The Best and Worst Writing Advice We’ve Ever Heard

Writing advice is everywhere. Some of it is gold, guiding authors to craft compelling narratives. Some of it, however, is just plain terrible. Let’s break down some of the best and worst advice writers have been given—sprinkled with humor and honest insights.

The Best Writing Advice

1. “Show, Don’t Tell”

One of the most common and valuable pieces of advice, this phrase encourages writers to create vivid scenes instead of merely stating facts. Instead of writing, She was sad, you might write. She stared at the rain-streaked window, blinking away tears (King, 2000). Readers want to feel the emotion, not be told about it.

Why It’s Good:

Creates immersive storytelling

Helps readers connect emotionally

Makes writing more dynamic

When It Goes Too Far:

Sometimes, telling is necessary. If every detail is shown, your novel might be 1,200 pages long. A balance is key (Strunk & White, 2000).

2. “Kill Your Darlings”

Coined by Arthur Quiller-Couch and popularized by Stephen King, this advice reminds writers to remove beloved but unnecessary parts of their writing (King, 2000). That witty monologue? That beautifully poetic description? If it doesn’t serve the story, it might need to go.

Why It’s Good:

Prevents self-indulgence

Keeps pacing tight

Forces writers to prioritize clarity

When It Goes Too Far:

Not every “darling” needs to be killed. Sometimes, that unique passage makes your voice stand out (Zinsser, 2006).

3. “Read A Lot, Write A Lot”

Stephen King swears by this advice: “If you don’t have time to read, you don’t have time (or the tools) to write” (King, 2000, p. 147). Reading teaches structure, style, and creativity, while writing hones your skills.

Why It’s Good:

Expands vocabulary and storytelling techniques

Exposes writers to different styles and voices

Reinforces discipline in writing

When It’s Unrealistic:

Life gets busy. Some writers feel guilty for not reading enough, but writing practice is just as crucial (Pressfield, 2011).

The Worst Writing Advice

1. “Write Every Day or You’re Not a Real Writer”

This advice assumes that only daily writers are legitimate. While consistency is great, real life happens. Many famous authors had unpredictable writing schedules (Pressfield, 2011).

Why It’s Bad:

✘ Creates unnecessary pressure

✘ Ignores individual creative processes

✘ Leads to burnout rather than inspiration

A Better Alternative:

Write as often as possible, but don’t beat yourself up if you miss a day (Lamott, 1994).

2. “If You’re Not Published, You’re Not a Real Writer”

Many writers have heard this discouraging phrase. But writing is about the process, not just the end result. Emily Dickinson wrote nearly 1,800 poems, most unpublished in her lifetime (Habegger, 2001).

Why It’s Bad:

✘ Devalues creativity and growth

✘ Ignores self-publishing and blogging

✘ Creates unnecessary gatekeeping

A Better Alternative:

If you write, you’re a writer. Publishing is a goal, but not the sole measure of success (Lamott, 1994.

3. “Write Like [Famous Author]”

While learning from greats like Hemingway or Austen is valuable, copying another writer’s style won’t help you find your own (Zinsser, 2006).

Why It’s Bad:

✘ Stifles originality

✘ Creates imitation instead of authentic storytelling

✘ Sets unrealistic expectations

A Better Alternative:

Learn from others, but develop your own voice through practice and experimentation (Strunk & White, 2000).

Conclusion

Writing advice can be a double-edged sword. The best advice encourages growth, while the worst can stifle creativity. The most important lesson is this: find what works for you and write in a way that brings you joy.

What’s the best—or worst—writing advice you’ve ever heard?

References

Habegger, A. (2001). My wars are laid away in books: The life of Emily Dickinson. Random House.

King, S. (2000). On writing: A memoir of the craft. Scribner.

Lamott, A. (1994). Bird by bird: Some instructions on writing and life. Pantheon Books.

Pressfield, S. (2011). The war of art: Break through the blocks and win your inner creative battles. Black Irish Entertainment LLC.

Strunk, W., Jr., & White, E. B. (2000). The elements of style (4th ed.). Allyn & Bacon.

Zinsser, W. (2006). On writing well: The classic guide to writing nonfiction (30th anniversary ed.). Harper Perennial.