There’s a lot of dispute around creative writing courses with some people believing they are just a waste of time and money. Well…if you get advice from a professional literary worker about creative writing classes and writers workshop, they are very much of the belief that writing, like any other craft or art form, can be taught, but it is also essential to find the course that suits you and your unique style – not just in writing, but in personality too, since you won’t flourish in an environment you are not comfortable in.
Writing is an intensely personal experience, and to be the best possible writer you need to find somewhere that develops your confidence alongside helping you expand your work constructively.
At the very least, creative writing classes in NYC and writers workshop should leave you feeling that you have made good improvements as a writer, developed your skills and a greater understanding of the craft, grown in confidence, and gained a better idea of what you’re good at, what’s working in your writing, and what you still need to improve.
How to Choose A Good Creative Writing Course?
But with so many options available, how would you pick the course that’s most suitable for you?
Given below are the list of things to consider before you decide to pick one–
1. What do you wish to achieve? Do you have a clear-cut goal – you have already planned a novel which you want to finish and publish? Or do you just want to improve your writing skills in general, and want to develop your confidence? Whatever be your aim, you won’t make the best decision if you haven’t fixed on what you actually want to achieve.
2. How much time do you have – and how flexible are you? Some courses expect you to reach the same place at the same time every weekend. Others require you to do a bit of homework. Some don’t start for a few months, but you are already eager to go. Think hard about what you can reasonably commit to. There are flexible courses and more regimented ones – think about which will work best for you.
3. Cost & value for money – So how much should you spend? Of course, most of us would happily borrow money to do a fancy course if we thought it assured publication, richness and the life of a renowned writer at the end! Will you be surprised if I say that’s not going to happen at all? So instead you should think carefully about what exactly do you want from a course. Is it just for a qualification, or for buying prestige, or to develop general writing skills? Once you are clear about what you are looking for, ensure the money you are spending is going to get you the same.
4. The type of creative writing course – There are full-time courses, short-term courses, home study, night classes, residential courses, and online courses available to choose from. Also, some courses cover all types of creative writing styles, some only cover certain aspects, such as non-fiction books, short stories, etc. See what is most appropriate for you and pick the one.
5. Regulation or accreditation – Colleges who are regulated or accredited need to have course materials, tutors and administration that meets the high standards required for membership.
6. Duration of the course – Many creative writing courses last for six months, while there are others that have no time limits on them – you just keep on attending the classes till the time you find a good change in yourself.
7. Certificate or diploma – There are creative writing courses that offer certificates and diplomas upon completion, others emphasize the benefit of the course is a portfolio of published work.
8. Tutor experience – Course tutors may be published writers, or they could simply be people who have a knowledge of the publishing world but no experience of being a writer themselves. Check it properly before you enroll.
What Information Do You Need?
Searching online is the quickest way to find creative writing classes and writers workshop. Once a you have short-listed some of the suitable courses, the next step is to request further information. Request the following so a thorough course comparison can be carried out:
• a synopsis of the subjects covered
• average completion times
• time limits
• identities, qualifications or credentials of the tutors
• details of how tutors are matched to students
• class sizes
• contact method and time allowed with tutors
• additional help available to students
• other facilities or services offered – forums, publications and so on
• total price & payment methods
• installment plans available
Creative writing courses aren’t just for budding authors, but can be perfect for anyone who wants to develop their written and spoken communication skills for careers such as writing, publishing or journalism, advertising, and copywriting. You study novels, poetry, plays and screenplays for inspiration, develop your own writing skills and learn to critically evaluate your own work. Degrees can include workshops with publishers and practicing writers, the opportunity to showcase your work at literary events and workshops.
Whatever course you choose, none can replace your own regular commitment of giving time to sitting down and writing. So, go ahead, choose reliable creative writing classes and writers workshop, become a renowned writer!