What are the best writing exercises?

If you want to become a better writer, here’s a truth you can’t avoid: writing regularly is non-negotiable. But when you’re staring at a blank page, knowing how to practise can be half the battle. That’s where writing exercises come in. The right ones can improve your flow, stretch your style, and help you find your voice.

So, what are the best writing exercises to sharpen your skills? Let’s explore.

Why writing exercises work

Think of writing like a muscle: it gets stronger with use. Structured writing exercises train different aspects of that muscle, from creativity and clarity to tone and structure. They can:

• Overcome writer’s block

• Improve your vocabulary

• Build consistency

• Boost creative thinking

• Sharpen technical writing skills

  
  

According to the National Centre for Writing, regular writing practice has measurable benefits for mental agility, confidence, and communication.

1. Freewriting (aka, The Mental Unblocker)

Set a timer for 10 minutes. Now write. Don’t edit. Don’t think. Just write anything that comes to mind. This is about flow, not form.

Why it works: It shuts down your inner critic. It gets your ideas moving, even if they’re messy.

Try this prompt: “The thing I’m not saying is...”

2. The 100-Word Story

Choose a theme or moment and write a story using exactly 100 words. No more. No less.

Why it works: It teaches you economics. Every word must earn its place. It’s a great tool for clarity.

Example: Write a 100-word story about someone who misses a train and what it sets in motion.

3. Dialogue Only Scene

Write a short scene using only dialogue. No descriptions, no tags.

Why it works: You learn to give characters voice and personality through speech alone.

Prompt: Two people arguing about a long-held secret.

4. Sensory Description Challenge

Describe a place using all five senses, sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch, but don’t say where it is. Let the reader guess.

Why it works: It strengthens descriptive skills and reader immersion.

Try it: Describe a beach at night without ever saying "beach."

5. Rewrite a Classic Scene

Take a well-known story or scene and rewrite it from another character’s point of view.

Why it works: This builds empathy and perspective. It also challenges you to think differently about narrative.

Example: Rewrite the Big Bad Wolf’s side of the story.

6. Use Real Headlines

Grab a real news headline and use it as the first line of a fictional piece.

Why it works: It gives structure and immediacy. Plus, real events spark the imagination.

Example: “Mysterious lights spotted over Yorkshire sky.”

7. Timed Micro Monologue

Pick a random character and let them talk, uninterrupted, for 5 minutes. Write it as if they’re speaking to someone, or to themselves.

Why it works: This builds voice, tone, and personality. Great for character development.

Prompt: A retired circus performer shares one final story.

8. Letter Writing (Yes, Really)

Writing a letter is one of the most personal and powerful ways to practise tone, audience awareness, and structure. From apologies to complaints, it requires purpose and emotional intelligence.

Why it works: It teaches intentional language and empathy. Bonus: you can actually send it.

Try this: Write a letter to your past self at 16.

At LetterLab, we help people write powerful letters every day, from heartfelt to hard-hitting. Whether it’s a formal appeal or a personal note, the skill of writing a clear, effective letter is timeless.

Final Thoughts

Writing exercises aren’t about perfection. They’re about building habits, unlocking creativity, and pushing yourself beyond your usual voice. Whether you’re aiming to improve your storytelling, tighten your grammar, or just find your rhythm again, these exercises give you somewhere to start.

And if you want real-world writing that works, we’re always here. LetterLab is more than a letter writing service. We’re your behind-the-scenes writing partner. Let us help you say it right.