Tips for writing your article

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of instructions for submitting articles to THISisCarpentry. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ASK.

• • •

Some people are intimidated by writing. They think it’s something only professional writers can do. Wrong. If you can tell a story, you can write a story.

Remember, none of our authors are professional writers. They are all real, working carpenters and contractors, just like you. If they can do it, you can do it. Here are a few tips:

• Get a first draft down on paper/computer. Just write it. You can always go back and make any changes you want.

• Write it down exactly as if you were telling a buddy a story over dinner or a couple of beers. “So, how did you make that shelving unit?” Write just what you would say to answer that kind of question.

• One of the best ways to write an article is to start from the beginning of your process, and just go step-by-step. “First, I did this. Next, I put this here. Then I attached this there,” etc.

• Embellish. We love anecdotes, side observations, stories, etc. The same kind of stories that would come up if you were talking to a buddy.

• • •

Be sure to read our other submission help guides:

Tips for photographing your work

How to submit your article

Adding photo references (refs) to your article

Shooting Video

Sending images to TiC