How can I improve my writing?

Question

Like any skill, writing requires consistent practice and repetition of strong habits that are often learned through repetition. But it's so much more than this. The best way to improve is to follow the guiding hand of an expert, like me, who continues to write and publish as an adult and knows how to think like a student. Through over 15 years of experience teaching everything from essay writing to college entrance essays to creative writing, I can teach simple and tried-and-true methods for improving your writing.

Answer 1

On the new Digital SAT, writing isn’t about long essays — it’s about answering short, precise questions tied to reading passages. To prepare, I coach students to:

1. Read with purpose — notice how authors use evidence, tone, and word choice. These skills are exactly what DSAT questions target.
2. Use structure — when practicing writing, I recommend PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link). This same clear structure helps students analyze passages quickly.
3. Practice precision — the DSAT rewards accuracy, not fluff. Strong writing habits carry over into clearer, faster reasoning under timed conditions.

In short, better writing skills translate directly into better DSAT Reading & Writing performance. Clear thinking on paper builds the same skills needed to master the new digital format.

Answer 2

As it is with many subjects, understanding the components of writing is important in order to write thought-provoking pieces. Start by practicing everyday even off it's just a sentence or two, no matter how "bad" it is you're learning something and improving your skills, which is something to be proud of. One thing that always helped me improve my writing back in elementary and middle school, was by writing about things I was passionate about. Whether its art, sport, or a really specific movie you've watched, having a genuine interest towards a topic motivates you to write no matter how much or how little.

Answer 3

As a college lecturer of Creative Writing and a former high school English teacher, I think the best way to improve your writing is to read. By incorporating reading into your daily routine, you'll develop an ear for grammar and yourself to new vocabulary and writing styles.

Answer 4

Honestly, one of the best ways to improve your writing is just by practicing consistently and actually caring about what you’re saying. Don’t be afraid to rewrite and revise either—that’s where the magic really happens. A method that really helped me is PEELS (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link, Significance). It keeps your paragraphs structured and makes your argument flow better.

Also, having a strong thesis with 3 clear points is a game changer. It sets you up perfectly for your body paragraphs and helps you stay focused. When I’m writing, I always start my intro with some strong background info to give context, and then I gradually work my way to my main argument. It makes your writing feel more grounded and intentional.

And lastly, don’t overthink sounding “smart”—clarity and connection always matter more than big word