A unique writing style is important for writers to stand ahead of the growing competition. Writing style depends on the use of words, level of formality, sentence structure and overall approach to writing. Due to the presence of multiple authors, bloggers and influencers, readers are constantly in the search of original writers with fresh ideas. A mundane writing style can make it difficult for new writers to engage with their target audience. If you are struggling to establish yourself professionally, here are 8 tips that will help you develop a unique writing style.

  1. Use active voice

Many writers prefer to use the active voice as compared to the passive voice. Although passive voice is grammatically correct, it reduces the readability of the sentences. As passive voice is wordier, it often confuses the readers. Passive voice is also considered a weaker way of presenting ideas and information. On the contrary, sentences written in active voice are short and direct. These sentences clearly make the point by suggesting what the subject is doing. Many writers often get confused between active and passive voice. An online grammar checker can help identify and convert the sentences written in passive voice to active voice. 

2. Pay attention to the tone

Writing style depends on the tone of voice that is used to communicate with others. Communicating with others can help you in shaping your ideas with your thought and voice. To develop a unique writing style, you will first have to work on your tone. Your tone will include your word choice, sentence structure, grammar and punctuation. Matching your tone with your voice and audience will make your writing more engaging. For instance, a casual tone can be used for writing humour or entertainment articles. However, a calm and informative tone is a must for engaging with a professional audience. Your tone can also tell a lot about your personality. Thus, based on your interests, establish a tone that matches your personality and increases the reader’s engagement.

3. Practice writing

Regular practice can play a significant role in improving your writing style. Since there are no shortcuts for immediately developing a unique writing style, you will have to practice thoroughly to establish your writing style. Writing regularly will give you the confidence to approach any new topic with a fresh mind. It will also make it easy for you to write for a wide range of audiences. To strengthen your writing, develop a daily routine that encourages you to write. Regularly writing and reading your own text will also help you determine the different elements of your writing. You can also experiment with the writing styles of different authors and eventually create your signature writing style.

4. Avoid clichés 

It is common for new writers to imitate their favourite authors or borrow their writing style. However, doing this will distract you from finding your own potential. Take a short break whenever you are in doubt or uncertain about your writing. This will ensure that you come back and start writing with a fresh mind. Audiences prefer original work and might not support writers who depict other’s work in their writings. Additionally, there is a great potential for originality. Thus, know exactly what you want to write and naturally present your ideas or opinions.

5. Know the different writing styles 

Every author has an individual writing style. Examining the writing styles of different authors will tell you about their word choice, the flow of ideas and tone. There are four common writing styles that are mostly used by writers. These are expository writing, descriptive writing, narrative writing and persuasive writing. 

Expository writing comprises facts and information and is used for writing news articles, nonfiction books, scientific articles or technical information. Poets use descriptive writing to paint a picture in the reader’s mind by using figurative language. Narrative writing or creative writing is often used in novels or screenplays to develop a setting, plot and character. Lastly, persuasive writing focuses on influencing the readers and is used in academic or professional writing. Writers combine one of these writing styles with their own unique style to tell a story to their audience. 

6. Create an outline

An outline can act as a solid roadmap for your writing. It will help you plan your content and the structure of your text. Instead of creating a complex outline, create a simple framework consisting of the different sections in which you wish to split your text. For example, if you are writing an essay or a blog post, your outline will include sections such as Introduction, Body and Conclusion. You can dedicate the entire paragraph to the Introduction and Conclusion sections. However, you will have to break the Body section into multiple paragraphs to ensure a consistent flow of information. 

7. Write short sentences and paragraphs

Always remember to keep your sentences and paragraphs short. Shorter sentences and paragraphs are easy to manage and create an attractive layout on the page. Pay attention to the ideas, details, facts and information presented. Present only the information that is specific to the theme of the paragraph. Adding irrelevant information might confuse the readers. Do not combine more than two ideas in one paragraph and explaining one idea per paragraph is a good way to convey the message to the readers. 

8. Edit your work

Although time-consuming, editing is an important step that should not be ignored. Proofreading and editing your work gives you the opportunity to identify errors and improve your writing style. Editing can be difficult for new writers. However, by reading your draft multiple times, you can see which section needs rewriting or improvisation. While editing your draft make sure to rephrase lengthy sentences and come straight to the point. Pay attention to repetitive words or phrases and the vocabulary used in your draft. Instead of giving patchy information, keep a consistent flow of words to engage with the readers.

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