I know that there’s an exception to every rule, and I’m sure if we try hard enough we can find exceptions to most of the things on this list as well, BUT there are some things you should ALWAYS avoid doing as a writer. Of course, depending on the situation there’s a reason for doing certain things, but we need to be very careful. Here’s a list of things you should never do as a writer:
Create a character based on stereotypes. Please, don’t do this. I’m begging you. Don’t take everything you’ve heard about a certain race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, etc., and write your story based on hearsay. You will almost always be wrong. You will almost always insult someone. There are many resources available to you and an entire writing community you can discuss these things with. Sure, sometimes your character will act in a stereotypical way that lines up with something they identify with (An Italian character LOVES pasta!), but you need to be very careful. Don’t use hurtful stereotypes.
Not research a disability, illness, disorder, etc. Don’t assume you know everything about a topic. Even if you have said disability, illness, disorder, etc., it’s hard to know everything about it AND people experience things in different ways. Research is so so so important. If you want to write about something, make sure you do your research. Put in the work necessary or don’t do it at all.
Bully other writers. Constructive criticism can help. Bullying other writers does not help. Telling someone their writing sucks does not help. If you want to be part of the writing community, learn how to communicate with other writers in a friendly and constructive way. If you’re trolling the internet only to put other writers down so you can feel good about your own writing, please stop.
Talk down to your readers. I think one of the most important writing rules you need to remember is to not talk down to your readers. Your readers are smart and they know when you’re talking to them like they don’t understand anything. Don’t spell everything out for your readers and don’t assume they’ll never understand what you’re talking about. That’s a surefire way to get people to stop reading.
If you have anything to add to this list, please do!
