Top 10 Websites for Writers
Where do you turn online for top notch advice about the business and craft of writing?
By Tiffani Barth
CBW–LA Treasurer and Middle Grade Author Tiffani Barth shares her ten favorite websites for writers. Read on to discover her picks.
1. Writer’s Digest
Best for: Everyone — 24/7 Writing Help
This is my top writer’s resource. With everything from contests and prompts to a guide to literary agents — plus helpful articles — this site is one of the best references for writers out there. You can even find links to editors’ blogs and writing events, as well as educational resources. Sign up for their free newsletter and get the motivation you need to meet your writing goals.
2. Query Tracker
Best for: Authors with Completed Manuscripts Seeking Representation
If you have a finished manuscript, this is the site for you. With their extensive database, you can search for agents and publishers by genre, and find info on individual submission requirements. The site also allows you to keep a detailed record of your submissions and the responses you’ve received. You can share your experiences with the writing community, and read reports about other writers’ past queries. Best of all, it’s free to join.
3. Literary Rambles
Best for: Authors with Completed Manuscripts Seeking Representation
If you’re searching for your perfect agent, this is a great resource. With an easy to navigate sidebar, you can search through dozens of agent spotlights containing the most current info on their agency. There are also frequent agent and author interviews if you’re looking for material to add a personal touch to your query letter or the inside scoop on the literary business.
4. Pro Writing Aid
Best for: Editing and Revision
Ready to polish your work but can’t afford to fork over hundreds of dollars for an editor? This site is a great substitute — and it’s free. Simply copy and paste your text into their online editing tool and get an in depth report on problem areas.
5. The Write Practice
Best for: Inspiration and Practice
The Write Practice is a blog dedicated to daily writing prompts that encourage you to practice your writing. Like successful athletes, artists, and musicians, consistent practice is the key to writing like a pro and this site will help you.
6. Your Writer Platform
Best for: Building Business Acumen
In today’s world, writers must do more than just hone their craft — they are expected to help with market and promotion. This site answers the ‘hows, whats and whys’ of building your author platform from scratch. It takes the intimidation and guesswork out of social media so you can create lasting relationships with your readers both on- and offline.
7. Nathan Bransford
Best for: The Inside Scoop — Getting in an Agent’s Mind
Nathan Bransford dishes some of the best advice on how to query, write a synopsis, obtain an agent, and publish your work. Brimming with examples and step-by-step directions, this ex literary agent’s blog is a navigable reference tool for anyone seeking to dive into the world of publishing.
8. Write to Done
Best for: Practical Writing Advice
Write to Done features stellar articles on writing and blogging. Loaded with tips and inspiration, this is the place to learn and apply new skills on your journey to becoming a better writer.
9. Helping Writers Become Authors
www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com
Best for: Understanding how to use Literary Elements
For top-notch advice on how to create compelling characters, structure your novel, edit, and lead the writing life, this is a great site. It will help you boost your writing to the next level.
10. Twitter
Best for: Networking, Social Media and Promotions
Twitter is probably the most widely used social network by writers. It’s a great place to promote books, network, build relationships with readers, and generate fans. If you don’t have a Twitter account, sign up now!
This article was originally published in the May 2014 print edition of Scribblers’ Scoop. All links have been confirmed current as of July 2015.
Did we miss one? Is a link broken?
If you know of another gem we missed, please let us know! Share your feedback in the comments section. We’ll fix a broken link, and happily check out your recommended site!
Want to Know More?
Visit us online at cbw-la.org, like our Facebook page, chat with us on Twitter.
Even better?
If you’re in the L.A. area, join us for a workshop or critique session! In this digital age, we still believe there’s nothing quite like connecting with a real person in real life. Heck, we’ll even let you tease us and call us old-fashioned.
About the Author
Tiffani Barth is the Treasurer for CBW–LA and an SCBWI member. She holds a B.A. in Film, and currently lives in Salt Lake City where she can usually be found in a cafe plugging away at her latest Young Adult or Middle Grade novel, or in the mountains getting inspiration for said novel.
Outside of writing, Tiffani enjoys traveling, camping, hiking, playing music, going to movies, and exploring off the grid nooks within her own city.
