5 helpful hints for writing at night

Can’t devote time to your craft in the morning? Do not despair. You can set aside 15 to 30 minutes every evening, but there are caveats. Here’s how to burn the midnight silicon wisely.

Ragan Insider Premium Content
Ragan Insider Content

Here’s what I’d do if I were the Queen of the World or had the supernatural powers of Harry Potter.

I’d give every would-be writer the determination to produce at least 250 words (or, better, 500) first thing in the morning, starting within 15 minutes of waking up. (Note: I’ve never promoted getting up at 6 a.m. or earlier to write unless you really want to do that.)

I’m neither the Queen nor Harry Potter. I also know that many writers are either parents of young children or night owls who—for a variety of perfectly sensible reasons—can’t possibly write in the morning.

If you must write in the evening, here are five suggestions:

1. Declare your writing time, and let everyone know about it. If it’s 10 p.m., tell your partner and your kids (if you have them). Let them know they cannot interrupt you for X number of minutes. I suggest you devote at least 15 minutes to writing and absolutely no more than 60.

To read the full story, log in.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today

Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.