Chapter 1 The Flaws in Writing Advice

In this newly launched series, although it may not reach completion, I will delve into the most misguided advice that writers often share with one another.

The premise itself is flawed. Seeking writing guidance from a fellow writer is akin to asking a fish how to get caught; the fish simply doesn’t know. It’s far more effective to consult someone experienced in the field, like a fisherman.

Despite the absurdity of this notion, writers are not much better off. They will likely read this piece and consider enrolling in my course titled "Write to Become the Winner You Always Intended to Be and Achieve Greater Fame than Stephen King in Just 6 Weeks and 3 Days, Followed by a Well-Deserved Break."

(I may use this title for a future article, so feel free to borrow it if you wish. As they say at Harvard, first come, first served when it comes to plagiarism.)

Honestly, it’s a fantastic title. Just take a look at Sharethrough.

Pro-tip: steer clear of Sharethrough; it offers little value. Its only purpose seems to be to generate articles about crafting titles. Just ask Hogan Torah if you doubt me.

To create an effective headline, simply adapt a successful one from another article.

EXAMPLE

BUT I DIGRESS

If your goal is to learn how to craft engaging stories, ask your audience what they enjoy and why. Offer them a free copy of your latest work with a polite request for feedback on how to enhance it.

Alternatively, you could hire me as a writing coach.

Or, a better choice might be to hire Roz Warren. She will clarify that an alternative typically refers to one of two options, and it’s unwise to overwhelm yourself with countless possibilities.

Learn more about coaching with Roz here:

You might wonder why I promote others’ services instead of my own.

Here are FIVE reasons for that, and I’ll outline them one by one:

1. They compensate me for it. (Just kidding)
2. They’re superior. (Truth, but not a compelling reason)
3. It portrays me as generous, which might persuade you to be generous towards me too, possibly leading to financial gain for me in exchange for little to no effort. I love BIG ROI! (Roz might argue that "munificent" is too complex for a Medium article.)
4. I’m wealthy and don’t require financial support. (Need proof? Would I put my Medium articles behind a paywall if I truly needed the cash?)
5. I don’t actually have five reasons.

But seriously, what is the most misguided advice for writers?

The worst guidance is to ask readers what they wish to read.

That’s a grave error.

A more pertinent question would be, “How can I create content that readers are willing to pay for?”

People often fail to ask the right questions. If only they focused on the inquiries they make, the world would undoubtedly be a better place.

EXAMPLE

Asking “Who is the best candidate for the position?” misses the mark. A far better inquiry would be, “Who will prevail against this other candidate I can’t stand?”

BUT I DIGRESS AGAIN

As a writer, your primary objective shouldn’t be simply to be read.

Your aim should be to earn a living.

$$$Conclusion: Takeaway for Reflection

Don’t waste time asking readers what they enjoy reading. It’s inconsequential. Instead, inquire about what they are willing to pay for.

There’s a significant difference.

Sometimes readers don’t even engage with what they’ve paid for, but that’s perfectly acceptable. In fact, it might even be preferable.

References:

Philip Ogley, April 2024, Best Advice for Writers: Don’t Be Too Serious

Roz Warren, December 2023, Need a Good Editor? Get in Touch

Smillew Rahcuef, June 1522, Please Subscribe to My Substack

Chapter 2 Analyzing the Cost of Writing