How one should write
Start. We'll never finish what we don't start and so it is with writing. Never wait for the "mood" or the "urge" or the deadline - those are myths. Start. Put pen or pencil or keyboard to work. Write an outline, write a summary, write something that sounds interesting to you. Write something and then it will come: "That's not quite right; maybe this works better. . .yes but let me mark that and pick it up later. . .and let's not forget this point. What else is missing? Have I covered that?"
This is how writing works. Next go back. Review. What elements are missing? Is it interesting? Would I read it? Is it written in English or gobbledygook? Have I painted a picture with examples or words and descriptions? Go back again. Read it aloud. Don't be shy. Read it standing up. Use your hands. Make gestures. Does it flow? Do the letters form words, the words form sentences and the sentences thoughts? Do those thoughts explain or make your case? What are the holes? Fill them. Make the case. Write and rewrite and write again. Then rewrite again. Now rest. Let it sit and then come back and read it aloud again. Have someone else read it if possible - someone you trust - and tell you what works and what doesn't. Then decide whether you agree or not.
But we write by starting; never by not starting.
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