You don’t have to spend money—or very much of it—to be a better writer. Have a look at these free or low-cost ideas.

1. Read writing how-to books from your library.
2. Read magazines on writing and publishing at your library; for instance, Writer’s Digest, The Writer, Publishers Weekly, and Romantic Times BOOKreviews.
3. Read free writing how-to articles online.
4. Read online interviews with successful writers and learn how they did it.
5. Join online writers’ communities; an example is www.coldcoffee.ning.com.
6. Join a writers group. Check out www.meetup.com, a website where people with similar interests connect. I entered “writing” and was shown a list of 191 groups within 25 miles of my zip code.
7. Start a writers group. Post notices in your local library. In your local coffee shop, approach those aspiring writers who set up shop with their laptops. Advertise your new group on www.craigslist.net.
8. Attend local writers conferences, which charge lower attendance fees than national ones. Go to www.ShawGuides.com to find conferences near you.
9. Get a writing buddy. Share your writing goals and keep each other on track.
10. Join a critique group. Find people writing in your genre or one close to it. You’ll read and critique one another’s work. Many successful, multi-published writers still rely on their critique groups for honest feedback and advice.
11. Join writers’ organizations. Some have regional and local chapters that hold regular meetings and events—examples are Romance Writers of America, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime (which isn’t just for women), and the Horror Writers Association. You also receive newsletters full of information and market updates.
12. Read novels in your genre (from the library).
13. Enter a contest. Hundreds of contests are held each year by various writers’ groups. Entry fees are usually small.
14. Actively eavesdrop. Get great story and dialogue ideas.
15. Ask family members about their most unusual/memorable/upsetting experiences. You’ll be amazed at what you hear for the first time.
16. Write down your dreams. Dreams are free! Keep a notebook and pen at your bedside and grab these gems before they dissolve into thin air.
17. Visit publishers’ websites. You’ll usually find submission tips and even writing advice. One example is www.eharlequin.com.
18. Google “free stuff for writers.” You’ll be amazed at what you can get gratis.