What is the greatest secret to writing? Is it using good grammar, creating real characters, utilizing a hook, creating conflict and resolution, or using action?

All the above suggestions are necessary for a writer to grow and polish his work, but they are not individually or collectively the greatest secret to writing.

If you really want to be a writer then write. The act of writing is the greatest secret.

* A Little Advice.

If you want to write, write. Write five pages a day, no more no less, but write that five pages religiously. Write when you're sick; write when you're well. Write when you feel like it; write when you don't feel like it. Write when you're up; write when you're down. In a year's time you'll have 1,500 pages, (give or take). In ten years you'll have 15,000 pages.

* Ninety Percent and Ten Percent

I have followed that advice and I have had three technical manuals and one work of fiction published. Most of the words I've written, (probably ninety percent), are not worth the paper and ink I've expended... but they were necessary to get to the ten percent that makes me proud.

* Nothing is Wasted

Actually the writings of the ninety percent are not wasted. They give me an endless supply of ideas. They also demonstrate growth in my writing skills over time.

* Set a Time

Set aside time everyday to write. Writing takes time and commitment.

* In Conclusion

To be a writer you must write.

Mark Brown, who writes under the pen-name, J-me, has served as vice president of three corporations and president of a non-profit organization. He has written three technical manuals and a humorous book. Other articles, humorous short stories, and his humorous book, Mason Bricklin, which won PublishAmerica's Book of the Week Award, may be viewed on his website: