How to Start a Writer's Workshop

Writing is a tough gig, and it can be very hard to get honest respectful feedback. Friends and family are always inclined to be on the positive side, while strangers may not even take the time to read thoroughly. A writer's workshop can offer you camaraderie, feedback and help to support a routine that encourages continuous writing.

Find like-minded writers

You're going to need other aspiring or working writers. You may want to post an advertisement online, or in a local paper, and interview people. It is also possible you already know writers and you're good to go. Personalities should match and compliment one another, you're going to be receiving and giving criticism to these people. This will require an open mind, but also a willingness to know when you've crossed a line. Every group will be different.

Decide on a group size

You won't want your writer's workshop to be too large. Six people is just about perfect. This way you can do two pieces of writing per week and service everyone's writing throughout the month, and leave days open to do exercises, bring in guests or go on trips if wanted.

Compare schedules

You're going to want to set a day, once or twice a week, to meet. Meetings should last 2 to 3 hours to allow a full discussion about the piece of writing. You won't want to make this schedule too confusing; if at all possible you should make it the same time on the same day every week.

Set up a reading cycle

You will want to devise a reading schedule, so that everyone doesn't just turn their writing pieces on the same day. Two people per session works out well. Send out the writing 4 to 5 days ahead of time to allow sufficient space for reading. Then when the group meets go around the room and have each member offer notes.

Commit to it

This is the most important part. Your workshop depends on your commitment. It won't work for you, if you won't work for it.