10 websites every writer should know about
In the ever-competitive world of publishing, writers need all the assistance they can get to see their work in print. There are a lot of great resources available to writers — and some of the best resources are available free online.
Whether you need assistance researching literary agents to query, want to brush up on your grammar, or are looking for some assistance with story structure these writing websites have you covered. Here are 10 great websites for writers.
This writing website is a great resource for finding agents to query. It includes a search feature you can use to narrow your criteria and includes the agents’ submission guidelines. One caveat, the information is basic and only includes the general list of categories the agent accepts. Although no wishlist information is included, it’s still a good resource. I’d check out the agency websites to ensure their information is up-to-date.
Querytracker includes several features that are helpful for writers. You can use the form on the site to track your queries. By clicking on the New Agent and Agent updates, you’ll find a list of literary agents who either have been recently added to the site or whose information has recently changed.
Querytracker is also a great resource for finding feedback from other querying authors. Things like response time, query letter examples, and general feedback about the agent are often supplied by other writers. This site is a great resource to determine the agent’s response patterns. When you’re waiting to hear back from an agent — this site is your best friend.
This is a subscription-based site, but membership is free and for the wealth of information you receive, it’s definitely worth it.
3. Mswishlist.com/ManuscriptWishlist.com
These two sites are associated with the Manuscript Academy and are very similar. www.manuscriptwishlist.com includes profile information and wishlists supplied by agents. The site also includes their favourite books and movies. That can be a big help if you’re trying to decide if the agent will like your current project.
In contrast, www.mswishlist.com curates #mswl tweets by the agents. Both sites are great resources and can be used in concert with each other as you compile a list of agents you want to submit to.
With over 20 years in the business, including a stint heading up the Writer’s Community for F&W Media, Jane Friedman is a respected member of the publishing community. She offers great insight into the business of writing. She offers a plethora of advice on subjects that include getting published, writing query letters, finding an agent, and how to self-publish your work.
No matter where you are in your publishing journey, do yourself a favour and also sign up for Jane’s free newsletter. It provides original content on digital tools and resources for writers.
On the Queryshark blog, literary agent Janet Reid provided public critiques of query letters people submitted to the site. Her critiques were not for the faint of heart, but her advice could turn a mediocre query into a great one. The last comments on the site are from 2020, so it doesn’t appear she’s still offering the critiques through the site. But, if you’re writing a query letter, it would be worth your time to read through her archives and study her advice before you tackle that query letter.
National Novel Writing Month is held in November, participants sign up with the goal of completing a 50,000-word novel by the end of the month. This site includes the necessary tips and tricks for completing such a feat.
This site is like having your high school English teacher on speed dial. You can even copy and paste snippets of your own writing and receive feedback on the grammar and proper usage.
This is a great site to use if you want to brush up on your grammar and punctuation. It is a great resource for all things grammar and usage.
Unsure of whether you should use lie/lay? you can find the answer here.
Writer’s Digest magazine is the go-to for everything writing. An industry leader for over 100 years, their site includes interviews with famous writers, writing advice, submission advice and writing prompts. They have an active presence on Twitter so you can keep up with new posts by following them at; @WritersDigest.
10. Helping Writers Become Authors
On her website, K.M. Weiland takes a deep dive into all things craft. She offers in-depth advice on subjects like story structure, outlining your novel, character arcs, and common writing mistakes. If you want easy-to-understand tips and tricks on the craft of writing, give this site a look.
🔎 Related: 23 freelance writing websites to grow your income in 2024
Wrapping up
Writing websites like these are great resources to use while you’re writing. You may not need to use them every day. But keeping these secret weapons in your writing toolbox can help you take your writing to the next level. And If you bookmark the sites, you’ll have them at the ready when you need them.
Happy writing.
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