Most people at some point in their lives have been tasked to write long essays, and journalists at some point in their careers have to write long articles.
These take a lot of time to research, compose and fact-check. I have seen writers flip tables, literally, because of these lengthy pieces. I myself have even “lost my shit” over journalistic pieces I’ve had to write in the past (#nrwf15).
Here are a few tips I have for those poor writers:
My first tip is to give yourself plenty of time to write these pieces. If you have a 800-word piece due in a week, I would not wait until the night before to start on it. I would be smart and use all the time I have available so I can write the best piece I can. I suggest you do the same.
My second tip is to take breaks. If you decide to knock something out in a day, that is fine. However, I strongly suggest you carve out some down time. I usually play a half hour of “Grand Theft Auto 5”.That mindless, violent game ensures I clear my mind. Portal is another great game too if you are looking for something less violent. Those two video games ensure that I completely clear my mind so when I approach my piece later, I approach if from a calm, clear state of mind. Video games work for me, but anything works. The point is to focus on something other than your writing fora short period of time.
My third and final tip is to not be afraid about what you write. Writing is a skill that only gets better with practice. As Calvin Trillin elegantly puts, “vomit out” a draft. Write down everything you can on the topic you are writing about. Don’t worry if it doesn’t make a lot of sense in the beginning. You’ll edit later.
Use these tips to your advantage, and be smart about your writing.