There are many dos and don'ts in writing, and opinions are subjective. While some of the following are my personal opinions others are here to warn you of things like copyright infringement.
General Don'ts for Writers
Unless you're dealing with a publisher whose waiting for your next book, don't worry about deadlines and word counts. There's no point to adding unneeded stress onto yourself as it can very likely affect the quality of your writing.
~ Don't compare yourself to other writers when it comes to how much they are writing, everyone works at different paces, and remember that it's about quality not quantity.
~ Don't skimp on research; showing that you have some knowledge in the subject that you are writing about will make the read more enjoyable for the reader, and it will often help you catch plot-holes. (For instance, make sure the science and medical stuff in your books are correct, otherwise it could make your writing look half-assed which will more than likely be reflected in your reviews.)
~ Don't worry about writing everything perfect on your first time around, it's called a rough draft for a reason. Save perfecting the speech & grammar for the rewrites, or else you'll have a heck of a time getting through your story as you'll spend far too much time second guessing yourself.
~ Don't be afraid to ask for help. Connect with other writers, and get advice when you're feeling stumped. We've all been there, there's no shame in it, and there's always more to be learned about writing.
"Your" Material
A BIG no no in writing is borrowing from other stories. Now most writers already know this, but as a reader, I have discovered that not all writers do. I've read many mediocre books that have borrowed characters like Dracula, or objects like Excalibur for their stories. First off, always be careful that you aren't intruding on something that is copyrighted, you can end up finding yourself on the bad end of a lawsuit. Some old classic novels copyrights have expired and are now considered fair use, but if this isn't the case, and your story isn't a work of fan-fiction that you're sharing for fun on a random website, then I would stay away from using someone else's creation.
Things likes elves, fairies, and trolls are classic fantasy fodder that are open use to all, but specific beings like hobbits, oompa loompas, and Dementors are very much copyrighted.
Don'ts With Names
Now for using names, when specific like Sherlock Holmes, Edward Cullen, and Harry Potter they are also a don't. But using popular names like Bella, Harry, or Alice is technically okay, though I personally try to stay away from overused names because it can come off as trite.
General Don'ts for Writers
Unless you're dealing with a publisher whose waiting for your next book, don't worry about deadlines and word counts. There's no point to adding unneeded stress onto yourself as it can very likely affect the quality of your writing.
~ Don't compare yourself to other writers when it comes to how much they are writing, everyone works at different paces, and remember that it's about quality not quantity.
~ Don't skimp on research; showing that you have some knowledge in the subject that you are writing about will make the read more enjoyable for the reader, and it will often help you catch plot-holes. (For instance, make sure the science and medical stuff in your books are correct, otherwise it could make your writing look half-assed which will more than likely be reflected in your reviews.)
~ Don't worry about writing everything perfect on your first time around, it's called a rough draft for a reason. Save perfecting the speech & grammar for the rewrites, or else you'll have a heck of a time getting through your story as you'll spend far too much time second guessing yourself.
~ Don't be afraid to ask for help. Connect with other writers, and get advice when you're feeling stumped. We've all been there, there's no shame in it, and there's always more to be learned about writing.
"Your" Material
A BIG no no in writing is borrowing from other stories. Now most writers already know this, but as a reader, I have discovered that not all writers do. I've read many mediocre books that have borrowed characters like Dracula, or objects like Excalibur for their stories. First off, always be careful that you aren't intruding on something that is copyrighted, you can end up finding yourself on the bad end of a lawsuit. Some old classic novels copyrights have expired and are now considered fair use, but if this isn't the case, and your story isn't a work of fan-fiction that you're sharing for fun on a random website, then I would stay away from using someone else's creation.
Things likes elves, fairies, and trolls are classic fantasy fodder that are open use to all, but specific beings like hobbits, oompa loompas, and Dementors are very much copyrighted.
Don'ts With Names
Now for using names, when specific like Sherlock Holmes, Edward Cullen, and Harry Potter they are also a don't. But using popular names like Bella, Harry, or Alice is technically okay, though I personally try to stay away from overused names because it can come off as trite.