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Gotham Writers Workshop

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• Children’s Book Writing I (Online)
• Blog & Newsletter Writing (Online)

Gotham Writers Workshop is a creative home where writers develop their craft and come together in the spirit of discovery and fellowship. We’ve been teaching creative writing and business writing since 1993.

Gotham is now offering Online and Zoom (videoconference) classes.

Join us for a free Open House via Zoom videoconference on April 1 and 2.

• Scriptwriting
• Comedy, Poetry & Song
• Professional Development

The Art of Craft

We teach the craft of writing in a way that’s clear, practical, and inspiring. Explore our wide variety of courses for adults and teens, as well as our One-on-One options. New classes are starting all the time, in NYC, on Zoom, and asynchronously Online.

The Gotham Writers Children’s Lit Conference Sep 28-29

Two sharp stories each month—fiction and nonfiction. Presented with text, audio, and original art.

Enter the experience.

Scholarships for Writers of Color

Scholarships for Writers of Color are available to all people of color who aspire to improve their writing skills, either in the fields of creative writing or elsewhere.

Postcards from Summer Camp Contest

Summer camp is a setting that evokes heightened emotion. With that in mind, we invite you to submit a story about summer camp—with a twist.

How to Get Published

Here you will learn how to navigate the ins-and-outs of the publishing business and you’ll write (and refine) the most important selling tool for your book—the query letter. All under the guidance of an established literary agent.

Summer Classes

Summer classes are now available for enrollment , on Zoom, Online, and in NYC!

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Expert Teachers, Working Writers

A skilled teacher is the key to an exceptional class. Our teachers have been in the trenches, working daily at the craft of writing. They know the lay of the land. And they are equally adept at the fine art of teaching.

A Wealth of Resources

The tools needed to write are quite simple—pen and paper, or electronic device. But it’s useful to have advice and information within easy reach. We’ve put together all kinds of resources to guide your journey as a writer, including Gotham books.

The Gotham Experience

We believe everyone has a story to tell. And we like to help people tell their stories better. We’ve been practicing this philosophy for more than three decades, and it’s made us the leading private writing school in the world.

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In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit­hole, and that means comfort. It had a perfectly round door like a porthole, painted green, with a shiny yellow brass knob in the exact middle. The door opened on to a tube­shaped hall like a tunnel: a very comfortable tunnel without smoke, with panelled walls, and floors tiled and carpeted, provided with polished chairs, and lots and lots of pegs for hats and coats ­ the hobbit was fond of visitors. The tunnel wound on and on, going fairly but not quite straight into the side of the hill ­ The Hill, as all the people for many miles round called it ­ and many little round doors opened out of it, first on one side and then on another. No going upstairs for the hobbit: bedrooms, bathrooms, cellars, pantries (lots of these), wardrobes (he had whole rooms devoted to clothes), kitchens, dining­rooms, all were on the same floor, and indeed on the same passage. The best rooms were all on the left­hand side (going in), for these were the only ones to have windows, deep­set round windows looking over his garden and meadows beyond, sloping down to the river. This hobbit was a very well­to­do hobbit, and his name was Baggins. The Bagginses had lived in the neighbourhood of The Hill for time out of mind, and people considered them very respectable, not only because most of them were rich, but also because they never had any adventures or did anything unexpected: you could tell what a Baggins would say on any question without the bother of asking him. This is a story of how a Baggins had an adventure, found himself doing and saying things altogether unexpected. He may have lost the neighbours' respect, but he gained­well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end.

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The ship, the stalwart vessel known as 'The Serenity Mariner,' was plunged into chaos as the sky became a swirling maelstrom of opalescent tendrils. The flying jellyfish, their bioluminescent bodies illuminating the blackened sky, descended upon the ship with an otherworldly fury. Their membranous bodies pulsated as they sailed through the air, their long, poisonous tentacles trailing behind them like deadly streamers.

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

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

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

What is Creative Writing?

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

Creative writing can take on various forms such as:

• short stories
• screenplays

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

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Styles of Creative Writing

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

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

Short Stories

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

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

Screenplays

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

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

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

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

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

Importance of Creative Writing

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

Developing Creativity and Imagination

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

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

Enhancing Communication Skills

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

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

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

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

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

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

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

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

1. Finding Inspiration

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

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

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

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

2. Planning Your Piece

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

• the main points

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

3. Writing Your First Draft

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

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

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

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

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

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

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

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

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

Read Widely

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

Practice Regularly

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

Attend Writing Workshops and Courses

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

Joining Writing Groups and Communities

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

Seeking Feedback on Your Work

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

Start Creative Writing Today!

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

Happy writing!

Brooks Manley

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

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

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024: 

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

Inspiring Ink: Expert Tips on How to Teach Creative Writing

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The 7 Best Journals and Notebooks for Writing in 2024

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

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

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

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

What Is Creative Writing (Long Description)?

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

Table of Contents

Let’s expand on that definition a bit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Types of Creative Writing

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

Some of the most common types:

• Short stories
• Screenplays
• Flash fiction
• Creative Nonfiction

Short Stories (The Brief Escape)

Short stories are like narrative treasures.

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

Short stories are known for their brevity.

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

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

Novels (The Long Journey)

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

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

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

Readers get an immersive experience.

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

Poetry (The Soul’s Language)

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

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

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

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

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

Plays (The Dramatic Dialogue)

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

This format uniquely explores human relationships and societal issues.

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

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

Screenplays (Cinema’s Blueprint)

Screenplays outline narratives for films and TV shows.

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

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

Memoirs (The Personal Journey)

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

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

Memoirs invite readers into the author’s world.

They share lessons learned and hardships overcome.

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

Flash Fiction (The Quick Twist)

Flash fiction tells stories in under 1,000 words.

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

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

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

Creative Nonfiction (The Factual Tale)

Creative nonfiction combines factual accuracy with creative storytelling.

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

Creative nonfiction includes biographies, essays, and travelogues.

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

Fantasy (The World Beyond)

Fantasy transports readers to magical and mythical worlds.

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

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

Science Fiction (The Future Imagined)

Science fiction delves into futuristic and scientific themes.

It questions the impact of advancements on society and individuals.

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

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

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

What Are the 5 Cs of Creative Writing?

The 5 Cs of creative writing are fundamental pillars.

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

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

Clarity makes your writing understandable and accessible.

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

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

Coherence ensures your writing flows logically.

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

Conciseness

Conciseness is about expressing ideas succinctly.

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

Creativity is the heart of creative writing.

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

Consistency

Consistency maintains a uniform tone, style, and voice.

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

Is Creative Writing Easy?

Creative writing is both rewarding and challenging.

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

Exploring complex characters and themes is also key.

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

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

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

What Does a Creative Writer Do?

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

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

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

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

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

They may navigate the publishing world with agents and editors.

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

How to Get Started With Creative Writing?

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts: What Is Creative Writing?

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

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

Read This Next:

• What Is a Prompt in Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 200 Examples)
• What Is A Personal Account In Writing? (47 Examples)
• How To Write A Fantasy Short Story (Ultimate Guide + Examples)
• How To Write A Fantasy Romance Novel [21 Tips + Examples)

Are you looking for the best online creative writing courses? You may have found some promising classes online, but you may also be unsure if the course is actually good. How can you know you’ll benefit from the course without spending your money first?

The good news is, there are creative writing courses out there for everyone, and they’re sure to improve your writing. Even better news, the best online creative writing courses share many of the same qualities.

If you want to learn how to write creatively, or if you simply want to improve your everyday writing, the best online creative writing courses can transform your writing abilities. Let’s explore what you might learn in creative writing classes, and how they help writers of all skill levels.

The Best Online Creative Writing Courses: Contents

What do you do in a creative writing class?

• Reputable Instructor
• Clear Course Description
• Promise of a Great Experience
• Constructive Feedback
• Focus on Craft
• Respect Your Creative Autonomy
• A Writing Community
• Motivate You to Write
• Jumpstart a Writing Habit
• Broaden Your Literary Horizons
• Offer a Healthy Creative Outlet
• Give You Next Steps

How to Make the Most of Online Creative Writing Courses

Every online creative writing class is unique, and different courses emphasize different things. We have classes that are entirely generative, meaning the focus is on writing new poems, essays, stories, or making headway into a novel or memoir project. Other courses might have more of a workshop component, in which you share your work with the class and receive feedback on how to improve your writing.

Some online writing courses also focus on specific skills or types of writing. You might take a class focused entirely on learning the tools for revision, or on learning the elements of fiction writing so you can later employ them in a story or novel.

In short, the best online writing courses typically include the following:

• Lectures and discussions on a topic of creative writing craft.
• Assignments that help you generate new work or revise old work.
• Opportunities to give and receive feedback with your fellow classmates.
• Feedback on your work from the instructor, who themselves is a successfully published author of the type of writing you’re producing.
• A weekly video call. Some courses, including ours, are entirely text-based and asynchronous, but many classes meet at least once a week on Zoom.

In addition to all of this, you will make new friends and connections in the best online creative writing classes. Writing is often a lonely experience for writers, and the bonds you make in creative writing workshops can last a lifetime.

12 Things to Look For In the Best Online Creative Writing Courses

The best online creative writing courses will sharpen your writing skills, help you find your confidence, and introduce you to new communities of writers. How do they do it? Here’s 12 things to look for to make sure you’re spending your money on the right online writing class. 

1. The Best Online Creative Writing Courses Have a Reputable Instructor

Your course is only as good as the instructor who teaches it. For online writing classes to teach you the craft, they need to have reputable, trustworthy instructors. A great instructor will also be empathetic, community-oriented, adaptive to your writing needs, and a great writer themselves.

A great instructor will also be empathetic, community-oriented, adaptive to your writing needs, and a great writer themselves.

Do some research on the course instructor: they should have a terminal degree in their field (M.A., M.F.A., Ph.D., etc.), as well as a significant publication history. A reputable instructor will make all the difference in your course: as part of their education, the instructor should have undergone dozens of writing workshops, submitted to countless literary journals, and had their work scrutinized by critics and book lovers alike.

In order for an instructor to help you develop your creative writing skills, they need to be successful on their own. The best instructors are what make the best online creative writing courses.

2. The Best Online Creative Writing Classes Have a Clear Course Description

What does the course teach you, and what will you learn week by week? In addition to listing a reputable instructor, the course description should tell you exactly what you’ll gain from taking the course.

In addition to listing a reputable instructor, the course description should tell you exactly what you’ll gain from taking the course.

Be sure you know exactly what you’re getting out of your online creative writing course, including what you might learn and write in the process. Consider what will help you the most as you embark on your writing journey: entering a course with certain goals or learning objectives will help you make the most of the course’s lectures and writing assignments.

There should be no ambiguity: if you’re paying for the course, you deserve to know exactly what you’re paying for. And, if you have questions, ask the program administrator before you enroll. They should be happy to hear from you!

3. The Best Online Creative Writing Classes Promise a Great Experience

The best online creative writing courses prioritize one thing: YOU! Your learning, your goals, and your writing should be at the center of your experience. And, your course should guarantee that experience.

The best online creative writing courses prioritize your learning, your goals, and your writing.

Creative writing classes can be a risk, since they probably won’t confer university credit and you probably haven’t interacted with that instructor before. You want to be confident that your learning is guaranteed, otherwise you’ll only waste your time, money, and creativity.

Before you enroll in an online writing course, look to see if the program administrators have a student promise . Your experience in the course should be the number one priority of the instructor and administrators; otherwise, you’re better off looking elsewhere for the best online creative writing courses.

4. The Best Online Creative Writing Courses Offer Constructive Feedback

In addition to useful lectures and assignments, creative writing courses give you access to helpful, instructional feedback. Most instructors hold Masters or Doctoral degrees in English or creative writing and, as a result, they have ample knowledge of what works in literature, as well as tons of experience in giving feedback.

Creative writing courses give you access to helpful, instructional feedback.

In the best online creative writing classes, an instructor will both inspire you to write and guide you towards being a better writer. Their feedback will cover the many aspects of great writing. For example, your instructor might comment on:

• Unclear language
• Ideas that need to be expanded
• Sentences that are too wordy or passive
• Opportunities to use more engaging vocabulary
• Places to improve writing structure
• Grammar and spelling corrections

Finally, an instructor will tell you what you are already doing well in your writing. When you write a really great metaphor , use interesting word choice, or find a moment of great insight, your instructor will tell you—highlighting the creative writing skills you have already mastered.

5. The Best Online Creative Writing Courses Focus on Craft

You might be wondering how creative writing classes are different from high school English. The big difference is that, where a typical English class focuses on basic grammar and literacy skills, creative writing classes focus specifically on craft.

Creative writing classes focus specifically on craft: the elements of language and storytelling that make a work of prose or poetry successful.

What is creative writing craft? Craft involves the elements of language and storytelling that make a work of prose or poetry successful. Focusing on craft is how creative writing classes primarily improve your writing.

Your writing class might focus on the structure of a short story, the different types of literary devices , the importance of effective word choice , or the elements of storytelling . A writing class should break down successful works of literature into the components that make it work, giving you the tools to practice your own creative writing skills.

Additionally, craft-focused writing helps you with everyday writing. From improving your vocabulary to structuring an email, the creative writing practice translates to improved writing in every aspect of your life.

6. The Best Online Creative Writing Classes Respect Your Creative Autonomy

One of the benefits of creative writing classes is the perspective you get from different writers. No two writers are working on the same projects, and in your course, you’re likely to work with students of different genres and writing styles.

your creative authority should be respected no matter how new you are to creative writing.

With so many different writing philosophies in one class, the new ideas you encounter can help strengthen your own writing. But in the worst-case scenario, a student or instructor might try to force their writing philosophy onto you. This is always unfair, as there is no one-size-fits-all writing advice, your creative authority should be respected no matter how new you are to creative writing .

For example, let’s say you’re writing a poem about your childhood cat, and the instructor thinks it should be a poem about your experiences growing up. No matter how many times you explain you want this poem to be about your cat, the instructor keeps telling you to write more about your childhood. By ignoring your goals for the poem, the instructor is not respecting your creative autonomy, because they think they know your writing needs better than you do.

No matter where you are in your writing journey, you are a writer, and you deserve respect and compassion as such. Every writer is on a constant journey of growth and discovery; your instructor and course should acknowledge and respect that. In your course, you will encounter many different ideas, but you should also encounter the freedom to accept or reject those ideas. It’s your writing: you get the final say!

7. The Best Online Creative Writing Courses Foster a Writing Community

A creative writing course fosters a creative writing community . This community gives you the motivation to create, as it creates a safe environment to experiment, take risks, and grow in your writing practice.

A writing community gives you the motivation to create, as it creates a safe environment to experiment, take risks, and grow in your writing practice.

For even the most solitary of writers, writing doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Participating in a community of word enthusiasts can jog your creativity and give you useful feedback on your work. Additionally, the feedback you provide other writers in the community also helps you learn. It’s a self-fulfilling, self-sustaining process, where members of a writing group can continuously grow, improve, and fine-tune their love of the craft.

In fact, well-known authors throughout history have been a part of valuable writing communities, such as The Beat Poets, Stratford-on-Odeon, and other famous writing groups .

When you enroll in creative writing classes, you also take part in a writing community. Foster relationships, make new writing friends, and forge your own writing group—it may one day be famous, too!

8. The Best Online Creative Writing Classes Motivate You to Write

Writing is a skill that you can only develop through practice. For anyone just starting on our writing journeys, the best online creative writing classes keep you motivated and accountable.

The best online creative writing classes keep you motivated and accountable.

Every instructor works differently, but you can expect the following in a creative writing class:

• Creative writing prompts
• Daily journaling assignments
• Helpful revisions
• Inspirational readings
• Ideas to combat writer’s block
• Different opinions on how to write creatively

Some courses are even designed to motivate you, such as our course Write Your Novel! The Workshop With Jack . Sometimes, the biggest struggle is simply to begin, and creative writing courses help you do that.

9. The Best Online Creative Writing Classes Jumpstart a Writing Habit

The best online creative writing courses will get you into a writing habit. By combining lectures with thought-provoking assignments, one of the primary goals of a writing course is simply to get you writing.

You’ll gain the most from your creative writing courses if you block out the time to write every day.

To make the most of your creative writing classes, try to find time to write every day. It’s best to write at the same time every day, but if your schedule doesn’t allow this, sneak time where you can.

Here are some ways you can steal time as a writer:

• Journal for 15 minutes before you go to bed.
• Write while you wake up with your morning breakfast or coffee.
• Keep a journal on your phone during work and lunch breaks.
• Write on your commute to and from work. If you’re driving, consider keeping an audio journal, where you write by speaking into your phone’s recording device.
• Write on your phone while running on the treadmill.
• Put pen to paper while taking a bath.

These ideas won’t work for everyone, and it all depends on your schedule and lifestyle. Nonetheless, you’ll gain the most from your creative writing courses if you block out the time to write every day, no matter how brief that time is. And, your course should help you find the time to write!

10. The Best Online Creative Writing Courses Broaden Your Literary Horizons

You need to read great writing to produce great writing. The best online creative writing courses will introduce you to great literature, giving you additional opportunities to explore the writing craft.

The best online creative writing courses will introduce you to great literature, giving you additional opportunities to explore the writing craft.

In creative writing classes, you might read both classic and contemporary literature. As writers, it’s good to have knowledge of both worlds. Classic literature introduces you to the bedrock of modern writing, including the devices and rhetorical strategies that make for effective poetry and prose.

Contemporary literature, on the other hand, gives you a glimpse into today’s literary zeitgeist. It’s important to understand today’s publishing landscape and the type of work that’s being published, even if you don’t intend to write like contemporary authors.

In fact, it’s better if you don’t try to write like anyone else! Reading other writers shows you what works in literature and what doesn’t, giving you opportunities to experiment with form and style. But, at the end of the day, your writing is for you, not for publishers or particular writing schools.

Use your creative writing classes as opportunities to explore literature, experiment with words, and discover what you’d like to write yourself.

11. The Best Online Creative Writing Classes Offer a Healthy Creative Outlet

Creative writing classes offer a healthy outlet for your creativity and emotions.

A healthy writing space can supplement your emotional health and wellbeing.

How is that so? With a space to put thoughts to paper, many writers inevitably reach breakthroughs about their own feelings and experiences. This is true regardless of whether you write poetry, fiction, plays, articles, or creative nonfiction.

Now, even the best online creative writing courses can’t replace the benefits of therapy. But, a healthy writing space can certainly supplement your emotional health and wellbeing. Between the prompts, community, and writing habits that a creative writing class fosters, you’re sure to come away from your course with renewed emotional health.

12. The Best Online Creative Writing Courses Give You Next Steps

Your education doesn’t end at the end of your course. If anything, the best online creative writing courses are only the beginning of your writing journey!

The best online creative writing courses are only the beginning of your writing journey!

The best online creative writing courses give you opportunities for continuous growth. Those opportunities can take many forms, such as: a list of literary journals to submit to, further readings on a topic of interest, future creative writing classes, or even simply the instructor’s email.

If you’re ready to move on to the next level of your career, your instructor should provide you with next steps. And if you crave more learning, ask the instructor!

A creative writing course is much like life: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Being an active participant will teach you as much about creative writing as the instructor will, because engaging with language is how you grow as a writer. Actively working with suggestions and ideas, keeping a daily writing practice, and offering other students constructive feedback will all boost your creative writing skills.

A creative writing course is much like life: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it.

Additionally, do your research before you enroll in the course, or you might end up taking a class that isn’t suited to your needs. Look up the instructor for the course, their teaching style and previous publications, and how much experience they have as a writing coach. If they don’t seem well suited towards your learning style, they might develop your creative writing skills, and they won’t be worth the cost.

Find the Best Online Creative Writing Courses at Writers.com!

Are you looking for a writing community? Are you ready to get writing? Check out some of the upcoming courses at Writers.com , the oldest creative writing school on the internet.

Sean Glatch

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Poets & Writers lists readings, workshops, and other literary events held in cities across the country. Whether you are an author on book tour or the curator of a reading series, the Literary Events Calendar can help you find your audience.

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Find information about more than two hundred full- and low-residency programs in creative writing in our MFA Programs database, which includes details about deadlines, funding, class size, core faculty, and more. Also included is information about more than fifty MA and PhD programs.

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Our MFA database includes essential information about low- and full-residency graduate creative writing programs in the United States and other English-speaking countries to help you decide where to apply.

Adelphi University

Poetry: Jan-Henry Gray, Maya Marshall Prose: Katherine Hill, René Steinke, Igor Webb

Albertus Magnus College

Poetry: Paul Robichaud Fiction: Sarah Harris Wallman Nonfiction: Eric Schoeck

Alma College

Poetry: Leslie Contreras Schwartz, Jim Daniels, Benjamin Garcia Fiction: Karen E. Bender, Shonda Buchanan, Dhonielle Clayton, S. Kirk Walsh Creative Nonfiction: Anna Clark, Matthew Gavin Frank, Donald Quist, Robert Vivian

American University

Poetry: Kyle Dargan, David Keplinger Fiction: Dolen Perkins-Valdez, Stephanie Grant, Patricia Park Nonfiction: Rachel Louise Snyder

Antioch University

Poetry: Victoria Chang Prose: Lisa Locascio

Arcadia University

Poetry: Genevieve Betts, Michelle Reale Fiction: Stephanie Feldman, Joshua Isard, Tracey Levine, Eric Smith Literature: Matthew Heitzman, Christopher Varlack, Elizabeth Vogel, Jo Ann Weiner

Poetry: Genevieve Betts, Michelle Reale Fiction: Stephanie Feldman, Joshua Isard, Tracey Levine, Eric Smith

Arizona State University

Poetry: Sally Ball, Natalie Diaz, Alberto Álvaro Ríos, Safiya Sinclair Fiction: Matt Bell, Jenny Irish, Tara Ison, Mitchell Jackson, T. M. McNally Creative Nonfiction: Sarah Viren

Ashland University

Poetry: Dexter Booth, Marcelo Hernandez Castillo, Adam Gellings, Tess Taylor, Vanessa Angélica Villareal Fiction: Kirstin Chen, Edan Lepucki, Sarah Monette, Nayomi Munaweera, Vi Khi Nao, Naomi J. Williams, Kyle Winkler Nonfiction: Cass Donish, Kate Hopper, Lauren Markham, Thomas Mira y Lopez, Lisa Nikolidakis, Terese Mailhot

Augsburg University

Poetry: Michael Kleber-Diggs Fiction: Stephan Eirik Clark, Lindsay Starck Nonfiction: Anika Fajardo  Playwriting: Carson Kreitzer, TyLie Shider, Sarah Myers Screenwriting: Stephan Eirik Clark, Andy Froemke

Ball State University

Poetry: Katy Didden, Mark Neely Fiction: Cathy Day, Sean Lovelace Nonfiction: Jill Christman, Silas Hansen Screenwriting: Rani Deighe Crowe, Matt Mullins

Bard College

Jess Arndt, Shiv Kotecha, Mirene Arsanios, Hannah Black, Trisha Low, Christoper Perez, Julian Talamantez Brolaski, Simone White

Bath Spa University

Poetry: Lucy English, Tim Liardet, John Strachan, Samantha Walton, Gerard Woodward Fiction: Gavin James Bower, Celia Brayfield, Alexia Casale, Anne-Marie Crowhurst, Lucy English, Nathan Filer, Aminatta Forna, Samantha Harvey, Philip Hensher, Steve Hollyman, Emma Hooper, Claire Kendal, Natasha Pulley, Kate Pullinger, C.J. Skuse, Gerard Woodward Nonfiction: Celia Brayfield, Lily Dunn, Richard Kerridge Scriptwriting: Robin Mukherjee

Poetry: Lucy English, Tim Liardet, Gerard Woodward Fiction: Gavin James Bower, Celia Brayfield, Anne-Marie Crowhurst, Nathan Filer, Aminatta Forna, Samantha Harvey, Philip Hensher, Claire Kendal, Natasha Pulley, Kate Pullinger, Gerard Woodward Nonfiction: Lily Dunn, Richard Kerridge

Bay Path University

Mel Allen, Leanna James Blackwell, Jennifer Baker, Melanie Brooks, María Luisa Arroyo Cruzado, Shahnaz Habib, Susan Ito, Karol Jackowski, Yi Shun Lai, Anna Mantzaris, Meredith O’Brien, Mick Powell, Suzanne Strempek Shea, Tommy Shea, Kate Whouley

Bennington Writing Seminars at Bennington College

Poetry: Jennifer Chang, Michael Dumanis, Randall Mann, Craig Morgan Teicher, Mark Wunderlich Fiction: Peter Cameron, Jai Chakrabarti, Stacey D’Erasmo, Monica Ferrell, Rebecca Makkai, Stuart Nadler, Téa Obreht, Moriel Rothman-Zecher, Katy Simpson Smith, Taymour Soomro Nonfiction: Garrard Conley, Sabrina Orah Mark, Spencer Reece, Lance Richardson, Shawna Kay Rodenberg, Hugh Ryan, Greg Wrenn

Binghamton University

Poetry: Tina Chang, Joseph Weil Fiction: Amir Ahmdi Arian, Thomas Glave, Leslie L. Heywood, Claire Luchette, Liz Rosenberg, Jaimee Wriston-Colbert, Alexi Zentner Nonfiction: Amir Ahmdi Arian, Leslie L. Heywood

Bluegrass Writers Studio at Eastern Kentucky University

Poetry: Julie Hensley, Young Smith Fiction: Julie Hensley, Robert Dean Johnson Nonfiction: Robert Dean Johnson, Evan J. Massey Playwriting: Young Smith

Boise State University

Poetry: Martin Corless-Smith, Sara Nicholson, Taryn Schwilling Fiction: Mitch Wieland (Director), Anna Caritj Creative Nonfiction: Chris Violet Eaton, Clyde Moneyhun

Boston University

Poetry: Andrea Cohen, Karl Kirchwey, Robert Pinsky Fiction: Leslie Epstein, Jennifer Haigh, Ha Jin

Boston University—MFA in Literary Translation

Odile Cazenave, Yuri Corrigan, Margaret Litvin, Christopher Maurer, Roberta Micaleff, Robert Pinsky (advising), Stephen Scully, Sassan Tabatabai, J. Keith Vincent, William Waters, Dennis Wuerthner, Cathy Yeh, Anna Zielinska-Elliott

Bowling Green State University

Poetry: Abigail Cloud, Amorak Huey, Sharona Muir, F. Dan Rzicznek, Larissa Szporluk, Jessica Zinz-Cheresnick Fiction: Joe Celizic, Lawrence Coates, Reema Rajbanshi, Michael Schulz

Brigham Young University

Poetry: Kimberly Johnson, Lance Larsen, Michael Lavers, John Talbot Fiction: Chris Crowe, Ann Dee Ellis, Spencer Hyde, Stephen Tuttle Nonfiction: Joey Franklin, Patrick Madden

Brooklyn College

Poetry: Julie Agoos, Ben Lerner Fiction: Joshua Henkin, Madeleine Thien Playwriting: Dennis A. Allen II, Elana Greenfield

The Writers Studio

The Original School of Creative Writing and Thinking, est. 1987

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Our students have won Pushcarts, a Pulitzer, Emmys, admission to top MFA programs, and too many book and magazine publications to list. Become one of our students!

The Writers Studio was founded by Philip Schultz, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, in 1987

Ways to learn, online and local communities, san francisco, hudson river towns, craft class, view all available classes, hear it from the writers, about the writers studio.

For over three decades The Writers Studio has been helping students become stronger, more resourceful writers — with more craft at their disposal, more knowledge of what makes a piece of creative writing satisfying to a reader, and more access to the full range of their emotions and imagination.

We have developed our own teaching method, which gives students the opportunity to “try on” many different narrative approaches. In the process of studying and trying out the techniques found in a wide array of published work, students end up discovering their own material and voice. They also find a supportive community of like-minded classmates. The school is flexible enough to meet the needs of students at all levels of experience and commitment. Students can take a single six-or eight-week workshop, or proceed through a series of increasingly challenging classes.

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10 Best Creative Writing Courses for 2024: Craft Authentic Stories

Learn how to tell your story and engage your readers with great storytelling.

As a lifelong literature enthusiast, I decided to challenge myself in 2010 by participating in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), which tasks participants with writing a 50,000-word draft within a month. Although I’ve only achieved this goal twice since then, the experience has been invaluable. I’ve connected with a wonderful community of writers, both online and in person.

Through my experience, I can confidently say that creative writing is a skill that can be developed and honed, just like any other. While traditionally associated with literature, creative writing is increasingly being recognized as a powerful tool in various forms of writing, from copywriting and storytelling to novels and poetry. It has the ability to captivate readers and elevate the impact of written expression.

If you’re searching for the best online Creative Writing courses and resources, you’ve come to the right place. This Best Courses Guide (BCG) is built from Class Central’s catalog of over 300 Creative Writing courses and selected according to a methodology that you can check below.

Click on the shortcuts for more details:

What is Creative Writing?

Courses overview, why you should trust us, how we made our picks and tested them, here are our top picks.

Click on one to skip to the course details:

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Creative writing is a genre of writing that seeks to evoke emotions and feelings in its readers. It surpasses the limits of traditional forms of literature and emphasizes narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes and poetic traditions. Creative writing finds application in various forms of writing, including screenplays, plays, novels, poems, and other written works. In this guide, I will delve into some of its most popular facets.

Enhancing resilience and creativity through writing

Research shows that the brains of professional writers work differently from those of novice writers. Moreover, creative writing has been found to boost resilience in students . If you want to enjoy the benefits of writing, it’s important to develop the habit of jotting down your thoughts and words. Doing so can help you overcome writer’s block.

Creative writing is so powerful that it’s used in prisons to give inmates a chance to express themselves in programs like PEN America . “By providing resources, mentorship, and audiences outside the walls, we help these writers to join and enrich the broader literary community.”

Creative writing is a skill that can be learned and practiced like any other. Techniques such as ABDCE structure, 1st or 3rd person point of view, “show don’t tell”, dialogues, and tropes can be easily learned through the online courses in this guide.

• Together, they account for over 1M enrollments
• Skillshare, with 2 courses, is the most featured provider
• The single most popular course has nearly 400k enrollments
• Three courses are entirely free or free-to-audit.

Best Fantasy And Short-Stories Writing Lessons For Beginners (Brandon Sanderson)

Besides being an awesome writer, Sanderson is an instructor with a very unique talent for keeping us engaged. He has also made available a full course in creative writing on YouTube , originally presented at Brigham Young University, which includes the most crucial tools for any beginner or even experienced writers. The course is comprehensive and rich in content, with great sound and video quality.

Each video discusses a specific tool or technique, so you can easily select the theme you want to explore next or watch it all in sequence. It’s up to you. I recommend you take your time, watch one video at a time and experiment with each concept, or even better, find a writing buddy or form a group to practice writing together.

What you’ll learn:

• Plot construction, character development, and engaging storytelling
• Techniques for crafting immersive worlds and believable viewpoints
• Insights into the publishing industry, tailored for emerging writers
• Strategies for writing compelling short stories and leveraging them for larger projects.

“Very informative! I’m a beginner writer looking to study writing for video games, and this class gave me a lot of helpful tools to start understanding how stories work/how to organize my ideas! Will definitely be returning to some of these lectures in the future for guidance 👍” – Paige Webster

Best University-level Creative Writing Course (Wesleyan University)

Creative Writing by Wesleyan University is a specialization for those looking for a way to improve their writing structure, scene and character creations and finding your style. Each course includes writing practice (for paying learners) and insightful interviews. It’s worth your time and effort if you are a disorganized writer like myself.

• Techniques for crafting a bracing story with memorable characters and an interesting setting
• How to employ a fresh descriptive style in your writing
• Skills for analyzing and constructively evaluating peer writing
• The ability to refine your writing, critique writing in general, and draw inspiration from existing literature
• The process of drafting, rewriting, and completing an original story in the genre of your choosing.

It should be noted that the peer-grading system often lacks depth. However, the assignments are well-crafted and can be easily evaluated with minimal effort, providing some insights from other participants in the form of feedback or inspiration from their submissions.

“Great information about plot and scene structure. The information about revision was entirely new to me – thank you! The exercises were good and difficult in a good way that helped me hone my writing.” – Laura B, Coursera learner

Best Course to Find Your Voice (Neil Gaiman)

Neil Gaiman is currently one the most prolific writers I know of: he’s written books , comics , movies and even TV shows . Even if you’re not a fan of his style, there is definitely something you can learn from him.

In Neil Gaiman Teaches The Art Of Storytelling you will discover Neil’s philosophy on what drives a story and learn to unlock new stories within yourself.

While MasterClass doesn’t sell single courses, a subscription provides access to their entire library, including other writing courses like Margaret Atwood Teaches Creative Writing , Dan Brown Teaches Writing Thrillers , Malcolm Gladwell Teaches Writing , and James Patterson Teaches Writing . If you are considering the purchase, you should definitely enjoy the rest of their catalog.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Discover and develop your unique writing voice
• Generate and develop original ideas
• Create dynamic, well-rounded characters that come to life on the page.

This course includes a 94-page workbook that includes assignments and supplemental material.

Best Practical Writing Course With Support (Trace Crawford)

I love it when a passionate teacher like Trace Crawford puts the effort into creating a comprehensive curriculum. COMPLETE Creative Writing – All Genres is a 12-hour course with 145 downloadable resources. In this course, you will learn how to write engaging fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction, helping you become the successful writer you want to be.

• The four genres of creative writing: fiction, poetry, drama, and creative non-fiction
• How to discover, refine, and share your unique writing voice
• A series of authentic writing assignments designed to target the skills you need to develop
• Writing techniques, literary devices, and specialized skills to enhance your writing
• Opportunities for publishing, podcasts, and how to create a professional creative writing portfolio
• Discover multiple public outlets to share your writing with others as you gain confidence and experience success in your writing ability.

This is a practical creative writing course that includes assignments reviewed by the instructor, though response time may vary.

“The short snippets of theory in combination with the short assignments suits my learning style. I don’t remember the last time I’ve written anything creative, but this course gave me the incentive to set some foundation and its actually quite enjoyable if you stick to it.” – Nikolaos-Stylianos Z., Udemy learner

Best Course to Overcome Writer’s Block: 10-Day Journaling Challenge (Emily Gould)

I couldn’t resist adding Creative Writing for All: A 10-Day Journaling Challenge to this guide. Emily Gould is a delightful instructor, and her approach to inviting you to participate in the challenge is impossible to decline. It’s the perfect course to overcome writer’s block, which is exactly what she proposes. In this 10-day creative writing challenge, filled with inspiring examples, observation prompts, and clever revision tricks, writers and enthusiasts will be able to express their creativity in a personal and artful way.

This course is the shortest one on the list, and it’s more about the challenge of keeping a journal. If you decide to subscribe to Skillshare, you can also enjoy their entire library of courses. In addition to the other two recommended courses on this list, you can also check out these other Skillshare courses: Writing Suspense: How to Write Stories That Thrill in Any Genre and The Writer’s Toolkit: 6 Steps to a Successful Writing Habit .

Best Course to Create Fiction From Personal Experience (Shaun Levin)

Shaun’s approach to writing in Short Story Writing: Create Fiction from Personal Experience is an unusual one. It draws from your personal experience to create a compelling fictional story. I can say from experience that this technique will help you write with more depth and authenticity. Every time we bring our own life to the story, it becomes alive, believable and relatable. In a way, all fictional stories are based on the author’s life.

This course will help you with techniques and a series of practical exercises to start writing your scenes from a more philosophical point of view, creating compelling stories. You’ll learn how to delve into your imagination to find everything you’ll need to become a prolific writer, no matter where you are.

By the end of the course, you will have a final project that will receive feedback from Shaun and other learners as well. Actually, if you want to check it out, in the course page on Domestika you can open the submitted projects and read the comments.

Shaun’s other courses: Creative Writing for Beginners: Bringing Your Story to Life .

“A practical course. Shaun Levin talks about theory but also demonstrates his process, which was invaluable. The exercises got my creative juices flowing. Thinking about doing his other course in the future.” – Maya Dicheva

Best Course to Make Writing Less Stressful with Best Practices (Jennie Nash)

If you struggle to start or get stuck in your writing, Write Your Book: Start Strong and Get It Done can help. With good advice and emotional support, you’ll learn techniques to make writing less stressful. The accompanying workbook guides you to think methodically by asking the right questions to keep you focused on your story and not chasing your own tail.

In this class, you’ll learn how to:

• Design every element of your novel or memoir, including the protagonist, plot, story structure and a project success plan
• Define your narrator’s voice
• Determine where your story begins and where it ends
• Decide what point you’re making about human nature
• Make sure you’re giving your ideal reader exactly what they want
• Gain the confidence you need to push past any doubts and finish your book.

This course is more of a masterclass, so there are no assignments included but it teaches good practices and provides a very useful workbook.

Best Course to Create A Compelling Story (Lisa Cron)

Writing: The Craft of Story is a series of well-produced lectures covering the basic building blocks of a story. Taught by author Lisa Cron, you will learn how to create compelling stories based on the way the brain responds to storytelling. This course emphasizes the importance of capturing the reader’s attention through techniques such as suspense, exploring the protagonist’s inner issues and dreams, specificity, and cause and effect. Upon completion of the quizzes, you will receive a certificate for your LinkedIn profile. Additionally, you can watch all the videos without subscribing to the course.

“Learning the fundamentals of crafting a story was and is a fascinating experience. And yes, I would highly recommend writing to anyone interested in learning how to express the communication of feeling.” – Nicole Gillard, LinkedIn learner.

Best Course to Write Personal Essays with Impact (Roxane Gay)

Discover the art of crafting powerful personal essays with best-selling author Roxane Gay in her course, Creative Writing: Crafting Personal Essays with Impact . Through her honest and thoughtful approach, Roxane will help you find your story, craft your truth, and write to make a difference.

This master class offers eight video lessons that are filled with practical guidance, actionable tactics, and example essays to guide you from the first idea to a final, publication-ready work.

You’ll learn how to:

• Find a specific purpose for telling your story
• Connect your work to larger conversations and timely themes
• Conduct crucial research to support your work
• Navigate personal memories to write your truth
• Write and revise your final work, and submit your work for publication.

Additionally, the class provides a downloadable worksheet to support your ongoing creative nonfiction writing practice, as well as links to additional resources.

If you enjoy creative nonfiction writing, you might consider this course that’s also on Skillshare: Creative Nonfiction: Write Truth with Style (Skillshare Original) by Susan Orlean

Best Course to Develop Your Ideas And Research for Characters (The Open University)

Start Writing Fiction explores the writing process, from journaling and idea development to reflection and editing. It features insights from established writers such as Louis de Bernières, Patricia Duncker, Alex Garland, Abdulrazak Gurnah, Tim Pears, Michèle Roberts, and Monique Roffey,  who share their approaches to research and turning events into plot. Led by Derek Neale, a novelist and short story writer, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of the writing rituals and techniques used by successful writers.

You’ll get to critique the work of other writers and receive feedback. This course is designed for individuals interested in starting or improving their fiction writing and does not require prior experience in the subject.

You’ll learn:

• Creation of characters in fiction
• Different sources and ways of presenting characters in stories
• Reading as a writer
• Writing practice including creativity, research, observation and editing
• Peer reviewing, workshops and the importance of feedback.

“This course takes learners through many aspects of writing such as developing characters, observing and describing details, finding inspiration, writing and editing. It includes some peer reviews which can be varying in quality. I was lucky enough to have some of my writing reviewed by a reviewer who gave very helpful and positive feedback.” – Pat Bowden

What’s Next

Scribophile is one of the largest online writing communities. You can get feedback on your writing and join writing groups. If you decide to join with a free plan, you need to collect points by reviewing other writers’ work before submitting your own work for review. They also developed some advanced tools for evaluating work and guidelines to make sure you give/receive feedback that is actually meaningful.

NaNoWriMo started out as a month-long challenge where you invite your friends and join other writers in your region, be it online in their forums or in person, to challenge yourself in writing your first draft. Nowadays, they run all-year round writing challenges (but November is still the biggest one in terms of participation). What is cool about it is you actually get to meet people in real life with various writing skills and backgrounds. I was able to make some great friends over the years and even met a few professional writers that decided to join our local group just to support us.

If you have any resources you would like to have added here, leave a comment below.

Class Central , a Tripadvisor for online education, has helped 60 million learners find their next course. We’ve been combing through online education for more than a decade to aggregate a catalog of 200,000 online courses and 200,000 reviews written by our users. And we’re online learners ourselves: combined, the Class Central team has completed over 400 online courses, including online degrees.

Trying to find “the best” can be daunting, even for those of us who live and breathe online courses. Here’s how I approached this task.

First, I combed through Class Central’s Catalog and the internet to find a variety of free and paid open courses, some with certificates. You don’t need to enroll in a university to learn about creative writing.

When choosing courses, I considered the following factors:

• Renowned Institutions : I looked for recognized institutions in creative writing
• Instructor experience : I sought instructors with extensive experience in creative writing and engaging presentation styles
• Popularity : I checked numbers of enrollments and views to find popular courses
• Course content : I examined courses that covered a range of topics and presentation styles, including the basics and more advanced topics. I watched some course videos to sample courses I hadn’t already taken
• Learner reviews : I read learner reviews (when available) to get a sense of the quality of each course, leveraging the Class Central database with its thousands of course ratings and reviews written by our users as well as available course provider reviews.

Then, I defined the scope for these recommendations. A creative writing course can cover various topics, so I chose top courses from a range of sub-fields.

Ultimately, I used a combination of data and my own judgment to make these picks. I’m confident these recommendations will be a reliable way to learn about creative writing.

Fabio Dantas

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Creative Writing

One of the nation's most prestigious open-enrollment creative writing programs..

Whether you're looking to improve your writing for personal fulfillment, want to be published, or are preparing to apply to an MFA program, the Writers' Program can help you achieve your goals. You will find a supportive community of instructors, academic counselors and fellow students to help you on your journey.

We offer a wide range of open-enrollment courses, all of which may be taken individually. A guide on where to get started is provided below.

We also offer a fully customizable 21-unit Certificate in Creative Writing  where you can develop professional creative writing skills in the genre of your choice.

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Creative Writing Certificate

Develop your skills in the genre of your choice, including fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and more.

This customizable program culminates in a capstone project where you will make significant progress on a polished collection of work.

Taught by a prestigious roster of instructors who are published writers and active professionals, courses can be taken onsite, online, or a combination of both.

Annual Writers Studio

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Last updated on Feb 07, 2023

The 50+ Best Writing Websites of 2024

The Internet is full of writing websites and blogs to help people reach their creative goals . If you’ve always dreamt of writing your own book, but don’t know how to get there — or if you’re in the process of writing, but feel unsure about what to do next — then it’s your lucky day! Here we have all the best writing websites of 2024 in one single place for your convenience. They’re also organized by category, and alphabetically within each of those categories, to make each one easier to find. Enjoy!

Best writing websites for writing craft and inspiration

1. Almost an Author

Offering up new content every day, Almost an Author covers a grand scope of writing topics. From genre-specific advice to emotional support on your writing journey, there's tons of useful info here for beginner and veteran writers alike.

2. Association of Writer & Writing Programs

Having just marked their 50th anniversary, AWP is one of the premier authorities on writing. The AWP website provides resources and ample opportunities for authors, teachers, and students at every point in their career. Here you’ll be able to find information about writing programs, career options, and conferences all over the world. Keep in mind, though, that access to some of these features is restricted to members only.

3. Creativity Portal

This is a wonderful hub for creative resources that has been around for a whopping nineteen years! Here you can find writing prompts , creative coaching, printable writing templates, and interviews with authors that will help nourish the right side of your brain.

4. Daily Writing Tips

As the name suggests, this site offers daily writing tips ranging from open-ended prompts and exercises to grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary. It also covers all writing levels and professions, so it doesn't matter how far along you are in your writing career — DWT is sure to help you out.

Instead of spending thousands of dollars on a master’s degree, you can get your own "DIY MFA" right here! This site (founded by Gabriela Pereira ) aims to cover everything you would learn in a graduate program, while giving you the freedom to choose your own areas of concentration and allocate your time as you please. 

6. Electric Literature

While not exactly a craft-focused website — so no straight-up writing advice or prompts — this nonprofit digital publisher showcases literature-related essays, criticism, and recommended readings. If you're looking to brush up on both literary theory and recent literary trends, Electric Lit is the place for you.

7. Fiction University

This virtual university, run by award-winning author Janice Hardy, contains tons of advice and concrete examples to help authors build a strong writing foundation. It's full of blog posts by professionals who share their own processes and techniques, providing tips not just on what you should do as a writer, but on how  to make it happen.

8. Helping Writers Become Authors

Longtime author K.M. Weiland offers writing advice that ranges from outlining and structuring to characterization and dialogue — plus all the little details in between. She updates her blog faithfully with topical posts that would pique any writer's (or non-writer's) interest.

9. Insecure Writer's Support Group

Writing is intimidating for everyone , whether you're a multi-published author or you're just starting out. That's why getting support, guidance, and motivation throughout the process is vital! On IWSG, you'll discover a wealth of information on writing, publishing, marketing, and anything else you might need to ultimately overcome your insecurities.

10. Literary Hub

LitHub boasts a superb selection of content for all things literary. Here you can get all the latest book-related news, posts on design and the craft, your daily dose of fiction, and sparkling reviews of new works. One of this site's best features is its section on literature in translation — a great resource for those who want to read books and authors from around the world.

11. LitReactor

The LitReactor blog consists of writing classes, workshops, and a myriad of posts on writing and books ( some of which are even written by us! ). There’s also an online magazine that includes interviews, criticism and analysis, and seasonally appropriate reads and recommendations.

12. LitRejections

An unfortunate occupational hazard of with writing is rejection. This is where a site like LitRejections comes into play! It offers personal stories to help discouraged writers persevere through rejection, and maintain hope and motivation as they move forward in their careers.

13. Live Write Thrive

In this website by professional writer and editor C.S. Lakin, you’ll find plenty of nuanced writing anecdotes and tips. Lakin also supplies annotated critiques that can help you prep your book for publication.

14. NaNoWriMo

Besides serving as the official information hub for NaNoWriMo , this site also lends constant support for those struggling to "win" National Novel Writing Month. Make sure to check out the NaNoWriMo forums, which are chock-full of other people's personal writing tips and strategies to get you through November — and every other month of the year — as a writer.

15. Now Novel

This comprehensive website, founded by author Bridget McNulty , is a go-to for just about every writing-related question you might have. Here you'll also find advice, courses, and even an author dashboard where you can keep track of your own writing progress.

16. Positive Writer

If you often feel uncertain about your creative abilities, this is the site for you. Bryan Hutchinson created Positive Writer to encourage and inspire all those who want to write, no matter how much experience or confidence they have.

17. ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid offers a fantastic manuscript editing software that analyzes your writing and creates reports for you to learn from! This tool also includes a thesaurus, grammar checks, style suggestions, and more — you can learn all about it on the ProWritingAid blog, or in our review of the app !

18. She Writes

A well-established writing website with a feminist bent, She Writes is "the largest online community and content site for women writers... all around the world." The site features thoughtful posts and resources to help writers on their journeys, as well as a personal She Writes blog page for every user who signs up.

19. Well-Storied

Here you can find recent articles, workbooks, tutorials, and fascinating discussions on writing. Kristine Kieffer has an extensive archive of posts as well, where you can procure information on just about any topic related to books and writing.

20. The Write Practice

Fulfilling the promise of their name, every single post on this site emphasizes putting theory into practice! There's simply no better way to become a writer than by creating a routine, and that’s exactly what The Write Practice helps facilitate.

21. Writer’s Digest

Writer's Digest is one of the most encyclopedic writing websites out there — after all, the print magazine has been around for almost a century now! Here you’ll find genre and vocation-organized articles, events and competitions, webinars, templates, tutorials, and so much more.

22. Writer Unboxed

Writer Unboxed features articles by authors and industry professionals, focused specifically on the craft and business of fiction writing.

23. The Writing Cooperative

Plain and simple, this is a group of people who want to help each other become better writers. On Writing Cooperative, you will find articles that cover just about every aspect of the writing life. They also have monthly writing challenges to keep you incentivized, and there’s even a space where you can submit your own article to the blog!

24. Writing.com

This is an absolutely all-inclusive community for writers . It’s open to all levels and provides a creative, supportive environment for all members, as well as portfolios to store and display their writing. Like most writing websites, it also includes a plethora of writing tools , contests, and rewards.

25. Catapult: Don’t Write Alone

Don’t Write Alone is a blog written by the Catapult team dedicated to helping writers grow their skills. As a publisher and magazine founded in 2005, Catapult has seen a lot of works and now they’re spilling all the details. From interviews, to craft essays, to writer lifestyle essays, Catapult covers it all.

26. Kirkus Review’s Writers’ Center

Kirkus Review is known for its prestigious $50,000 dollar annual prize and its bi-monthly issues where they critique hundreds of recently published books. But, did you know they also have a section of their website devoted to helping emerging writers grow their skills and navigate the publishing industry? They’re always up to date on the latest trends — if they aren’t creating new trends themselves.

27. Writers Write

An invaluable resource for creative writers, business writers, or bloggers, Writers Write offers over 1400 articles, courses, and workbooks to help you take your writing practice to the next level. Alongside their educational content, they offer book reviews, trivia on famous authors, and prompts. Sign up for their inspirational newsletters for regular hits of motivation that will keep you writing.

28. The Narrative Arc

Beginning as a home to Andie R. Cranford’s writing journey, The Narrative Arc is now a treasure trove of practical tips and prompts to inspire your creativity. Breakdowns of popular books are particularly handy for the budding author — but whether exploring writing for the first time or tightening the bolts on your Franken-novel, the site's ideas on craft are elegant and inspiring.

Best writing websites in the publishing industry

29. Agent Query

This database allows authors to perform in-depth searches for literary agents . You can narrow your search by genre and keywords, view agents’ full profiles, and see if they are currently accepting queries — all for free!

30. The Creative Penn

Besides being a bestselling author on various topics, Joanna Penn is also a leading voice in self-publishing . On her punnily named site, you’ll find abundant information related to writing, self-publishing, marketing, and everything else you mind need to make a living as a writer.

31. Digital Pubbing

Digital Pubbing provides industry news, interviews with indie authors, and resources for learning all about ebooks and the publishing industry. In accordance with the name, this is the perfect site for any author hoping to absorb some serious digital knowledge.

32. The Independent Publishing Magazine

We know it might seem like we're repeating ourselves, but this website really is all about publishing (both independent and traditional, despite what the name indicates). Whatever info you need about self-publishing, trad pub, or hybrid publishing , you’ll definitely be able to find it here.

33. Publishers Weekly

And if you have a specific question about the publishing world, you’ll most likely find the answer here. This weekly magazine is packed full of news, reviews, announcements, and many other resources on the industry. It has been dubbed as "the Bible of the book business" and with its extensive archive, it’s easy to see why.

34. Publishing Perspectives

Publishing Perspectives is another leading source of publishing info, specializing in industry news and topical articles. Aimed at publishers, agents , and authors alike, it features a variety of posts that cover book fairs, distribution, education, and much more.

35. Query Shark

Not sure where your query letter is up to snuff? Query Shark offers the opportunity to have your query critiqued, and to read detailed query critiques of other authors' letters, so you can get the best possible results for your book. Be warned, though, that this sharp-toothed feedback isn't for the weak of heart.

36. Writer Beware

This amazingly thorough site compiles information on schemes and scams that affect authors , especially those run through email and the Internet. It’s sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, but obviously applies to authors everywhere. If you're a fresh-faced author trying to get published, definitely check it out — it could save you from losing thousands of dollars in an elaborate scam.

37. The Darling Axe

When the industry professionals at The Darling Axe aren’t working on manuscripts, they flock to the internet to share their hot takes on the publishing industry. They also host writing contests throughout the year to build a writing community and give unpublished authors the chance to get feedback from professionals.

Best writing websites for marketing and design

38. David Gaughran

An experienced author of historical adventures, short stories, and popular books for writers , David Gaughran is one of the definitive writing experts out there. His eponymous blog contains plenty of info on marketing and self-publishing, plus workshops to help aspiring authors. And similar to Writer Beware, he's the noble opposition of online publishing scams and scammers — so if you're frustrated by these issues, you'll discover a blissfully sympathetic voice on his blog.

39. Kikolani

Focused specifically on marketing, Kikolani offers tips and strategies for bloggers who want to grow their presence and attract more readers. Here you’ll find information on brand development , social media, customer retention, and other useful tips that you can put to good use as a blogger. (If you're just getting started, though, we'd recommend this course .)

40. Kindlepreneur

Dave Chesson is — in his own words — a “digital marketing nut.” His blog has all the information you could ever need about Kindle book publishing , how to write to market, increasing your rankings on Amazon, and lots more practical tips and advice.

41. Storiad

Storiad is a marketing platform that helps authors and publishers sell books. Go here for essential information on writing apps , databases, tools, and budgeting to help you run your own publishing campaign from start to finish.

42. Writers & Artists

Part of the distinguished Bloomsbury, Writers & Artists has quite a few articles on writing and the self-publishing process. They also offer editorial services and events on many different topics, like genre-specific writing courses and how to get connected with agents .

43. Your Writer Platform

Naturally, this site is dedicated to building your very own writer platform. There are tons of tips, resources, tools, how-tos, and even individual consulting services to help you build the platform that works best for you and your marketing needs.

Best writing blogs by industry professionals

44. Goins, Writer

Bestselling author Jeff Goins created this blog to share his thoughts on writing and to inspire others to chase their creative dreams. He's especially good at breaking complex topics down into digestible bits — new writers, go here for your primers.

45. Jane Friedman

With copious experience in the publishing industry, Jane Friedman offers online classes and articles on the entire process of book publishing. She's a real goldmine of business knowledge, so keep her in mind for when you're ready to publish your book.

46. Nail Your Novel

As a bestselling former ghostwriter who now publishes under her own name, Roz Morris provides advice about writing, self-publishing, and of course, ghostwriting . If you're interested in becoming a ghostwriter, be sure to check out her courses!

47. Nathan Bransford

Nathan Bransford is a former literary agent who posts all about the inner workings of publishing, as well and information on agents and self-publishing. He also does consultations, edits, and critiques . 

48. Rachelle Gardner

Skillful agent Rachelle Gardner has negotiated over 200 contracts with over twenty publishers and helped more than 100 authors fulfill their dreams of publishing. On her blog, she offers writing, publishing, and social media coaching, along with general writing and publishing tips.

49. Kris Writes

For regular insights from a New York Times bestselling author, look no further than Kristine Kathryn Rusch's blog. On Mondays, she posts free short stories for authors to find inspiration in, and Wednesdays she posts in her “Business Musings” collection where she breaks down news from the publishing industry and offers her inside opinions. 

50. The Marginalian  

Maria Popova describes her site as “a record of my own becoming as a person — intellectually, creatively, spiritually, poetically — drawn from my extended marginalia on the search for meaning across literature, science, art, philosophy, and the various other tendrils of human thought and feeling.” She sends out a Sunday newsletter with thoughtful deconstruction of the week’s best liberal arts goings-on to help broaden her readers’ appreciation of the creative world.

51. John August

For all the screenwriters out there, John August co-hosts a weekly podcast with fellow screenwriter Craig Mazin discussing both the craft and business of screenwriting while breaking down popular movies. To help screenwriters really get a feel for the process of working with a studio, John has posted multiple versions of scripts from different stages in the production process on films and series he’s written, including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , Big Fish , and Chernobyl .

What are some of your favorite writing websites? Let us know in the comments below!

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The 25 best podcasts for writers

Audio can be a bit of a contentious subject among written word lovers. But we're not here to re-litigate the age-old debate over whether listening to audiobooks counts as "reading" (it does, by the way).

Writing can be a lonely profession (or currently unpaid passion, until it can become your profession). But podcasts can bring listeners a sense of community no matter how isolated they are in their interests, both emotionally or geographically. As the illustrious history of famous literary circles goes to show, it often takes a village to produce the singular creative geniuses of an era.

So for established authors or amateur creative writers with big aspirations alike, there's a lot to be gained from the virtual book clubs and writer communities behind the podcasts listed below. Whether you're looking for guidance on the writing process, seeking to learn the fundamentals of great literature or about the publishing industry, or looking for muses to refill your well of inspiration, we've got you covered. From fiction to memoir, screenwriting to playwriting, and prose to poetry, there's an endless world of audio storytellers just waiting to fill your ears with the written word.

1. It's Lit

Let's be honest: Literature — from book clubs to publishing — tends to gatekeep far too many people of color from nurturing their love of reading . But those who've been kept out are now finding more and more ways to break through the walls of white literary snobbery. The It's Lit! podcast (hosted by Princess Weekes, an assistant editor at The Mary Sue) is the podcast spin-off of the popular PBS YouTube series by the same name. Covering a broad scope of genres, it offers refreshingly invigorating takes and far more relatable perspectives to literary discourse. The guests (who include Ibi Ziboi and Mikki Kendall) and conversations cover much of what traditional literary circles too often leave out (like whether "the classics fail us" or why diverse young adult fiction is so important), creating a bookish space that's as inviting as it is enthralling.

2. Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

Delving into the ins and outs of grammar can be, shall we say, boring. (Apologies to our editors.) But this beloved show from host and author Mignon Fogarty (formerly a science writer and journalism professor at the University of Nevada), brings a much-needed lack of judgment along with accessibility and actual fun to learning about the nitty-gritty of the English language. It's an essential resource for writers of all sorts, diving into not only the rules (and how and when and why you can break them) but also the historical and cultural contexts behind them. [Adapted from our Best Educational Podcasts list ]

3. Let's Talk About Myths, Baby!

Academics trace many of the modern Western storytelling conventions back to Greek mythology, from act structure to archetypes. This podcast allows writers to familiarize themselves with that foundational source of their craft. Host Liv Albert, an author who studied classical civilizations and English literature at Concordia University, does an amazing job of rendering the ancient texts both accessible and exciting, without sacrificing nuance. Deeply researched yet conversationally casual, the podcast analyzes the gods, heroes, and creatures of Greek myth through a variety of modern lenses, from feminism to queerness and even neurodivergence. The formatting ranges from solo episodes with multi-part-series deep dives around a theme to more broad conversations with other mythology experts. While you've definitely heard of these myths before, you've never heard them told quite like this.

Host and author Aaron Mankhe sets the tone for the quiet grimness of this phenomenal oral storytelling podcast, his somber narration of folklore (both ancient and contemporary) intermingling with melancholic piano notes. Each episode explores a compendium of hauntingly beautiful tales both real and imagined, from human monsters like serial killer H. H. Holmes to more mysterious myths like that of the alleged werewolf of Bedburg, Germany. The common thread is our collective unconscious, with the moral of the story always coming back to a central aspect of the human condition and the existential questions that have haunted us for ages. [Adapted from our Best Podcasts for Horror Fans list ]

5. Unpublished

The creative writer's life is a series of ego battles that we mostly face alone, so it's vital to remember that, actually, countless others are also fighting in those same trenches. The simple yet powerful purpose of Unpublished with Amie McNee (author of The Rules Upheld by No One ) and James Winestock (a research student at the University of Sydney currently working on three yet-to-be published novels) is to give you a space to unabashedly "take your art seriously." Through insights from them and their occasional guests (like social psychologist and author Dr. Devon Price), you learn about the many different ways to tackle all the barriers to practicing the craft, whether emotional or practical. From abandoning false concepts of "laziness" to handling failure, the more stigmatized parts of the writer's journey are brought into the light through intimate and informative discussions.

6. What Should I Read Next?

It's the question that looms over every avid reader as they begin to reach those final pages of a good book. What the hell am I going to read next? Word of mouth can often be one of the best ways of finding new books to love. But in the absence of an IRL book club or literary community, there's this great podcast. Every week, author and blogger Anne Bogel (perhaps better known as Modern Mrs. Darcy) picks a listener, often an author themselves, to talk about their work and get some help on their next book-finding hunt. After asking them about what they like, dislike, and want to get out of their next read, she makes personal recommendations across all genres. It's not only a clever way to give listeners ideas about what to read next, but also inevitably turns into a discussion about all the different reasons people love to read. And that's vital information for a writer as much as it is for a reader. You can submit your own reading recommendation request to the What Should I Read Next? podcast via the show's website.

7. The Moth

The Moth has been around for decades, though not necessarily in audio form. The New York City-based nonprofit started with live storytelling events and contests (StorySLAMs with themes like "Saved," "Scars," and "Gratitude") in 1997, and now exists as a podcast featuring short stories from the speakers' real lives, performed in front of a live audience. What makes the podcast so great is its simple format: people sharing their stories. The tales are heartfelt, humorous, original, and sincere, and they're told by everyone, from comedians to professional storytellers, like Hari Kondabolu and Elna Baker. You'll hear of exotic dancing , heartbreaking high school rejections , and experiences with Australian wildlife that will make you laugh, cry, and everything between. [Adapted from our Best Storytelling Podcasts list ]

8. The Creative Writer's Toolbelt

If you're in the market for both interview-style and more lecture-like advice on everything from the fundamentals of story structure to the nuts and bolts of technique, genre, process, and industry navigation, this is the podcast for you. Host Andy Chamberlain, author of the science-fiction book The Centauri Survivors , provides lessons on how to improve your writing. Other episodes tap a range of successful writers who work in a variety of different mediums, from TV to comic books. Featuring authors, journalists, playwrights, poets, etc., the podcast provides a unique perspective on how to approach a specific craft. And with a short 30- to 45-minute run time per episode, it's easy to incorporate into your own routine.

9. Write-Minded

This is yet another conversational shop-talking podcast, but Write-Minded stands apart thanks to its hosts, two seminal community-builders who created some of the most important resources for new writers. Since 2012, Brooke Warner has helped women break through sexist barriers to entry around publishing with the popular She Writes online community and She Writes Press. Meanwhile, Grant Faulkner leads National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), the competition that's been the catalyst for hundreds of thousands of authors to take the plunge and write a 50,000-word original work of fiction in a single month. Their podcast is one of the more soul-bearing and honest on this list, and ideal for writers who lack a support system or writers' group to not only discuss the difficulties of the craft but to exchange ideas and inspiration. Topics range from the titillating world of erotica storytelling to helping set your writing free of expectations to finding your own voice.

10. Snap Judgment

Snap Judgment , like The Moth , is based off a live storytelling show. The difference is that Snap Judgment , which is produced by NPR and hosted by beloved radio personality Glynn Washington, adds musical accompaniment to stories, usually making for an experience more along the lines of slam poetry. Public listening risks public tears , thanks to Snap Judgment's moving and affecting stories. It's a perfect well of inspiration for writers, and to the keen observer can be a fantastic teacher on immersive storytelling. [Adapted from our Best Storytelling Podcasts list ]

11. Writer's Routine

Writers often have a near-obsessive fascination with process and routine, whether it's min-maxing their own or learning the details how successful authors approach it. Dan Simpson's (author and poet-in-residence at Imperial College and St Albans Cathedral) interview podcast is by far the most nitty-gritty on this list. Award-winning and best-seller guests (including Bridget Collins and Trent Dalton) get asked about everything from their work schedule to the layout of their writing room and even preferred font. None ever give the same answers, and listening to the total chaos of even New York Times best-selling authors' day-to-day routines is a comfort to all who are insecure about their own.

12. Well-Read Black Girl

Glory Edim began her online book club catered to Black women and girls back in 2015 , but only recently brought that wonderful community to the podcasting world. This weekly show features intimate and joyous interviews with powerhouses like the 1619 Project 's Nikole Hannah-Jones and Me Too founder Tarana Burke to discuss not only their own books, but also relationships to literature and "what it means to be well-read" as a Black woman in America. Whether you're hunting for your next book recommendation or just craving a sense of community that avoids literature's notorious gatekeeping, Well-Read Black Girl will make you feel seen and at home.

13. Phoebe Reads a Mystery

We here at Mashable are unapologetic Phoebe Judge stans . If you fell in love with the award-winning journalist and beloved podcaster's ASMR-esque voice (which inspires calm even while she's describing violent crimes in her podcast Criminal) , you'll love this new one, too. Throw Agatha Christie into the mix, and you've got one of the best new podcasts to fall asleep to or enjoy while otherwise relaxing. Phoebe Reads a Mystery is exactly what it sounds like, and began by taking listeners through Christie's The Murder on the Links through daily episodes that average about 20 minutes each. While it's moved beyond just mysteries, the sonic and literary joy of her readings remain the same. [Adapted from our Best New Podcasts of 2020 list ]

14. Written Off

Often, the most unheard voices of society have the most powerful things to say. That's certainly true on Written Off , a podcast where the work of formerly incarcerated writers is spotlighted, capturing not only their striking lived experiences but also sheer raw talent. Each episode begins with host Walter Thompson-Hernández, author of The Compton Cowboys , speaking to the author about their work in a sort of preamble, before a cast of influential voices like Keke Palmer and John Legend bring that work to life in a reading. In a final debrief segment, Thompson-Hernández converses with the author about the experience of having their work read — and finally given the respect and recognition it deserves. The podcast is overflowing with a tangible sense of humanity, reveling in joy while never shying away from pain. It leaves all who listen with a renewed faith in the power of words to heal, process, and connect us.

15. The Writer's Almanac

There's some comfort to be found in brief dalliances with the (for lack of a better term) Old Fart's conceit of capital "L" Literature. The Writer's Almanac by Prairie Home Productions is a daily five-minute podcast that feels about as antiquated as the notable historical and literary events it covers from that given day's past (like the sinking of the Titanic or recording of Billie Holiday's "Strange Fruit"). You can practically hear the host's handlebar mustache as he ends each episode with a classic poetry reading. As a quick teleportation into the past, it makes a lovely and unintrusive addition to one's daily pre-writing podcast roster (if that's what you're into).

16. Spotify Original Audiobooks: Hear the Classics

Every writer has that one classic they skipped the reading on when they were in school, only to regret it later on. That's why Spotify's list of original audiobooks, some even voiced by A-list actors like Hilary Swank, is a great treasure trove. Currently, it offers many of the classics for free, like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and the memoir Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave . They even have a separate podcast for unpacking the literature called Sitting with the Classics . [Adapted from our Best Educational Podcasts list ]

17. Helping Writers Become Authors

Exactly as the title describes, this podcast is all about how to turn the aspiring writer into a published author. Covering the same breadth of topics as other how-to advice podcasts on this list, this one is notably more accessible to beginners or folks who just don't have an hour of more to devote to the topic. By offering 15- to 20-minute lessons on story structure, scene building, editing advice, character development, stress tests, and industry best practices, K. M. Weiland (author of several writer's guidebooks and historical/fantasy fiction novels) distills huge chunks of information into very digestible bites.

18. Imaginary Worlds

Ironically, Eric Molinsky's Imaginary Worlds — exploring fantasy and science-fiction storytelling across all mediums — is one of the podcasts most firmly grounded in our real world. But that's exactly what makes it so great. By diving into the real-world forces that underpin our most beloved fictional universes, Molinsky, an NPR alum and audio fiction storyteller, helps us grapple with crucial social issues ranging from fascism to racism. But it's all done from the safe distance of make-believe. Escapism, he proves, is hardly ever about turning away from our harsh realities. If anything, it's about seeing them from a different perspective, so we can learn something about our world, ourselves, and each other in the process. [Adapted from our Best Podcast to Relax To list ]

19. The Creative Penn Podcast for Writers

As one of the most long-standing podcasts on this list, The Creative Penn is a real tried-and-tested resource for indie writers carving their own path outside traditional publishing. Through weekly interviews and solo segments, host Joanna Penn, author of several nonfiction guidebooks and thriller fictions under the name J.F. Penn, provides some of the most essential guidance you'll need to navigate the ever-shifting present and future of self-publishing. While there's some craft and process talk, the podcast stands out as a business and marketing-oriented how-to that makes the less-loved aspects of full-time writing actually exciting to think about. Covering cutting-edge debates around the arrival of NFTs in the literary world to publishing fiction on Substack and authors using Kickstarter to fund their books, it's a podcast that never allows itself (or you) to get stuck in its way.

20. One Upon a Time at Bennington College

For such a tiny college hidden away in the woods of Vermont, Bennington has produced a disproportionate amount of award-winning contemporary literary titans (full disclosure, it's also my alma mater). This limited series from the Once Upon a Time podcast specifically tells the sordid story of the undergraduate friend group who would later become renowned authors Donna Tartt ( The Goldfinch ), Bret Easton Ellis ( American Psycho ), and Jonathan Lethem ( Motherless Brooklyn ). Full of drugs, sex, greed, literature, and even murder, this riveting expose unravels the unwieldy madness and magic behind some of the most influential writers of Gen X.

21. Overdue

With a name that embodies the anxiety of never returning that library book you meant to read, Overdue is all about absolving you of your book debts. From the classics like Don Quixote to more offbeat must-reads like the Calvin and Hobbes comic strips, this podcast is a cheat sheet to getting through conversations with snobs who will shame you for not knowing about one seminal work or another. With over 500 episodes (and counting), Craig Getting (education director at Lantern Theater Company) and Andrew Cunningham (author of thrillers like Wisdom Spring ) summarize whatever it is they read so you don't have to, taking time to analyze themes or the larger cultural context for why it's considered Important. They're the kinda hosts who aren't afraid to describe Faulkner as a slog, bringing the ivory tower of literary elitism down a peg.

22. Poetry Unbound

While our list is targeted at helping prose writers, there is always room to be made for more poetry in all our lives — writer or otherwise. On Being Studio's Poetry Unbound podcast is like a meditation for the creative writer's soul, where host Pádraig Ó Tuama, an Irish poet himself, reads a poem (with permission from the poet) every Monday and Friday. Unlike a lot of other poetry podcasts, the reading imbues the words with the aliveness that makes poetry so universal, offering your mind a brief rest from laboring over the written word to instead become recharged by it.

23. The Book Review

It's an age-old wisdom that, in order to write well, one must first read well. That's what the New York Times' Book Review podcast is for. As the authority on what books are worthwhile, the podcast adds actual interviews with the authors of notable new releases highlighted by the paper of record, and the critics tasked with reviewing them. Hosted by various editors of The New York Times Book Review section, it's perfect for avid readers of the New York Times best-seller list — and those who one day hope to be an author featured in it.

24. The Big Gay Fiction Podcast

Queerness has always been part of literature's history, despite often needing to be expressed covertly, or getting erased throughout time, or even leading to the persecution of various iconic LGBTQ authors. But there's arguably never been a better time to be a queer author and reader, as more and more explicitly LGBTQ books begin to dominate best-seller lists. Big Gay Fiction Podcast hosts Jeff Adams and Will Knauss (the authors of several gay fiction books themselves) are here for it all, as your guides to gay romance novels and authors. Episodes feature exclusive interviews with authors like Ariella Zoelle, as well as a variety of queer book and pop culture recommendations.

25. But That's Another Story

Most writers pick up the craft because they once read a book that changed their life forever, and they want to have that sort of impact on their readers. This magic moment is what But That's Another Story seeks to capture, as host Will Schwalbe (author of The End of Your Life Book Club ) interviews guests like Jodie Foster and Min Jin Lee on the novels that transformed them in one way or another. While, sadly, this podcast ended in 2020, there's a treasure trove of episodes available that are sure to reignite your belief in the power of books to shape the world, one person at a time.

Topics Books How-To

Jess is an LA-based culture critic who covers intimacy in the digital age, from sex and relationship to weed and all media (tv, games, film, the web). Previously associate editor at Kill Screen, you can also find her words on Vice, The Atlantic, Rolling Stone, Vox, and others. She is a Brazilian-Swiss American immigrant with a love for all things weird and magical.

Writing Workshops & Writing Retreats in Los Angeles & Online

Welcome to la writers group.

LA Writers Group has facilitated creative writing workshops in Los Angeles since 2003, and as of August 2019, we also offer writing retreats in San Diego (Carlsbad - North County). We also offer many online workshops via live video conference (Zoom), email-based writing challenges, and coaching programs for writers who are ready to finish their first draft.

We support, encourage, and inspire writers of all genres. We’ve helped many writers establish or reestablish a productive and creative mindset, fill their pages, and learn their craft through our creative writing workshops and private coaching. We don't believe in the tough-love approach. We believe in empowering writers to explore their craft.

We only pick leaders who lead our writing workshops with love. We hire exceptional group leaders who are adept at engaging small groups of writers. We screen them for their expertise, their diplomacy, and their belief in positive reinforcement. We believe writers need a safe space to grow.

Our creative writing workshops are never about lectures with hundreds of people. Instead, our workshops are small and geared toward individual attention. We also offer one-on-one coaching for writers working on a first draft or editing for writers with a completed manuscript.

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Books by Nicole's Clients

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Schedule a Free Consultation.

If we are meant to work together, we will; because of that, I don't believe in high-pressure sales tactics. My consultations are all about getting to know if we are right for each other, understanding your needs, and finding out how I can help you.

Consultations are for those who have a project and are considering coaching. Please do not schedule a consultation about workshops; please email instead.

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California Writers Club

Our mission: to educate writers of all abilities in the craft of writing and the marketing of their work.

If you are a writer looking for a supportive community…

                                                                                                              …the California Writers Club has one near you.

Our mission is to provide education and support for writers in our communities. Our motto is “Writers Helping Writers.” I believe that writers helping writers is more than a slogan. I expect it to be the culture a writer encounters when she/he attends a meeting.

Writing may be a solitary profession, but writers tend to be social. They want to talk about and read their work to others. They are excited to learn their craft and to understand the business of writing and publishing. They crave feedback and even criticism when constructive. They want outlets where they can publish new work without waiting years.  

As president, I am committed to seeing that we meet and exceed the needs of our members. I want our branches to be recognized as outstanding educational non-profits in their local creative communities.  

Our branches conduct monthly meetings with professional speakers talking about craft, editing, publishing, and social media. We offer social meetings like salons and open mic nights, along with formal educational opportunities in our seminars, workshops, and conferences. In addition, many of the branches conduct writing contests and publish an annual collection of member poetry, memoir, non-fiction, and fiction.  

In our ranks, we have nonwriters, new writers, established authors, and best-selling authors. We have poets, memoirists, non-fiction writers, essayists, technical writers, and journalists. Our fiction writers have published in every genre from literary fiction to Steampunk. We welcome individuals who just want to support writers or members who provide a service to writers. For example, agents, editors, book designers, publishers, and media specialists.  

In 2021 and 2022 the branches and our members will experience a reemergence, a resurgence, and revitalization. Our meetings will take on a new life and reach more members. It is my goal that our members write and publish more articles, poems, stories, novels, books, plays, and screenplays than ever before. We hope to expand our author lists and to reach out to students and new writers of every type.

Ready to join or want to learn more? Go to our Branches page to find a local branch near you.  Applications are handled by the local branch.   

— Roger Lubeck, President California Writers Club  

PHOTO CREDITS

• HEADER BACKGROUND View from Briones to Mount Diablo Regional Trail, by  Miguel Vieira . (Creative Commons)
• FOUR WRITERS 1. Jack London, author photo for “The Sea Wolf” 2. Ina Coolbrith, first California poet laureate 3.  Woman and typewriter, by Christian Gonzalez   (Creative Commons) 4.  Moody Black (Poetry Slam) , by Jason Alan Layne  (Creative Commons)

EKPHRASTIC ANTHOLOGY SUBMISSIONS OPEN FOR MEMBERS THROUGH MARCH 7

Feb 15, 2024

Ekphrastic writing is a literary response to a selected artwork. The editors have selected 15 images out of 276 submitted pieces for California Writers Club members to now submit their literary reactions for Vision and Verse, a Fusion of Poetry, Prose, Art and...

CWC LITERARY REVIEW 2024 DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28

Jan 27, 2024

As before the Literary Review will represent a sample of the best writing by members. Branches will select submissions from their own membership and send the works to a team of CWC judges, one poem and one prose piece from branches with up to 50 members or two poems,...

English & Writing Program Courses

The English Department and Writing Program offer a number of courses that support writers' development in a variety of genres and contexts.For personalized writing support,  ENGL 180: Writing Tutorial  is a weekly tutorial with a consultant from the Writing Resource Center that is designed to meet the specific writing goals of each student.

Sample courses from our literature, professional/technical communication, non-native speaker, language and linguistics, and creative writing offerings are described below. Many of these courses also count toward the Unified General Education Requirements (UGER) . In addition to the courses described below, we offer topical seminars  that highlight the diverse scholarly interests of our students and faculty. 

Each semester, the English department also publishes detailed course descriptions , which include additional information about our courses.

Sample Literature Courses

• ENGL 200: Literature in English -  This course introduces students to the reading of literature in the English language. Through close attention to the practice of reading, students are invited to consider some of the characteristic forms and functions imaginative literature has taken, together with some of the changes that have taken place in what and how readers read.  
• ENGL 257A: Reading Fiction -  This course introduces students to prose narrative forms in English by exploring their intersecting histories and their contemporary developments. We will introduce and develop the key terms, concepts and practice of literary studies. The specific focus of the course may vary. Recommended preparation: Academic Inquiry Seminar or SAGES First Seminar.  
• ENGL 257B: Reading Poetry -  This course will help you to read and enjoy poetry by introducing you to the history of poetic forms in English. We will introduce and develop the key terms, concepts and practice of literary studies by turning to poems for our test-cases; examples may include the sestina, sonnet and villanelle, ghazal, pantoum, haiku, and open forms. The specific focus of the course may vary. Recommended preparation: Academic Inquiry Seminar or SAGES First Seminar.

Sample Professional & Technical Writing Courses

• ENGL 217A: Business & Professional Writing -  An introduction to professional communication in theory and practice. Special attention paid to audience analysis, persuasive techniques in written and oral communication, document design strategies, and ethical communication practices.   
• English 217B: Writing for the Health Professions -  This course offers practice and training in the professional and technical writing skills common to health professions (e.g., medicine, nursing, dentistry). Attention will be paid to the writing processes of drafting, revising, and editing. Typical assignments include: letters, resumes, personal essays, professional communication genres (e.g., email, reports, patient charts, and histories), and scholarly genres (e.g., abstracts, articles, and reviews).  

Sample Courses Designed for Non-Native Speakers of English

• ENGL 146: Tools, Not Rules: English Grammar for Writers -  This course provides an introduction to English grammar in context for academic writers. It focuses on the study of language in use, including parts of speech, sentence grammar, paragraph structure, and text cohesion.  
• ENGL 147: Writing Across Disciplines -  In this course, students will develop their genre knowledge and metacognitive skills to prepare for the advanced writing, reading, and research tasks required in upper-level writing and disciplinary courses across the university. Through individual and group inquiry, students will analyze and discuss the conventions of academic genres to understand the textual and linguistic features and disciplinary expectations of each form of writing. Then, students will apply these generic conventions through the production and revision of writing within each genre. Throughout the semester, students will engage in workshops and discussions that foster skills in the areas of seminar participation, collaboration, rhetorical awareness, and critical thinking.  

Sample Rhetoric, Language & Linguistics Courses

• ENGL 255: Rhetoric and the Art of Public Speaking - This course uses the lens of classical rhetoric to explore contemporary political debate. While the word "rhetoric" is often used today to deride precisely what's wrong with political discourse, it more properly denotes the techniques of effective persuasion. By learning how rhetorical devices are used, we can empower ourselves to analyze policy debates and to make our own contributions.   
• ENGL 301: Linguistic Analysis -  Analysis of modern English from various theoretical perspectives: structural, generative, discourse analytical, sociolinguistic, psycholinguistic, and cognitive linguistic. Some attention to the major dialects of American English.   
• ENGL 310: History of the English Language -  An introductory course covering the major periods of English language development: Old, Middle, and Modern. Students will examine both the linguistic forms and the cultures in which the forms were used.   

Sample Creative Writing Courses

• ENGL 203: Introduction to Creative Writing -  A course exploring basic issues and techniques of writing narrative prose and verse through exercises, analysis, and experiment. For students who wish to try their abilities across a spectrum of genres.  
• ENGL 213: Introduction to Fiction Writing -  A beginning workshop in fiction writing, introducing such concepts as voice, point of view, plot, characterization, dialogue, description, and the like. May include discussion of literary examples, both classic and contemporary, along with student work.  
• ENGL 214: Introduction to Poetry Writing - A beginning workshop, focusing on such elements of poetry as verse-form, syntax, figures, sound, tone. May include discussion of literary examples as well as student work.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

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The Online Writing Lab (the Purdue OWL) at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The On-Campus and Online versions of Purdue OWL assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue OWL serves the Purdue West Lafayette and Indianapolis campuses and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

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14 Best AI Writing Software Tools of 2024 (Expert Picks)

Pricing: $9 per month Standout Features: AI-powered Writing Platform, Multifaceted Marketing Tool, Efficient Long-form Editor

Pricing: $69 per month Standout Features: Comprehensive AI Writing Suite, Powerful Quality Output, Advanced AI Solutions

Pricing: $20 per month Standout Features: Customized for Storytelling, Intuitive Suggestions Toolbar, Dynamic 'Expand' Feature

AI writing software has exploded in popularity. Every since ChatGPT, AI writing has become mainstream, with hundreds of new AI writing tools flooding the market. Almost every Saas platform includes AI writers somewhere in their feature set, and there are hundreds of standalone services with Chrome extensions and more.

The AI writing assistant software market is expected to grow at a rate (CAGR) of 26.94% from 2023 to 2030, reaching a market size of $6.464 billion by 2030. – VerifiedMarketResearch.com

Since there are so many to keep track of, we will walk you through the best AI writing tools and highlight what each is best suited for. You’d be surprised how specialized some of these get.

• 1.1 1. Rytr
• 1.2 2. Jasper
• 1.3 3. Sudowrite
• 1.4 4. Copy.ai
• 1.5 5. Writesonic
• 1.6 6. WordHero
• 1.7 7. Article Forge
• 1.8 8. Frase.io
• 1.9 9. Surfer SEO
• 1.10 10. Scalenut
• 1.11 11. INK
• 1.12 12. WriterZen
• 1.13 13. ClosersCopy
• 1.14 14. HubSpot AI Blog Writer
• 2 How AI Can Help Your Writing Workflows
• 3.1 Feature Comparison of Best AI Writers
• 3.2 Price Comparison of AI Writing Tools
• 4 What is the Best AI Writing Software?
• 5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Best AI Writing Tools

AI can speed up virtually any writing task by selecting the right tool. We’ve done unbiased research to show you the best AI Writing Apps you can choose from today. Take a look at these AI writing tools that can eliminate writer’s block and the fear of the blank page.

The Best AI Writing Software Listed In Order

• Article Forge
• ClosersCopy
• HubSpot AI Blog Writer

🥇 Best AI Writer for General Use

Rytr is an AI-powered writing platform with one of the largest footprints of all AI writing tools on the market. It’s an all-purpose AI tool that is handy for any diversified marketer. It has copywriting frameworks, templates for blog writing, and use cases for creating product descriptions. It also sports SEO integrations so you can write with the fullest confidence of keywords and semantic topical coverage in your work. You will never write quite the same again after using this.

Rytr uses AI technology to create high-quality content quickly and easily. Users can generate content for various applications and industries, including marketing, eCommerce, and more. The easy-to-use interface makes it easy to start, even for users without previous AI writing (or writing!) experience.

They’ve also launched Rytr Chat, which allows human writers to chat back and forth with its AI to generate tailored content iteratively that can be easily added to its long-form editor.

What We Like About Rytr

• Multilingual : AI-generated content is supported in over 30 languages, accommodating a broad user base.
• Templates : More than 40 templates and use cases are available, eliminating the need to write detailed prompts.
• User Interface : Features an easy-to-use interface, including a long-form editor and a dark mode option for eye comfort.
• Chrome Browser Extension : A Chrome extension is available that integrates AI writing capabilities into favorite apps like the WordPress editor and emails.
• SEO Integrations : It integrates with Semrush and SERPs for top content analysis to find accurate keyword research suggestions, which is beneficial with “Blog Idea” and “Blog Outline” templates.
• Plagiarism Checker: Rytr now includes a built-in plagiarism checker to compare its output against so that its AI-generated words are guaranteed to not sound like a robot.
• Tone of Voice Prompt: Like other top-tier AI writers, Rytr supports creating your own voice or tone settings. However, it does this via Prompt and not through uploaded sample content.

What Could Be Improved

• Content Depth : Rytr excels in generating short-form content but can struggle with depth and detail for more complex, long-form articles. Enhancing its algorithms to produce more in-depth analyses and comprehensive pieces would be beneficial.
• Contextual Understanding : While Rytr supports a wide range of languages and templates, improving its contextual understanding and accuracy in niche or technical subjects could make it more versatile and reliable for specialized content creators.

🥇 Why We Picked It

Rytr stands at the top of our list for a few reasons. It’s gathered millions of happy users worldwide while developing new tools and features. It is also one of the lowest-cost solutions on the market. Combining those things with its dead simple usability (not to mention its Chrome extension), Rytr doesn’t have many downsides.

Interested in learning about all Rytr has to offer? Catch our full Rytr review , where we go into every feature.

Who is Rytr Best For?

With over 7 million writers using Rytr, it’s hard to imagine someone who wouldn’t benefit from its AI writing platform. If you’ve never used an AI tool, this is one to start with—with a free plan available. It also has the cheapest starting price out of all the tools on this list. It’s the perfect tool for anyone looking to have AI improve their writing productivity. Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or part of a larger team, Rytr is an essential tool for any writer looking to boost their efficiency and streamline their workflow.

Community Reviews and Ratings

People note how easy it is to use and love its price point. It is a very popular tool because it steadily adds advanced features while still keeping it simple.

Rytr offers a free plan, with its starter plan costing as little as $9 per month !

🥈 Best AI Writer for Businesses

Jasper is another wildly popular AI writing platform (originally called Jarvis AI). It is home to some of the most powerful AI tools for writing long-format content, SEO content, blog posts, sales emails, and more. It also provides training, courses, and conferences around its feature set that gets a lot of traction among AI users. Jasper is probably among the more respected brands known for constantly iterating on their world-class AI solutions.

Jasper’s built for the more extensive writing operations among us. Generative content produced by Jasper is high quality, with plenty of tools that make the whole platform sparkle.

What We Like About Jasper

• Integration : Jasper integrates with powerful tools like Surfer SEO, Chrome, and Grammarly, enhancing its functionality at every turn.
• Support : Offers incredible documentation, support, and customer success training directly from the company.
• AI Art Generation : Includes AI-generated art with each plan, adding visual creativity to content.
• Collaboration : Provides advanced plans for team collaboration so multiple people can work on documents together (vital for teams).
• Up-to-date : It has access to real-time data via the internet, enabling it to write about news events from as recently as this morning.
• Company Knowledge: Not only can it write in your company’s brand voice, but it can save “memories” of important pieces of information that it can use while writing to have more accurate context and description of the particulars of your business.
• Pricing : Jasper’s is undoubtedly priced to be a business tool. They do not offer a free version or even something cheaper than ChatGPT, making other ChatGPT alternatives more attractive than Jasper on that point.
• Integration Depth : Jasper integrates with several tools for SEO and grammar, but deeper integrations, particularly with content management systems, could streamline the content creation process further. They’ve started this with Webflow , but more effort is needed for this to be a valuable enterprise tool.

🥈 Why We Picked It

Jasper has it all: a long-standing product with best-in-class features. It is widely used and has found its niche with enterprise and corporate marketing teams. It isn’t a copycat product of other popular AI writers out there, and it specializes in business use cases.

Who is Jasper Best For?

Jasper is best for businesses that need to speed up internal writing functions (like marketing, sales, support, and more). It’s relatively expensive, but you pay for its quality and simple editing workflow.

Still undecided? Take a look at our Jasper Review to see everything that it has to offer.

Besides a few mentions of it being hard to unsubscribe from, users love using Jaspers’s best-in-class features. They continually find value in the new features they release and how well done they are. Most customers are medium-to-large content or marketing operations.

No free plan with prices starting at $69 per month with a limited free trial

3. Sudowrite

🥉 best ai writer for novel & fiction writing.

Sudowrite is an AI writing software built exclusively for stories and all content that uses even a little storytelling. It does not have the recipes/templates that some other platforms have but instead focuses more on a writing workflow than the parts and pieces of a particular work.

Sudowrite gives you a draft, suggestions, and editing advice, and it is more tailored toward creative and descriptive writing. While most other AI writing software focuses on business use cases and blogs, Sudowrite goes against the grain and offers something truly unique.

What We Like About Sudowrite

• First Draft : Sudowrite’s “First draft” feature can transform a simple prompt into 1000 words, streamlining content creation.
• Suggestions : Offers auto-complete and styled suggestions that are easy to integrate and relevant to your writing context.
• Enhancements : Utilizes “Describe” for adding captivating language and “Expand” for naturally extending sections of writing.
• Built for Writers: While some AI writers aim to replace writers, Sudowrite aims to make writers more efficient in their writing processes.
• Dialogue: Many people use AI for factual content, but Sudowrite helps with prose and narrative.
• Character Coherence : While Sudowrite is excellent with story writing, it can be pushed a little too hard if heavily used. This is noticeable in the discontinuity of characters and histories of events throughout an entire story.
• Credit System : Its credit system starts with a high dollar amount, where it would be better if there were entry-level plans that cost sub-$20 for hobbyists.

🥉 Why We Picked It

Writing takes many shapes, and just because you are reading an internet article right now does not mean that everything you wish to read and write is fact-based nonfiction. Sudowrites covers a massive corner of the market to help writers of fiction, poetry, and narrative with the projects they are passionate about.

Who is Sudowrite Best For?

Sudowrite is best for creative professionals in interesting brand writing positions or those crafting narrative, poetry, and other prose. It is also meant for storytellers of all kinds (poems, books, scripts) and delivers.

If you are on the fence about trying it, look at our Sudowrite review to see all its features and workflows that can help you with your creative writing adventures.

Not many reviewers have shared their experience with Sudowrite, but that makes sense for something created for creative writers. The cost can be a little high, and the writing tends to stray when the AI is forced to write too much.

No free plan with paid plans starting at $19 per month for 225,000 credits

Get Sudowrite

Copy.ai is a prevalent content generator (over 6 million users) specially tailored to optimize the workflows of many sales and marketing tasks (including systems and integrations). This connects its AI-generation prowess to many different applicants that can enhance sales-enablement and go-to-market strategies. This can dramatically increase an individual’s or team’s output for specific tasks with the help of ks.

Its API for LinkedIn, for example, can pull prospect info from a CRMeir LinkedIn profile to help create a tailored cold-outreach message that is personalized and written with copywriting principles. It also includes a ChatGPT alternative with Copy.ai Chat .

What We Like About Copy.ai

• API & Zapier Integration : Copy.ai’s API/Integrations connect with CRMs, LinkedIn, and other sales/marketing tools for effective cold outreach.
• Chat Interface : Features Chat by Copy.ai, a ChatGPT-like interface optimized for sales and marketing tasks with a prompt library.
• Pricing Model : Offers a unique pricing model based on the number of fired automations (Workflows) with unlimited generatable words.
• Brand Voice + Infobase:  Stores essential details about your business branding voice of important information that it should be aware of.
• Lack of Native Integrations : While impressive, Copy.ai’s workflows primarily run based on a limited number of integrations built into the system. Instead, users must know how to work with an API or use Zapier as an expensive connection solution.

Who is Copy.ai Best For?

Copy.ai is best for salespeople and marketers whether or not they work on a team. Teams stand to benefit from its Pro plan, which includes unlimited words, unlimited projects, and up to five user seats. See our article on how to use Copy.ai if you want more information.

Users of Copy.ai note its intuitive approach to content creation. The flexibility and its unique features make it well worth its time.

Offers a free plan with limited credit usage and a Pro plan starting at $49 per month .

Get Copy.ai

5. Writesonic

Writesonic is an AI writing software that packs a lot of features into its platform. Its free plan gives 10,000-word access to its optimized GPT 3.5 platform, while its paid plans can be powered by GPT 4. Writesonic also has innovative products like Photosonic and Chatsonic that bring even more AI-powered tools to its customers.

Learn more about Writesonic and its AI Chatbot, Chatsonic , with our detailed reviews.

Writesonic’s advanced AI technology allows users to generate high-quality written content quickly and easily. The platform also includes various advanced editing tools, enabling users to fine-tune their content perfectly.

What We Like About Writesonic

• AI Tools : Writesonic provides AI copywriting tools with over 100 templates for various content types, including blog posts and landing pages.
• Collaborative Editing : Features SonicEditor for collaborative editing, allowing multiple team members to contribute to a text.
• Landing Page Generation : Can generate and code out static landing pages along with the copy, integrating with Surfer SEO and Zapier.
• ChatSonic : All plans include access to ChatSonic, a GPT-4-styled chat solution with current trending topics awareness (also includes Photosonic for AI art generation).
• Brand Voice:  Stores information about the way your business speaks with its brand voice feature.
• Cluttered UI : Writesonic packs so many features under the hood that it can be a messy and confusing platform to navigate. We wouldn’t say it’s hard to use, but it can be a lot to take in and find your way through.
• Confusing Credit System:  Uses a crediting system where the base model used (GPT 3.5 and 4) can be toggled and those changes the amount of credits used per word.

Who is Writesonic Best For?

Writesonic is a comprehensive platform for marketers and content writers with AI tools for several writing tasks. Its fast pace of innovation means that any user needing generative AI content, images, or chat interfaces would likely benefit from the platform. It’s one of the better all-purpose AI writing websites with a free plan.

Overall, users love all the different features and sub-products available within Writesonic. Ultimately, its power as an AI writer is satisfying, and the output quality is quite good. Some have had issues dialing in their prompts, but that is an inherent challenge with any AI writer using foundation models.

Free plan with paid plans starting at $19 per month .

Get Writesonic

6. WordHero

WordHero is another all-purpose AI writing tool particularly suited for business purposes. Launching on AppSumo with a lifetime deal with unlimited words, it’s quickly come into its own. WordHero suits on-the-fly content generation that you can paste into your documents of choice, like Word, a Slack channel, or a marketing campaign. Its long-form editor has come a long way and makes creating whole documents with the help of AI even easier.

There’s a dedicated and loyal user base that constantly suggests improvements that the team takes into consideration. So, it is likely the platform will continue to improve as it has over the last couple of years.

What We Like About WordHero

• Templates : WordHero offers template-based AI outputs for immediate use or integration with its long-form editor.
• Blog Content : Surpasses Rytr in generating compelling blog introductions and conclusions.
• Unlimited Content : Allows for the generation of unlimited content, adhering to their fair use policy. Released “ Enhanced Mode ” which uses better AI models which may have monthly word limits.
• Multilingual Support : Supports over a hundred languages, placing it at the top of the list for language diversity.
• Brand Voice: WordHero has recently launched brand voice features, which have been some of the most important features for other AI writing platforms.
• Advanced Writer: AI writing workflow for having WordHero output a coherent 2,000-word article in one fell swoop. Go from zero to the first draft in under a minute with this feature.
• Frequent LTD Sales: WordHero has been on AppSumo multiple times and even sells lifetime subscriptions on their website currently. This is great for early adopters but is an unsustainable business model for a SaaS company with costs every time an AI request is generated. This makes the future of WordHero a little murky although a great deal for those willing to make the bet on a LTD.
• Dark Mode: Dark mode in the editor is lovely to have, but some text displays as dark gray over the black background, making it very hard to use aspects of its UI. This is an easy fix but one we would like to see sooner rather than later.

Who is WordHero Best For?

Like Rytr and others on this list, WordHero is best for those in business or marketing. It creates excellent blog section content and does a good job with copywriting frameworks and product descriptions. It does not currently have advanced integrations, so it’s ideal if this is the only AI writing tool you expect to use in your workflow.

There are not many reviews of WordHero despite its large userbase. But take it from the frequent product updates reflected in the changelog, and you can notice they are answering many of their customer’s wishes.

No free plan, with prices starting at $49 per month .

Get WordHero

7. Article Forge

Article Forge is an AI writing software built for long-form content creation. Put in a keyword, select some basic parameters like length, and Article Forge will forge ahead with a fresh piece of generated content.

Article Forge’s power comes from its ability to create a lot of content simultaneously. That is also its sticking point, which places more responsibility on humans to read, edit, and substantiate what the AI generated. However, it’s a refreshing change of pace from other AI tools that build content sections at a time until you’re done.

What We Like About Article Forge

• One-Click Creation : Article Forge generates high-quality, long-form content (1,500 words) with a single click, simplifying content production.
• SEO Optimization : Features built-in SEO optimization to enhance content visibility.
• Topic Filtering : Enables adding negative or excluded topics to refine content relevance.
• Natural Flow : Automatically creates content and headings that naturally flow, improving readability.
• Copy-scape Pass : Guarantees content will pass Copy-scape, ensuring originality.
• Over-Reliance Risk: Because of the features that Article Forge markets, it’s easy to think that AI-generated content is good to publish as-is. With the recent news breaking over social sites about “SEO Heists” (stories of how companies used programmatic SEO to generate hundreds of thousands of visitors in monthly traffic with AI articles, only to have Google apply manual actions against those sites and drop visitors to mere thousands per month) users should be wary of unhelpful AI content and how it can affect your website.
• High Cost: Article Forge employs a credit system that lets a user write up to 25,000 words for $27 per month. This is a high price since it costs more than ChatGPT while inflicting higher limits.

Who is Article Forge Best For?

Article Forge is best for more extensive content operations that want to increase their editorial output dramatically. Great for creating supporting content (clusters) in quick succession. It still takes work to edit and fact-check the output correctly, and it works even better when a human writer overhauls every paragraph. It also scores high marks on all major review sites, which tells us they are doing something right.

Many users enjoy using Article Forge since it makes it so easy to generate a long first draft. Some have noted its high price tag and others that they can’t reliably get articles longer than 750 words to generate.

No free plan with paid pricing starting at $27 per month .

Get Article Forge

8. Frase.io

Frase.io is a powerful AI writing tool that can help you with all aspects of your content creation process. It can help you create high-quality content that will engage and inform your readers, from researching topics to writing and editing your content. Whether you’re a blogger, a content marketer, or just someone who wants to write better content, Frase can help you take your content to the next level.

With Frase’s advanced AI technology, businesses can create high-quality content quickly and easily. Additionally, the advanced SEO tools ensure that the content is optimized for search engines. Frase analyzes published content and provides actionable, AI-generated next steps that save valuable time.

What We Like About Frase

• SEO Content Briefs : Frase can create content briefs from SERP research in just “6 seconds,” including customizable templates for frequent content types.
• Flexible Editor : Offers a long-form editor that allows for both manual writing and AI assistance at any point.
• Advanced SEO Content Optimization : Enables content optimization for SEO with NPL topic modeling and tracks performance with Google Search Console integration to identify and address content decay.
• Integrations : Frase offers some really nice integrations (like WordPress, Salesforce, and Google Search Console), but expanding its integration capabilities with more third-party platforms and tools could streamline users’ workflows even further.

Who is Frase Best For?

Frase.io is ideal for content marketers or teams who want to write quality SEO content with AI to rank well in organic search. With GSC integration included in every plan, Frase is particularly useful for large content sites that rely on content decay warnings without manually checking each post every quarter.

Frase has spectacularly good reviews, as people love its approach to creating SEO content. It gets the content writing workflow down pat, making it a breeze to work through creating something that is publishable. Some users want more file hierarchy in storing AI written materials inside the platform, but that is relatively minor.

Starts at $14.99 per month with an unlimited content generation add-on for an extra $35 per month .

9. Surfer SEO

Surfer SEO is the premier writing AI that can help you rank #1 on Google. It does this by analyzing the top-ranking pages for your target keywords and then providing you with suggestions on how to optimize your content. This can save you a lot of time and effort and help you improve your chances of ranking higher in search engine results pages ( SERPs ). You may have noticed how many other AI writers integrate directly with Surfer—that’s a testament to what Surfer SEO can do for you and your websites.

Surfer SEO’s advanced AI technology allows businesses to optimize their online content for search engines quickly and easily. The platform includes various advanced SEO analysis tools, content optimization recommendations, and competitor analysis tools to help businesses improve their online presence.

What We Like About Surfer SEO

• Content Strategy : Surfer SEO creates content briefs and outlines based on top-ranking SERP results for strategic content planning.
• Content Score : Offers a content score based on SERP analysis, NPL, and other key ranking factors to guide content optimization.
• Plagiarism Checker : Includes a plagiarism checker to avoid ranking penalties and maintain content integrity.
• Integration : Integrates with top AI writing software, Google Docs, Semrush, and WordPress, enhancing content creation and publishing workflows.
• Pricing: SurferSEO can be quite the investment, with the lowest-priced service at $89 per month. This lets users write, edit, and analyze 30 documents.

Who is Surfer SEO Best For?

Surfer SEO, right now, is the go-to AI and NPL tool for SEO content writing. Likely, you want to pair Surfer with an advanced AI writer like Jasper or Rytr. Surfer SEO is the perfect companion for these fantastic tools and helps keep your AI content in the good graces of Google and other search engines.

Another SEO AI writer that scores really well with customers is Surfer. Surfer was one of the first mega-popular SEO writers, and it shows in their mature feature set. There are some idiosyncracies, among them being the price tag, but users love using it.

No free options with paid plans starting at $89 per month .

Get SurferSEO

10. Scalenut

Scalenut is another world-class AI writing assistance created explicitly for SEO and content marketing. It does this by analyzing the top-ranking pages for your target keywords and then providing you with suggestions on how to optimize your content. It can do this for one article or an entire cluster for a full-fledged content strategy that builds topical authority.

Using Scalenut, businesses can automate their entire content lifecycle to streamline planning, keyword research , writing, and optimization. This is great for reducing the workload on human staff and improving overall efficiency while not replacing your team.

What We Like About Scalenut

• Content Strategy : Scalenut builds content strategies and keyword clusters swiftly using AI, streamlining the planning process.
• Audience Analysis : Analyzes audience search intent and competitors in SERPs to devise the best plan for each content piece.
• AI-Guided Writing : Offers AI-guided writing with real-time optimization, SERP stats, and content scoring for enhanced content quality.
• Marketing Templates : Provides over 40 marketing task templates for creating diverse content, including product descriptions and newsletter emails.
• Depth of Analysis : While Scalenut offers comprehensive SERP and audience intent analysis, the depth of competitor content evaluation could be enhanced to provide more nuanced insights for content differentiation.
• Template Diversity : Although Scalenut provides a robust selection of marketing templates, expanding the range to include more varied content formats could further cater to the diverse needs of content creators and marketers.

Who is Scalenut Best For?

Scalenut is there for businesses looking to rapidly create content at scale to build topical authority and start winning in the SERPs. Lower pricing for SEO content than Surfer SEO, though with fewer integrations. It can be used by itself since it has plenty of AI content creation capabilities.

Users love Scalenut and say that its AI does a good job of writing articles. The only qualms are the high prices and the low credits available in their pricing tiers. That makes it a little less competitive, even though its feature set is top-notch.

The Essential plan starts at $39 per month for 100,000 AI-generated words.

Get Scalenut

INK is an AI writing tool that can help you create high-quality content in minutes. Any paid plan allows the generation of unlimited words and images, making it an exciting platform to try out. It specializes in content for ranking well with SEO.

INK’s Content Sheild adds a lot of protection so that you can use AI responsibly without wreaking havoc by garnering penalties on your content. It scans unlimited content, finds plagiarism, and detects if common technologies will likely mark the content as written by AI. Performing these checks gives you even more peace of mind as you schedule or hit publish on your Ink-guided content.

What We Like About INK

• Content Shield : INK protects website reputations with Content Shield, ensuring content is plagiarism-free and passes “Written by AI” detection tests.
• AI-Generated Images : Creates AI-generated images based on text prompts, offering visuals that complement your content at affordable prices.
• Keyword Research : Conducts keyword research, pulling search volume, trend, and CPC data to support data-backed content creation.
• SEO Scorer: Gives an easy-to-understand content score for each article so you know it might fare in the SERPs once published.
• Long-Form Writer : The article rewriting features and shorter content writing seems to work better than when it creates long amounts of it.
• Integrations : While INK offers great content creation tools, it could do better at integration with more content management platforms .

Who is INK Best For?

INK is best for individuals and businesses needing unlimited content generation through 130+ marketing templates, a long-form editor, or fast paraphrasing. It’s also of great value with the addition of data-informed SEO tools and a plagiarism detector, and it generates AI images and written content.

Users enjoy INK and are glad that they’ve introduced a SaaS-based writer instead of relying on their legacy desktop application. Some do wish that its integration with WordPress was more reliable. In addition to that, more CMS integrations have commonly been asked for t o make the publication as easy as the writing.

No free plan, and INK starts at $49 per month for unlimited words, articles, and images.

12. WriterZen

WriterZen is a powerful AI-based SEO writing tool that stands out from many other platforms because of its data-based approach. Anyone creating SEO content for websites, landing pages, and authoritative blogs should consider adding WriterZen to their workflow.

WriterZen’s AI-informed workflow helps you create content that enables you to score valuable organic traffic. Based on SERP data, WriterZen scores keywords on its “Keyword Golden Score” metric, which shows you the best ratio of keyword competition, traffic, CPC, and ranking difficulty. SEO-informed content gets a degree easier with WriterZen.

What We Like About WriterZen

• Keyword Discovery : WriterZen finds high-traffic/low-competition keywords, aiding in targeted content creation.
• Content Outlines : Generates content outlines using advanced NPL analysis of top search results for strategic content structuring.
• Keyword Clusters : Identifies relevant keyword clusters from Google Keyword data and Google Suggest Database for comprehensive content coverage.
• Plagiarism Detection : Features plagiarism and originality detection, ensuring the content’s integrity before publishing.
• User Interface : The platform’s user interface, while functional, can be slow at times, especially when working with keywords.
• Overcrowded Editor : The article editor could use some visual decluttering to make it an efficiency powerhouse.

Who is WriterZen Best For?

WriterZen is built for content teams and websites, pushing out a lot of SEO-optimized content. Bringing SEO tools into a writing platform speeds up content creation. It reduces the work of SEO analysis of content (though it doesn’t replace the need for skilled search specialists and SEO strategies).

Users say the learning curve for WriterZen is a little high just because of the way the UI is set up. In addition, it would be nice if they had more team and collaboration features to work with. Other than that, its performance as an AI writer pleases most users.

No free plan, but paid plans start at $23 per month .

Get WriterZen

13. ClosersCopy

ClosersCopy is one of the more celebrated general-purpose and marketing AI content writers on the market. It specializes in sales and marketing copy but is also very good for blog content using its long-form editor.

ClosersCopy’s ability to create and share frameworks means that there are even more possibilities and use cases for using AI to write niche content. Frameworks specially train ClosersCopy AI to do a particular writing task (such as AIDA copywriting or creating a product description). Most AI writing software limits users to the frameworks (often called use cases or recipes) to what is officially released by the platform. ClosersCopy gives users control over sharing their best frameworks that others can benefit from. It has put together its AI tools into a unique pricing model that many will find compelling.

What We Like About ClosersCopy

• Frameworks : ClosersCopy boasts over 700 frameworks, including those submitted by the community, offering extensive versatility.
• SEO Insights : Provides NPL-guided SEO insights within the text editor, leveraging live search results for optimized content creation.
• Workflows : Enables the stringing together of various ClosersCopy frameworks into a single generative output, streamlining the content creation process (ex., Blog Title -> Blog Outline -> Blog Introduction -> Blog Conclusion, all in a single Workflow).
• Slow Development : Some users have noticed slower development of new features. This is likely due to the developer switching priorities to a new AI writing platform called Copyspace. This has disappointed long-time users of ClosersCopy and is the reason why this product has moved down our list since our last publishing.

Who is CloserCopy Best For?

ClosersCopy is best for salespeople and marketers who need high-quality sales copy. Blog writers and affiliate marketers also benefit significantly from this software. For those looking for a more affordable option, Rytr has fewer features but a much cheaper rate.

There aren’t many reviewers for ClosersCopy, but the few that have left their opinions wish that there was more ongoing development and new features. They say that what once was an excellent AI writing platform has slipped into mediocrity a bit.

High starting price of $49.99 per month .

Get ClosersCopy

14. HubSpot AI Blog Writer

HubSpot’s Free AI Blog Writer is an innovative solution that revolutionizes how businesses approach blog content creation. By using the power of artificial intelligence, this tool simplifies and accelerates the process of generating engaging, high-quality blog posts. It’s an integral part of HubSpot’s suite, aimed at enabling marketers, bloggers, and business owners to maintain a consistent content schedule without compromising on quality or spending excessive time on content creation.

What We Like About HubSpot

• AI-Powered Content Creation: This tool leverages advanced AI algorithms to generate blog post drafts, saving time and effort in the content creation process.
• SEO Optimization: It assists in optimizing content for search engines, helping your blog posts to rank higher and reach a wider audience.
• Tone and Style Customization: HubSpot offers options to adjust the tone and style of the generated content to match your brand’s voice.
• Content Improvement Suggestions: Provide intelligent suggestions to improve existing blog content for readability and engagement.
• Limited Focus: Its AI writer is focused on blog posts, so it isn’t the most valuable tool, but it excels at what it does.

Who is HubSpot Best For?

HubSpot’s Free AI Blog Writer is best suited for content creators, digital marketers, and small to medium-sized business owners who are looking to streamline their content creation process. It’s an ideal tool for those who want to consistently produce high-quality blog content but are constrained by time or lack in-house writing resources. Whether you’re looking to boost your content marketing strategy, increase your website’s SEO presence, or simply maintain an active blog with less effort, this AI-powered writer can significantly ease the content creation burden.

There are no separate reviews for HubSpot’s AI writing tool, but there are plenty of reviews for the broader HubSpot platform.

The core functionality of HubSpot’s Free AI Blog Writer is available at no cost, making it an accessible option for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their content strategy without immediate financial investment.

Get HubSpot’s AI Writer

How AI Can Help Your Writing Workflows

AI writing platforms provide various solutions, which makes sense considering all the different types of writing and writing tasks people encounter daily. For instance:

• Faster Content Marketing: There are copywriting AI tools to help your marketing strategy by generating high-quality content faster for marketing, product descriptions, and sales copy .
• Easy Content Updates : There are AI tools for rewriting existing content so your content remains fresh and relevant.
• SEO Content Optimization: SEO AI tools can use Natural Language Processing (NPL) based on keywords to help create quality SEO content . All the best SEO tools already use AI to help with advanced SEO techniques .
• Enhanced Creativity:  Story and creative AI writing software quickly generates innovative ideas and helps write illustrative content.
• Automate Editing Tasks: There are proofreading AI tools (like Grammarly ) that offer real-time spelling, grammar, and plagiarism checks to improve your content and ensure it is fit for publishing.

Suppose you’re someone in charge of writing or editing multiple types of content (on-brand copywriting, ad copy, long-form articles, stories, PR). In that case, you’ll probably benefit from having various AI writing assistants. With that in mind, let’s explore some of the best.

Comparing the Best AI Writers

With so much AI writing software to choose from and so many details listed above, we thought we’d give you a 30,000-foot view of the products we covered in this article.

Feature Comparison of Best AI Writers

Feature coverage is an important aspect of any tool. But, the highest number of features don’t always “win”—sometimes, the right few features are all it takes. Anyway, here is a feature comparison of our top three choices of AI writers. See if any of these tools has the right mix for you.

Price Comparison of AI Writing Tools

AI writing tools have pricing that is all over the board. From low-cost solutions to enterprise-level products, there is everything on this list. See which ones are closest to your price range.

What is the Best AI Writing Software?

Rytr is an excellent starting point for those looking for a budget-friendly, all-purpose AI writer. Jasper (with Boss Mode) and Article Forge are worth considering if you need to produce long-format writing. For creative writing, Sudowrite is the standout tool. We’d also be remiss if we didn’t say that Surfer SEO is one of the best companions for an AI writer, and if your writer has an integration, definitely consider getting it.

Are you looking for more amazing AI tools? Take a look at the top AI tools that are changing the way we work and live.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Before we wrap up, let’s answer some of your most commonly asked questions regarding AI writing software. Did we miss one? Leave a comment below, and we’ll reply!

What is the best AI writing software?

What is the best free ai writing tool, what is the best long-form ai writing assistant, what is the best creative writing ai software, how can i detect ai-generated content, how can i avoid ai detection in writing, how much do ai writing tools cost, what are the risks associated with ai writing, can i use ai to write blog posts, what is the best ai writing software for landing pages, can i use ai writing software to make money, what is the best ai writing software for seo.

Featured Image via BestForBest / shutterstock.com

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By Christopher Morris

Christopher Morris writes about the intersection of Marketing and Websites. He loves to help people gain the confidence to move their passions online. He can be found strolling around LinkedIn as well as the Rocky Mountains in Colorado when he is recharging.

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Interesting article. Thank you. Any particular reason why you didn’t include Agility Writer?

Sandra, there are just too many to cover them all. Plus, others on this list are similar in scope to the tool you mentioned. Glad it was helpful.

Have you had any experience with Bard AI yet? I was expecting to see it on your list but maybe that’s because it hasn’t rolled out to everyone yet.

Susan, I have used Bard, but we will include that on a different post coming out in the coming weeks. Bard is solid, but it’s still early days. I like using it over ChatGPT when I need a concrete answer. I don’t like using it for any task that requires too much creativity. We’ll see how it only improves over time.

A really useful article to read, I’ve been using the Bertha AI toolkit now for some time, before the AI world exploded. Also well worth a look!

Hey Steve, there really are so many great (and not-so-great) options out there these days. Bertha AI looks like a great AI Chatbot for WordPress. Here in a few days, we’ll have a post dedicated to chatbots. Thanks for your thoughts!

Lol.. great article… and of course I desperately need to know how you did that “expand list” functionality in the introduction!

What about Katteb? It is a Long-Form AI writer that aims to provide fact check information and does some more job to enhance the quality of work.

Thanks Outboxed! In the spirit of AI tech, you could consult ChatGPT and see if it can help you create something like that for your sites.

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Free AI Blog Writer

Create compelling posts in a flash by answering simple prompts within HubSpot's AI blog writer software.

Use prompts and questions to generate blog posts in seconds

Reduce research time with machine learning-backed articles

Post valuable content more frequently without extra resources

Reduce your blog writing time with AI.

A high-quality blog is one of the best ways to boost your business’ organic traffic and lead generation, but building it out can be a drain on your time and resources. HubSpot’s AI blog writer helps you boost your blog’s output frequency without additional time or headcount investments.

Create new posts by providing the AI blog post generator with prompts or topics, and let the software do the initial research and writing for you. Then edit the content to suit your brand voice and your audience’s preferences. 

Create engaging content in no time.

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Beat writer’s block with AI-written blog outlines.

Combine AI content and free blogging software.

Use built-in reporting to measure content ROI.

Have questions? Give us a call and we'll walk you through it.

Related Resources

If you’re interested in the AI blog writer, these related resources may help.

If you’re not sure how to get started with your first blog post, read this step-by-step guide.

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Got writer’s block? Get thought starters in seconds.

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New to blogging? Learn how to capture keyword rankings and organic traffic.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is ai blog writing software.

AI blog writing software is a machine learning-based tool that helps businesses generate blog posts and outlines in minutes.

What are some best practices for using AI-generated blog posts?

AI-generated blog posts can be a powerful ally in your content marketing efforts. If you want to get the most out of them, there are a few best practices to keep in mind:

• Add value to each blog post with your own expertise and voice.
• Edit to ensure every post matches your written style guidelines.
• Expand your blog's reach by sharing new blog posts via newsletter emails and social media.
• Use an engaging title and meta description to drive click-throughs from search. 

How much does HubSpot’s AI blogging software cost?

You can get started with HubSpot’s AI blog writer for free.

How can AI blog writing software benefit my business?

AI blog writing software can help your business by:

• Reducing the time you spend on research and writing.
• Allowing you to create content at scale without scaling headcount.
• Helping you repurpose and refresh existing content and ideas.

Popular Features in Content Hub

The AI blog writer is available for free in Content Hub . Explore additional Content Hub features below.

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Cloud-based CMS that provides 24/7 threat & security monitoring, flexible user permissions, and customized security settings.

Ensure peak site performance and security by monitoring which users access and change your website.

Easily build web applications that automatically respond to user inputs, without the pain of managing servers.

Go beyond password-protected pages to create membership-based content.

Use HubDB to quickly update content across your site. Make a change in one place, and see that change reflected wherever you reference your data table.