Learning How To Write

[ddavis1908]

I am a accountant. I would like to learn how to write. I want to eventually get my PHD but what is holding me back is my writing skills or should I say my lack of writing skills. Can any of you guys suggest websites that could help me with this. Thanks in advance.

[Hoping2]

Is the problem organization, grammar or something else?

[ddavis1908]

The problem is grammar and organization sprinkled with a little bit of lack of confidence.

[Jonelle]

If you're an accountant, you are logical and analytical, so with a little study and practice, this should come easily to you .

I like this site for grammar:
Grammar Girl :: Quick and Dirty Tips

For a variety of writing questions, I check Purdue's Online Writing Lab:
Welcome to the Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL)

This site may give ideas for organizing:
How to Organize Your Writing

Usually, I'll organize with an introductory paragraph, which I usually write last. Then I'll think of several sub-topics --- which are the points I want to cover --- and have a paragraph devoted to each. Each of these may begin with a topic sentence, and then a few supporting sentences. If it's longer article, I'll add a conclusion, which may quickly recap the main points, and may include a call to action (depending on the type of writing).

I've taken some writing courses through this org, and overall, was pretty happy with them:
ed2go online course - Online adult & continuing education provider
It might not have just what you need, though.

[shescrafty]

I especially love Grammar Girl...she has helped my grammar a bunch. And, every writer has confidence issues, or at least most of them I know anyway. Once you start writing regularly your confidence will build and organization will start to come naturally as well. Good luck!

[ddavis1908]

You are absolutely right.I did the ed2go and it helped a little with the grammar. I will be checking the othrer sites.Thank you so much for your advice. I will start today.

[Del S]

I don't know what kind of writing you want to do, but I also suggest reading as much as you possibly can, preferably in the genre(s) you're interested in writing. That will help you pick up on style nuances, flow, etc. Good luck!