I originally wanted to call this “How to Write a Novel,” but
a thought struck me partway through. Why should I stop there? These few, simple
tips can help a person learn how to do anything.
I’ve used these steps to learn a wide range of skills, including how to write,
draw, paint, play instruments, cook, exercise, travel and even how to take care
of my infant nephew. These steps are not complicated. All they require are a
desire to learn and a dedicated attitude.
1. Turn to example
This first step is the easiest. Someone, somewhere, has already mastered the skill you wish to learn. Since true learning cannot exist without a teacher, it makes sense to seek out someone who knows more than you do about a skill.
Luckily for us, modernity has bred accessibility. It’s as simple as opening your browser and typing in ‘How do you____?’ For example, when I wanted to learn how to draw manga, I looked up Mark Crilley on YouTube and followed his step-by-step videos. Similarly, there are make-up tutorials, video game walkthroughs, cooking shows and magic trick demonstrations—just about everything. Copying is a beginner’s best asset (unless you’re straight-up stealing for your own benefit. Don’t steal, guys).
Aside from YouTube, there are sites like WikiHow and Lifehacker with resources on how to do new things. Here is a list of 80 How-To Sites Worth Bookmarking. One of them is bound to feature the skill you’re looking to learn.
2. Make it a habit
No excuses. I mean it. This step of the process is often the hardest, but it has also served me the best out of all three.
Stephen King is my writing hero. One of my favorite King quotes is “You learn best by reading a lot and writing a lot, and the most valuable lessons of all are the ones you teach yourself.” He implies that one must first turn to example, and then practice. A lot.
First, set a schedule. Writing needs this—even though my schedule changes every three months, I make it a priority to find writing time. In high school, I got up at six a.m. every day and wrote for two or three hours before school. This past semester in college I got up early on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays to write, but on Tuesdays and Thursdays I wrote at night. Whatever works, just make sure you do it.
The science behind ‘practice makes perfect’ is the same as any muscle-memory exercise. If you type more, you’ll raise your words-per-minute rate. If you practice separating an egg, your hands and wrists will learn to flow with the right delicacy every time until you don’t have to think about it.
3. Seek feedback
One teacher can only do so much. In order to improve, someone learning a new skill must find others who can offer continual advice on how to keep getting better. This rings especially true for writers, artists, composers and creative content producers of any kind. Practice indeed makes perfect, but it can also make mediocrity. Seeking feedback from others can weed out poor habits and tend to the good ones.
Plus, it’s always wonderful to have a friend as passionate as you are about something. My best friend and I have written together for six years now, and we both know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s easier to stay motivated when you have an activity buddy. Friendships can form and of course, you will improve.
But while gentle feedback is nice, it’s worth noting the importance of constructive criticism. When someone points out a flaw or room for improvement, it can sting. That doesn’t mean it’s bad. I saw this most in my fiction writing class last year. My classmates and professor ripped apart my writing style, and I was disconsolate for almost half the semester before I realized something—I was actually getting better. Humility and respect are the most priceless learning skills.
As I mentioned before, a desire to learn and a dedicated attitude are all you need to make these three simple steps work. Whether you’re writing a novel, developing an exercise routine or starting a business, it pays to turn to example, make it a habit and seek feedback. Before you know it you’ll be able to do anything.
