Whether you are an aspiring writer or an established author, chances are you wound up here looking for some new inspiration to get your next project started. Sometimes the best approach to helping yourself is allowing the help of others; hearing about a different author’s style of work, getting timely advice and tips in more formal settings, or doing some creative exercises are all free and invaluable resources.

YouTube Channels

YouTube videos are great for a number of reasons, the most important reason being that the sole purpose anyone starts a channel, comes from a desire to share talents and skills with others in their community.

The Creative Penn

This channel is run by author Joanna Penn, and according to her bio it provides “information and inspiration about writing fiction, writing non-fiction, self-publishing, book marketing, and making a living with your writing.” Joanna has written over 30 books, has a website and podcast of the same name, and currently has 41k subscribers on YouTube. Some of her most popular uploads include: “How To Use Grammarly To Improve Your Writing”, “Writing Tips for Fiction and Non-Fiction with Scrivener”, and “Writing Fiction: Improve Your Dialogue With James Scott”.

“The Creative Penn is an essential part of every author’s toolkit. I especially love the futurist segments, tech updates, and industry updates–the curation and analysis is extremely helpful for keeping track of what’s happening–and what’s coming. Plus, Joanna’s progressive and slightly rebellious mindset really resonates with me. Proud to be part of this exciting indie community.” E.A.Sandrose – Quote taken from The Creative Penn website, about her podcast of the same name.

“No list of AuthorTube channels would be complete without mentioning The Creative Penn. Joanna Penn has built a small empire teaching other writers about writing craft, book marketing, and self-publishing. When I’m looking for a specific question, Joanna’s website and channel are the first places I look…She has videos on every topic you could imagine. And she isn’t just for fiction writers, either. Joanna also brings on other authorpreneurs to share their stories and advice.” – Review from ProWritingAid’s list of “Our Favorite YouTube Channels for Writers”

It’s never too late to get a plan started for your writing! Don’t wait until the time for new year’s resolutions. Start today with this template.

Alexa Donne

Alexa Donne’s YouTube channel currently has 100k subscribers and is a great place that “offers insight into writing, YA & the publishing industry…this channel has craft advice, publishing Real Talk, drafting and editing vlogs, interviews with authors, book reviews & more. New videos 2-3 times a week!” her channel description says. Some of Alexa’s popular uploads include: “Novel Beginnings: How To Start Your Book”, “MORE Harsh Writing Advice! (Tough Love For Authors)”, and “How To Develop Characters”.

“Alexa has a personality that makes you feel like you’ve known her your whole life…She gives great writing advice and can be brutally honest about the writing community and its trends. But she is also encouraging and gives great pep talks. I find her videos some of the most engaging on the internet.” – Review from ProWritingAid’s list of “Our Favorite YouTube Channels for Writers”

Skillshare

While this online resource has a premium version, they also happen to offer an array of free online classes to choose from that are just as helpful. Some “skills” include blogging, ebooks, editorial writing, marketing, publishing, etc. Within these broad topics you can find specific classes that last anywhere from 20 minutes – 2 hours. An example of a popular recent upload is “Storytelling 101: Character, Conflict, Context & Craft” by Daniel José Older.

“The free version is ad-supported. It gives you access to select video classes and their related content, such as PDF workbooks and community discussions.” – PC Magazine Editor’s Choice review

Reedsy

“This curated directory of creative writing exercises was conceived thanks to a collaboration between the top writing blogs of 2021. Use the filters to find and practice specific techniques – and show that blank page who’s boss!” – from Reedsy website.

Along with educational content and tools to help writers get published, Reedsy has a cool tool for help addressing writer’s block. Search categories and find prompts to respond to that will fuel your creativity and aid in generating those new and exciting ideas.

With all of these free tools, tips, and thought-provoking topics you are sure to be well on your way to creating that next great piece!

It’s never too late to get a plan started for your writing! Don’t wait until the time for new year’s resolutions. Start today with this template.

Kendall is a marketing intern at Cardinal Rule Press this spring and also a student at Michigan State University. She is currently a sophomore studying Communication and Public Relations.