So you want to write fan fiction
Presumably if you are reading this you either are or want to be a fan fiction writer. So, how do you become a writer? Many people think that just putting words on paper or a computer screen makes them a writer; if only it was that easy!
A writer’s main purpose is to tell a story. The story needs to be well constructed; with a clear beginning, middle and end. If you cannot capture the reader’s interest in the first two or three sentences you missed.
How do you become a writer?
Write, write, write! Everything you write does not have to be of publishable quality. Write a journal, reply to posts online. If an idea for a story or paper occurs to you write it down. Write for yourself. Practice writing for others. Take English courses, creative writing courses, even literature courses.
Read! Becoming a good reader, someone who not only enjoys the story, but can analyze the writer’s style and technique, will help you as a writer find and develop your own style and technique.
Proofread; put the story away for 24-hours, proofread again. Then ask a friend or two to proofread for you. You will never be able find all grammatical, spelling, and continuity problems yourself, so ask for help.
Learn to accept constructive criticism and how to ignore unfair criticism.
Love what you are doing and write for no other reason that you think it is fun!
All this advice is aimed more at the amateur fan fiction writer, rather than the professional writer. However, I know of several very skilled fan fiction writers who have used their fan fiction writing as a springboard to go professional.