The Eight Rules of Writing

The 4 rules for beginners:

1. You have to have a quiet place with a desk, comfortable chair, and adequate light.

2. You have to set aside a regular schedule of writing time. It can be rigid (e.g., 6-7 each morning) or flexible (e.g., 3 nights a week) but it has to be frequent and you have to stick to it.

3. It doesn’t matter what you write, just write. If you get stuck, write a letter to a friend.

4. It’s ok to drink when you write.

The 4 rules for advanced writers:

1. You have to have a quiet place with a desk, comfortable chair, and adequate light.

2. You have to set aside a regular schedule of writing time. It can be rigid (e.g., 6-7 each morning) or flexible (e.g., 3 nights a week) but it has to be frequent and you have to stick to it.

3. It doesn’t matter what you write, just write. If you get stuck, write a letter to a friend.

4. It’s ok to drink when you write.