Writing literature starts with deciding what type of literature the writer wants to create. The two basic categories of literature are fiction and non-fiction; fiction is writing that focuses on events that are made up, while non-fiction focuses on relaying information about true events or information. Many people obtain higher education degrees that prepare them for writing one type of literature or another, while others may be interested in writing literature of both types. The best way to start writing is to simply start: try writing every day for at least a few minutes to get into the habit.
Reading the type of writing the writer wants to do is also an essential step toward writing literature. A good writer will read often to learn more about writing techniques, to become familiar with the styles of other authors, and to pick up on clichés so they can be avoided in his or her own works. If possible, it is always helpful to take reading classes in addition to writing classes so the writer can immerse himself or herself in literature. The more time a person spends reading and writing, the better he or she will be at it.
Keeping a journal or blog can help a person who wants to begin writing literature practice his or her craft on a daily basis. A blog is a great opportunity to have others read the writer's work and offer feedback as well, which is an important part of improving as a writer. No writer is born with all the skills he or she needs; those skills are developed over time, and writing a blog will help the writer identify problem areas and improve those skills over time.
Writing reviews of literature may help the writer develop his or her own style based on the preferences he or she develops by reading various other writers. Writing literature is often a matter of developing a style and experimenting with that style over time, so by reading other writers, a new writer can figure out what type of writing he or she enjoys. The new writer's style is likely to be based on the styles of those other writers at first, and from there, the new writer can establish his or her own unique writing voice.
