Someone asked this question on Quora, and I wrote this article in response.
In a single sentence, my answer is: Start writing content and blogs. But I know this is not enough. Since content and blogging are as big and deep as oceans, I need to enlarge upon the answer.
I have no idea whether or not you wish to become a professional writer/blogger. For the most part, people here ask questions for their professional development, and therefore, I believe you want to make a career in writing/blogging. Based on my experience, research and observations, you may follow a few things listed below:
Select a Niche
Start with your favourite subject or topic. You can quickly churn out ideas and develop content on the topics of your interest. Once you choose your niche, do proper research on several sub-topics you can cover under the main topic. When research is done, you can start writing content.
Research
This is a never-ending process. You have done research for the main and sub-topics. However, for a single article or a blog post, you need to conduct specific research. Use your tools: Google, social media, traditional media, first-hand experiences, observations, interviews, and more. For digital medium, you need basic knowledge of search engine optimisation. Effective use of keywords helps you become a successful writer/blogger.
Writing
This is your next step. All your content must have a logical flow — Introduction, Middle, and Conclusion. For this, you can divide your article in sub-headings. But before that, you need to think about a title. Many writers think about title after writing articles. However, for beginners, it is advisable to write a title first. Once you decide the title, there are thin chances that you beat around the bush.
Proofreading — Grammar and Spell Check
Do not limit your proofreading to grammar and spell check. This exercise also includes fact checks, inserting external links and comments of experts. Grammar and spell check are sacrosanct. You can use either a software program like Grammarly or rely on your discretion and knowledge. I would advise to use both, so that there is little left to misunderstanding. Your readers should be able to consume the content like a sweet dish.
Reading
Writing is a continuous process and writers have to prepare themselves with accurate information and sound knowledge. To make a grade in this business, reading is must. But what to read and how much to read? Well, this depends on your areas of interest. Professional writers, however, have to read anything that comes their ways. Reading newspapers, magazines, fiction, non-fiction etc. also helps.
While reading, jot down important points in a diary or notes app on your mobile/tablet. Keep an authentic dictionary by your side and check the meaning and usage of words.
Devote maximum hours of a day to reading. If you are engaged in your writing assignments, make sure you read at least 10 times more than your production. For example, if you are assigned a project of writing a 1000-word article, then prepare yourself with 10000 words.
Is this enough? Not at all! Keep reading and keep writing. Develop an undying passion for writing and say no to any other profession. This will take you far and wide in this business.
