As an aspiring writer, it can feel rather intimidating getting started. After all, there's so many writers out there, how can you get noticed? It's easier than you'd think. Here are some top tips to help you start out on your writing journey, and start flexing those creative muscles.

1. Read as much as you can

Firstly, if you're going to write, you're going to need to read more. Read whatever you can get your hands on, and don't just stick to a preferred genre. The more you read around, the more knowledge you can take in. It's amazing how much you can pick up by reading other people's work.

2. Practice every day

If you want to become a good writer, you're going to have to start writing every day. 'As with any skill, the more you write, the better you'll get at it' says professional writer Laura Clarke from UK Services Reviews. 'It's like strengthening a muscle. It'll be hard at first, but the more you do it, the easier it will become.' It's also a good idea to get into the habit of writing every day. It'll feel like a chore at first, but soon you'll find that you'll want to get to your writing sessions.

3. Find a good place and time to write

Now that you've dedicated yourself to writing every day, you'll need to find a good place to write. This will be different for every writer. For example, some need absolute silence, and a door between them and the outside world. Others need people around them and the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  Work out what you need, and use that time and place to write.

4. Keep a journal

You may not want to write published works about your innermost thoughts, but it's still important that you think about writing a journal. It's another way to ensure that you write every day. It's also a very good way of getting your thoughts in order. Try journaling every day about your writing journey, and what you want to achieve as a writer. It can help keep track of your progress, and make plans for the future.

5. Use online tools

There's lots of tools online that can help you write better. Here's just a few you should try out:

• Novel Writing Help: If you're looking to write a book, this site is the place to be. It takes you through the entire writing process, from planning to publication.
• Top Canadian Writers: If you'd like some help from a professional, come here. They'll show you where your writing needs improvement, and help you get better as a writer.
• Student Writing Services: This site has all the information on writing services, if you're looking for outside input on your work.

6. Defeat writer's block

Every writer finds that sometimes they just don't know where to go in their writing. This is the dreaded writer's block, but you don't have to be afraid of it. If you're stuck, the best thing to do is work on a different project for a while. You can also work on a different section of the same project, if you'd like. Some time away from your project can help you work out any kinks and come back refreshed.

7. Don't be afraid to experiment

'Many writers sound similar, as they stick to the same formulas' says blogger Aaron Jenson from Australian Reviewer. 'The way to get around that is to experiment with what you write. Don't be afraid to be a little outside of the box.' Remember, you're not obliged to publish everything you write. If you experiment and don't like it, that's ok. Just don't let yourself stagnate as a writer.

8. Always write a draft

It's important that you learn to write, proofread, and edit your work. When you start writing, consider your writing to be the first draft. Don't worry about getting it perfect, just get it down on paper. Once that's done, you can start fine tuning what you've written.

9. Talk to trusted friends

If you want an opinion on what you've written, pick a friend that you trust. You want them to be able to pick out both the good and the bad in your writing, and they have to be honest with you. If you don't want to ask a friend, try using a writing service as mentioned in point 5.

10. Enjoy your work

Finally, enjoy what you do. If you're not enjoying what you're writing, try switching up styles or genres. Writing is a joyous pastime, so whatever you write, make sure you're getting the most from it.

Use these tips as you start out writing, and you'll find that you're improving in no time at all.

Being a freelance writer whose passion is helping students get the most out of their learning journey. I previously started out as a writer and journalist in the newspaper industry, including Best Australian Writers, before breaking out to go freelance and follow my passion. See My Blog here.