Here are a few writing training tips on freelance creation of articles or books. They will hopefully provide you with a little inspiration when you sit down to write, especially when your mind goes blank!

The first Writing Training Tip has to do with a non-fiction book. With non-fiction it is very important that you are able to document permission to quote someone or include their knowledge, printed materials and expertise in your book. Advise the person you're interviewing that your editor will require written permission and to expect a form shortly, that needs to be signed and mailed back to you. While the permission form can be emailed or faxed, the signature must be original.

If you snail mail the permission form, then enclose a SASE addressed to yourself. If you are interviewing someone in another country the postage can be costly, so it's best to mail them the form and include postage on the envelope, or determine from talking to them, that they don't mind paying the postage once you email or fax the permission form. Don't delay sending these forms out, though. People can lose their jobs, leave their jobs, or change their minds. Get their signature as soon as possible.

While spell check is not flawless, it is a tool that you should use each and every time you write. This is one of the most important writing training tips. Unless you're working on a close deadline you should write your article, use the spell check and then set the project aside, even if just for 10 -15 minutes.

The first read of the article should be out loud. Reading out loud to yourself lets you hear how it's going to sound to the reader or viewer. You can hear if the syntax is awkward or if it flows smoothly. Then you can either make your changes from your computer or sit down in a comfy chair and note proof marks on the printed copy. After that then it's time to go to the computer to make those changes.

Now, unless you feel there is no fluff and you're within the word count dictated by the publisher (if you have a word count,) try to shorten the article. Make a game of it - how many words can I eliminate or change and still convey my message?

Now proof it once again and send it out.