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The 10 Biggest Writing Mistakes Beginners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

John Edwin
3 min readDec 18, 2024

Writing is an art and a craft, and like any skill, it comes with its fair share of pitfalls, especially for beginners. The good news? Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve. If you're just starting out or looking to refine your craft, this article highlights ten common writing missteps and provides actionable advice to overcome them.

1. Writing Without a Clear Purpose

Many beginners dive into writing without understanding why they’re writing. Whether it’s to inform, entertain, or persuade, having a clear purpose helps structure your piece and keep readers engaged.

How to Avoid It:

Before you start, ask yourself:

*What do I want my readers to take away?

*What emotions or actions am I aiming to evoke?

2. Overcomplicating Your Writing

Using overly complex sentences or fancy words can confuse readers and dilute your message. Simplicity often packs the most punch.

How to Avoid It:

Use clear, concise language.

*Replace jargon with relatable terms.

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John Edwin
John Edwin

Written by John Edwin

Prolific writer, public health specialist, and tech enthusiast with 12 books on Amazon. I craft stories and insights that inspire action and spark conversations

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