Writing is a difficult skill to master. Whether you’re writing a company blog, creating a memoir, or working on a school assignment, good writing is important.

But what, exactly, is “good writing”? What are the qualities of a good writer that sets them apart from the rest?

Creativity

If you want to be a good writer of novels or stories, you must have a strong imagination and the ability to think outside the box. A good writer can create vivid worlds, develop intriguing characters, and spin engaging narratives that captivate readers’ attention.

But creative thinking can also help you at work and school. Creative writers can approach topics from unique angles and share fresh points of view that can make essays and reports more compelling and memorable.

Clarity

Good writing is clear and easy for the intended audience to understand.

To make your writing clear for a general audience, try to use simple language, organize your ideas logically, and explain any big or complicated concepts with examples.

Writing programs like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor are online proofreading tools that can help you recognize passive voice, difficult-to-read sentences, and other common writing pitfalls.

Passion

Passion is the driving force behind great writing. A good writer is deeply passionate about their craft, pouring their heart and soul into every word they write. They are dedicated to honing their skills, constantly seeking to improve and refine their craft through practice, feedback, and continuous learning.

Empathy

Writing is a powerful tool that can connect people and help them feel seen and understood. A good writer typically has a strong sense of empathy, allowing them to understand and relate to the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of others. An empathetic person can evoke deep emotion in their readers, building a genuine connection that lasts.

Research Skills

Writing often requires delving into unfamiliar topics and exploring complex issues. A good writer is a critical thinker, capable of analyzing information, synthesizing ideas, and presenting well-reasoned arguments. They conduct thorough research, drawing from credible sources to ensure the accuracy and credibility of their work.

Resilience

The path to becoming a professional writer is not always smooth sailing. Rejection, criticism, and writer’s block are common challenges that writers face. However, a good writer is resilient and able to bounce back from setbacks and persevere when things don’t go their way. They view failure as an opportunity to grow and continue to push forward to reach their goals.

While there is such a thing as an eye for good writing, anyone can work toward cultivating the qualities of a good writer. All you need is a genuine love for the written word to start. If you want to become a better writer, start by checking out our Grammar Help to learn about everything from commonly confused words to how to write faster.