Why do Writers use Writing Prompts?

Writers often use writing prompts allow them to find a way in.

“In?” you might be asking. “What’s that mean?”

It means that writers figure out what they want to write by writing. Unless I write something down or explore it in words, I often don’t know what I’m thinking., and having taught teens writing for years, I think that’s pretty common. Often its not until the end of a draft that kids have finally figured out what it is they want to say.

Some writers find their way in through prompts. I used to have tons of prompts on this site until I realized that I actually never use them. Instead, I do one of these strategies. But, writing prompts are popular. For some, they can be incredibly useful.

In her book A Writer’s buy bupropion sr online Book of Days, author Judy Reeves says, “By taking the time for writing practice [using daily prompts], you are honoring yourself as a writer. When you write on a daily basis, your self-confidence increases. You learn what you want to write about and what matters to you as a write. You explore your creative nooks and crannies and foray into some scary places that make your hand tremble and your heart beat faster. This is good” (3).

I agree. If you want to be a better writer, you need to practice. And if writing prompts help you do that, by all means use them. I’d rather write in my journal, go on a walk and think about my ideas, or even draft a blog post to practice and figure out what I want to say, or just start working on my next scene or section in a book. For me, that’s practice. I can always go back and revise.

It’s no different than playing a sport or an instrument. In order to get better, athletes and musicians play. They practice specific skills and sometimes they just play for the fun of it.

Writing is no different. So, start writing. Or, put on your favorite song ever, pick up a pen, and let go. What does this song make you think of? Why do you love it so much? Now . . . WRITE . . . and have fun!