Exploring Writing - Gary Robert Muschla 2011

The Value of Reading
The Value of Keeping a Journal
Part 1. Finding and Developing Ideas for Writing

Writing in a journal is an excellent method to tap into personal experience. In a writing journal, you can express your thoughts and feelings on topics you find meaningful. In time, a journal can become a warehouse of writing ideas.

Writing journals may be a composition book or spiral notebook. Date all entries, because dates provide a time reference that will help you to follow your progress as a writer. Review your journal periodically to find ideas for writing.

Some possible topics for writing in your journal include friendship, home, things I like, happy times, sad times, questions I have, being responsible, hobbies, my family, my pets.

The Value of Reading

Reading is yet another way to tap into personal experience in search of ideas. Reading can present you with new ideas, add information to old ideas, and stimulate reflection on ideas.

The benefits of reading for writing expand your world and experiences. Reading also introduces you to various forms of writing, idea development, and authors’ techniques. Virtually all writers are readers.