Read to Write - A path to Exceptional writing.

Have you ever come across a situation like the one below:

‘I can visualize everything in my head like a movie, but when it comes to writing it down, I struggle. I can imagine all the little movements and details that create a specific setting, but I can't find the right words to describe them well.’

We are a generation of what I call ‘Visualizers’ as every device that we use mostly comprises of graphic heavy applications such as movies, social media etc. which are more appealing to human mind. So how do we tackle this?

Yes. Reading. It's like a teacher showing us how to write well.

Take the case of any of the world’s famous writers whether it is Charles Dickens, Mark Twain or anybody for that matter. They were all voracious readers.

Stephen King in his book ‘ On Writing ‘says:

“ The real importance of reading is that it creates an ease and intimacy with the process of writing;………Constant reading can put you in to a mindset where you can write eagerly and without self-consciousness…….The more you read the less apt you are to make a fool of yourself with your pen or word processor."

So how does reading help us? Here are five ways reading helps to improve our writing:

1. Vocabulary Expansion:

Reading introduces us to new words and phrases, which makes our writing more precise and effective. Exposure to diverse texts helps us grasp the nuances of language and enhances our ability to express ourselves more precisely and effectively in writing.

2. Grammar and Sentence Structure:

As we read extensively, we absorb grammar patterns, sentence structures and language conventions. Through exposure to well-crafted sentences and grammatical structures in written texts, we develop a natural sense of how to construct our own sentences and paragraphs.

3. Critical Thinking and Analysis:

Reading exposes us to different perspectives, ideas and arguments, helping us think critically and evaluate information. It helps in developing coherent and well-structured writing.

4. Writing Style and Voice:

Reading various genres and authors exposes us to different writing styles, fostering our understanding of effective techniques and rhetorical devices. By reading extensively, we can develop our own unique writing style and voice, making our written expressions more engaging and authentic.

5. Language Fluency and Expression:

Reading enables us to internalize language patterns, idiomatic expressions and rhetorical devices, leading to increased fluency and creativity in our writing.

So, reading not only improves our writing skills but also makes our writing engaging and authentic. By immersing ourselves in the written word, we expand our horizons and unlock the power to communicate eloquently and confidently through writing.

So read, read and read to be a better writer.