When students have to write papers during their years at the university, they search through an incredible number of guides to help them. There are a lot of tools that they can take advantage of, from resources on how to write concisely and clearly to reference manuals, so they can ensure that their spelling, grammar, and punctuation is absolutely flawless. They can even use tips from successful bloggers on how to create an interesting paper. Perhaps, one of the least utilized resources for students are guides on how to write books. Though the students’ papers have to be shorter, these guides can provide them with some interesting ideas on how to diversify their writing. Here are some of the best books on how to write a book that students can find useful to get some inspiration from.
1. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott
Anne Lamott famously tells in this book how her younger brother had to write a report on birds, but had waited until the last day of summer vacation came. Her father approached him, put a hand on his shoulder, and said to him caringly, “Just take it bird by bird, buddy. Bird by bird.” Clearly, Lamott’s advice applies to all writers, not just those taking on long novels. After all, even the shortest student paper can sometimes seem like an insurmountable task. This is an enjoyable read, full of wit and wisdom with a down-to-earth narrator and so many helpful suggestions on how to make writing happen.
2. Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury
If you’re a fan of Fahrenheit 451, don’t miss this writing guide by the famous Ray Bradbury. He admonishes the reader, “If you are writing without zest, without gusto, without love, without fun, you are only half a writer.” What could be more true? While you may not immediately see how it’s possible to get excited about writing a paper if anyone can do the job of convincing you, it’s really so. Give it a try and you may see the thunder and lightening in the written word, as he does.
3. On Writing Well by William Zinsser
Student shopping for an overall guide that will help them improve their writing skills will not be disappointed by William Zinsser’s On Writing Well. If you want your writing to be simple, but too often you find it cluttered, this is the book you should have by your side. The style is direct, clear, and easy to read, and not too long, so you will surely find some time to fit it into your studies. While Zinsser will show you the flaws in your writing, he will also give you a simple, memorable way to fix them. It is a highly beneficial form of writing on medicine that is not so painful to get down, and you will soon be feeling much better.
4. Story by Robert McKee
What can a Hollywood screenwriter teach you about writing essays to please your professors? Actually, a lot. Most of us know what makes a good film and a bad one, even if we can’t put it into words, and the same can be said about a common student paper. Robert McKee’s book focuses on the substance, style, and structure that make up a great screenplay, and the wise students will use these tips to make their papers as well-paced, intelligently plotted, and gripping as any flick you can munch popcorn while observing.
So, what are you waiting for? Get these books to enjoy the writing process as well as to amuse the audience who is going to listen to your creations.