Kathmandu: When it comes to writing, most of us get stumped. Though, writing is considered by many as an innate talent, there’s nothing one can’t improve if they practice, practice and just practice. Here are a few tips on how one can hone their writing skills:

Writing in General: When you are writing, a few things to remember. Listen to music. It doesn’t have to be really inspiring, just something you like. If you feel bored, or your writing isn’t going anywhere, stop. If you’re on a roll, with lots of ideas, don’t. Try not to stop if you can, if you get on a writing spree. Read a lot when you are working on a story, especially your favorite authors. Look for your mistakes, a lot. Look at how the author does something you’re having trouble on, and learn from it. You can use their advice in your stories, without copying them.

Stumped: Most people would call this ‘writers block’. First, if you are stumped, relax totally, and think nothing about the story. Turn off the computer, and put away the notebooks. You could watch a good film or have a bowl of ice cream. Talk to a fellow writer, or older sibling.

My Writing: People generally have two lives: one regular, and one secretive, the secretive one likes privacy, and lives half the time at the computer. Your personality may not necessarily shout “WRITER!” and most of your stories may not sound like you. And don’t be discouraged if you write something bad. You wouldn’t believe how many short stories people throw away, and most of them not all that bad.

Don’t tend to veer off from your writing style. You can’t over check a story, edit it many times you won’t believe the mistakes you will find every time.