How to Run a Wicked-Good Writing Group
1. Decide how the group will work.
There are many different kinds of writers, and the same is true of writing groups. In general, writing groups tend to focus around a combination of these three activities:
- Accountability! Members meet in a shared (online or physical) space and write together. They might also keep each other updated with regular progress updates (see: writing contract).
- Feedback! Members share writing and provide feedback, usually with more finished drafts, but sometimes with works-in-progress.
- Support! Members discuss writing, share challenges and tips, give emotional support and well-timed GIFs…
After you figure out what kind of meetings you want to have, you might want to consider these questions as well:
- How often will the group meet?
- How will meetings be structured?
- Will someone be in charge of facilitating?
- What level of commitment is expected, and what happens if members can’t attend regularly?
- How will members communicate outside of real-time meetings?
- If someone submits writing, how long can it be, and how should members give feedback?
- If anyone feels like the group isn’t meeting their needs, how can they express their concerns?
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Want to get even more tips for how to set up your writing group?
Read our full “How to Run a Wicked Good Writing Group” guide here.
The guide includes sections on community agreements, technology, writing activities, and more.
