7 Ways to Build Writing Education During COVID

There’s no denying that COVID has brought about drastic changes to our world in 2020. Yes, most of these changes have resulted in negative impacts—but I’m the kind of person who likes to find growth opportunities in the midst of difficulties. For the aspiring author, one such growth opportunity is the extra time you have been granted to grow in your craft. Why not make something good of this year by investing in your dream and building your education?

Here are seven ways you can do just that:

1. Enroll in a virtual course. The online courses available for writers today are limitless—there are courses on storytelling, character creation, editing, description, show vs. tell, and even courses on the business and publishing side of the industry. No one should have an excuse to not be educated in writing. My personal favorite place to build my writing education is through Serious Writers Academy. (Shameless plug: You can check out my course on deep POV by clicking here!)

2. Sign up for a membership to receive continuous education. You may be interested to see what Novel.Academy has to offer (an online school specifically geared toward inspirational novelists).

3. Receive mentorship from seasoned writers. (I offer a three-month mentorship, WRITE NOW, in which I privately coach teens and young adults who aspire to learn more about both the craft and the industry of writing.)

4. Receive a critique and/or edit of your book from a professional.

5. Find a virtual critique partner or class.

6. Enroll in a virtual writing conference. (I look forward to teaching at Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference in November! This conference offers both a virtual and an in-person attendance option.)

7. Last but not least, read books! There are countless of books on the market that are geared toward writers who hope to grow in their storytelling abilities, craft, editing skills, marketing, and learn more about the business side of writing.

What have been some of your favorite ways to grow your writing education during COVID? Do you have any that you would recommend? Feel free to share in the comments!

Tessa Emily Hall is an award-winning author who wrote her debut novel when she was sixteen. She is now a multi-published author of both fiction and non-fiction inspirational yet authentic books for teens, including her upcoming release, LOVE YOUR SELFIE (October 2020, Ellie Claire). Her passion for shedding light on clean entertainment and media for teens led her to a career as a Literary Agent at Cyle Young Literary Elite, YA Acquisitions Editor for Illuminate YA (LPC Imprint), and Founder/Editor of PursueMagazine.net. Tessa is guilty of making way too many lattes and never finishing her to-read list. When her fingers aren’t flying 128 WPM across the keyboard, she can be found speaking to teens, teaching at writing conferences, coaching young writers, and acting in Christian films. Her favorite way to procrastinate is to connect with readers is on her mailing list, social media (@tessaemilyhall), and website: www.tessaemilyhall.com.