For many people, reading is for educational or entertainment purposes. But for a writer, it is a different ball game.
Sometimes, writers read like other readers and other times, they read like a writer. In the case of the latter, they analyse the writing style and vocabulary and determine the author’s intent. They also critique the plot and technique when reading.
While this might sound absurd to others, it’s an effective reading method. When you read like a writer, it enhances your writing and critical thinking skills. It expands your vocabulary and can be a source of inspiration and creativity.
If you’re an aspiring writer, it’s especially vital to sometimes read like a writer does. Still, you don’t have to be a writer to enjoy the benefits of this reading technique.
If you’re wondering what I’m on about, keep reading.
Effective Ways to Read Like a Writer
1. Develop a Reading Habit
Most writers are avid readers, and you must develop a reading habit to read like one. If you haven’t done that, you can start by dedicating time to reading. This could be a daily or weekly routine; this will make you read more.
Similarly, reading more genres will expose your mind to a wider range of topics. This gives you more reading options, which helps you cultivate a reading habit.
Also Read: The Types of Books to Start Reading as a Beginner
2. Analyse the Writing Technique
Every book is written differently. In fact, some revised editions differ from the previous edition in information and writing techniques.
To understand this, you must consider the author’s choice of words and sentence structure when reading.
Identify and analyse the writing style, the use of dialogue, and character development as you read along.
This will help you understand different techniques and find the one that suits you.
3. Study Flow and Structure
Every book has a story to tell, so interpreting texts is essential. To read as a writer would, you must examine how the story is ordered.
You can do this by identifying the key elements of the plotline and studying its character development and dialogue. This will help you understand the progression of the storyline.
4. Understand the Viewpoint and Perspective
Another thing writers look for is the author’s intention. They do so by examining the main character’s actions and inactions and reflecting on how the character’s point of view can affect the reader’s experience.
This could include the emotions they invoke, like suspense, empathy, or excitement.
Also, consider if there are multiple perspectives within the story and how they all connect.
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5. Pay Attention to Themes and Symbols
Although several books focus on a subject, they will likely have other, more subtle topics.
Identifying them will require reading between the lines. Most of these deeper themes are less apparent than the primary theme, so they take a deeper look beneath the surface.
Analysing symbols or metaphors used by the author is also an excellent way to uncover the book’s more profound meaning.
6. Study the Use of Language
One might say words are words, but the choice of words is often intentional.
So, as you read, study the author’s command of language. Paying attention to their descriptive writing and sensory input.
Furthermore, you can reflect on the mood and atmosphere that the language creates.
7. Engage in Active Reading
Writers are very involved readers because they pay attention to every sentence. You can do the same by highlighting and commenting on important passages.
Plus, you can discuss and share insights with others to get a better picture. Book clubs or networking sites are great places for book discussions.
Also Read: Best Social Networking Sites for Readers
8. Incorporate Reading into Writing
Reading improves your writing skills, especially when you read carefully. However, you need to read actively and purposefully to achieve this.
9. Practice Writing Exercises
No skill can be established without regular practice. You don’t need to be a skilled writer to do this. Writing summaries and book reviews can suffice.
You can also compare and contrast different writing styles and try to imitate and experiment with them. This will give you a better understanding of sentence structure.
10. Reflect and Apply Learnings
There is inspiration in all books, especially in the writings of successful authors. They can help you generate new ideas and approaches to writing because of your diverse exposure.
As you read, reflect on what you’re learning and apply it to your writing. Always seek opportunities in every page and chapter you read to improve your skills.
Read Widely and Critically
Dissecting literature gives you a better understanding of books than the average reader.
Plus, reading like a writer gets the best of both worlds because you can read as both a reader and a writer.
Also Read: 10 Recommended Christian Books to Read Before Marriage
