Writing has never been more popular, and opportunities and services for writers abound. See Sites and Books for some of the many publications on the subject.

Writing Programs

There are three principal types of writing programs:

Residential

Sometimes known as "colonies" or "retreats," these programs tend to be several weeks to several months long. They are generally for experienced writers who have a project underway, and offer more-or-less splendid isolation by day and informal socializing by night. Recommendations and writing samples are a prerequisite. Some residential programs are costly, others less so, and some actually pay a stipend.

Academic

Academic programs range from extension courses to PhD tracks. In the middle are BA (Bachelor of Arts), MA (Masters of Arts) with concentration in creative writing, and MFA (Master of Fine Arts). Although any of these programs can help, there is less correlation between degree and income than there is in the sciences and traditional professions. In the end, it is the quality of one's ideas and writing that matter. By forcing students to write in different genres and offering continuous (constructive) criticism, most programs work to improve that writing. The size of the program (small is better) and qualifications of the instructors are key. Anyone considering an academic program should research each one carefully.

Journalism

Journalism programs generally last one or two years, and result in a Master's degree and, ideally, a rolodex of industry contacts. Hemingway, Orwell, Stephen King, and countless non-fiction writers started out as journalists. There are few better ways to gain worldly experience, master the fundamentals of character and story, and acquire productive writing habits. A good journalist would also have managed to squeeze "economy of prose" into that last sentence.

Workshops, Conferences, Festivals, Readings

Workshops are shorter, more focused programs, lasting from an evening to a few weeks. Some independent bookstores offer them, others are organized by individuals or writers' associations. Again, the size of the workshop and its leader's qualifications are key. Conferences and festivals, such as the Amercian Booksellers Association conference and book fairs, are good places to hear and meet successful authors and representatives of publishers. On a smaller scale, readings at bookstores and libraries offer opportunities to network with writers on the local scene.