I’ve had this one a few times recently. Let’s give it a try. Follow the hashtag to collect them all! #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
1. While creative writing courses can sometimes be useful, there isn’t a qualification in the world that will make a publisher or agent look at you twice. All they’re interested in is whether you’ve written a book they can sell. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
2. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try a creative writing course if you think it will help. But if you do, choose carefully. Not all courses are equally valuable or well-run. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
3. Beware courses that claim to teach you how to evaluate the market, promote your work or identify trends. This kind of advice is extremely subjective, as well as being freely available online. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
4. Beware creative writing courses that promise to teach you about the publishing world; especially if taught by unpublished or little-known writers. The publishing world is changing all the time. To know it, you need to be a part of it. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
5. As with literary prizes, it helps to do a little research. Does this course have a history of helping successful writers? Do any writers you know of recommend it? How do they think it helped them? #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
6. A good creative writing course should offer you the chance to improve your writing, at whatever level you need. There are many excellent reasons to study creative writing that don’t actually involve being a professional writer. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
7. A good writing course is supportive. Many people go on creative writing courses as a means of giving themselves permission to write, and of finding a supportive network of fellow-writers to work alongside. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
8. A good creative writing course shouldn’t tell you what to write: but it should help you understand the basics of building a plot; strong characterisation; good dialogue; a sense of place - without trying to change your individual style. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
9. Ideally, a good creative writing course will expose you to diverse influences, methods, subjects and styles. It should help you grow, not restrict your choices. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
10. A lot of useful content is available for free online. If you do choose to go on a course, make sure you’re getting more than that. Regular feedback; professional assessment and support; excellent and varied speakers. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
10b): And if you just can’t afford to go on a course, don’t worry. You don’t need to. Improving your writing is like getting fit: it takes effort and perseverance. Some people get a personal trainer: others use a free app. #TenThingsAboutCreativeWritingCourses
