How to become a better writer through reading [framework] -DanaNicole

Last updated on October 18, 2023

The most common tip you will hear to improve your writing is: Read more.

When I first wanted to improve my writing, I did just that, but I didn’t feel like my writing was Actually improve, despite devouring more books.

After turning many pages, I realized why: I had been lied to. Kind of.

When people say you can become a better writer by reading, what they really mean is, “You can become a better writer by reading deliberatelyThe secret is in italics.

Why purposeful reading is the key to becoming a better writer

Purposeful reading forces you to think and absorb information differently than when you read with the intention of relaxing.

That’s not to say that reading with the intention of just…well, readis bad.

There’s no denying that reading builds soft skills, such as Empathy And critical thinking (among many others).

But purposeful reading is essential if you want to become a better writer.

What makes a great writer?

Great writers have a few things in common. They have:

• A unique voice
• A broad vocabulary
• The ability to paint vivid scenes
• Attention to detail

Obviously this is not an exhaustive list, but it is a good start. And purposeful reading can help you develop each of the points above.

Here’s an example: You’ve just had a long day and want to relax with a good book and a drink of your choice (I love a good spicy hot chocolate). You get completely absorbed in your book and before you know it an hour has passed and it’s time to get ready for bed.

After an hour of reading, you’ll probably remember the main plot points of what you just read, but smaller details, like diction, may escape your memory. I know this certainly applies to me.

And while there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s those little details that help you improve your own writing.

To help you commit those smaller details to your mind, I’ve developed a simple three-step framework. You can use this framework to become a better writer through purposeful reading.

Purposeful reading [framework]

Before you get started, make a copy of the framework here and follow below. (Clicking the link will automatically create a new instance of the Google Sheet for you to use.)

Step 1: Build your vocabulary through a word repository

When I’m flying through a book, I don’t always stop at words I don’t know. Usually the words between the words that I’ve never seen before give me enough context to understand what’s happening.

But part of becoming a better writer is expanding your vocabulary, and there’s no better way to do that than to stop, look up the words you don’t know, and use them yourself.

The next time you read and come across a strange word, make a note of it and look up its definition. Then use the new work to write a sentence (or two) of your own.

(I keep mine write sentence until after I finish reading. I don’t like bouncing back and forth between starting and stopping while I’m in the middle of a good book.)

👉Why do this? Expanding your vocabulary will add color to your writing.

Step 2: Write down phrases or sentences that you like

Since this is a personal document, you don’t have to worry about copyright infringement and you can write down sentences and passages that you absolutely like.

But even though it’s personal, it’s still a good practice to include quotes for two reasons:

1. You can easily revisit all passages
2. You reinforce the idea that what you’ve written is not your own work, so you don’t unconsciously pull these sentences into your own writing

After you’ve written down prose you like, write a short note explaining it Why did you like it. This part is essential and will help you develop your own voice as you figure out what you like.

👉Why do this? This will help you develop your own unique voice, and you’ll have a source of inspiration the next time writer’s block strikes.

Step 3: Write a summary of what you liked/disliked about what you just read

Finally, write down what struck you after reading something (whether it was a few chapters in a book or an article).

What did you love? What was missing? What would you have done differently?

Take a moment to think.

👉Why do this? Reflection helps commit what you read to your memory so that when it comes time to write, you can quickly draw inspiration from the depths of your mind.

Use your spreadsheet and write

Your spreadsheet becomes a living, breathing file, but the best part is that you can start using it right away.

The next time you need to write something, fire up your spreadsheet.

Check your word archive to see if you can spruce up your writing with some better language. Remember: Don’t use words that your audience wouldn’t understand.

Reread your favorite sentences and passages to see how you can emulate something similar.

And review your summaries to see if your writing captures all the things you like about reading other people’s work.

In summary

I’ll admit, spreadsheets and word repositories don’t exactly scream relaxing reading session to me

But you don’t have to do this every time you read. Work this exercise into your schedule, where it makes sense and at times that work best for you.

Be consistent, practice and write shall improve.

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