How to Join a Local Writing Critique Group
- 1
Write. To benefit from a writing-critique group, you need to write on a regular basis. It's best to find a local writing group once you have a work-in-progress manuscript. This way, you will already have questions for your readers, and by sharing your work, can best revise your manuscript. - 2). Set your rules. What type of writing group do you want to be part of? Are you looking for a diverse group when it comes to genres, age ranges and/or writing-skill level? Do you want a group that meets only in person, communicates via email or does a combination of both? How far are you willing to travel to meet your group? How often would you like your writing group to meet? Are you willing to pay a fee to join a writing organization? The answers to these questions will help you find a local writing-critique group that's best for you.
- 3). Start your hunt. There are many ways to join an existing writing group. Online forums (such as Craigslist, Meetup, Zeotrope and Gather) are great ways to begin your search. However, checking the classifieds in your local newspaper, calling the English department of a nearby college/university and communicating with your city's library system are solid ways to find a local group. Many writers have found their writing groups through national writing organizations (The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and the Mystery Writers of America, to name just two). These organizations require a fee for membership, but the benefit is a core network of local writers in your genre of interest. For additional resources to find a local critique group, read the classifieds of Writer's Digest Magazine, take a class at a community center, check bulletin boards at local bookstores and coffee shops, and attend regional writer's conferences.
- 4). If you have used your local resources and are still unable to find a writing-critique group that suits your interests, consider starting your own. Post an ad on Craigslist or through a newspaper and go about founding a new group.
- 5). Enjoy the process. Once you have joined a local writing-critique group (or started your own), keep up with your writing, provide thoughtful and constructive responses to your group members, and continue to read and educate yourself in the field. Be sure to follow all writing-group etiquette to have the best possible experience.
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