Writer’s Digest Best General Resources Websites for Writers 2023
Here are the top general resource websites as identified in the 25th Annual 101 Best Websites from the May/June 2023 issue of Writer’s Digest.
1. Copyright.gov
Copyright laws are more important than ever, with the pervasiveness of online content and ownership of what we share online. Learn the basics of copyright law, search copyright records, register your creative works, and more, from the U.S. Copyright Office.
2. Diversity Style Guide
Write inclusively with the help of this resource that guides writers on appropriate and accurate terms and phrases related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more. Different from style guides focused on grammar and punctuation, this is made to help writers represent multicultural subjects and stories with accuracy, authority, and sensitivity.
3. Editors of Color Database*
A project by the Conscious Style Guide, Editors of Color connects talented freelance editors, proofreaders, and sensitivity readers to people who need their services. Sort through the database by selecting the areas of expertise, service you’re looking for, and type of media you need reviewed.
4. Get It Write
Since 1991, Get It Write has been dedicated to the grammar, mechanics, and usage of standard written American English. Established by Dr. Nancy Tuten, the free blog is dedicated to educating writers in all fields. The in-person and virtual classes, seminars, and conference presentations can be accessed for a fee.
5. National Writers Union*
While being a freelancer has its perks, it also can come with challenges that are best met with the help of a stronger organization. The NWU helps members with everything from understanding contracts to resolving disputes to getting press passes and finding health insurance. Membership tiers are available based on your writing income.
6. PEN America
Dedicated to defending free speech, supporting persecuted writers in the U.S. and around the world, and promoting literary culture, PEN America’s mission is more important than ever. Use the vast resources on their website to stay current on challenges to free speech and expression at home and abroad and find out how you can take action or become a supporting member.
7. Reedsy
Reedsy has grown to be a community of over 1 million authors and 2,500 freelance professionals, all dedicated to increasing the quality, creativity, and diversity of books on the market today. The free blog provides advice on everything from plotting to book marketing, but they also have free live webinars, pre-recorded courses, and a podcast.
8. The Authors Guild
Founded in 1912, the Authors Guild is the largest and oldest organization for published writers in the U.S., and is devoted to protecting writers’ free speech, copyright, and helping ensure fair contracts and wages. Five memberships are available, and eligibility and dues are measured by publication numbers, income, and more.
9. Writer Beware Blog
Sponsored by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association (SFWA®), this website focuses on curating a list of known scams and questionable business practices that target writers. It also gives tips and tricks for how writers can protect themselves from potential scams, plus current industry news, even about things that happen on the fringe of publishing.
10. Writing Diversely*
Writing Diversely is “dedicated to providing authors, writers, and content creators the tools, resources, and support they need to tell diverse and inclusive stories” because positive and accurate representation matters. Find a sensitivity reader or read the blog covering topics ranging from writing elements of religion, race, culture, gender and sexuality, and more.
View the best everything agents websites roundup here.
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