitment, and training programs adversely affect the quality of taxpayer service the IRS provides and undermine effective tax administration.)
IRS Transparency (The IRS still does not provide sufficiently clear and timely information to the public, causing confusion and frustration and complicating agency oversight.)
Telephone and In-person Service (Taxpayers continue to experience difficulties and frustration obtaining telephone and face-to-face assistance to resolve their tax issues and questions.)
Return preparer oversight (Taxpayers are harmed by the absence of minimum competency standards for return preparers.)
Identity theft (Lengthy issue resolution delays and inadequate notices burden taxpayers who are victims of identity theft or whose returns the IRS has flagged for possible identity theft.)
Online account access for taxpayers and tax professionals (Digital services remain inadequate, impeding efficient case resolution and forcing millions of taxpayers to call or send correspondence to the IRS)
International (The IRS’s approach to international information return penalties is draconian and inefficient.)
Compliance challenges for taxpayers abroad (Taxpayers abroad continue to be underserved and face significant challenges in meeting their U.S. tax obligations.)
Appeals (Despite some improvements, many taxpayers and tax professionals continue to perceive the IRS Independent Office of Appeals as insufficiently independent.)

Overall, she noted that the year 2023 “was one of extraordinary transition for the IRS and therefore for taxpayers,” adding, “Despair has turned to cautious optimism.”

Collins went on to laud IRS advances, citing the elimination of the backlog of paper-filed Forms 1040 and answering a much higher percentage of taxpayer telephone calls as two of the most significant improvements for taxpayers while signaling that more changes are needed.

It’s clear that some of the improvements at the IRS were directly related to funding, with Collins writing, “When I look back eight years from now on how the IRS spent its Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding, the changes I consider ‘transformational’ will primarily involve the deployment of new technology and innovative thinking.”

The IRS has projected it will run out of IRA funding for the Taxpayer Services and Business Systems Modernization (BSM) accounts in 2026. She has continued to encourage Congress to reallocate, or authorize the IRS to move, funds from enforcement those accounts.

“I look forward to working with Congress and the IRS,” she wrote in the Executive Summary, “as the agency refines and implements its plans, and together with my TAS team, we stand ready to help improve taxpayer service and tax administration for the benefit of all taxpayers and to continue to serve as their safety net when the system fails.”

( Author’s note : After this article was published, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) released a report on TAS telephone lines. You can find it here .)

Tax Breaks: Timely tax tips and the latest news delivered to your inbox weekly

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My wife isn't 'just' a stepmom to my son. He sees her as his other mom.

My wife has been in my son's life since he was 6 years old.
She has taken on a parental role, stepping in whenever I need extra help.
Even though she's his stepmom, my son considers her his other mom.

After Vice President Kamala Harris announced she was running for president, one criticism lobbed against her was that she is not a parent because she has never given birth to children. But she is the stepmother to her husband Doug Emhoff's two children.

Like Harris, my wife is a stepmother to my son.

I am no longer in a relationship with his father and have been in a new relationship for four years. My wife came into my son's life when he was 6 years old and quickly stepped into a parental role. It was a role she enthusiastically took on.

Although she didn't give birth to my son, my wife is absolutely his second mother.

My son and wife's relationship started friendly

My wife didn't immediately take an authoritative role or force him to treat her like a parent. At first, she was more like a grown-up friend — someone he knew he needed to respect, but someone who would take him on drives to get ice cream or let him pretend to drive her car while I was inside the grocery store.

My wife has taken on more responsibility as a stepmom

Over the last four years, she's taken on more parental responsibility but never tried to act like she was more of a parent than myself or my son's father. She is a bonus mom, someone there to kiss him goodnight , help him with his homework, and love him unconditionally.

During the pandemic, my wife volunteered to take the lead in helping my son with virtual school so I could focus on work. She created a schedule for him, made him lunch, and ensured he kept up with assignments. When the playgrounds opened, she would take him to play, armed with a backpack full of whatever was needed.

I have gone on several overnight trips , leaving the two of them alone together. My son doesn't even call or text me when I'm gone because he's having so much fun hanging out with my wife. I never have to worry about him; I know my wife will make sure he takes a bath and goes to bed on time.

There are days when I will ask her to tag in and do the bedtime routine because I'm working or want a break, and she does it without question. My son knows that if he needs something, he doesn't have to come to me all the time.

Seeing my wife willingly step into a parental role with my son has strengthened our relationship. I knew I loved her almost immediately after we met, but seeing how my son responded to her made me more secure in my decision.

Sometimes, she still refers to him as mine, and I always remind her that she's his mom, too. We do everything as a team: school meetings, performances, birthday parties . Everyone knows us as his two moms, and there's no one else I could imagine doing this with.

My son now sees my wife as the missing piece to our family puzzle. He proudly claims her as his other mom.

"You're my mom too," my son will say when my wife calls herself his stepmom. He made that decision. My wife never wanted to force a close relationship on him, but he pushed for it.

Media has warped the perception of stepmoms

Popular media depictions of stepmoms are largely negative. The common trope is that they're evil.

For example, you have characters like Meredith Blake in the Lindsay Lohan version of "The Parent Trap," the Baroness von Schraeder in " The Sound of Music ," and, of course, the prototype: Cinderella's Evil Stepmother.

These women are always seen as temptresses who come in and seduce the father into marrying them before revealing they intend to get rid of his daughter so that she will be the only woman in his life.

Maybe there are stepmoms out there who fit this description, but by and large, stepmoms are there to be whoever their step kids want them to be.

I know that's exactly the role my wife plays, and my son and I are all the more lucky for it.

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Last updated on Jan 18, 2023

Reedsy’s Recommended Writer’s Resources for 2024

About the author.

Reedsy's editorial team is a diverse group of industry experts devoted to helping authors write and publish beautiful books.

About Martin Cavannagh

Head of Content at Reedsy, Martin has spent over eight years helping writers turn their ambitions into reality. As a voice in the indie publishing space, he has written for a number of outlets and spoken at conferences, including the 2024 Writers Summit at the London Book Fair.

Here at Reedsy, we’re fortunate to work with some of the finest talents in the publishing industry — and these experts have shared their experience and knowledge with us in the form of tips, interviews and how-to guides. From developing fascinating characters to motivating yourself and submitting to writing contests, we’ve published articles on so many topics that it’s hard to keep track of them all.

On this page, we’re rounding up some of the best Reedsy articles so far, alongside some of our favorite, most trusted resources from elsewhere on the web. If there’s something specific you need help with, head to the relevant category in the table of contents for easier browsing.

Finding ideas and inspiration

When you’re just looking for a nudge toward a creative idea, an element of randomness can help you get going. To get you started, the links below comprise our best and most entertaining options, from generators and prompts to our list of ideas for books.

50+ Book Ideas (and 11 Ways to Find Even More!) : A look at some of the ways authors develop book ideas: from writing prompts to tarot cards and Craigslist ads, the point is to be fearlessly creative. Read it here

Book Title Generator : Give our title generator a whirl, then see if you can come up with a story to accompany the title. Here are just a few examples of the cryptic titles you can get: The Waxed Painting , Clue of the Forgotten Cottage , Ceasefire of the Senses . Start using it now

Plot Generator : Need a premise for a story in a hurry? Try out this fun, free tool for creating a story out of thin air. You can lock certain variables while continuing to tweak others for maximum fun. Start using it now

Creative Writing Prompts : Dip into our archive of over 1,100 prompts and, if you like, take part in our weekly short story contest. If you’re after specific genre ideas, you can browse 37 different genre categories .

FREE RESOURCE

Get our Book Development Template

Use this template to go from a vague idea to a solid plan for a first draft.

Tips for writing different genres

If you aren’t fully familiar with the distinctions between each category, head to our blog post outlining the most common book genres . Otherwise, you’ll find our writing tips for each genre below, complete with insights from pros.

🐉 Writing fantasy : Seven of the top fantasy editors in the industry share their expert tips on writing fantastical worlds and characters pursuing noble quests.

🏎 Writing thrillers : In this post, we break down the science of thriller writing into seven heart-stopping steps .

🚌 Writing Young Adult fiction : A guide to writing YA fiction f rom editor Kate Angelella .

🧪 Writing science fiction : Six tips from experienced SF editors who have worked at Penguin Random House, Dundurn Press, and Jolly Fish Press.

🔎 Writing mysteries : From hiding clues and establishing the perfect motive to constructing an intriguing sleuth, our tips for mystery writers will help you craft the perfect crime .

💕 Writing romance : Our best tips for breathing life into beloved tropes and helping your characters reach their heartwarming happy ever after .

🎭 Writing literary fiction : For writers keen to experiment, our steps to writing literary fiction help you find the writerly playground you need — as long as you’ve got something to say.

🧒🏾 Writing children's books : A step-by-step guide to writing for children, from figuring out your target age group to taking your readers seriously and polishing up your messy first draft.

👶🏻 Writing picture books : Looking to become the next Julia Donaldson or Dr Seuss ? You could do a lot worse than starting right here.

🧑🏼‍🎓 Writing nonfiction : Our guide to planning, outlining, writing, and publishing nonfiction.

🧘‍♀️ Writing self-help : Our post covers identifying the problem you’ll help your readers manage, persuading them to listen to you, and taking the stage to show them how to best help themselves .

🍲 Writing cookbooks : For those with culinary talents worth sharing, this blog post walks you through turning your recipes into a book people will want on their kitchen shelves .

📝 Writing memoirs : Our guide to memoirs examines the many forms a memoir can take, then helps you outline yours and step into your own narrative .

🦸🏿 Writing comic books : A two-part guide to producing and publishing your own series of comic books — superheroes optional.

Which genre (or subgenre) am I writing?

Find out which genre your book belongs to. It only takes a minute!

Starting to write a book

How to Build a Solid Writing Routine : A free Reedsy Learning course that will show you how to regularly find time for your writing .

How to Outline Your Novel : Grab three free outlining templates in this comprehensive guide to laying the groundwork for your first draft .

How to Start a Story : 11 professional editors share their best tips on starting a story and immediately seize your reader’s attention .

How to Overcome Writer's Block : Vanquish the writer's dreaded foe, writer's block, once and for all! This post has 20+ strategies that you can use to get unstuck.

NaNoWriMo Pep Talks : A nonprofit known best for its annual November writing challenge, this website is also packed with pep talks from beloved authors like Neil Gaiman, Brandon Sanderson, Meg Cabot, and Maggie Stiefvater. For more on the November challenge, head to our own post on NaNoWriMo.

Self-Care for Authors : A blog post from our friends at Self-Publishing Formula, this is a great reminder that while productivity is important in the short term, mental health is even more important in the long term .

The 25+ Best Writing Tools : If you believe that a workman is only as good as his tools, make sure to check out this list of the most efficient writing aids to bolster your work.

The Best Novel Writing Software : The 21st century has given us the gift of technology. These are the best, most affordable pieces of novel writing software that writers shouldn’t miss .

The 16 Best Writing Apps : An impressive range of writing, editing, and productivity-enhancing apps for every kind of writer, from authors to content writers.

ProWritingAid : An editing and proofreading software that’s better suited to fiction writers than its giant competitor, Grammarly, ProWritingAid is worth checking out. We’ve also reviewed it here on the Reedsy blog!

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Learning about craft elements

There’s a number of craft topics we keep getting questions about because they’re integral to writing a good book, and often complicated to get right. With guidance on topics like writing complex characters and organizing your work’s structure, this is our blog’s educational corner. Time to put your learning hat on! 👩‍🎓

Developing a Character: A character with a convincing arc is key to a satisfying book . This article will help you develop characters your readers won’t forget.

Dynamic vs Static Characters : A comparison of two important types of characters you’ll have to get to grips with.

Create a Character Profile ( Free template ): Grab a free character profile template to supplement your character development.

Point of View : A 4-part series on choosing the best point of view for your novel — first, second, third person, or multiple points of view? We also take a look at the differences between third person omniscient and limited POVs.

Mastering Story Structure : An in-depth guide to story structure, plus resources for using some of storytelling's most popular structural frameworks.

Writing Dialogue : Learn how to write dialogue that doesn’t sound like two planks of wood talking to each other. Check out 150+ Other Words for "Said" To Supercharge Your Writing to download a free supplemental resource .

Diversity Style Guide : If you’re worried about how you’ve represented a particular group in your work and want to ensure you use respectful and sensitive language, this free resource allows you to search up specific terms for use advice compiled by various journalistic bodies.

The Ultimate Worldbuilding Template

130 questions to help create a world readers want to visit again and again.

Revising your work and leveling up your skills

Got a first draft together, and wondering where to go next? Typically, writers run their projects through a few rounds of self-editing first, then enlist the help of professional editors and volunteer beta readers.

How to Edit a Book : Download our free editing checklist to guide you through the tricky minefield of editing a book.

How to Self-Edit Your Own Writing : Our top tips for refining your prose , trimming off the excess, and keeping only what’s of value.

Guide to Professional Editing : A look at how professional editors can help writers improve their books and grow their skills.

Reedsy’s Editors for Hire : If you didn’t already know, you can hire the industry’s most experienced editors here on Reedsy.

Give your book the help it deserves

The best editors, designers, and book marketers are on Reedsy. Sign up for free and meet them.

Learn how Reedsy can help you craft a beautiful book.

An Intro to Beta Readers : For a second opinion on your novel , turn to a writer's best friend: the beta reader.

51 Online Critique Circles to Improve Your Writing : If you’re looking for a source of regular feedback and don’t mind helping others in return, join a writing group. They’re a brilliant source of both insights and camaraderie.

The Ultimate List of Writing Contests : A great way to get your name out there , build up your writing credentials, and pocket some cash, writing contests have helped countless writers rise up from obscurity. Don’t forget Reedsy’s weekly prompts contest, of course!

Best Writing Communities and Best Writing Websites : Take a look at these lists to find tons of support and even more tips on how to succeed as a writer.

Tell us about your book, and we'll give you a writing playlist

It'll only take a minute!

Publishing your work

Once you’ve got a polished manuscript in your hands, it’s time to assess your publishing options. Without complicating matters, you will have two avenues to explore: you can look for a publishing deal, or you can self-publish. If you aren’t sure which option is right for you, check out our 1-minute quiz below, or head to our post comparing the two types of publishing .

Is self-publishing or traditional publishing right for you?

Takes one minute!

Traditional publishing

If you’re serious about going down the traditional publishing route, you will need to think about submitting a query to a literary agent — or perhaps directly to publishers.

How to Publish a Book : A full publishing guide of best practices , whether you want to self-publish or publish traditionally.

The Best Literary Agents Seeking Submissions : Our Reedsy-vetted directory of 600+ literary agents across all genres and categories, with information on how and where to query them.

The Best Book Publishing Companies : A comprehensive directory of the best publishers, vetted by the team at Reedsy.

How to Write a Query Letter in 7 Steps : A step-by-step guide (including a handy printable checklist) on crafting a killer query letter that will get agents to request your manuscript.

How to Find a Literary Agent for Your Book : Here is some more guidance on how to find the right literary agent for you.

How to Write a Book Proposal : A step-by-step guide (including a comprehensive template) on crafting a killer book proposal that will get agents to notice your nonfiction book.

Self-publishing

If you choose to take charge and self-publish a book, you’ll soon find yourself with a lot of questions. After all, you’re basically going to do the work of the publisher by yourself. But that doesn’t mean you have to go it alone — with Reedsy, you can now work with the best editors, designers, and marketers in the publishing business.

How to Self-Publish a Book : In which we show you how to self-publish an awesome book in seven simple steps .

The Best Self-Publishing Companies All Authors Should Know : Our picks for the best self-publishing companies in the industry today.

Author Scams and Publishing Companies to Avoid : Unfortunately, there are plenty of self-publishing companies out there that just want your money. Learn which ones to avoid and how to spot them with this guide.

The Complete Guide to Amazon Self-Publishing : The King of eBook retailers is a complicated platform but a great option for self-publishers. We boil it down to the essentials .

How Much Does It Cost to Self-Publish a Book? : Using data from the Reedsy network, we unveil the current costs of hiring pros like developmental editors, proofreaders, designers, and formatters.

How Does Reedsy Choose Its Professionals? : We’re a professional marketplace with a difference, in that we accept only 3% of all the applications we receive from professionals. Find out more about our selection process .

Marketing yourself and your book

Many writers assume that a traditional book deal will mean they have zero marketing duties. The truth is that both indie and traditionally published authors have to invest significant time in promoting their own work, as big publishers spend much of their marketing budget on household names or celebrity authors. Regardless of how you’re publishing, the resources below can help you figure out how to reach people with your book.

How to Build an Author Website : We walk you through seven simple steps for setting up and populating a key marketing tool, your author website.

6 Steps for Building Your Author Mailing List : As Reedsy’s Ricardo Fayet always says, any sale you make when you don’t have a mailing list is a lost opportunity. Find out how to create yours and start building a relationship with your readers.

How to Market a Book: Overperform in a Crowded Market by Ricardo Fayet (book): For a friendly and comprehensive guide answering all your marketing questions, download Reedsy's free ebook .

Social Media for Writers — The Complete Guide : Everything you need to know about the major platforms and how to use them.

Facebook Advertising for Authors : A must-read two-part series from best-selling author Mark Dawson, covering a platform that allows you to target very specific segments based on things like location, gender, age, and interests.

BookBub Ads Expert by David Gaughran (book): A book walking you through the intricacies of BookBub’s ad platform , from our friend and marketing expert David Gaughran.

70+ Book Marketing Ideas To Rocket-Boost Your Sales : Whether you’re just getting started or are feeling stuck, there’s definitely something to inspire you in this list of 70 ways to market your book.

Keeping current with the publishing industry

The publishing industry never sits still. From reading trends to new technologies to policy changes by Amazon, it’s beneficial for every author to keep up with what publishers and big players in the self-publishing industry are up to. The resources below can help you do just that.

The Hot Sheet (paid newsletter): Jane Friedman’s newsletter offers in-depth, journalistic coverage of publishing developments in both traditional and indie publishing communities.

Writer Beware : Blog alerting the indie community to reports of scammy behaviors. It’s sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association, and has helped countless writers avoid industry pitfalls.

Alliance of Independent Authors : A membership association for self-publishing authors, ALLi champions the rights and interests of indie writers — for example, 2022 saw ALLi successfully campaign against Amazon’s ebook return policy, which was then revised.

The Creative Penn Podcast : Run by author and entrepreneur Joanna Penn, one of the most trusted voices in publishing, this podcast can help you keep up with industry news as well as technological developments, the latter being a topic Joanna is consistently curious about.

Catapult’s Don’t Write Alone series : This series of essays published by Catapult aims to bring a sense of solidarity to writers dealing with similar struggles — check it out for essays relating to rejection, motivation, productivity, and craft improvement.

Writer’s Digest : You probably don’t need our recommendation to check out this popular magazine — its many years of website archives are a treasure trove of advice on countless subjects relating to writing and publishing a book.

Nathan Bransford : Author and former literary agent Nathan Bransford runs a blog that shares invaluable insights from the literary trenches. His resources on all things literary agent are great for any author new to the ways of traditional publishing.

Self-Publishing Insiders podcast : Draft2Digital’s podcast tackles a wide range of self-publishing topics, from crafting a better book to marketing it successfully. Our favorite episode? The one featuring Reedsy’s Ricardo Fayet , of course.

Smith Publicity’s podcast : This podcast sees guests share tips on book marketing and publicity — topics have ranged from understanding reader niches to becoming an in-demand public speaker, amplifying marginalized voices, and establishing yourself as a thought leader.

Self-Publishing Show Live : One of our favorite conferences relating to indie publishing, SPS Live takes place annually in London. The largest of its kind across the Atlantic, you’ll no doubt meet hundreds of enthusiastic, energetic indie authors at this conference — and us, of course! Come along to meet the Reedsy gang and get inspiration from your fellow authors.

The path to publication can have its tricky moments, but you’re never on it alone. With all of the resources available on the internet, there’s always someone you can turn to for advice. If you fancy hearing from us when we publish new guides and tips from the world of publishing, sign up to our newsletter here .

3 responses

Angela Ackerman says:

29/12/2016 – 19:47

Good to see this all put together--I get a lot of very broad publishing questions that can't be answered simply in an email or DM, so this article is a good go-to for me to pass on. ;) Angela

↪️ Reedsy replied:

30/12/2016 – 09:52

Glad you like it, Angela! That's also why we decided to compile this list of resources. And thanks for pointing authors to our blog! :)

Natasha says:

21/08/2019 – 03:14

Thank you for sharing!

Comments are currently closed.

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For us, these contests are an honor and a joy to host. We love learning from young people — about what moves them and makes them mad, what intrigues and confuses and delights and defines them.

This year, we are bringing back some recent and longtime favorites, as well as introducing a few new challenges.

To begin, we have two options this fall in response to the U.S. election, though students around the globe are welcome. In September, we open with a series of special forums that invite teenagers to have thoughtful conversations about their civic and political identities, values and beliefs. Then, if they choose, they can work alone or with others to make something in response — whether in writing, video, audio or visual art. (Students can participate in one or both challenges, and we have a related invitation for educators .)

In the spring, we’re offering “My List,” a twist on our long-running review contest. This time, students can choose any collection of three to five works of art or culture to group in some way and then tell us why we should — or shouldn’t — check them out.

We’ll be posting the full rules and guidelines for each contest here when it opens. but for now you can look at the related resources we’ve provided, as well as last year’s rules, which will largely remain the same for our returning contests.

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The 100 Best Websites for Writers in 2021
Post you'll like: Writing The Second Half Of The Second Act. ⭐️ 3. The Freelance Beat. Chicago-based freelance journalist Tatiana Walk-Morris has written for notorious magazines like The New York Times, Vice Magazine, Harvard University's Nieman Reports and more — that, alone, tells you she's an expert to learn from.
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Sep 8, 2021. Over the past several weeks, we've shared our 101 Best Writing Websites for 2021. Originally featured in our May/June 2021 issue, these websites will help inspire, educate, and connect you to other writers as you start or continue on your writing journey. Click each image to be taken to the respective lists.
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Over the past several weeks, we've shared our 101 Best Writing Websites for 2023. Now in its 25th year, the Writer's Digest 101 Best Websites for Writers aims to guide writers of all ages, genres, and skill levels to reputable and useful resources to inspire, educate, and support them in every stage of their writing journey. Whether you are using writing as a creative outlet, looking to find ...
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The 17 Best Writing Websites. There are so many helpful writing websites online. They all help writers learn different things. Listed below are some of the best ones. The guides, tools, and advice on these writing websites are fantastic when used in conjunction with quality writing software. A good example of this is Squibler.
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5. Milanote. Cost: Free for basic plan or $12.50/month for premium. Milanote is an easy-to-use creative writing app to organize your research, ideas, characters and outline in one place. The vast majority of novelist-oriented writing software is organized around the idea of a linear document.
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9. Well-Storied. Run by Kristen Kieffer, this writing website offers more than just blog articles; it links authors with writing communities on social media, provides tutorials on Scrivener (a word-processing software designed for authors), and offers free courses on a variety of subjects. 10. Writers in the Storm.
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Build Book Buzz is one of the best writing websites with just the right ratio of figures and statistics vs. insider tips on how to build an online presence. 11. Language is a Virus. With writing games and exercises galore, Language is a Virus makes a perfect playground for word enthusiasts.
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2. Teen Ink. Teen Ink is a literary magazine and website for teens that helps them use their voice and make a difference through writing. This great site is devoted entirely to writing, art, and photos by teens. This site is best for teens who are interested in writing nonfiction essays, articles, poems, and short stories. 3.
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15. TOMI ADEYEMI. tomiadeyemi.com. Writing coach Tomi Adeyemi offers free video courses on mastering plot, along with a library of downloadable writing tools: structure and character worksheets, backstory templates and planners, writing prompts, and more. Her accompanying blog is full of advice on plotting and revising.
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6 Writer's Digest. Since 1920, Writer's Digest (also a popular print magazine) has been helping writers hone their craft and careers. This site not only offers daily prompts and practical techniques for getting those juices flowing, but also instructional workshops, writing competitions, and professional services.
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Create If Writing. CreateIfWriting.com. Every author needs to build an online platform, even if most dread calling it that. Create If Writing shows how to grow your online presence without "being smarmy"—as they put it—through their blog, podcast, and workshops. The Creative Penn. TheCreativePenn.com.

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