writing for beginners | Post 4 | Resources

Christian Writers’ Market Guide is a beneficial resource for all writers.  It seems as if Stuart compiled writing resources and information in this reference guide for all writers, but included Christian information because other sources probably exclude it.  However bias or non-bias, it has proven itself as a useful resource. 

Since it is a 600 page reference guide, I did not read every page and give you what I think are the best resources.  I skimmed a couple sections and published what I thought was useful for where I am as a writer and what would be useful for bloggers. 

Enjoy surfing the internet today or whenever, there are several cool things to check out.

Networking

1. The Authors Den – this site is loaded with writers – authors, bloggers, poets, story tellers – and lots of information on events.  The events page is filled with every kind of event – tv shows, free ebooks, deals, seminars – that are beneficial to anyone, but particularly writers. 
2. Backspace – this site has everything the Authors Den has, but with a valuable addition – forums.  There are numerous forums that help connect writer through weaknesses and strengths.  Have a question?  Ask the experts. 
3. Christian Writers Group – This member based group allows you to choose to be an obsessive member or subtle member through Yahoo Groups.  I did not join, so I am not sure of all the benefits, but it might be worth looking into for Christian Writers.  Christian writing, I assume, is a different machine than all other writing. 

 

Style

1. The Chicago Manual of Style – this seems to be a great resource for anyone who works with words.  They provide an extensive index that provides information on manuscript preparation, grammar, punctuation, proofs, etc. 
2. Elements of Style – by William Shrunk Jr.  an online book available for us to reference and learn from. 

 

Books

1. Read Print – if you are the type to read books online – this site offers free books by various authors.  Also, they provide a coupons page beneficial for anyone, even non-writers. 
2. Fetch Book – this site is very practical for finding the best price for all your books.  Just type in Title, Author, or ISBN, select the book and click on Compare Prices. 
3. Writers Write – there are several links that help the writer with resources, contests, coupons, blogging, marketing, graphic design, etc.  It seems if you wanted to publish a book you could do it through this site alone. 

 

Writing for Beginners

1. Once Written – this site has an indie feel by providing content and opportunities for independent writers to emerge.  Take advantage of this site if you are want to move from beginner to intermediate, to professional. 
2. First Writer – a similar site that might lead you down another path you prefer. 
3. PWC Writers – I went to this webpage and opened the “Procrastination or Preparation.”  this excerpt made me feel at home as a procrastinator.  I am sure the other excerpts speak truth for the lies we conjure. 

 

Language

1. Google Tools – need a definition type “define:word” no spaces and the google defines the word for you.  Also, check out translation tools for different languages. 
2. Oxymoron List – “Largest List of Oxymorons Ever Collected Online!” Some of them are very comical. 
3. Slang – a slang translator. 
4. The Verb – “An Active Guide to Better Writing.”  This article is worth subscribing to and reading what writers are doing and learning. 

 

Search Engines

1. Google Print – What doesn’t Google do?  Now we can Google books. 
2. Google Tips – there is more to Google than what meets the eye.  Check out this site and learn the Google way of life. 
3. Google Blog – search blogs through Google.  I was so happy when I typed the title of my blog and it came up on the first page. 

 

Website

1. Personalized Google – customize your own search engine for your webpage visitors.
2. Wilson Web – learn how to promote your site.  
3. Workz – website maintenance tips.