Looking to publish? Meet your dream editor, designer and marketer on Reedsy.

Find the perfect editor for your next book

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy, come meet them.

Blog • Perfecting your Craft , Understanding Publishing

Posted on Nov 19, 2018

15 of the Best Online Writing Communities for Aspiring Authors

As enjoyable and fulfilling as writing can be, the truth is that it’s often a solitary endeavor. While we might romanticize the focused artist typing away while imaginary worlds and narratives swirl inside their minds — authors know the truth: writing can get lonely. And moreover, when you’re working on a one-person project, it can be hard to remain motivated and accountable. That’s where writing communities come in.

Writing communities are the perfect place to find answers to your writing questions and to discuss the ins and outs of the writing life with people who actually understand what you’re talking about.

So, if you are tired of listening only to the voices in your head, take a look at our list of top online writing communities. (And if you're hungry for more, check out our more exhaustive list of the very best writing websites !)

Top online writing communities

1. absolute write water cooler.

With over 68,000 members, this is a large and highly active community. Here you can find threads on every genre imaginable, as well as discussions about freelance writing , the publishing industry, pop culture, writing prompts and exercises, and much more.

Perfect for: writers who are looking for a large and active community.

2. AgentQuery Connect

While this forum will come in handy for any writer, it’s especially helpful for authors who have already completed their manuscript and are wondering what to do next. The site boasts a wealth of information on publishing topics such as querying agents, self-publishing tips, and book promotion advice.

Perfect for: writers who are looking to connect with agents and learn more about the publishing industry.

3. Camp NaNoWriMo

If you’ve ever wanted to go to a writer’s retreat but can’t afford it just yet, then this site might help scratch your itch. Holding online “camp sessions” in April and July, Camp NaNoWriMo offers a digital space to encourage and empower writers at any point of their career. Here you can work on drafts, revisions, short stories, or any other writing project that involves word-count goals.

Perfect for: writers who can’t wait until November to crack their writing goals .

writing groups on

4. Critique Circle

Feedback should be a vital part of any writer’s process, and this is exactly what Critique Circle offers. This members-only site allows authors to post stories in exchange for feedback on other people’s writing. You can also find storyboarding tools , writing prompts , workshops, name generators , games like hangman, and much more.

Perfect for: writers who want honest feedback on their writing.

5. Chronicles

As the world’s largest Science Fiction and Fantasy online community, Chronicles offers writers the opportunity to get together and discuss the latest books, news, and pop culture in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy world. This is an active community with thousands of threads that include genre-specific challenges, workshops, critiques, and even publishing and industry information.

Perfect for: writers interested in Science Fiction and Fantasy writing.

6. Facebook Groups

If social media is more your style, don't miss the chance to interact with your fellow writers by joining Facebook groups in your own niche. Look for groups with a strict "no self-promotion" rules so that it remains supportive and useful to your writing goals.

There are a lot of groups out there in a variety of topics that range from genre-specific writing tips to traditional and self-publishing industry news. Here are just a few of them:

The Street Team — Reedsy's own book marketing group for self-publishing authors. 10 Minute Novelists — a group for the time-crunched writer. Calls for Submissions  — for writers looking for publication opportunities. Fiction Writers Global — a great resource for information about traditional and self-publishing. Writers Unite! — an active group with plenty of support and motivation for novice and experienced writers alike.

Perfect for: writers who prefer using social media.

FREE WRITING APP

FREE WRITING APP

The Reedsy Book Editor

Set goals, track progress, and establish your writing routine in our free app.

7. Insecure Writer’s Support Group

Whether you are a debut or seasoned author, there’s no doubt that writing a book can be intimidating and rife with bouts of self-doubt. The Insecure Writer’s Support Group aims to help you overcome those insecurities by hosting a community of like-minded authors.

Perfect for: writers who have doubts about their writing and are in need of encouragement.

writing groups on

8. The Next Big Writer

This is an international forum where writers can receive feedback on their writing and support on every other part of the creative process from drafting to publishing and marketing. The critiques are often thorough and many come from published authors. Keep in mind that there is a monthly cost associated with the membership, but it might be worth it to be able to bend the ear of published authors.

Perfect for: writers seeking in-depth critiques from an international audience.

If you struggle to write consistently, sign up for our How to Write a Novel course to finish a novel in just 3 months.  

NEW REEDSY COURSE

NEW REEDSY COURSE

How to Write a Novel

Enroll in our course and become an author in three months.

More than just a single writing community, Reddit has countless ‘subreddits’ where writers of all genres, interests, and levels of experience flock. While it may not offer workshops or tools, members can find niche threads that relate to their interests, critique other people’s work, and discover helpful sources of information.

There are so many different subreddits that you can get lost browsing them, but here are a few of the most popular ones:

r/writing — for general writing purposes. r/writingprompts — for user-submitted writing prompts. r/destructivereaders — beware, if you don’t like harsh criticism this may not be the best fit. But if you are willing to endure it, you will come out a better writer at the end. r/worldbuilding — user submitted fiction worlds. r/fantasywriters — for anybody interested in the fantasy genre. r/characterforge — the place to be for character building. r/writerchat — for those interested in talking with fellow writers. r/selfpublish — for anybody interested in self-publishing. r/logophilia — “the love of words and word games,” and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. r/freelanceWriters — for anybody interested in a career in freelance writing . r/books — because reading is just as important as writing if you want to be a successful author.

Perfect for: writers who want niche threads based on a particular interest or need.

10. Scribophile

One of the largest communities in the world, Scribophile offers workshops, tutorials, and critiques for authors in just about any genre imaginable. While it is free to join, only users who pay for a membership get access to all their features.

Perfect for: authors whowant to take part in writing workshops alongside writers of all experience levels.

writing groups on

11. She Writes

With over 30,000 members, this is the largest writing community exclusively for women. Here you can find articles on writing, editing, and marketing for every genre. There are forums tailored to specific needs, like travel writers, writing about trauma, NaNoWriMo, and many other topics.

Perfect for: women writers who want a place to connect and learn from fellow writers.

12. Talentville

If your passion lies in screenwriting, then you’ll want to book a one-way ticket to Talentville. Here you can get feedback on your writing and learn the skills necessary to perfect your screencraft. Plus, you can work on and build your network of contacts: the site is also a frequent stop for industry professionals (like agents, managers, and producers) on the lookout for new talent.

Perfect for: writers whoare interested in screenwriting and networking.

13. Underlined

A writing community by Penguin Random House. While any author can find helpful information on this website, it’s geared more towards younger writers. It has a well-designed platform, quizzes, genre-specific information, the latest news on book releases, Q&As with authors, and even some giveaways and excerpts as perks.

Perfect for: younger writers who are looking for genre-specific information and bookish perks.

writing groups on

14. Writers Helping Writers

This is a free-to-register community where you can find resources for writers, teachers, and editors alike. They offer a vast array of tools to perfect your craft, no matter your level. Their extensive creative library includes webinars, free writing and marketing tools, a thesaurus collection, story maps, idea generators, and more.

Perfect for: writers, editors, and teachers who are looking to build up their writing toolbox.

15. #WritingCommunity

Sometimes, all you need is a hashtag. And indeed, Twitter's own #WritingCommunity is one of the most robust writing collectives on the web. Ask a question, and it'll almost certainly get answered (without a lot of Twitter's trademark snark). The key here is to keep your questions concise, reply often to others, and don't go crazy with other hashtags. The community can tell if you're just thirsty for RTs. Perfect for: writers who are finally ready to use Twitter for good — and not just for procrastinating.

Do you belong to a writing community? Which one is your favorite one? Add yours in the comments below!

13 responses

27/11/2018 – 22:42

Very useful post. Thanks for this. I will be linking to it on my blog.

Dr Jack Edward Effron says:

18/02/2019 – 16:40

You left out taylz.com. It’s truly free. They are not going to give you a rubbish service to make you join their pay site because they have no pay site. Your story can be 8,000 words. They are not going to force you into flash fiction of 3,000 words. One critique out, one critique in: no mucking about with “karma” or critiquing 5+ stories to get one critique. The great new idea whose time has come! And it’s British, not American.

marieseltenrych says:

08/05/2019 – 12:28

Reedsy, thank God you are here! I want to ask a question to other authors or self publishers here: I have been approached by OmniScriptum to publish my books (research) with them. I cannot find much about this company online, so wondered if anyone has published with them recently? Thanks Reedsy in anticipation. Marie

↪️ Reedsy replied:

08/05/2019 – 12:29

Hi Marie! Sounds potentially very shady to me. If you haven't already, check out our post on predatory companies in publishing. One of the rules of thumb is that if a publisher contacts you first, be very wary. I just did 20 seconds worth of Googling and found some people who had a bad experience.

Eunice Brownlee says:

I am a member of illuminate, which is a group designed around supporting women who want to share their stories but don't know how. The majority of us write non-fiction essays and memoirs, but we have a few poets and fiction writers in the mix as well. The overall goal is to support each other, especially through those harder moments of not wanting to write, or not knowing where to start. There are monthly themes and prompts, a weekly exercise inside the Facebook group, and cross-sharing of what we're working on. My favorite feature is the expert review, where you can submit any piece you're working on each month and you'll get quality feedback from one of the editors that manage the group. This group is perfect for anyone who is just getting started writing.

↪️ Brittani B replied:

11/02/2020 – 19:27

I tried the link multiple times both from this page and separately searched and was unable to access the site.

Harry says:

05/06/2019 – 07:51

Personally I think you missed out the best writing community: https://community.jerichowriters.com/ Jericho Writers is a free writing community that writers can safely share thought, make friends, swap work and get advice

Christian says:

08/08/2019 – 12:21

I only recommend Scribophile if you enjoy being coerced into groupthink. If you hope to get meaningful critique that will help you, look elsewhere. The critiques here are mostly SPAG, and it's forbidden to discuss your work on the main forums, except in the broadest, vaguest way.

Randy says:

18/08/2019 – 06:11

I have all my dads writing research and copyrights to 18 different books....all this was before the digital world .... many negatives photos ....every major story from all over the world with his .copyright . These are huge stores and his books are really well written ....what should I do with them .....incredible spy work as well

Ratih says:

27/08/2019 – 03:50

As a new writer this article is really useful for me. Thank you reedsy

Jennifer says:

02/09/2019 – 14:15

Hi guys! Great blog! Just wanted to let you know that we linked to you in a blog on the Peaceful Living Wellness Online Magazine :) It will be published on Friday, September 6th, 2019

↪️ Martin Cavannagh replied:

17/09/2019 – 09:04

Thanks! We appreciate that!

Kaylee Downey says:

14/02/2020 – 19:09

Um...what about Wattpad?

Comments are currently closed.

Continue reading

Recommended posts from the Reedsy Blog

writing groups on

Narrative Structure: Definition, Examples, and Writing Tips

What's the difference between story structure and narrative structure? And how do you choose the right narrative structure for you novel?

writing groups on

What is the Proust Questionnaire? 22 Questions to Write Better Characters

Inspired by Marcel Proust, check out the questionnaire that will help your characters remember things past.

writing groups on

What is Pathos? Definition and Examples in Literature

Pathos is a literary device that uses language to evoke an emotional response, typically to connect readers with the characters in a story.

writing groups on

How to Start a Children’s Book: Coming Up with Your Big Idea

If you've ever dreamed of writing a children's book but aren't sure where to start, check out this post to learn more about how you can create the perfect story for kids.

writing groups on

How to Become a Travel Writer in 5 Steps: A Guide for Travel Bugs

If you want to get paid to share your adventures, learn how to become a travel writer with these five tips.

writing groups on

How to Write a Biography: A 7-Step Guide [+Template]

Portraying someone’s life on paper in a comprehensive and engaging way requires solid preparation. Here are 7 steps you can follow.

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

RBE | We made a writing app for you (photo) | 2023-02

We made a writing app for you

Yes, you! Write. Format. Export for ebook and print. 100% free, always.

Reedsy Marketplace UI

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy, come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

Get feedback on your writing and become a better writer in our online writing group

Scribophile is one of the largest and most award-winning online writing communities.

Scribophile in Writer’s Digest 101 Best Websites for Writers 2014

Make your writing shine with feedback from other writers

You’ve spent a lot of time writing your story. But how can you make it perfect before you start thinking about publishing?

Scribophile is a writing group focused on getting you feedback on your manuscript. Our points-based peer critique system guarantees you’ll get feedback from writers from all walks of life. You can then use that feedback to polish your writing before you take the next step in your publishing journey.

How Scribophile works

1 earn points by giving feedback.

Earn karma points by critiquing writing. Giving feedback to other writers is fast, easy, fun, and helps improve your own writing, too!

2 Get feedback on your own writing

Spend karma points to post your own writing for critique — anything from flash fiction to novels. Our busy community of writers from all over the world will give you detailed feedback on how to improve it.

3 Make friends and meet beta readers

As you participate in our writing group, you’ll meet and form relationships with other writers. These friends will be your beta readers, ready to help with your current manuscript, and your next ones too!

Scribophile was the first place I stopped when I went from being an I-wanna-be-a-writer to I-am-an-author. Now I have four international bestselling novels with major publishers, and when authors come to me I always send them to Scribophile. Genevieve Graham Tides of Honour and others published with Simon & Schuster

Join writing workshops and level up your writing

Our writing workshops are taught by bestselling authors, expert teachers, and industry insiders. We have workshops for writers of any skill level, where we cover everything from beginning topics to advanced techniques.

Our writing workshops are designed to be both comprehensive and transformational — they’re your fast track to becoming an unforgettable writer.

Some of our upcoming writing workshops

writing groups on

From Draft to Book: Demystifying the Publishing Process with Ginny Myers Sain

Mar 2, 2024 • 2 hour webinar

Join New York Times bestselling author Ginny Myers Sain for an in-depth exploration of the process of taking your draft to a book deal and print.

writing groups on

Perfecting Your Key Scenes with John DeDakis

Mar 23, 2024 • 2 hour workshop

Join author and editor John DeDakis as he shows you techniques and strategies for making the key scenes in your story shine.

Improve your writing, at any skill level

Our writing group welcomes writers of all skill levels — from beginners to published authors, and every writer in between.

Each critique you receive on your manuscript is a fresh perspective for you to incorporate. Our bustling writing forums feature writers discussing the craft twenty-four hours a day. And our extensive Writing Academy is full of insightful articles on the art — and business — of writing.

Scribophile played a major part in helping me polish my novel for submission. I learnt a huge amount from critiquing other people’s work, as well as from reading critiques of mine. I now have a wonderful agent and have signed a three-book deal in the UK, a two-book deal in Germany, and a TV option. The book was also shortlisted for The Debut Dagger! Roz Watkins The Devil’s Dice and others published with HarperCollins
Giving and receiving critiques on Scribophile made a big difference to the quality of my writing. I learned how to write a query letter here and that led to an agent and a book deal. Ruth Lauren Prisoner of Ice and Snow and others published with Bloomsbury

No more writing alone — meet your new writer friends

Sometimes, the hardest part of being a writer is how lonely it can get.

That’s why the most important part of Scribophile is our community of hundreds of thousands of writers from all over the world. No matter what genre you write in, or how far along you are in your manuscript, the friends you make at Scribophile will finally take the loneliness out of our solitary craft.

My years on Scribophile have given me a master’s level education in writing. The critiques are great, but I’ve learned as much from reading and analyzing other writers on Scribophile. I don’t think I could have polished my novel to a publishable level without this site. I’m an addict. Laura Creedle The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily published with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Ready to take the next step in your writing journey?

It’s easy and free.

Get the latest publishers and contests eager to read your writing

Our newsletter delivers a list of the latest publishers, writing markets, and writing contests directly to your inbox once per week, totally free. Unsubscribe at any time.

thefussylibrarian

Should you join a writing group? Understanding the pros and cons

Posted on September 21, 2021 at 1:10 PM by Guest Author

If you’re looking to develop your writing skills, you may want to join a writing group. Learn what to expect from meeting up with fellow authors regularly.

Table of Contents

What Is a Writing Group?

Reasons to Join a Writing Group

Pros of Joining a Writing Group

Cons of Joining a Writing Group  

What is a writing group  .

Are you struggling to decide whether you should join a writing group? In that case, you’re probably already familiar with the concept. But to avoid any potential confusion, it’s still worth outlining what a writing group is. 

Simply put, a writing group is a gathering of people who are passionate about the craft of writing and meet up regularly — either in person or online — to hone their skills. 

You should note that no two writing groups are the same. They often differ in purpose, format, and overall approach.

For example, one group may be more informal and focused on simply giving members a place to discuss writing; another might have a strict schedule and exist to critique members’ work. 

Although authors debate the value of writing groups, many consider these communities essential, especially at specific points in the writing journey. 

Let’s look at why...

Reasons to Join a Writing Group  

Writing groups offer various benefits, which we’ll touch on in the next section. However, there are usually three main reasons to join a writing group:

1. You’re in search of support and socialization. 

If you’re looking to break out of your bubble, joining a writing group may be the perfect solution.

Writing is, by nature, a very solitary activity. Unlike other jobs that allow you to socialize with coworkers, being an author means you’re usually on your own.

But participating in a group gives you the opportunity to interact with others, experience a sense of community, and gain emotional support.  

2. You’re struggling with accountability.

You may decide to join a writing group if you’re having a tough time holding yourself accountable.

When writing in isolation, staying motivated can be a challenge. You’re at a greater risk of letting self-imposed deadlines pass by you.

However, taking part in a writing group can give you some much-needed structure, especially if you’re expected to share what you’ve written so far or update the group on your progress.   

3. You need feedback on your writing. 

Finally, a major reason to join a writing group is that you need unbiased feedback on your writing.

When working on a new project, you’re often too close to view it objectively. And getting loved ones to read your work in progress isn’t always the best approach, as they may worry about hurting your feelings.

But having a group of fellow authors to share with can give you some much-needed insight into areas of weakness.     

Pros of Joining a Writing Group  

If you’re still on the fence about whether you should join a writing group, you may want to learn a little more about the benefits. After all, it helps to know what you have to gain. 

With that said, here are some of the pros of joining a writing group:

It’s a cost-effective way to strengthen your skills. 

If you’re starting your writing career , you need to invest in your craft. But chances are you still have a budget in place.

In that case, you’ll be pleased to learn that joining a writing group is often an affordable method of developing your writing skills. Typically, groups are free to join — or, at most, require a modest membership fee.

And in the process of participating, you’ll receive invaluable feedback, education, and encouragement that will help you become a better writer.

It often aids in overcoming writer’s block. 

Another advantage of being part of a writing group is that it can help you overcome writer’s block.

Although there are many reasons you may experience a creative slowdown, engaging with your group members can typically resolve the core issue.

Meeting with fellow authors can give you a much-needed energy boost, provide you with fresh insight, and help broaden your horizons.  

You can get tips on the business side of writing. 

If you want to become a career author , you don’t just need natural talent and sharp writing skills — you also need business savvy. Fortunately, that’s something you can work on when you join a writing group consisting of members at varying levels.

Those who have more experience can provide you with tips on publishing, marketing, networking, and more that will serve you in your career.  

It can help you rediscover your love of writing. 

Often writing can begin to feel like a chore, especially if you’re working toward finishing a book . But when you join a writing group, you’re able to find joy in writing again.

After all, enthusiasm spreads. Meeting regularly with others, sharing in their triumphs, and getting encouragement can go a long way in transforming writing back into a fun activity.  

It gives you a pool of potential beta readers. 

One of the benefits of signing up for a writing group that often goes overlooked is that it can help with finding beta readers .

For starters, those in your group are likely readers on top of writers. Further, being in a group with them means that by the time you’ve finished your first draft, you’ll know whether you can trust their judgment and feedback. 

Of course, not everyone in your group will be up to the task (all you can do is ask), but it gives you a great place to start looking.  

To make an informed decision about whether to join a writing group, you need to consider both sides. Although there are plenty of benefits to look forward to, there are some drawbacks as well.  

Here are some cons to keep in mind:

Not all the advice you receive will be helpful. 

Giving feedback is a skill that needs to be developed. This means that you can’t expect all the advice you receive to be good, especially if a group is in its early stages.

Some members may not understand the concept of “constructive criticism,” whereas others may deliver vague advice.

Additionally, the feedback you get from those at or below your experience level may not be as helpful as input from those who have been writing longer. 

There may be some personality clashes. 

A writing group is like any other community based on a shared interest — it’s filled with passionate people who have their own opinions and egos. Because of this, there may be some personality clashes that result in arguments and hurt feelings.

Before you join a writing group, you need to think about how you would handle negative comments or pushback from other members.    

It requires a time commitment, just like any other activity. 

When you join a writing group (and truly participate), you must dedicate a fair amount of time to it.

And it’s not just the meetings themselves; it’s also the time spent keeping up with communications, preparing for each session, and traveling to the meeting place (if the group gathers in person).

Depending on your schedule, this may prove hard to manage. 

It’s not uncommon to stray off course without leadership.

It can be tough to stay on track if a writing group doesn’t have an official leader (or even an unofficial one).

Without someone in charge who’s committed to providing a productive, nurturing environment, the group can fall into chaos.

At best, the group can become disorganized. At worst, it can become toxic.    

Sometimes you’ll want to break the format. 

Depending on the type of group you join, you may find yourself stuck to a format that doesn’t always work for you.

For example, you may want to share a recent chapter you’ve written during a session when you’re scheduled to do writing exercises.

If there’s no flexibility in activities, you might not get the most out of the group. 

Takeaway  

There are many reasons to join a writing group, especially if your goal is to become a published author. But when it comes down to it, you need to consider what’s best for you, analyzing the pros and cons.

Hopefully, the information provided here will help you decide on the best course of action. 

And remember, if you decide to join a writing group, it’s important to look for one that fits your needs (and avoid groups that do more harm than good ). 

>>>Working on your book? Get a jump-start on learning to promote it! Download our Ultimate Guide to Data-Driven Promotions and discover how to leverage data to improve your book marketing results!<<<  

Categories: Behind the scenes

Tagged As: Writing advice

* Indicates a required field

« Go Back

Leaders Press

Writing Groups: Everything You Need To Know

Despite how enjoyable and rewarding it can be, writing is frequently a solitary pursuit. The reality is that writing can be an isolating endeavor for authors. Motivation and accountability can be challenging when working on a one-person project. There is a variety of writing groups that can assist you when writing . 

You can find answers to your questions and discuss the nuances of your online writing life with people who genuinely understand what you’re saying in online writing communities. If you’re a new author with no prior experience with writing groups, the following are the essentials you should know.

Table of Contents

8 reasons to join writing groups

writing groups

Joining a writing group is an excellent way to connect with like-minded people. A space to exchange ideas or resources, collaborate on projects, discuss the craft, and maintain motivation . Your writing group members may see your work through to completion and even become lifelong friends on your path to becoming a writer. Joining writing groups offer a variety of benefits to authors.

1. Inspiration

Reading possesses the capacity to inspire. When you read the work of someone similar to you in terms of living in the same area and writing prompts in the same genre, it only takes one person to impact your writing significantly. 

One person with whom you can openly share your writing and discuss it. Sharing your passion with other humans from writing communities will undoubtedly broaden your horizons.

2. Accountability

As with any other professional, a writer requires accountability to stay on track with deadlines and project completion. Having writing communities can assist you in remaining motivated to write daily for your book. Working with a writer’s group can help you stay on track when you’re easily distracted by work, family, and other responsibilities.

How to Get on The USA Today Bestseller List

3. Constructive criticism

Sharing your work with others and soliciting feedback will provide you with an opportunity. By examining your work and providing you with their candid opinions, advice, and feedback, online writing groups will be able to tell you where your strengths and weaknesses lie. You’ll learn a lot here that will ultimately help you become a better writer.

4. Professionalism proof

Membership in formal writing communities will benefit you when it comes time to submit query letters and cover letters to agents and editors. It demonstrates that you have developed a network of contacts, are committed to writing, and have honed your skills with the assistance of accomplished fiction writers or creative nonfiction writers in your field. It increases your chances of securing a publishing deal , which is always a positive development.

How To Create A Book Cover That Sells

5. Knowledge

Writing groups can assist you in developing new and great story concepts, receiving feedback on your own work, and even overcoming writer’s block. You’ll benefit from becoming knowledgeable about various writing subjects as a better writer. 

You can overcome writer’s block if another group member has written something similar to what you want to write. Joining a writer’s group can help you develop skills that you can apply to other areas of your life.

6. Encouragement

When you’re stuck in the middle of a short story or unable to choose between two possible endings, there is always a source of inspiration. You can enlist the assistance of your writing groups to assist you in online writing the best possible story.

When groups of creative people get together, an interesting thing happens: they quickly become a second family, always there to offer support and boost your morale when you need it most. You’ll make new friends who will support you through all of your writing challenges and successes and the highs and lows of life.

7. Networking

Numerous romance writers, mystery writers, self publishers, and other published authors with varying backgrounds and skill levels congregate in the same writing group. And many writers will agree that assisting other writers in accomplishing their writing goals is an enormously rewarding experience.

Writing groups will gladly assist you in achieving success by providing you with resources, connections, helpful information, and well-known names. Joining a writing group can mean distinguishing between being an unknown author and becoming a published author or seasoned author. It’s one of the group’s most valuable assets.

8. Tonality development

Reading aloud and sharing your own work in writing groups will assist you in developing and strengthening both your voice and writing. For instance, you may discover that your dry wit is advantageous in writing. Finally, your rage or eye-rolling habit may possess redeeming characteristics. If you keep these findings in mind, you can begin regularly incorporating them into your writing.

Attempting to make people cry or, more broadly, to make them feel better is a possibility. What if you’re unsure whether you can communicate a highly complex concept in a way that the general public can understand? Perhaps you’d like to try integrating all of your senses into your work. Practicing reading aloud in front of a group is an excellent way to develop the unique voice of your writing practice.

How to find writing groups

writing groups

If you’re a writer working on a novel or fiction writing, a nonfiction book, or even a screenplay, having a supportive writing community can help you complete your project. The following are some of the most effective methods for locating writing groups.

1. Consult your local community centers 

Even if you only associate your neighborhood active community center with the annual craft fair, you may be surprised to learn that it also offers various other services, such as writing workshops and finding writing groups. Visit the websites of your town or city’s community centers to learn about upcoming events. You might be able to locate a local writing group that is a good fit for your needs.

2. Attend a local writing workshop

You may aspire to be a writer but believe your writing abilities need improvement. Enroll in a local writing class or writing workshop if you’d like to improve your writing skills. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to learn to write, consider enrolling in evening classes at your local community college. 

Enrolling in an online college or university writing course allows you to complete assignments conveniently from your home instead of physically attending a local writing class.

3. Go on a retreat

In contrast to most other writing groups, a writer’s retreat is typically a destination event that requires a significant time and financial investment. Those who wish to devote their entire time and energy to writing may visit this location. If you have some spare time, find online writing groups retreats where you can spend a week or more entirely focused on writing.

4. Submit your work to critique sites

By joining online writing communities, you can obtain a second opinion on your work. It’s difficult for writers to be objective about their work, especially after months of work on a manuscript. If you intend to submit your manuscript to agents or publishers, you must first share it with others.

5. Join writing groups on Facebook

These days, the top online writing communities on social media may be the best place to meet new authors. On Facebook, you can connect with local and international writers groups. Take note of the number of daily posts made by groups you are considering joining. 

These are the Facebook groups with the highest likelihood of other members participating frequently. Each group will establish rules and policies to guide members toward productive discussion.

How to Get Book Publicity: Strategies and Tips

6. Search writing message boards

Message boards are an excellent resource for connecting with other writing groups, seeking advice from others, and researching agents and publishing houses. Message boards can be an invaluable source of information and a way to connect with like-minded individuals for both novice and experienced writers. 

Additionally, conducting research on agents and publishers via message boards can assist you in learning how to write a query letter and what to expect after signing a publishing agreement.

7. Take part in writing conferences

The number of conferences dedicated to the craft of writing continues to grow exponentially. While the stereotype of independent writers as hermits exists, this is not always the case. To begin, you should attend a reputable conference. Second, you become acquainted with regional authors. 

They may extend an invitation to you if they like you and are members of writing groups. As a result, writing conferences are an excellent venue for meeting potential writing group members. Ensure that you get along with these people, as you will be spending a lot of time with them. 

Those initial interactions may not be optimal for a group of members who do not connect. On the other hand, a favorable first impression is a positive sign. You’re more likely to stick with a writing group if you get along with the other members.

8. Create your own writing groups

If you cannot locate a group of like-minded individuals, form your own. Posting a notice in a coffee shop or library, inviting your book club members, or utilizing social media can help you recruit additional local writers. Establishing your own band allows you to do whatever you want with it.

When forming writing groups, you can focus on a particular genre, such as science fiction or fantasy, or on a more broad category, such as screenwriters or novelists. Create your own writing group, select a meeting date and location, and begin reaping membership benefits.

How To Write A Book: An Ultimate Guide For Newbies

How to start your writing groups

group of writers

Receiving feedback from other writers is a fantastic way to improve your writing skills. You can learn a lot from fellow writers, whether you’re a novice or an experienced pro. You can start your own men or women writers group to establish yourself as an expert in your field and build a supportive space and community. By following these guidelines, you can form successful writing groups.

1. Define your objectives

Writing groups come in a variety of shapes and sizes. While some groups focus exclusively on promoting one another’s work, others meet regularly to discuss their work. Members are occasionally asked to read and take notes on one or two writing submissions before meetings.

Certain organizations require members to submit an essay at each meeting and allot a small amount of time. Before joining a group, it is critical to be candid about your career stage and the type of supportive environment that will work best for your personality. After determining the kind of group you wish to form, the next step is simple.

2. Construct rules and expectations

The smooth operation of any writings groups is contingent upon its structure. Create a profile for your group that includes a mission statement and an exhaustive list of the rules that govern your group. Determine who is eligible to join, the minimum level of writing experience required, and the level of commitment that members are expected to demonstrate. Establish guidelines for selecting members and their formal roles within the group.

Establish group-wide behavioral expectations and guidelines. Set clear policies and procedures for distributing submissions and feedback, for example. Determine how feedback will be delivered before you begin—in person, via written markups, or a typed report. Establish a framework for assessing your work. You can determine it through consultation with team members or by developing a model that will work best for your team.

Regularly providing feedback on another person’s work is one of the most challenging tasks. It is possible to establish a system in which all members critique one another’s work or only members who wish to receive harsh criticism do so. Determine whether and how much time you will spend on member critique at each meeting.

3. Market broadly but precisely

A local Facebook group can be an excellent resource for publicizing your new organization. Distribute flyers and posters in local coffee shops, libraries, and other public spaces. Additionally, you can send an email to any university or college with a creative writing department and regional arts organizations, with all pertinent information included.

While an open-ended writing group is acceptable, make it clear in any advertisements or calls for submissions that you are particularly passionate about or opposed to a particular genre or style. Look for members who have a similar skillset to yours.

4. Decide on meeting date and times

Choose a location that is easily accessible to the majority of participants. Libraries and bookstores in your neighborhood make excellent meeting spaces. Numerous writers’ groups meet in members’ homes to save money. Establish a meeting date and time and a regular meeting schedule so that group members can plan accordingly.

Additionally, establishing meeting ground rules is a prudent move. Clearly define acceptable behavior and group preparation guidelines. Establish a schedule in advance to keep the meeting on track. You’ll want to arrive at your writing clusters prepared with all the necessary supplies.

5. Mix things up

Some individuals may be willing to email a writing sample to be read and critiqued a week before the next meeting. You are not required to read the selections aloud to the group; you may immediately begin discussing them after they have been read. Then some will skim a few paragraphs in exchange for a few seconds of specific advice or simply ask a few general questions without actually reading anything. 

Ascertain that no member gets away with repeatedly doing the same thing. Occasionally, suggest a writing session: the meeting will begin with an hour of collective writing by all attendees, followed by a five-minute reading period and a one-minute round of constructive feedback from the other attendees.

6. Monitor your group

Monitoring your writing groups’ performance is critical. Even if you have followed all of your rules and regulations, some members may be dissatisfied. Perhaps the timing is inconvenient, or some deem the commitment unaffordable. Make it a point to solicit feedback from members regularly to ensure that the group meets their needs.

Because no one is ever pleased, it is critical to embrace criticism and keep an open mind throughout the writing process. If you notice a decline in the membership or activity of your group, you may wish to consult with its members. Make the necessary adjustments to restore order to your writers’ group.

7. Prepare yourself to lead

If you conceptualize the idea and organize meetings via email, members of your writing clusters may look to you for leadership. For example, prepare yourself for starting and ending meetings on time or signaling when to move on to the next piece of writing. If that proves difficult, consider appointing a more outgoing team member as the spokesperson, even if you remain heavily involved behind the scenes.

Five tips on handling writing groups

groups

Whether your own group is new or has been around for a while, the following tips will effectively help you manage your writing group.

1. Create an inviting environment

Making new members feel welcome and secure in sharing their work is critical to the success of a writing group. It’s vital to recognize that everyone, even the most accomplished writers, is intimidated by the prospect of submitting their work for critique. As the group moderator, it is your responsibility to extend a hand and make newcomers feel welcome.

2. Be attentive

Take notes as you read your own group members’ work, noting any questions, suggestions, or compliments you may have. When critiquing, be specific, praising a vivid description or making detailed recommendations for additional character development. 

Avoid, however, telling others what to do and instead focus on assisting them in making choices. If you are uncertain about something or believe specific details are missing, request clarification or additional information. After that, gently suggest to the author that their response be incorporated into the narrative.

3. Moderate constructive criticism

While most group members of a writing group act in the group’s best interests, not everyone is as adept at fostering a positive atmosphere. When it comes to criticizing others, you must establish ground rules. Each critique should emphasize areas for improvement while also highlighting positive aspects. Consistently end on a positive note.

4. Allow time for self-reflection

Every year or so, take a break from the feedback to discuss whether the group is working for everyone. Does a single voice dominate the critique? Are meetings becoming unnecessarily prolonged? A reorientation of the emphasis is required. 

Decide as a group whether to take a break and reconvene with a new focus or whether some members wish to depart to make room for new faces. New members bring new perspectives to the table. It is perfectly acceptable to leave a group or form a new writing group.

5. Create a contact list

A contact list is especially critical if the meeting schedule for your writing group is unpredictable. You must ensure that all group members are contactable in the event the group is unable to function for any reason. 

Collect email addresses and phone numbers through social media, or carry out the entire operation through social media. Additionally, you can use this list to share writing tips and other non-business-hours events.

Frequently asked questions

Here are the answers to some of your frequently asked questions about writing parties.

  • What are the best online writing communities?

The following are some of the most excellent online writing groups.

  • Are there any cons to writing groups?

As with any group setting, a writing group has some drawbacks. There may be personality clashes among artists who are all extremely passionate about their work. Critique is not always delivered or received in the most favorable manner, which can cause tempers to flare. 

Then some fiction writers believe they are more accomplished or experienced than others, and rather than using that experience positively, they project it onto other group members, causing friction.

At all times, it is critical that you carefully select your groups. Ascertain that it has a clear structure and objectives that will enable you to determine in advance whether it meets your personal writing goals. Above all, if you decide to join a writing group, keep in mind that you have the option of leaving if you feel uneasy.

Final words

It’s difficult for indie authors to persuade people to share their enthusiasm for their craft in their daily lives. While those who read and support your work when you are published or reach a significant milestone are admirable, those who genuinely support and assist artists daily are those who share their passion for art. 

Writing groups can help writers develop a sense of community and belonging. Everyone has common interests, and they are almost always willing to lend you the support they lack in the outside world—as long as you reciprocate.

Need help submitting your writing to literary journals or book publishers/literary agents?  Click here! →

writing groups on

Review Board is now open! Submit your Short Prose, Poetry, and Book today!

Deadline: thursday, february 22nd.

Writing groups can be useful tools for writers looking to gain constructive feedback on their work and improve their craft. At Writer’s Relief, we’ve taken the time to curate a list of writers groups so you don’t have to! Scroll down or click one of the links below to view the writing groups in your state or region.

Regional | Alabama | Alaska | Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Connecticut | Delaware | Florida | Georgia | Hawaii | Idaho | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Kentucky | Louisiana | Maine | Maryland | Massachusetts | Michigan | Minnesota | Mississippi | Missouri | Montana | Nebraska | Nevada | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New Mexico | New York | North Carolina | North Dakota | Ohio | Oklahoma | Oregon | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | South Carolina | South Dakota | Tennessee | Texas | Utah | Vermont | Virginia | Washington, D.C. | Washington | West Virginia | Wisconsin | Wyoming | Canada

For Online Writers Groups, click here!

Helping creative writers reach their publishing goals since 1994

We understand the unique needs and goals of writers and offer a complete array of services to facilitate every step of your path to getting published. Learn more about our targeted submissions service .

writing groups on

See More Featured Clients

Regional writing groups:.

Horror Writers Association (Horror, Dark Fantasy)

The Fellowship of Southern Writers (All Genres)

Midwest Travel Writers Association (Travel)

New England Science Writers (Science, Technology, and Journalism)

Northwest Science Writers Association (Science)

Science Writers Association of the Rocky Mountains (Science, Photography)

Society of Southwestern Authors (All Genres)

Southeastern Writers Association (All Genres)

Women Writing the West (All Genres)

Alabama Writing Groups:

Birmingham, AL — Alabama Media Professionals (All Genres)

Cullman, AL — Alabama Writer’s Conclave (All Genres)

Homewood, AL — Heart of Dixie (Romance)

Huntsville, AL —  Southern Magic (Romance)

Mobile, AL — Gulf Coast Chapter of the Romance Writers of America (Romance)

Mobile, AL — Mobile Writer’s Guild (All Genres)

Mobile, AL — Huntsville Literary Association (All Genres)

Mobile, AL — Alabama Writer’s Forum (All Genres)

Montgomery, AL — Write Club (All Genres)

Alaska Writing Groups:

Anchorage, AK —  Alaska Writers Guild (All Genres)

Anchorage, AK — Northern Speculative Fiction (Fiction)

Anchorage, AK — Alaska Wilderness Writers (All Genres)

Anchorage, AK — Alaska Professional Communicators (Journalism)

Anchorage, AK — The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators  (Children’s Literature)

Anchorage, AK —  49 Writers (All Genres)

Arizona Writing Groups:

Chandler, AZ — Chandler Romance Writing (Romance)

Glendale, AZ — Writer’s Round Table (All Genres)

Litchfield Park, AZ — West Valley Writer’s Workshop (All Genres)

Mesa, AZ — East Valley Writing Workshop (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in AZ — Arizona Authors Association (All Genres)

Peoria, AZ — Peoria Fiction Writing Critique Group (Fiction)

Phoenix, AZ — Central Phoenix Writing Workshop (All Genres)

Phoenix, AZ —  The Phoenix Writers Club (All Genres)

Phoenix, AZ — Nonfiction Authors Association (Nonfiction)

Phoenix, AZ — Gang of Fearless Freewriters (All Genres)

Phoenix, AZ — Arcadia Memoir Writers (Memoir)

Scottsdale, AZ — Writing Without Workshops (All Genres)

Scottsdale, AZ — Scottsdale Society of Women Writers (All Genres)

Arkansas Writing Groups:

Fayetteville, AR — Arkansas Writers (All Genres)

Hot Springs Village, AR — Village Writers’ Club (All Genres)

Little Rock, AR — American Christian Fiction Writers (Christian Fiction)

Little Rock, AR — Little Rock Literary Writing Workshop (All Genres)

Little Rock, AR— Central Arkansas Speculative Fiction Writers’ Group (Fiction)

Searcy, AR —  White County Creative Writers (All Genres)

Springdale, AR — Fiction Forge (Fiction)

California Writing Groups:

Bakersfield, CA — Writers of Kern (All Genres)

Berkley, CA —  California Writers Club  (All Genres)

Burbank, CA — Write It Up (All Genres)

Davis, CA — The Davis Writers Saloon (All Genres)

Fountain Valley, CA —  Southern California Writers Association (All Genres)

Huntington Beach, CA — Southern California Writers Association (All Genres)

Lake Forest, CA — Sit Down, Shut Up, and Write (All Genres)

Long Beach, CA — Coffee House Writers Group (All Genres)

Long Beach, CA — The Writers Critique Group (All Genres)

Los Angeles, CA — Children’s Book Writers of Los Angeles (Children’s Literature)

Los Angeles, CA —  Independent Writers of Southern California (All Genres)

Los Angeles, CA —  Los Angeles Writers Group (Fiction)

Los Angeles, CA — Writers With Drinks (All Genres)

Los Angeles, CA — Los Angeles Poets & Writers Collective (All Genres)

Los Angeles, CA — Organization of Black Screenwriters (Screenwriting)

Los Angeles, CA — The Southwest Manuscripters (All Genres)

Los Angeles, CA —  Writers Guild of America, West (All Genres)

Los Angeles, CA — Deus ex Machina Advanced Writers Collective (All Genres)

Murrieta, CA —  International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (Journalism)

Multiple Locations in CA — Sierra Writers (Fiction, Nonfiction)

Oakland, CA — California Writers Club (All Genres)

Redondo Beach, CA — Greater Los Angeles Writers Society (All Genres)

San Clemente, CA — Poets and Dreamers: Authors and Writers Literary Network (All Genres)

San Bernadino, CA — San Bernardino Writers’ Group (All Genres)

San Diego, CA — San Diego Writers/Editor Guild (All Genres)

San Francisco, CA —  Central Coast Writers (All Genres)

San Francisco, CA — San Francisco Writers Grotto (All Genres)

Sonora, CA — Sonora Writers Group (All Genres)

Simi Valley, CA — Write Here, Write Now (All Genres)

West Hollywood, CA — Creative Express for Writers, Screenwriters & Filmmakers (All Genres)

Colorado Writing Groups:

Boulder, CO —  Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers (Fiction)

Colorado Springs, CO — Colorado Springs Fiction Writers Group (All Genres)

Colorado Springs, CO — Pikes Peak Writers (All Genres)

Denver, CO —  Denver Woman’s Press Club (All Genres, Journalism)

Denver, CO —  Colorado Authors League (All Genres)

Eastlake, CO — Colorado Romance Writers (Romance)

Fort Collins, CO — Northern Colorado Writers (All Genres)

Greenwood Village, CO — Women Writing the West (All Genres)

Montrose, CO — Lighthouse Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Pueblo West, CO —  Pueblo West Writers Group  (All Genres)

Connecticut Writing Groups:

Multiple Locations in CT — Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association (All Genres)

Somers, CT — Northern Connecticut Writers Workshop (All Genres)

Westport, CT —  Westport Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Westport, CT — Just For Writers (All Genres)

Westport, CT —  Fairfield County Writers Group (All Genres)

West Hartford, CT — West Hartford Fiction Writers (Fiction)

West Hartford, CT — Faxon Poets (Poetry)

West Hartford, CT — Connecticut Screenwriters (Screenwriting)

West Redding, CT — Long Ridge Writers Group (All Genres)

Delaware Writing Groups:

Georgetown, DE — Delmarva Christian Writers’ Fellowship (Spiritual)

Rehoboth Beach, DE —  Rehoboth Beach Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Florida Writing Groups:

Avon Park, FL —  Avon Park Wordsmiths (All Genres)

Boca Raton, FL — Indie Writers & Artists (All Genres)

Boynton Beach, FL —  Boynton Writers Critique Group (All Genres)

Bradenton, FL —  Bradenton Writers Group (All Genres)

Brandon, FL—  Brandon Writers Critique Group (All Genres)

Celebration, FL —  Celebration Writers Group (All Genres)

Cocoa, FL —  Space Coast Fiction Writers (Fiction)

Daytona Beach, FL —  Daytona Beach Writers (All Genres)

Deerfield Beach, FL — Mystery Writers of America, Florida Chapter (Crime, Fiction)

Deland, FL —  Café Writers (All Genres)

Englewood, FL —  Suncoast Writers Guild, Inc . (All Genres)

Fernandina, FL —  Writers by the Sea (All Genres)

Ft. Myers, FL —  Gulf Coast Writers Association, Inc. (All Genres)

Ft. Pierce, FL — Treasure Coast Writers Guild (All Genres)

Gainesville, FL —  Writers Alliance of Gainesville (All Genres)

Hallandale Beach, FL —  Gulfstream Writers (All Genres)

Havana, FL —  Havana Writers (All Genres)

Jacksonville, FL —  Serivilous Panerians (All Genres)

Jacksonville, FL —  River City Writers (All Genres)

Jacksonville, FL —  First Coast Christian Writers Group (Spiritual)

Jacksonville, FL — Northeast Florida Sisters in Crime (Crime, Mystery)

Lady Lake, FL —  Lady Lake Writers (All Genres)

Lakeland, FL —  Lakeland Writers (All Genres)

Lake Mary, FL —  Seminole County Writers Group (All Genres)

Lake Mary, FL —  A Novel Group of Writers (All Genres)

Maitland, FL —  Maitland Writers (All Genres)

Miami, FL— South Florida Writers Association (All Genres)

Mount Dora, FL —  Authors Roundtable of Mount Dora (All Genres)

Mount Dora, FL —  Poets Critique Group (Poetry)

Ocala, FL —  Freedom Writers Group (All Genres)

Oldsmar, FL —  Oldsmar Critique Group (All Genres)

Orange Park, FL —  Clay County Writers (All Genres)

Orange Park, FL —  Clay County Writers Critique Group (All Genres)

Orlando/Winter Park, FL —  Orlando Area Writers (All Genres)

Oxford, FL —  Oxford Writers (All Genres)

Palm Bay, FL —  Palm Bay Writers (All Genres)

Palm City, FL —  Palm City Word Weavers (All Genres)

Panama City, FL —  Panama City Chapter (All Genres)

Pembroke Pines, FL —  Quills in the Glades (All Genres)

Ponte Vedra, FL —  Ponte Vedra Writers (All Genres)

Port Orange, FL —  Port Orange Scribes (All Genres)

Port St. Lucie, FL —  Treasure Coast Writers Group (All Genres)

Punta Gorda, FL —  Peace River Writers (All Genres)

Sarasota, FL —  Sarasota Writers Group (All Genres)

Sebring, FL —  Sebring Scribblers & Scribes (All Genres)

Sebring, FL —  The Hearland Author Mix (All Genres)

St. Augustine, FL — Ancient City Writers (All Genres)

St. Lucie County, FL — Morningside Writers Group (Fiction)

St. Petersburg, FL —  St. Petersburg Writers (All Genres)

St. Petersburg, FL —  St. Petersburg Writer Critique Group (All Genres)

Sunrise, FL —  Dan Pearl Sunrise Writers (All Genres)

Tallahassee, FL — Tallahassee Writers Association (All Genres)

Tampa, FL —  New Tampa/Wesley Chapel Writers (All Genres)

Tampa, FL —  Tampa Writers (All Genres)

Tampa, FL — Tampa Writers Alliance (All Genres)

Tarpon Springs, FL —  Tarpon Springs Fiction Writers (Fiction)

Treasure Coast, FL — Treasure Coast Writers Guild (All Genres)

Vero Beach, FL — Porch Poets (Poetry)

Vero Beach, FL — Tuesday Writers  (All Genres)

Vero Beach, FL —  Writers Window Pane (All Genres)

Vero Beach, FL  —  Vero Beach Writers Circle (All Genres)

Wellington, FL —  Wellington Writers Critique Group (All Genres)

West Melbourne, FL — Space Coast Writers Guild (All Genres)

Yankeetown, FL —  Yankeetown Critique Group (All Genres)

Georgia Writing Groups:

Athens, GA —  Athens Writers Association (All Genres)

Atlanta, GA —  Atlanta Writers Club (All Genres)

Calhoun, GA — Calhoun Area Writers (All Genres)

Decatur, GA — Village Writers Group (All Genres)

Gainesville, GA — Northeast Georgia Writers (All Genres)

Kennesaw, GA —  Georgia Writers Association (All Genres)

Hawaii Writing Groups:

Honolulu, HI — Pacific Writers’ Connection (All Genres)

Keauhou, HI — Hawaii Island Writers Association (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in HI— Hawaii Island Writers Group (All Genres)

Idaho Writing Groups:

Boise, ID —  Idaho Writers Guild (All Genres)

Boise, ID —  Idaho Writers Rendezvous (All Genres)

Coeur d’Alene, ID — Idaho Writer’s League (All Genres)

Idaho Falls, ID —  Blue Sage Writers (All Genres)

Meridian, ID — Idahope Christian Writers (Spiritual)

Post Falls, ID — Inland Empire Chapter of Romance Writers of America (All Genres)

Priest River, ID —  River Writers (All Genres)

Twin Falls — Twin Falls Writers (All Genres)

Illinois Writing Groups:

Aurora, IL —  A-Town Poetics (Poetry)

Batavia, IL — Batavia Writers Group (All Genres)

Bloomington-Normal, IL — Bloomington-Normal Writers Group (All Genres)

Carol Stream, IL —  DuPage Writers Group (All Genres)

Carterville, IL —  Southern Illinois Writers Guild (All Genres)

Chicago, IL — Chicago Dramatists (Playwrights)

Chicago, IL — Chicago Women in Publishing (All Genres)

Chicago, IL —  Chicago Writers Association (All Genres)

Chicago, IL —  Poets and Patrons of Chicago (All Genres)

Chicago, IL — The Writers WorkSpace (All Genres)

Elgin, IL — Wordplay (All Genres)

Elgin, IL — Writers on the Fox (All Genres)

Geneva, IL — Day Jammers (All Genres)

Geneva, IL — Inklings and Speculations (Fiction)

Geneva, IL — Night Writers (All Genres)

Geneva, IL — Writers Anonymous (All Genres)

Geneva, IL — Write Time Writers Group (All Genres)

North Aurora, IL — Fox Valley Writers Group (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in IL — Central Illinois Writers Group (Horror, Fantasy, Science Fiction)

Multiple Locations in IL —  Fox Valley Writers & Poets (All Genres)

Naperville, IL — Naperville Writers Group (All Genres)

Park Ridge, IL — Prairie Avenue Writers (All Genres)

St. Charles, IL — Lit Lab 51 (Poetry, Sci-Fi, Improv)

St. Charles, IL — St. Charles Writing Group (All Genres)

Indiana Writing Groups:

Hammond, IN —  First Friday Wordsmiths (All Genres)

Hammond, IN — Indiana Writers’ Consortium (All Genres)

Indianapolis, IN —  Indiana Writers Center (All Genres)

Merrillville, IN — Write-On Hoosiers, Inc. (All Genres)

Schererville, IN — Magic Hour Writers (All Genres)

Iowa Writing Groups:

Ames, IA  — Inkspots (All Genres)

Des Moines, IA — Beaverdale Writers Group (All Genres)

Des Moines, IA — Central Library Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Des Moines, IA — Des Moines Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Des Moines, IA —  Iowa Romance Writers (Romance)

Des Moines, IA — Sisters in Crime (All Genres)

Des Moines, IA — Southside Library Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Waukee, IA — Waukee Public Library Writer’s Group (All Genres)

Kansas Writing Groups:

Lawrence, KS — Great Plains Writers Group (All Genres)

Olathe, KS — Kansas City Writers Group (All Genres)

Wichita, KS — Wichita Area Romance Writers (Romance)

Wichita, KS — Kansas Writers Association (All Genres)

Kentucky Writing Groups:

Elizabethtown, KY — Bard’s Corner Writers Group (All Genres)

Frankfort, KY — Capitol City Writers Roundtable (All Genres)

Harrodsburg, KY — Writers Bloc 40330 (All Genres)

Horehead, KY — Kentucky State Poetry Society (Poetry)

Lexington, KY — Dreambuilding (All Genres)

Lexington, KY —  Eagle Creek Writers Group (All Genres)

Lexington, KY —  Lexington Fiction Writers Group (Fiction)

Lexington, KY — Poezia Poetry/Prose Group (Poetry/Prose)

Louisville, KY — Green River Writers (All Genres)

Louisville, KY — Louisville Romance Writers (Romance)

Louisville, KY — Women Who Write (All Genres)

Louisville, KY — The Writers Workshop Project (WWP) (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in KY —  Kentucky Indie Writers (All Genres)

Owensboro, KY — Owensboro Writers Group (All Genres)

Louisiana Writing Groups:

Baton Rouge, LA — Baton Rouge Writers (All Genres)

Bossier City, LA — North Louisiana Storytellers & Authors of Romance (All Genres)

Covington, LA —  Northshore Literary Society (All Genres)

Lafayette, LA — Writers Guild of Acadiana (All Genres)

Lake Charles, LA — Bayou Writers Group (All Genres)

Maine Writing Groups:

Bangor, ME — Southern Penobscot Area Writers Network

Blue Hill, ME — Down East Writers (All Genres)

Portland, ME —  Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance (All Genres)

Dover-Foxcroft, ME —  Central Maine Writers Group (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in ME — Maine Poets Societ y (Poetry)

Maryland Writing Groups:

Annapolis, MD — Annapolis Writers Critique Group (All Genres)

Annapolis, MD — Maryland Writers Association, Annapolis Chapter (All Genres)

Annapolis, MD — Women Poets Workshop (Poetry)

Arnold, MD — Waterfront Writers (Fiction)

Baltimore, MD — Baltimore Area Writers (Creative/Literary Nonfiction)

Baltimore, MD —  Baltimore Writing Hour (All Genres)

Baltimore, MD — Black Writers’ Guild of Maryland (All Genres)

Baltimore, MD — Charm City Writers (All Genres)

Baltimore, MD —  Maryland Writers Association, Baltimore Chapter (All Genres)

Columbia, MD —  Fiction and Screenwriting Critique Group (Fiction)

Columbia, MD — Maryland Writers Association, Howard County Chapter (All Genres)

Easton, MD —  Eastern Shore Writers Association (All Genres)

Finksburg, MD — Maryland Writers Association, Carroll County Chapter (All Genres)

Frederick, MD — Frederick Writers Group (Fiction)

Frederick, MD — Frederick Writers Salon (All Genres)

Hampden, MD — Hampden Writers’ Group (Fiction)

La Plata, MD —  Maryland Writers Association, Charles County Chapter (All Genres)

Leonardtown, MD — Maryland Writers Association, St. Mary’s County Chapter (All Genres)

Multiple Locations, MD — BayHill Writers (All Genres)

Saverna Park, MD — Saverna Park YA/NA Writers Group (Fiction)

Silver Spring, MD — Maryland Writers Association, Montgomery County Chapter (All Genres)

Massachusetts Writing Groups:

Boston, MA —  The Writers’ Room of Boston (All Genres)

Dennis, MA —  Scargo Hill Poets (Poetry)

Hyannis, MA — Writers in Common (Fiction, Memoir, Creative Nonfiction)

Lancaster, MA —  Seven Bridge Writers’ Collaborative (All Genres)

Mashpee, MA —  Mid-Cape Nonfiction Writers Group (Nonfiction)

Mid-Cape, MA — Sands of Time Memoir Group (Memoir, Nonfiction)

Orleans, MA — Dune Hollow Writers (All Genres)

Osterville, MA —  Advanced Writers Group (All Genres)

Sandwich, MA — Upper Cape Writers Group (All Genres)

Worcester, MA — The Worcester Writers Group (All Genres)

Michigan Writing Groups:

Ann Arbor, MI — Mid-Michigan Prose and Writing Group (All Genres)

Ann Arbor, MI —  Mid-Michigan Romance Writers of America (All Genres)

Detroit, MI —  Detroit Working Writers (All Genres)

Detroit, MI — Detroit Writer’s Guild (All Genres)

Detroit, MI —  Motown Writers Network (All Genres)

Grand Rapids, MI — Grand Rapids Writer’s Exchange (All Genres)

Grand Rapids, MI — Peninsula Writers (All Genres)

Howell and Livingston County, MI — Howell Area Writers’ Circle (All Genres)

Ludington, MI — The WestSide Gang Writers Group (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in MI— Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Michigan Chapter (Children’s Literature)

Novi, MI —  Southeast Michigan Christian Writers (Spiritual)

Rochester, MI —  Rochester Writers (All Genres)

Standish, MI — Mid-Michigan Writers, Inc. (All Genres)

Minnesota Writing Groups:

Alexandria, MN — Alexandria Area Writers Group (All Genres)

Alexandria, MN — Alexandria Word Weavers (All Genres)

Brainerd, MN — Brainerd Heartland Poets (Poetry)

Brainerd, MN —  Brainerd Writers Alliance  (All Genres)

Duluth, MN —  Lake Superior Writers (All Genres)

Elbow Lake, MN — Elbow Lake Grant County Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Fergus Falls, MN — Fergus Falls Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Hackensack, MN — Hackensack Bards of a Feather (All Genres)

Little Falls, MN — Great River Writers (All Genres)

Maple Grove, MN —  Minnesota Christian Writers Guild (Spiritual)

Minneapolis, MN —  Loft Literary Center  (All Genres)

Minneapolis, MN —  Midwest Fiction Writers (Fiction)

Minneapolis, MN —  Minnesota Science Fiction Society (Science Fiction)

Minneapolis, MN — Minneapolis Writers Workshop (All Genres)

Minneapolis, MN —  Open Book  (All Genres)

Minneapolis, MN —  MinnSpec (Speculative Fiction)

Ottertail, MN — Ottertail Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Park Rapids, MN —  Park Rapids Jackpine Writers’ Bloc  (All Genres)

Perham, MN — Perham Thousand Lakes Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Rochester, MN — Rochester MN Writing Group  (All Genres)

Sauk Centre, MN — Sauk Centre Gopher Prairie Writers’ Group (All Genres)

St. Paul, MN — Write, Create, Communicate (All Genres)

Twin Cities, MN —  Twin Cities Writers Group  (All Genres)

Mississippi Writing Groups:

Biloxi, MS — Gulf Coast Writers Association (All Genres)

Hattiesburg, MS —  Hub City Writers  (All Genres)

Natchez, MS — Mississippi Writers Guild (All Genres)

Ridgeland, MS —  Mississippi Poetry Society (Poetry)

Starkville, MS —  Mississippi Writers and Musicians (All Genres)

University, MS —  University of Mississippi Writers Project (All Genres)

Missouri Writing Groups:

Branson, MO —  Ozarks Writers League (All Genres)

Cape Girardeau, MO — Missouri Writers’ Guild, Southeast Missouri Chapter (All Genres)

Cassville, MO —  Mid-South Writers Group of Missouri (All Genres)

Columbia, MO —  Missouri Writers’ Guild, Columbia Chapter (All Genres)

Joplin, MO — Missouri Writers’ Guild, Joplin Chapter (All Genres)

Kansas City, MO — Kansas City Writers Group (All Genres)

Kansas City, MO — Midwest Children’s Authors Guild (Children’s Literature)

Kansas City, MO —  The Writers Place (All Genres)

Kansas City, MO — Heartland Romance Authors (Fiction, Romance, Novel)

Kennett, MO —  Heartland Writers Guild (All Genres)

Marshall, MO —  Missouri Writers’ Guild, Marshall Chapter (All Genres)

O’Fallon, MO —  Missouri Writers’ Guild, Coffee and Critique Chapter (All Genres)

St. Louis, MO — Missouri Romance Writers of America (Romance)

St. Louis, MO — Sisters in Crime, Greater St. Louis Chapter (All Genres)

St. Louis, MO — St. Louis Writers Guild (All Genres)

St. Joseph, MO — St. Joseph Writers Guild (All Genres)

St. Peters, MO —  Missouri Writers’ Guild, Saturday Writers Chapter (All Genres)

Montana Writing Groups:

Kalispell, MT —  Authors of the Flathead (All Genres)

Missoula, MT — 406 Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Missoula, MT — Montana Romance Writers (Romance)

Nebraska Writing Groups:

Omaha, NE —  Omaha Writers Group (All Genres)

Omaha, NE —  The Nebraska Writers Guild (All Genres)

Omaha, NE — Romance Authors of the Heartland (Romance)

Ralston, NE — The Nebraska Writers Writers Workshop (All Genres)

Nevada Writing Groups:

Carson City, NV — Ash Canyon Poets (Poetry)

Carson City, NV — Lone Mountain Writers (All Genres)

Henderson, NV —  Henderson Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Pahrump, NV — Oasis Writers Guild (All Genres)

New Hampshire Writing Groups:

Concord, NH — Granite State Writers Group  (All Genres)

Hooksett, NH —  New Hampshire Writers Project (All Genres)

Ossippe, NH —  Poetry Society of New Hampshire (Poetry)

Peterborough, NH —  Monadnock Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Portsmouth, NH —  Beat Night Poetry (All Genres)

Portsmouth, NH — Creative Writing Group (All Genres)

Portsmouth, NH —  Hoot Night at Cafe Espresso (All Genres)

Portsmouth, NH — Memoir Writing Group (Memoir)

Portsmouth —  Nonfiction Writing Group (Nonfiction)

Portsmouth, NH — Pen Central Writers (All Genres)

Portsmouth, NH — Poetry and Short Fiction Writers Group (Poetry, Fiction)

Portsmouth, NH — Portsmouth Writing Salon (All Genres)

Portsmouth, NH —  Pisquataqua Poets (Poetry)

Portsmouth. NH —  Writers Night Out (All Genres)

New Jersey Writing Groups:

Atco, NJ — Garden State Writers (All Genres)

Asbury Park, NJ — Writers Group (All Genres)

Bayville, NJ —  Berkeley Adult Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Bellmar, NJ — South Jersey Writers Group (All Genres)

Bergen County, NJ — The Writers of the Weird (Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror)

Edison, NJ — Liberty States Fiction Writers (Fiction)

Fanwood, NJ —  Serendipitous Scribes (All Genres)

Iselin, NJ — New Jersey Romantic Writers (Romance)

Mahwah, NJ —  Mahwah Writer’s Collective (All Genres)

Mahwah, NJ — The Science Fiction Society of Northern NJ (Sci-Fi)

Manalapan, NJ —  Monmouth Creative Writing Group (All Genres)

Manchester, NJ — The Manchester (NJ) Writers’ Circle (All Genres)

Middletown, NJ — The Noble Writers (All Genres)

Milltown, NJ – Milltown Area Writers Group (All Genres)

Moorestown, NJ —  Juliette Writer’s Group (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in NJ — Women Who Write, Inc. (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in NJ —  The NJ Authors’ Network (All Genres)

Ridgewood, NJ — Ridgewood Memoir Writing Workshop (Memoir)

Plainsboro, NJ — Princeton Writing Group (All Genres)

Somerset, NJ —  New Jersey Writers’ Society (All Genres)

South Hackensack, NJ — Bergen County Poets & Fictionaires (All Genres)

Summit, NJ — New Providence Writers (All Genres)

Woodbridge, NJ — Woodbridge Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers (Sci-Fi, Fantasy)

New Mexico Writing Groups:

Alamogordo, NM —  The Writers Corner (All Genres)

Albuquerque, NM — SouthWest Writers (All Genres)

Albuquerque, NM — The Wordwrights (All Genres)

Ruidoso, NM —  Lincoln County Writers Association (All Genres)

Santa Fe, NM — Santa Fe Writers Group (All Genres)

New York Writing Groups:

Albany, NY — Poetry Chat (Poetry)

Astoria, NY — Astoria Writers Group (All Genres)

Brooklyn, NY — Brooklyn Speculative Fiction Writers (Fiction)

Brooklyn, N7Y —  NY Writers Coalition (All Genres)

Brooklyn, NY — The Brooklyn Writing and Creative Group (All Genres)

Bronx, NY — Poetry On Demand (Poetry)

Forest Hills, NY — Forest Hills Poetry Writing (Poetry)

Long Island, NY —  Amateur Writers of Long Island (All Genres)

Manhattan, NY — NYC Writers Circle (All Genres)

Manhattan, NY —  Science Writers in New York (Science and Medicine)

Manhattan, NY — WF Writing (All Genres)

New York City, NY — NYC Laid-Back Writing Group (All Genres)

New York City, NY — New York Writing Club (All Genres)

New York City, NY — Poets House (Poetry)

New York City, NY — Shut Up & Write! (All Genres)

New York City, NY — Storytellers of NY (Fiction)

New York City, NY — The Poetry Table (Poetry)

Nyack, NY — River Writers Circle (All Genres)

Staten Island, NY — The Staten Island Writers (All Genres)

Syracuse, NY — The Syracuse Veterans’ Writing Group (Nonfiction)

Multiple Locations in NY —  Morningside Writers Group (Fiction, Screenwriting, Teen Writing, Memoir)

Tarrytown, NY — Hudson Writers Group (All Genres)

Troy, NY —  Hudson Valley Writers Guild (All Genres)

Troy, NY — Capital District Screenwriters (Screenwriting)

North Carolina Writing Groups:

Boone, NC — High County Writers (All Genres)

Charlotte, NC —  Charlotte Writers’ Club (All Genres)

Charlotte, NC — Queen City Writers Group (All Genres)

Graham, NC — Burlington Writers Club (All Genres)

Greensboro, NC — Writers’ Group of the Triad (All Genres)

Monroe, NC — Union County Writers Club (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in NC— North Carolina Writers’ Network-West’s Mountain Writers & Poets (All Genres)

Raleigh, NC — Screenline (Screenwriting)

Raleigh, NC —  Triangle Association of Freelancers

Pittsboro, NC —  Bynum Comedy Writers Workshop (Humor)

Southern Pines, NC — North Carolina Poetry Society (Poetry)

Wadesboro, NC —  Anson County Writers Club (All Genres)

Washington, NC — Pamlico Writers Group (All Genres)

Winston-Salem, NC —   Winston-Salem Writers (All Genres)

North Dakota Writing Groups:

Devils Lake, ND —  Lake Region Writers’ Group  (All Genres)

Grand Forks, ND — University of North Dakota Writing Center (All Genres)

Minot, ND — North Dakota Nonfiction Writers (Creative Nonfiction, Journalistic Nonfiction)

Moorhead, ND— Fargo Writers (All Genres)

Ohio Writing Groups:

Akron, OH — Akron Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Beavercreek, OH — Antioch Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Canton, OH — Greater Canton Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Cincinnati, OH—  Greater Cincinnati Writers League  (All Genres)

Cleveland, OH — Skyline Writers (All Genres)

Columbus, OH — Downtown Writers Network (All Genres)

Columbus, OH — The InkStone (Novel)

Columbus, OH —  Ohio Writers’ Guild  (All Genres)

Columbus, OH —  Wild Goose Creative  (All Genres)

Dayton, OH — Western Ohio Writers Association (All Genres)

Dayton, OH — Dayton Christian Writers Guild, Inc. (Spiritual)

Delaware, OH — Poetry at the Delaware Library (Poetry)

Greater Cleveland and North Eastern, OH — Cleveland Writer Group (All Genres)

Hamilton, OH — Hamilton Writers Guild (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in OH —  Romance Writers of America, Central Ohio Fiction Writers Chapter  (Fiction)

Multiple Locations in OH —  The Ohio Poetry Association  (Poetry)

Sylvania, OH — Toledo Writers Workshop (All Genres)

Zanesville, OH — Y-City Writers’ Forum (All Genres)

Oklahoma Writing Groups:

Ada, OK — Ada Writers (All Genres)

Bartesville, OK — Wordweavers Writing Group (All Genres)

Bixby, OK — The South Tulsa Writers Meetup (All Genres)

Enid, OK — Enid Writers Club (All Genres)

Edmond, OK —  Pen and Keyboard Writers (All Genres)

Edmond, OK — The Inklings (All Genres)

Green Country, OK —  Green Country Ruff Riters (All Genres)

Guthrie, OK —  Red Dirt Writers Society (All Genres)

McAlester, OK — McAlester’s McSherry Writers (All Genres)

Midwest City, OK —  Mid-Oklahoma Writers (All Genres)

Norman, OK — Norman Galaxy of Writers (All Genres)

Oklahome City, OK — Creative Quills (All Genres)

Oklahoma City, OK — Oklahoma City Writers, Inc. (All Genres)

Oklahoma City, OK —  Oklahoma Horror Writers’ League (Horror)

Oklahoma City, OK — Oklahoma Write Now (All Genres)

Oklahoma City, OK — Romance Inc. (Romance)

Stillwater, OK — Stillwater Writers Group (All Genres)

Tulsa, OK — Critical Ink (Fiction)

Tulsa, OK — Tulsa NightWriters (All Genres)

Tulsa, OK — Tulsa Area Children’s Book Writers (Children’s Literature)

Tulsa, OK — Nevermore Edits (All Genres)

Tulsa, OK — Unbreakable Spines (All Genres)

Woodward, OK — Writers of the Purple Sage (All Genres)

Oregon Writing Groups:

Baker City, OR — The Writers Guild of Eastern Oregon (All Genres)

Eugene, OR — The Lane Literary Guild (All Genres)

Jefferson, OR —  Women’s Fiction Writers Association (Women in Fiction)

Portland, OR — 9 Bridges Writers Guild (All Genres)

Portland, OR — Attic Institute (All Genres)

Portland, OR — Friends of Mystery (Mystery)

Portland, OR — The Moonlit Poetry Caravan (Poetry)

Portland, OR — Mountain Writers Series (All Genres)

Portland, OR —  Oregon State Poetry Association, Portland Unit (Poetry)

Portland, OR —  Oregon Writers Colony (Novel)

Portland, OR — Willamette Writers (All Genres)

Portland, OR — Write Around Portland (All Genres)

Portland,, OR — Writers Mill (All Genres)

Redmond, OR — Central Oregon Writers Guild (All Genres)

Roseburg, OR — An Association of Writers (All Genres)

Pennsylvania Writing Groups:

Bethel, PA —  First Monday Discussion Group (All Genres)

Danville, PA —  Danville Writers Group (All Genres)

Dillsburg, PA — Central PA Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Easton, PA —  Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group (All Genres)

Erie, PA —  Millcreek Mall Area Group (All Genres)

Erie, PA — Fellowship of the Quill (All Genres)

Erie, PA —  Presque Isle Meeting (All Genres)

Hawley, PA — Pencils NEPA (All Genres)

Lancaster, PA —  Lancaster Area Writers Group (All Genres)

Meadville, PA —  Meadville Vicinity Pennwriters (All Genres)

Monroeville, PA —  Pittsburgh East Scribes (All Genres)

Monroeville, PA — Pittsburgh East Writers Group (All Genres)

Mount Lebanon, PA —  South Hills Critique Group (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in PA—  Pennwriters (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in PA — Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (Children’s Literature)

New Cumberland, PA —  Harrisburg Area Writers Group (All Genres)

Philadelphia, PA —  Philadelphia Writers (All Genres)

Pittsburgh, PA — Pittsburgh Writers (All Genres)

Pittsburgh, PA —  Second Tuesday of the Month Group (All Genres)

Shenango Valley, PA —  Shenango Valley Pennwriters (All Genres)

State College, PA —  Nittany Valley Writers Network (All Genres)

State College, PA —  Nittany Valley Writers Network: The Early Risers (All Genres)

State College, PA —  Nittany Valley Writers Network: Social Gatherings (All Genres)

Wexford, PA — Critique Group North (All Genres)

Wexford, PA —  The Mindful Writers Group (All Genres)

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA — A Writing Hand (All Genres)

Windber, PA —  Southern Alleghenies Writers Guild (All Genres)

York, PA —  York Area Writers Group (All Genres)

Rhode Island Writing Groups:

Cumberland, RI —  Rhode Island Romance Writers (Fiction)

Providence, RI —  Frequency Writers (All Genres)

Providence, RI — Goat Hill Writers (Fiction, Historical Fiction, Memoir, & Flash Fiction)

Warwick, RI — Rhody Writing Group (All Genres)

South Carolina Writing Groups:

Aiken, SC— SCWW, Aiken Chapter (All Genres)

Anderson, SC — SCWW, Anderson Chapter (All Genres)

Beaufort, SC — SCWW, Beaufort Chapter (All Genres)

Bluffton, SC — SCWW, Bluffton Chapter (All Genres)

Camden, SC — SCWW, Camden Chapter (All Genres)

Chapin, SC — SCWW, Chapin/Irmo Chapter (All Genres)

Charleston, SC — LILA (All Genres)

Charleston, SC — SCWW, Charleston East Cooper Chapter (All Genres)

Charleston, SC — SCWW, Charleston North Area Chapter (All Genres)

Columbia, SC — Columbia Writers Alliance (All Genres)

Columbia, SC — SCWW, Columbia I Chapter (All Genres)

Columbia, SC —  SCWW, Columbia II Chapter (All Genres)

Columbia, SC — SCWW, Columbia III Chapter (All Genres)

Daniel Island, SC — SCWW, Daniel Island: Guilty Prose Chapter (Fiction)

Florence, SC — SCWW, Florence Chapter (All Genres)

Greenville, SC —  Sisters in Crime of Upstate SC (Crime, Fiction)

Greenville, SC — SCWW, Greenville Chapter (All Genres)

Lexington, SC — SCWW, Lexington Chapter (All Genres)

North Charleston, SC — Lowcountry Romance Writers (Romance)

Rapid City, SC — Black Hills Writers Group (All Genres)

Seneca, SC — SCWW, Seneca Chapter (All Genres)

Sumter, SC — SCWW, Sumter Chapter (All Genres)

Surfside, SC — SCWW, Surfside Chapter (All Genres)

South Dakota Writing Groups:

Brookings, SD —  South Dakota State Poetry Society (Poetry)

Multiple Locations in SD — South Dakota Authors Association (All Genres)

Rapid City, SD— Black Hills Writers Group (All Genres)

Rapid City, SD — High Plains Writers (All Genres)

Tennessee Writing Groups:

Bartlett, TN — Bartlett Christian Writers (Spiritual)

Bartlett, TN — River City Romance Writers (Romance)

Chattanooga, TN — Chattanooga Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Collierville, TN — Collierville Christian Writers (All Genres)

Franklin, TN —  Music City Romance Writers (Romance)

Hillsboro Villiage, TN — Sisters In Crime, Middle Tennessee Chapter (Crime, Fiction)

Knoxville, TN — Knoxville Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Knoxville, TN —  Smoky Mountain Romance Writers (Romance)

Nashville, TN —  Bellevue Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Nashville, TN — Nashville Writers Circle (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in TN —  Lost State Writers Guild (All Genres)

Murfreesboro, TN — Murfreesboro Writers Group (All Genres)

Oak Ridge, TN —  Tennessee Mountain Writers (All Genres)

Texas Writing Groups:

Abilene, TX —  Abilene Writers Group (All Genres)

Alpine, TX — Texas Mountain Trail Writers (All Genres)

Amarillo, TX — Panhandle Professional Writers (All Genres)

Austin, TX —  Writers’ League of Texas (All Genres)

Cedar Hill, TX —  Dallas Area Writers Group (All Genres)

Clarksville, TX —  Red River Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

College Station, TX —  Brazos Writers (All Genres)

Dallas, TX —  Dallas Screen Writers Association (Screenwriting)

Dallas, TX  — Poetry Society of Texas (Poetry)

Denton, TX —  Denton Poets’ Assembly (Poetry)

Denton, TX —  Denton Writers’ Critique Group (Fiction)

El Paso, TX —  El Paso Writers’ League (All Genres)

Euless, TX —  DFW Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Fort Worth, TX — Fort Worth Writers (All Genres)

Houston, TX —  Houston Writers Guild (All Genres)

Houston, TX — Nuestra Palabra (All Genres)

Houston, TX —  White Oak Writers (All Genres)

Hurst, TX — North Texas Speculative Fiction Network (Fiction)

Katy, TX — West Houston/Texas Writers Group (All Genres)

Mt. Pleasant, TX —  Northeast Texas Writers’ Organization (All Genres)

San Antonio, TX — San Antonio Romance Authors (Romance)

San Antonio, TX — San Antonio Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Shenandoah, TX —  Writers on the Storm (Spiritual)

Tyler, TX —  East Texas Writers Guild (All Genres)

The Woodlands, TX — Woodlands Writers Guild (All Genres)

Utah Writing Groups:

Bountiful, UT — League of Utah Writers: Bountiful Chapter (All Genres)

Bountiful, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Rhyme & Reason (Poetry)

Cedar City, UT — League of Utah Writers: Color Country Nightwriters (All Genres)

Cedar City, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Cedar City Chapter (Poetry)

Holladay, UT — League of Utah Writers: Wordcraft (All Genres)

Layton, UT — League of Utah Writers: Wasatch Writers (All Genres)

Lehi, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Write On (Poetry)

Lindon, UT — League of Utah Writers: Utah Valley Legends (All Genres)

Logan City, UT — League of Utah Writers: Cache Valley Chapter (All Genres)

Moab, UT — Moab Poets & Writers (All Genres)

Midway, UT — League of Utah Writers: Heber Valley Writers (All Genres)

Murray, UT — Utah Book Writers Club (Novel)

Ogden, UT — League of Utah Writers: Blue Quill Chapter (All Genres)

Ogden, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Ben Lomond Chapter (Poetry)

Orem, UT — Utah Valley Writers (All Genres)

Provo, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Word Weavers (Poetry)

Richfield, UT — League of Utah Writers: Sevier Valley Writers (All Genres)

Salt Lake City, UT — League of Utah Writers: Salt City Scribes (All Genres)

Salt Lake City, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Valley Winds (Poetry)

St. George, UT —  Utah State Poetry Society: Dixie Chapter (Poetry)

St. George, UT —  Utah State Poetry Society: Red Rock (Poetry)

Taylorsville, UT — League of Utah Writers: Oquirrh Writers (All Genres)

Tooele, UT —  League of Utah Writers: Tooele Writers (All Genres)

Tooele, UT — Utah State Poetry Society: Oquirrh Chapter (Poetry)

Vermont Writing Groups:

Brattleboro, VT —  Write Action  (All Genres)

Burlington, VT —  Leage of Vermont Writers (All Genres)

Burlington, VT — The Burlington Writers Workshop (All Genres)

Wilmington, VT — Southern Vermont SCBWI Critique Group (All Genres)

Virginia Writing Groups:

Abington, VA —  The Virginia Writers Club, Appalachian Authors Guild (All Genres)

Fredericksburg, VA — The Virginia Writers Club, Riverside Chapter (All Genres)

Virginia Beach, VA —  Hampton Roads Writers (All Genres)

Multiple Locations, VA —  The Virginia Writers Club, Hanover Writers Chapter (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in VA — The Virginia Writers Club, Write by the Rails Chapter (All Genres)

Richmond, VA — Agile Writers (All Genres)

Richmond, VA — James Rivers Writers  (All Genres)

Roanoke, VA — The Virginia Writers Club, Valley Writers Chapter (All Genres)

Williamsburg, VA — The Poetry Society of Virginia (Poetry)

Williamsburg, VA —  The Virginia Writers Club, Chesapeake Bay Writers Chapter (All Genres)

Washington, D.C. Writing Groups:

Washington, DC — The Black Women Playwrights’ Group (Screenwriting)

Washington, DC — D.C. Area Literary Translators Network (Literary Translation)

Washington, DC —  D.C. Comedy Writers (Humor)

Washington, DC — Split This Rock (Poetry)

Washington, DC —  The Washington Biography Group (Memoir)

Washington, DC —  Washington Romance Writers (Romantic Fiction)

Washington Writing Groups:

Bothell, WA —  Northwest Christian Writers Association (Spiritual)

Buckley, WA — Plateau Area Writers Association (All Genres)

Issaquah, WA — The Cottage (All Genres)

Langley, WA — Whidbey Island Writers Association (All Genres)

Lewis County, WA —  The Lewis County Writers Guild  (All Genres)

Mount Vernon, WA —  Skagit Valley Writers League (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in WA — Tri-City Writers (Novel, Prose)

Seattle, WA — Writer’s Cramp  (Science Fiction, Fantasy)

Spokane, WA — Inland Northwest Writers Guild (All Genres)

Spokane, WA — Spokane Authors and Self-Publishers (All Genres)

Spokane, WA —  Spokane Fiction Writer’s Group  (All Genres)

Wenatchee, WA — Write on the River (All Genres)

West Virginia Writing Groups:

Beckley, WV —  Raleigh County Library Writers Group (All Genres)

Braxton, WV —  Braxton Writers Group (All Genres)

Charleston, WV —  Pens Writer’s Group (All Genres)

Fairmont, WV —  The Crow’s Quill  (All Genres)

Hinton, WV —  Summers County Writers’ Group (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  Black Dog Writers Group  (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  The Guyandotte Poets (Poetry)

Huntington, WV —  The Patchwork Writers (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  Society of the Lark (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  Wicked Wordsmiths of the West (All Genres)

Jefferson County, WV —  The Mountain Scribes (All Genres)

Martinsburg, WV —  Athens on the Opequon (Poetry)

Martinsburg, WV —  Martinsburg Writers Group (All Genres)

Morgantown, WV —  Morgantown Writers Group (All Genres)

Parkersburg, WV —  Sacred Way Poets (Poetry)

Philippi, WV —  Barbour County Writers Workshop  (All Genres)

Point Pleasant, WV —  The Point Pleasant Writers Guild (All Genres)

Princeton, WV —  Appalachian Pen Works (All Genres)

Ripley, WV —  The Appalachian Wordsmiths (All Genres)

Romney, WV —  Ice Mountain Writers (All Genres)

Shepherdstown, WV —  The Bookend Poets (Poetry)

Spencer, WV —  Women’s Writing Circle (All Genres)

St. Albans, WV —  St. Albans Writers Group (All Genres)

Triadelphia, WV —  Ohio Valley Writers Group (All Genres)

Wisconsin Writing Groups:

Armery, WI —  Northern Lakes Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Balsam Lake, WI —  Poco Penners (All Genres)

Black River Falls, WI —  BRF Writers Group (All Genres)

Door County, WI —  Door Pens (All Genres)

Eau Clair, WI —  Writers’ Group at the Library (All Genres)

Eau Clair, WI —  Western Wisconsin Christian Writers Guild (Spiritual)

Frederic, WI —  Northwest Regional Writers (All Genres)

Hayward, WI —  Yarnspinners (All Genres)

Janesville, WI —  Janesville Area Writers Club (All Genres)

Kenosha, WI —  Kenosha Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Kewaskum, WI —  Moraine Writers Guild (All Genres)

Madison, WI —  Tuesdays with Story (All Genres)

Manitowoc, WI —  The Lakeshore Writers (All Genres)

Menomonee, WI —  Chippewa Valley Writers (All Genres)

Milwaukee, WI —  Red Oak Writers (All Genres)

Milwaukee, WI — Wisconsin Romance Writers of America (Romance)

Multiple Locations in WI — Wisconsin Writers Association (All Genres)

Nekoosa, WI —  Home Town Players/Writers Group (All Genres)

Oshkosh, WI —  Oshkosh Area Writers Club (All Genres)

Pinney, WI —  Pinney Writing Group (All Genres)

Portage, WI —  Pauquette Wordcrafters (All Genres)

Portage, WI —  The Writers at the Portage (All Genres)

Sheboygan, WI — Mead Public Library Poetry Circle (Poetry)

Solon Springs, WI —  St. Croix Writers of Solon Springs (All Genres)

Stevens Point, WI —  Aspiring Authors of Stevens Point (All Genres)

Two Rivers, WI — The Cool City Writers Group (All Genres)

Wausau, WI —  Writers of Wausau (All Genres)

Wauwatosu, WI —  Writer’s Voice (All Genres)

West Bend, WI —  Washington County Writers’ Club (All Genres)

Wyoming Writing Groups:

Green River, WY — Wyoming Writers, Inc. (All Genres)

Riverton, WY —  WyoPoets (Poetry)

Sundance, WY —  Bearlodge Writers (All Genres)

Canada Writing Groups:

Alberta —  Writers’ Guild of Alberta (All Genres)

Burnaby —  Burnaby Writers’ Society (All Genres)

Kamloops —  Interior Authors Group (All Genres)

Nanaimo —  Writing Life Women’s Writing Circle (All Genres)

New Westminster —  New West Writers (All Genres)

New Westminster —  Waves Writers (All Genres)

Nova Scotia — Romance Writers of Atlantic Canada (Romance)

Ontario —  Canadian Authors Niagara Branch (All Genres)

Ottowa — Ottowa Independent Writers (All Genres)

Quebec —  Quebec Writers’ Federation (All Genres)

Salmon Arm —  Shuswap Writers Group (All Genres)

Sooke —  Sooke Writers’ Collective (All Genres)

Terrace — Terrace Writers Group (All Genres)

Toronto — Canadian Authors Toronto Branch (All Genres)

Toronto —  Writers’ Union of Canada (All Genres)

Vancouver — Grind Café Writers Group (All Genres)

Vancouver — Thursday Writing Collective (All Genres)

Vancouver — West End Writers’ Workshop (All Genres)

Online Writing Groups:

Critique Circle (All Genres)

Inked Voices (All Genres)

Pen Parentis (All Genres)

Scribophile  (All Genres)

Writer’s Café (All Genres)

writing groups on

Ada, OK —   Ada Writers   (All Genres)

Bartesville, OK —   Wordweavers Writing Group   (All Genres)

Enid, OK — Enid Writers Club   (All Genres)

Edmond, OK —  Pen and Keyboard Writers   (All Genres)

Edmond, OK —   The Inklings   (All Genres)

Green Country, OK —  Green Country Ruff Riters   (All Genres)

Guthrie, OK —  Red Dirt Writers Society   (All Genres)

McAlester, OK — McAlester’s McSherry Writers (All Genres)

Midwest City, OK —  Mid-Oklahoma Writers   (All Genres)

Norman, OK —   Norman Galaxy of Writers   (All Genres)

Oklahome City, OK —   Creative Quills   (All Genres)

Oklahoma City, OK —  Oklahoma Horror Writers’ League   (Horror)

Oklahoma City, OK —   Oklahoma Write Now   (All Genres)

Oklahoma City, OK —   Romance Inc.   (Romance)

Stillwater, OK —   Stillwater Writers Group   (All Genres)

Tulsa, OK — Tulsa Area Children’s Book Writers (Children’s Literature)

Woodward, OK —   Writers of the Purple Sage   (All Genres)

Jefferson, OR —  Women’s Fiction Writers Association   (Women in Fiction)

Portland, OR —   Attic Institute   (All Genres)

Portland, OR —   Mountain Writers Series   (All Genres)

Portland, OR —  Oregon State Poetry Association, Portland Unit   (Poetry)

Portland, OR —  Oregon Writers Colony   (Novel)

Portland,, OR —   Writers Mill   (All Genres)

Roseburg, OR —   An Association of Writers   (All Genres)

Bethel, PA —  First Monday Discussion Group   (All Genres)

Danville, PA —  Danville Writers Group   (All Genres)

Dillsburg, PA — Central PA Writers’ Workshop   (All Genres)

Easton, PA —  Greater Lehigh Valley Writers Group   (All Genres)

Erie, PA —  Millcreek Mall Area Group   (All Genres)

Erie, PA —   Fellowship of the Quill   (All Genres)

Erie, PA —  Presque Isle Meeting   (All Genres)

Hawley, PA —   Pencils NEPA   (All Genres)

Lancaster, PA —  Lancaster Area Writers Group   (All Genres)

Meadville, PA —  Meadville Vicinity Pennwriters   (All Genres)

Monroeville, PA —  Pittsburgh East Scribes   (All Genres)

Monroeville, PA —   Pittsburgh East Writers Group   (All Genres)

Mount Lebanon, PA —  South Hills Critique Group   (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in PA—  Pennwriters   (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in PA — Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators   (Children’s Literature)

New Cumberland, PA —  Harrisburg Area Writers Group   (All Genres)

Philadelphia, PA —  Philadelphia Writers   (All Genres)

Pittsburgh, PA —  Second Tuesday of the Month Group   (All Genres)

Shenango Valley, PA —  Shenango Valley Pennwriters   (All Genres)

State College, PA —  Nittany Valley Writers Network   (All Genres)

State College, PA —  Nittany Valley Writers Network: The Early Risers   (All Genres)

State College, PA —  Nittany Valley Writers Network: Social Gatherings   (All Genres)

Wexford, PA —   Critique Group North   (All Genres)

Wexford, PA —  The Mindful Writers Group   (All Genres)

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, PA —   A Writing Hand   (All Genres)

Windber, PA —  Southern Alleghenies Writers Guild   (All Genres)

York, PA —  York Area Writers Group   (All Genres)

Cumberland, RI —  Rhode Island Romance Writers   (Fiction)

Providence, RI —  Frequency Writers   (All Genres)

Providence, RI —   Goat Hill Writers   (Fiction, Historical Fiction, Memoir, & Flash Fiction)

Columbia, SC —  SCWW, Columbia II Chapter   (All Genres)

Greenville, SC —  Sisters in Crime of Upstate SC   (Crime, Fiction)

Brookings, SD —  South Dakota State Poetry Society   (Poetry)

Multiple Locations in SD — South Dakota Authors Association   (All Genres)

Rapid City, SD —   High Plains Writers   (All Genres)

Bartlett, TN —   Bartlett Christian Writers   (Spiritual)

Chattanooga, TN — Chattanooga Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Franklin, TN —  Music City Romance Writers   (Romance)

Knoxville, TN — Knoxville Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Knoxville, TN —  Smoky Mountain Romance Writers   (Romance)

Nashville, TN —  Bellevue Writers’ Group   (All Genres)

Nashville, TN —   Nashville Writers Circle   (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in TN —  Lost State Writers Guild   (All Genres)

Oak Ridge, TN —  Tennessee Mountain Writers   (All Genres)

Abilene, TX —  Abilene Writers Group   (All Genres)

Austin, TX —  Writers’ League of Texas   (All Genres)

Cedar Hill, TX —  Dallas Area Writers Group   (All Genres)

Clarksville, TX —  Red River Writers’ Workshop   (All Genres)

College Station, TX —  Brazos Writers   (All Genres)

Dallas, TX —  Dallas Screen Writers Association   (Screenwriting)

Denton, TX —  Denton Poets’ Assembly   (Poetry)

Denton, TX —  Denton Writers’ Critique Group   (Fiction)

El Paso, TX —  El Paso Writers’ League   (All Genres)

Euless, TX —  DFW Writers’ Workshop   (All Genres)

Fort Worth, TX —   Fort Worth Writers   (All Genres)

Houston, TX —  Houston Writers Guild   (All Genres)

Houston, TX —  White Oak Writers   (All Genres)

Hurst, TX — North Texas Speculative Fiction Network   (Fiction)

Mt. Pleasant, TX —  Northeast Texas Writers’ Organization   (All Genres)

San Antonio, TX — San Antonio Writers’ Guild (All Genres)

Shenandoah, TX —  Writers on the Storm   (Spiritual)

Tyler, TX —  East Texas Writers Guild   (All Genres)

St. George, UT —  Utah State Poetry Society: Dixie Chapter   (Poetry)

St. George, UT —  Utah State Poetry Society: Red Rock   (Poetry)

Tooele, UT —  League of Utah Writers: Tooele Writers   (All Genres)

Burlington, VT —  Leage of Vermont Writers   (All Genres)

Abington, VA —  The Virginia Writers Club, Appalachian Authors Guild   (All Genres)

Virginia Beach, VA —  Hampton Roads Writers   (All Genres)

Multiple Locations, VA —  The Virginia Writers Club, Hanover Writers Chapter   (All Genres)

Richmond, VA —   James Rivers Writers  (All Genres)

Williamsburg, VA —  The Virginia Writers Club, Chesapeake Bay Writers Chapter   (All Genres)

Washington, DC — The Black Women Playwrights’ Group (Screenwriting)

Washington, DC —  D.C. Comedy Writers   (Humor)

Washington, DC —   Split This Rock   (Poetry)

Washington, DC —  The Washington Biography Group   (Memoir)

Washington, DC —  Washington Romance Writers   (Romantic Fiction)

Bothell, WA —  Northwest Christian Writers Association   (Spiritual)

Mount Vernon, WA —  Skagit Valley Writers League   (All Genres)

Seattle, WA —   Writer’s Cramp  (Science Fiction, Fantasy)

Spokane, WA —  Spokane Fiction Writer’s Group  (All Genres)

Beckley, WV —  Raleigh County Library Writers Group   (All Genres)

Braxton, WV —  Braxton Writers Group   (All Genres)

Charleston, WV —  Pens Writer’s Group   (All Genres)

Fairmont, WV —  The Crow’s Quill  (All Genres)

Hinton, WV —  Summers County Writers’ Group   (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  The Guyandotte Poets   (Poetry)

Huntington, WV —  The Patchwork Writers   (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  Society of the Lark   (All Genres)

Huntington, WV —  Wicked Wordsmiths of the West   (All Genres)

Jefferson County, WV —  The Mountain Scribes   (All Genres)

Martinsburg, WV —  Athens on the Opequon   (Poetry)

Martinsburg, WV —  Martinsburg Writers Group   (All Genres)

Morgantown, WV —  Morgantown Writers Group   (All Genres)

Parkersburg, WV —  Sacred Way Poets   (Poetry)

Point Pleasant, WV —  The Point Pleasant Writers Guild   (All Genres)

Princeton, WV —  Appalachian Pen Works   (All Genres)

Ripley, WV —  The Appalachian Wordsmiths   (All Genres)

Romney, WV —  Ice Mountain Writers   (All Genres)

Shepherdstown, WV —  The Bookend Poets   (Poetry)

Spencer, WV —  Women’s Writing Circle   (All Genres)

St. Albans, WV —  St. Albans Writers Group   (All Genres)

Triadelphia, WV —  Ohio Valley Writers Group   (All Genres)

Armery, WI —  Northern Lakes Writers’ Guild   (All Genres)

Balsam Lake, WI —  Poco Penners   (All Genres)

Black River Falls, WI —  BRF Writers Group   (All Genres)

Door County, WI —  Door Pens   (All Genres)

Eau Clair, WI —  Writers’ Group at the Library   (All Genres)

Eau Clair, WI —  Western Wisconsin Christian Writers Guild   (Spiritual)

Frederic, WI —  Northwest Regional Writers   (All Genres)

Hayward, WI —  Yarnspinners   (All Genres)

Janesville, WI —  Janesville Area Writers Club   (All Genres)

Kenosha, WI —  Kenosha Writers’ Guild   (All Genres)

Kewaskum, WI —  Moraine Writers Guild   (All Genres)

Madison, WI —  Tuesdays with Story   (All Genres)

Manitowoc, WI —  The Lakeshore Writers   (All Genres)

Menomonee, WI —  Chippewa Valley Writers   (All Genres)

Milwaukee, WI —  Red Oak Writers   (All Genres)

Multiple Locations in WI —   Wisconsin Writers Association   (All Genres)

Nekoosa, WI —  Home Town Players/Writers Group   (All Genres)

Oshkosh, WI —  Oshkosh Area Writers Club   (All Genres)

Pinney, WI —  Pinney Writing Group   (All Genres)

Portage, WI —  Pauquette Wordcrafters   (All Genres)

Portage, WI —  The Writers at the Portage   (All Genres)

Solon Springs, WI —  St. Croix Writers of Solon Springs   (All Genres)

Stevens Point, WI —  Aspiring Authors of Stevens Point   (All Genres)

Wausau, WI —  Writers of Wausau   (All Genres)

Wauwatosu, WI —  Writer’s Voice   (All Genres)

West Bend, WI —  Washington County Writers’ Club   (All Genres)

Riverton, WY —  WyoPoets   (Poetry)

Sundance, WY —  Bearlodge Writers   (All Genres)

Critique Circle   (All Genres)

Inked Voices   (All Genres)

Pen Parentis   (All Genres)

Writer’s Café (All Genres)

writing groups on

See ALL the services we offer, from FREE to Full Service!

Click here for a Writer’s Relief Full Service Overview

writing groups on

Services Catalog

writing groups on

Free Publishing Leads and Tips!

  • Name * First Name
  • Email * Enter Email Confirm Email
  • Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

writing groups on

Featured Articles

writing groups on

Featured Video

writing groups on

  • Facebook 121k Followers
  • Twitter 113.9k Followers
  • YouTube 5k Followers
  • Instagram 5.5k Followers
  • LinkedIn 145.5k Followers
  • Pinterest 33.5k Followers
  • Name * First
  • E-mail * Enter Email Confirm Email
  • Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

WHY? Because our insider know-how has helped writers get over 18,000 acceptances.

  • BEST (and proven) submission tips
  • Hot publishing leads
  • Calls to submit
  • Contest alerts
  • Notification of industry changes
  • And much more!

close-link

Pin It on Pinterest

writing groups on

Gatekeeper Press

6 Ways to Find Writing Groups for Aspiring Authors

by Gatekeeper Press | Mar 13, 2020 | Blog , Writing

writing groups

Table of Contents

Launching a writing career can be like walking blindfolded into a forest.

You trip and stumble as you attempt to navigate the unfamiliar landscape without the benefit of vision, fumbling your way toward the desired destination and feeling incredibly alone.

As you plod along through that lonely forest, you may hear a few birds singing or squirrels scampering about, but human companionship and guidance are conspicuously absent.

Writers need other writers. Writers can help each other “see their way” toward achieving the shared goal of publication. Being engaged in the often-lonely pursuit of writing, we can surely benefit from interfacing with other writers who will inspire us, keep us accountable, and even critique our work.

In essence, we need other aspiring authors walking alongside us in that unfamiliar forest to help keep us on the path toward publication. What better solution for up-and-coming authors to find this support and camaraderie than to join a writing group.

So, now that we have identified the problem—blindly pursuing a book project on our own, how do we arrive at the solution—finding a writing group? Fortunately, there are many resources available for locating a writing community that will provide encouragement and support.

Need More than a Pen Pal? 6 Ways to Find Writing Groups

After identifying some excellent reasons for joining a writing community, we now ask ourselves, “How do I find a local writing group?”

Thankfully, finding fellow writing comrades is fairly easy, as writing groups abound. Consider these ideas for locating a writing community that is just right for your needs:

Join Online Writing Groups

Online writing groups can be invaluable to the aspiring author. These online communities can be an excellent resource for finding a handy critic to run your chapter by. Or beta readers who will offer feedback on the manuscript prior to publication and reviews for the book after publication.

Online writing groups usually provide active forums for member Q&A. Also, you can find lively conversation revolving around self-publication and marketing ideas .

Some interesting online writing groups to check out include:

  • Absolute Write Water Cooler
  • Critique Circle

Go to Local Writing Groups

Sometimes you really just want some company, such as meeting locally with other writers. Local writing groups exist for just that reason, to be a living, breathing community tailored to the needs of writers.

A local writing group can provide a social outlet for the oft-cooped up writer who spends copious amounts of time in solitary while writing the next bestseller . These groups provide opportunities for networking, too, as members are all too happy to help each other in getting the word out about a member’s upcoming publication.

Locating a local writing group is easier than you might think. Consider these potential sources:

  • Contact local bookstores and inquire if they host a writing group, or might know of a local writing community.
  • Check-in at the local library, as very often, the librarian has a list of writing groups in the area.
  • Look up local Meetup groups. Depending on your area, you may find dozens of Meetup writer groups and related local writer events.

Use an Online Directory

To locate a writing group in your vicinity, use a directory. A handy reference gives contact information for writer groups across the country.

Here are some examples of groups found through the Writer’s Relief directory :

  • Los Angeles
  • The Writers Workspace
  • Chicago Writers Association
  • Chicago Women in Publishing
  • Amateur Writers of Long Island
  • New York Writing Club
  • Independent Writers of Southern California
  • Los Angeles Writers Group
  • Writers Guild of America West
  • San Diego Writers, Ink
  • The San Diego Professional Writers Group
  • San Diego Writers and Editors Guild
  • Writing Workshops Dallas
  • WORD Writers Organizations ‘Round Dallas
  • Dallas Screenwriters Association
  • Colorado Authors’ League
  • Poets & Writers Denver
  • Denver Writers Meetup Group

Sign Up for a Local Writing Class

You may desire to become an author but feel you would benefit from updating your writing skills. A local writing class can offer a brush up on writing mechanics and more.

Local community colleges are excellent sources for affordable writing courses, even offering evening classes that don’t interfere with your day job.

Classes offered through the school’s English Department might include

  • Composition
  • Creative Writing
  • Novel Workshop
  • Writing the Fiction/or Nonfiction Book

An alternative to physically attending a local writing class is to enroll in an online college or university writing course where you can complete the assignments from home.

Join Facebook Groups

These days, a social media writing community might be the preferred venue for interacting with up and coming authors. Facebook has a multitude of online writers groups, both local and international.

Look for groups that are very active by noting their number of posts in a given day. These will be the Facebook groups where members are most apt to engage regularly. Each group will have rules or policies to help guide the members towards productive discourse.

Some of the popular writing groups on Facebook include:

  • Writers Helping Writers
  • Authors and Writers Helping Each Other Grow
  • The New Writers and Authors
  • Write Better Blog Better

Attend Writing Conferences

Attending a writers’ conference or retreat can be a rich source for gathering news and writing tips, as well as connecting with other writers.

Each year there are about 200 such events in the U.S. in varying settings offering both general and specific areas of focus. At these events, you may find yourself gravitating towards other writers in attendance, eventually exchanging contact information.

Since the people you meet at these conferences are motivated to succeed, why not pitch the idea of starting a writing group with some of your new acquaintances? If the distance is an issue, create an online group where you can FaceTime the meetings and share in real-time.

Create Your Own Writing Group

You may have attempted to locate a local writing group and discovered there are none to be found in your area.

Why not go ahead and form your own writing group? If you happen to know a few aspiring authors in your area, go ahead and reach out to them. If not, contact the local bookstores in the area and pitch the idea to start a group that could meet at the bookstore once a week.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hills has great resources creating writer’s groups. If an online group is more your style, consider creating your own Facebook writers group by inviting some of your Facebook friends who have expressed an interest in writing.

Find More Writing Help

Seeking to hone your writing skills by participating in a writing group or taking a writing class will only enhance the success of your book publishing efforts. Find additional mentorship through a full-service publishing partner like Gatekeeper Press.

Gatekeeper Press offers end-to-end publication services, including editing, proofreading, formatting, cover design, and distribution. Contact us today.

Free Consultation

  • Common Parts of a Book: Self-Publishing Guide
  • Kyle Thomas Smith Author Q & A
  • 21 Clever Book Marketing Ideas for Self-Published Authors
  • The Importance of Beta Readers for Self-Publishing
  • annEpeck Author Q & A
  • Author Q&A (22)
  • Editing (18)
  • Making Money (7)
  • Marketing (12)
  • Publishing (60)
  • Uncategorized (2)
  • Writing (55)

writing groups on

  • Lost Password
  • Lost Username
  • Online Writers
  • Self-Publishers
  • Literary Agents
  • Literary Magazines
  • Search Groups
  • Browse Newest
  • Browse Most Viewed
  • Browse Most Populated
  • Browse by Genre --------------- Acrostic Adventure Anthropology & Archaeology Article On Writing Arts Biography & Memoir Business Child Care & Parenting Children's Chofu Comics & Graphic Novels Computers Contemporary Literature Cooking Crime & Investigative Current Affairs Erotica Essays Ethnic Experimental Family Saga Fantasy Fiction Haiku Health Historical Fiction History (Nonfiction) Horror How-To Humor & Satire Journal LGBTQ Limerick Literary Fiction Lyrics Metafiction Military & War Monologues Mystery, Suspense & Thriller Nature & Environment New Age Nonfiction Nonsense Novella Philosophy Picture Books Poetry Political Pop Culture Postmodern Prose Poems Psychology Regional Religious Romance Science Science Fiction Self-Help Senryu Short Story Collections Sociology Sonnet Spoken Word Sports Supernatural & Occult Teen & Young Adult Travel Western Women's & Feminist
  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy

writing groups on

  • Facebook Group
  • Facebook Page

The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Writing Group Starter Kit

You’ve decided to form a writing group. Congratulations! The Writing Center has established this kit to help writers like you get a group going and help it succeed, right from the start.

Starting a writing group, especially your first one, can be a little overwhelming. To help your group get off on the right foot, we’ve put together this collection of handouts for your group members to fill out before the first meeting. These will help you break the ice, learn about each other’s writing needs and group interactions, and start to plan a structure and schedule for your group that will work for everyone.

  • Deciding How the Group Will Function
  • Personal Goals Worksheet
  • Writing Inventory Worksheet
  • About My Writing Sample Worksheet
  • Group Work Inventory
  • Schedule Inventory

Before the first meeting, everyone should read the handouts above and prepare to discuss their answers. They should also share a short writing sample (an excerpt from a paper would be fine). Of course, your group can modify this starter kit by adding other questions you would like each person to answer beforehand or subtracting worksheets that you don’t think will help you.

In your first meeting, your group might start by talking about why each of you wanted to join a writing group (using the Personal Goals sheet), then move on to discussing yourselves as writers (using your Writing Inventory and sharing your writing samples and the “About this Writing Sample” sheets). Finally, you might discuss your preferences for working together (using the Group Work inventory) and figure out a good time and place to meet (using the Schedule Inventory). All of these conversations can help you set some ground rules for your group, which you may want to write down, and will help you get to know one another as writers and group members. You might develop your own writing group “creed” at your first meeting to set the tone for future sessions.

It may be a good idea to close your first meeting by scheduling the next meeting and setting an agenda for it. Groups usually get off to a good start when the first meeting sets most of the ground rules, at least tentatively, and then subsequent meetings get right down to talking about and working on writing. By setting an agenda for the next meeting (who will bring writing, what you will work on, etc.), you can be sure that your group will start helping one another with writing issues almost immediately, and you can all leave the first meeting knowing what you should do between then and the next session.

How To Run A Successful Writing Group

  • by Hannah Collins
  • April 12, 2017

Standout Books is supported by its audience, if you click and purchase from any of the links on this page, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have personally vetted. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

The act and art of writing are usually solitary endeavors, even with a head full of a hundred different characters. If you’ve had enough of pacing around your living room trying to ease writer’s block, or terrifying your pets by acting out sword-fights, then a writing group might be just want you need. Maybe you’re even hoping to find the C.S Lewis to your J.R.R Tolkien .

But what can you do if there isn’t a writing group in your area, or the groups that do exist don’t meet your needs? Well, since writing groups can be so important for writers, maybe you should start your own. Here’s how.

Set objectives for your writing group

This is important to establish as early as possible. After all, success is based on achievement, so naturally you need something to achieve in order to feel like a successful writing group. And, without wanting to sound like a fun-sponge, it’ll also help give some structure to your meetings. Each member will probably have their own aims in mind already, so the best thing to do is discuss and collate all of these individual goals, then create a set of goals or a shared, singular goal for the writing group that everyone agrees on.

This could be many things, but here are some common examples to get you thinking:

  • To write more often,
  • To network with other writers working in similar genres,
  • To critique each other’s work,
  • To support and champion each other,
  • To become better writers and editors ,
  • To give each other industry or professional insight,
  • To help strengthen each other’s manuscripts from first drafts to publication.

Settle on a format

Again, structure is the foundation on which success is built. Set guidelines on how the group will operate and establish clear expectations. This could include word or page counts for submissions, when and how submissions are distributed among the group, and how participation will work.

For instance, it’s worth considering how distribution will work in your writing group. Will you distribute printed copies on the day, read work aloud, send submissions out by email prior to the meet, or provide copies at one meeting to be critiqued at the next? Likewise, how will critique work? You could opt for spoken feedback, but written mark-ups are easier to refer to later. On that basis, would you prefer people write on their copies or type up a ‘report’?

Agree on a format with everyone and see how well it works. You can always try something different if it doesn’t.

Establish a critique model

Who really enjoys receiving criticism ? No-one? Thought so. We all know how important criticism is, even if we’d also rather it didn’t need to exist and we could all just blindly agree to love everything equally. Criticism can be equally hard to provide, especially if you’re having to deliver it to someone’s face on a regular basis.

Firstly, you need to decide on who gets critiqued, for how long, and when. Will all members critique all submissions at every meet-up for an equal amount of time? Will there be a minimum participation system for each submission? Will you intensively critique a different member’s submissions each time? Your writing group’s decision on this may also depend on the number of members in the group.

Then you need to decide on how the critiquing should be delivered. This can be tricky to balance, as common advice dictates that withholding feedback doesn’t best serve anyone, and yet needless criticism just for the sake of contributing can be harmful. Probably the most effective and universally-agreed-on structure for providing feedback is the critique ‘sandwich’. Here, the bread should be something complimentary and the filling should be something advisory. Positive, negative, positive. In other words, criticism is far easier to swallow when it’s presented inside encouragement.

Discuss the various options with the group and settle on a model before your first proper meet.

Be prepared

Bring notepads. Bring spare paper. Bring pens or pencils. Bring your wallet to keep coffees or beers topped up. But most importantly, bring critique notes with you if you’ve already seen the submission before the meeting. Have specific examples ready to serve up alongside the positives and negatives you highlight in someone’s work.

It’s not helpful to just shruggingly tell someone you liked or disliked their submission if you can’t tell them why. Have some questions ready to ask them, and in turn, note down any comments or questions directed at you.

Be open to change

This may sound like counter-intuitive advice considering how much I’ve banged on so far about setting ‘structure’ and ‘rules’, but flexibility is important too. Encourage feedback every now and again from the group to check that the established format and meeting schedule is still working for everyone. Is the group meeting too often? Not enough? Would a different day or time work better? Or a change of location? Is commitment to the group too much of a burden? Is there too much homework? Is everyone getting the same opportunities to contribute? Is one person contributing too much? Or too little?

You may also need to react to changes in membership numbers. If they increase, you might need to take another look at your format and submission guidelines to check they’ll still work if the group dynamic changes. If you experience a loss or stagnated membership numbers, maybe it’s time to review your recruitment policy, or push for a new recruitment drive.

Try out different ways to meet/communicate

Obviously, the main advantage of meeting in real life is the excuse to get out of the house and do some good, old-fashioned socializing (as well giving those traumatized pets I mentioned earlier a break from your one-person shows).

But, if you’re struggling to find warm, breathing, writerly human bodies within a reasonable distance, you could always use virtual space instead. Email, chat rooms, private Facebook groups, Skype, Google Hangouts, forums … the list of options just keeps increasing each year. Obviously, there are certain pitfalls associated with online, non-verbal communication, such as misinterpreted tone of voice and people’s propensity to be harsher when speaking to people they can’t see. For this reason, video or phone conversations for writing group critiquing may be best.

You could also use these methods as supplementary to physical group meet-ups. Conversations and support could continue online between each meeting, and those who are forced to miss one can still feel like they’re part of the group.

All work and no play…

You’ve got your shared objectives in mind and you’re all working hard to achieve it/them. But, taking a break from your routine can be beneficial too. Mix things up every now and again by doing something totally different to your usual meeting. Go to a book reading, or a talk from an author, or catch a movie together. Create some writing prompts or have a go at some fun writing exercises with the group. Or maybe arrange to meet up in a completely non-writing-related way, just to get to know everyone better. Often, it’s easier to be honest with people we have a rapport with.

Set the rules – and stick to them

The key to running a successful writing group can really be boiled down to three things:

  • Creating a shared group objective,
  • Establishing guidelines for participation,
  • Following through.

There’s obviously no point in going through the trouble of adhering to the first two steps if you’re not going to stick to them. Everything should be agreed on democratically, but as the founder, you need to take responsibility for steering discussion and ensuring the group is on track to achieving its shared objective.

Starting a writing group may seem daunting, but if you take it one step at a time and make sure to consult on what works for the group, you’ll have an amazing resource that can enhance both your writing and career. Share your writing group tips in the comments, and, for more on getting great criticism, check out Your Complete Guide To Getting Useful Criticism and Everything You Need To Know About Working With Beta Readers , or if you need more convincing, try Why Joining A Writing Group May Be The Best Thing You Do All Year .

  • Alpha readers , Beta readers , Book reviews , Editing , Inspiration , Money , NaNoWriMo , Networking , Productivity , Social media

writing groups on

Your Quick And Easy Guide To Editing Dialogue

writing groups on

5 Ways Harlan Ellison Can Help You Improve Your Writing

If You Write In MS Word, You Need To Know About These 6 Features - A character who looks like Microsoft's 'Clippy' explains MS Word.

If You Write In MS Word, You Need To Know About These 6 Features

How To Actually Write Every Day - An author sits on her bed, typing happily.

How To Actually Write Every Day

Is It Better To Be A Hopper Or A Marcher? - A marcher and a rabbit meet, each looking confused.

Is It Better To Be A Hopper Or A Marcher?

David Sedaris MasterClass Review: Is It Worth Your Money? - David Sedaris stands at a board on which someone has drawn the MasterClass logo and Santa's face.

David Sedaris MasterClass Review: Is It Worth Your Money?

Hannah Collins

Hannah Collins

8 thoughts on “how to run a successful writing group”.

writing groups on

Aah, those critique groups…. bane or bonus? My experience has been that perception is everything. When I perceive someone as not being a strong writer, I find it difficult to accept critique of my writing from that person. One more thing: The golden rule for all groups should be that the person whose work is being critiqued must sit silent, lest the whole exercise turns into a scene resembling a courtroom with the writer defending or explaining her/himself.

writing groups on

Thanks for the insight. That’s certainly an interesting rule that groups might find helpful to try out.

writing groups on

Thanks, Hannah. Your information is excellent.

Local writing groups are subject to the same peer pressure and relationship difficulties as any other group. Many people find it difficult to look someone in the eye and offer criticism.

However, online groups solve that problem. A writer can give and receive criticism, taking the requisite time to act and react. If a critique raises our hackles, we can stew until our adrenaline settles before deciding whether we want to accept the advice.

Thanks, I’m glad you found the advice to be sound.

You’re right – online groups give people a chance to meditate for longer on the feedback they get before possibly lashing out in the heat of the moment. I’ve definitely found this to be more useful than face-to-face meet ups at times, though the adrenilin rush of a hot debate in person can be quite fun!

writing groups on

I joined an online writing group in February this year. It was predominantly to support the novel I started writing. They ask that each submission is matched with at least two critiques of submissions from other members. Each week brings a different prompt to inspire the submission. The first critique can be difficult, but there are far more benefits. I have been able to explore a variety of genres, making me realise my strengths and weaknesses.

Thanks for the insight into how an online group can be run, and it’s great to hear you’ve benefitted from being a part of one.

writing groups on

I think the best case scenario is to be involved in both in-person and online groups. There are pros and cons to each and this way you get the best of both worlds.

Hi Kristen,

That certainly seems like an ideal solution for those having trouble choosing!

Thanks for the comment.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Massucci.com

  • 15 Tips for Successful Writing Groups

by Joe Massucci

writing groups

Maybe you’re not as good a writer as you think you are. It’s true. We tend to fall in love with our own writing, blinded to our imperfect technique. How do you know? Join a writing group and get feedback – lots of it.

Writers at every stage of their careers from beginners to seasoned best-selling authors benefit from feedback about their work from other practicing writers. In fact, many published novelists will tell you that writing groups taught them how to write – from basic sentence structure and grammar, to sensational characters, pacing and plots. Not to mention learning the secrets of the genre.

As a member of a writing group, you surround yourself regularly with like-minded professionals who come together week after week for a single purpose: give and receive feedback about works in progress.

But not all writing groups are created equal, or exist for the same purpose. It’s important to understand the ground rules before forming or joining a group.

Here are my 15 suggestions:

1. Does the group have a clearly stated purpose?

A writing group should have a written mission statement to stay focused and help new members determine if the group’s purpose is in sync with their goals.

The statement should answer these questions: Does the group get together to critique or for support? How often do they meet, and what’s the workflow? Do writers gather to socialize and network, or to finish manuscripts? What genres are represented? How much writing experience do you need? Is the group stable, or do new faces come and go weekly?

2. Size matters

A writing group should have four (minimum) to eight (maximum) members. Any fewer and you may not get enough feedback. More than eight, and you’re in for a long and tedious evening if everyone is reading. And be selective about who to include. New members should be added by invitation only following a group discussion and consensus.

3. Similar goals and writing levels

Members should generally be at the same level of their writing careers. For example, some groups require that every member be published. Others require that every member complete at least one manuscript, whether it’s published on not.

If you mix successfully published authors with beginners struggling to complete their first manuscript, the group becomes unbalanced. You risk alienating the pros and discouraging the beginners.

Newbies who wish to have their work reviewed and critiqued by professional instructors should first seek out academic courses and workshops.

4. Mixing genres

You can learn a great deal by working with writers of different genres. For example, if you’re a male thriller writer, critiquing and being critiqued by a female mystery writer might help you with characterization and a different gender point of view. Conversely, mystery writers might learn some tips about pacing and plot from thriller writers.

5. Get to work on time

Don’t waste each other’s time by filling the first half hour or so with small talk while waiting for latecomers to show. Begin work promptly at the stated time, and let chronic latecomers take notice.

Once all of the work has been read and discussed, then members can socialize, but not before.

6. The workflow

Each writer should come prepared to read 10 pages or less aloud for no more than 10 minutes. The writer passes out copies to each member on the spot. While the writer reads, members follow along, making notes and suggestions on their copies, which are collected and returned to the writer at the end of their session.

When the writer finishes reading, each member in turn offers several minutes of critique. Some give line-by-line suggestions, while others are better at offering general impressions. It’s acceptable for another member to interrupt with a comment appropriate for that discussion, as long as it’s brief and on point.

7. Who moderates?

Determine who’s in charge at each meeting. This can be the same person, perhaps the group’s founder, or you can rotate the responsibility.

The leader makes sure the meeting starts on time, stays focused, the rules are followed, and intervenes if the discussion veers off-topic or turns into a debate. In large groups, the moderator uses a timer to limit each reading to 10 minutes, and gives each member two to three minutes of critique time.

8. Critique, yes … criticize, NO!

There are two types of people in this world: those who find fault to hurt, and those who offer suggestions to help build something better.

Put-downs and attacks are out of place in a writing group. This is a critical rule that must be enforced, or you risk alienating members, or worse. One mean-spirited comment can cause a talented beginner to lose faith. It’s stupid and pointless.

Keep in mind that the reason for giving feedback is to help the writer improve, not wound him. Every member should feel safe sharing. Good critique is specific, constructive, sincere and helpful, and inspires the writer to do his or her best work. Be honest and tactful, keep your language positive, and give encouragement and praise when appropriate.

Focus on three things:

  • Start with the positives – what works
  • Point out what isn’t clear, what doesn’t work, and what could be better
  • Offer suggestions for consideration

9. Shut up and listen

writing_group2

This isn’t a debate club. You came to get feedback to improve your work, not to explain what you intended to do. While you’re explaining and defending, you’re not listening!

When you push back on someone’s comment, you close off any chance of benefiting from constructive feedback, and your writing will suffer for it. It’s okay to answer a question about what you’ve just read to the group. Otherwise, shut up and make notes about how others reacted to your work.

If you receive a comment you don’t agree with, keep quiet, listen with an open mind, and learn something. Writers who want to do their very best will consider everything they get.

10. Be open to possibilities

A critique is one person’s opinion. You are still the author of the work, and you can choose to ignore something you don’t agree with.

But be open to all possibilities.

You never know when a rogue comment will inspire you to come up with something new and exciting to improve your story. But if several reviewers point out the same issue, you should make changes.

Keep in mind that nice, superfluous comments are great on the ears, but they won’t necessarily improve your writing. Put your ego aside and encourage hard discussion about what you’ve written. It can be emotionally exhausting. But that’s how you learn.

11. This isn’t a book club

Don’t confuse your fellow writer by stating how one of your favorite authors, or a movie you’ve seen, or your workshop writing instructor might have better handled the scene or characters. This isn’t helpful.

A critique group is not the appropriate place to drop names in order to gain clout. Be honest and speak from your heart and experience rather than lobbing jabs while hiding behind someone else’s work.

12. All members should be working on something

You should write every day. Depending on your schedule you may not have a scene ready to read each week, but you should be working on at least one project that you’re comfortable sharing.

Reading your work to a group can be a humbling and often humiliating experience. Members without work to share keep their hearts and souls safely hidden. They don’t risk humiliation or rejection.

I’ve seen non-sharing members become arrogant and even contemptuous toward the working writer. They’re more apt to criticize than critique.

But when each group member puts his or her heart and soul on the table each week for scrutiny, the circle of bonding is complete.

Remember that the purpose of the group is to give and receive feedback about your work in progress. So, if you attend weekly writing groups only as an observer, perhaps you should stay at home and write.

13. Read each member’s work … all of it!

Every member should agree to read each other’s work. Not parts of it. Not whatever is convenient. ALL OF IT!

It’s hard enough to follow a novel one scene at a time, week after week, over the course of a year or more. A member who misses some of those readings becomes hopelessly lost. And asking too many questions trying to catch up becomes disruptive, counterproductive and deprives members of good feedback.

If you miss a week, agree to read and critique what you missed before you attend the next meeting. And expect others to do the same for you.

14. Remove troublesome members … quickly!

Working with a group of writers is a privilege that should be sacredly guarded. That’s why you need a removal rule. If your group has a Writer From Hell who ignores the rules, attacks other writers, hogs discussions, won’t listen to criticism, and generally creates a negative and unproductive environment – he or she must go.

The group should agree in advance what behavior merits grounds for expulsion. And act quickly.

15. Online writing groups – a last resort

One final thought: If your only option is to join an online discussion group, then go for it. Getting feedback electronically from people you may never meet in person is better than getting no feedback.

However, the benefits of regular face-to-face meetings with serious writers you respect and trust can yield golden opportunities that just aren’t possible with an online community.

And who knows what network connections and long-term friendships may develop over time from people you’re in the same room with week after week.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Recent Posts

  • The Least You Should Know About Outlining Your Story
  • ‘Tweener’ Rejections
  • Romance in Thrillers?
  • Digging for a Story

Recent Comments

  • EMIL SOZONOV on The Millennium Project
  • ALLAN on The Millennium Project
  • MIKE WILSON on The Millennium Project

Site content is protected.

Types of writing groups

Below are some of the basic kinds of writing groups. They are listed to help you refine what you are looking for. Each group has a core activity---writing, critiquing, discussing, or checking in. What makes the most sense for you given your goals and situation?

If you are looking to join a group, this should help you narrow down the choices. If you are looking to start another group, use these as general templates and don’t be afraid to cross boundaries. Create what works for you and your members.

Writing practice groups – Writing

In writing practice groups, the core activity is writing. Members physically sit down at a coffee shop or library and simply write. They don’t talk or check their phones. They just write.

Some groups use writing prompts to guide the sessions. In these, writers may have the option to share their writing at the end. In other groups, the focus is purely writing and members use the time to work on independent projects.

Having an agreed upon time and space lets these writers carve out time for their writing and be accountable to each other. As they continue attending the meetings and get to know the faces, writers in these groups also gain the support of a writing community.

One popular example of this sort of group is called Shut Up & Write. There are many MeetUp examples of these groups throughout the country.

Critique groups – Exchanging critique

In critique groups, writers come together to share manuscripts and exchange feedback. As members get to know each other, writerly discussions, support and friendship build around the core purpose of critique.

Many critique groups follow the workshop model. The manuscript is read and members give critique. During that time, the author may not make comments. After all critiques are given, the author may ask questions to clarify the critique, but he may not defend or explain the writing. This is the format we follow with Inked Voices through a critique period and a review period.

Groups can meet in person or online. In person and online formats will be discussed in detail later, under Critique Group Formats and Tools

Social or Support Groups – Talking about it

In these groups, the main activity is discussion or conversation.

Groups sticking to the professional side of things may discuss book launches, marketing and the industry. They may discuss questions members are facing—figuring out an issue with a manuscript, finding the right agent or perfecting a query letter. They can be sources of encouragement during tough times. Writers can find groups like these online through LinkedIn and Facebook and in-person through a writers association, MeetUp or by advertising at a bookstore or library.

Other groups have more of a social bent. Writers get drinks or sit together at a café and the conversation leads where it will, writing or otherwise.

Accountability Groups – Checking in

Similar to “just write”, these groups focus on getting their members writing. Instead of writing at the meeting, though, members write independently and the meeting functions as a deadline.

At in-person groups, writers could read and share their work. Or, they could report on their writing progress and then move on to discussion.

These groups can also run with minimal logistics online. Writers set a word count goal and report to one another whether they met it. Members encourage each other to keep writing and meet their word count goals.

Steven C. Hayes Ph.D.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

The power of writing about your values, a simple exercise to rediscover your purpose and find meaning..

Posted February 15, 2024 | Reviewed by Michelle Quirk

  • What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
  • Find a counsellor who practices CBT
  • Values work asks us to take responsibility for our own life journey.
  • Writing about your values has a significant impact on your actions and mental well-being.
  • Living by what you truly care about won’t always be easy, but it can bring you more fulfillment and meaning.

Pixabay/Pexels

What do you genuinely care about? It’s a deceptively simple question, but one we often neglect answering for ourselves. As a result, we tend to focus our efforts and energies on tasks that don’t truly align with what we want out of life. We act according to our short-term needs (while maybe even sabotaging our long-term goals), or we follow other people’s expectations, not really questioning whether they are in our own best interest. We might focus on what we “should” be doing, going from chore to chore, making us feel like we’re trapped in an endlessly looping hamster wheel.

Living by our values provides an alternative. Rather than mindlessly trying to live up to other people’s standards, values work asks us to take responsibility for our own life journey. When we choose what’s important in life, we create a deeply personal metric for success.

Do we care about putting love into the world? About appreciating and protecting nature? About creating beauty? The best of our cultural, familial, and wisdom traditions can guide us, but ultimately the truly heartfelt choices are ours to make “naked and in the wind.”

By making such choices, we are more likely not only to engage life with motivation and follow through but also to bring more attention , care, and energy to the journeys that uplift us. Values help us build socially positive emotions, like gratitude and appreciation, and the feeling that we are making a meaningful difference in other people’s lives. And a simple exercise has shown to be particularly effective in distilling what those values might be.

Research has shown that writing about your values has a significant impact on your actions as well as on your mental well-being—more than just simply picking values from a list or stating them in a few words. By writing about them, you are less likely to react defensively or to let values become formulaic. You are more likely to become more receptive to information that suggests how you can make effective changes in your life.

If that sounds preachy, please remove any sense of “should” from it. You don’t need a wagging finger from me any more than you need one from anyone else, including yourself. I’m advocating values work because science, the best of our cultural traditions, and our own life experiences show that when values choices are made from the whole of us, and from a psychologically open and aware posture, our lives improve. It’s just the way we are wired.

A Simple Exercise to Discover Your Purpose and Meaning

In a moment, I will ask you to write about your values. Before I do, however, please take a sheet of paper and write down the following life areas:

  • Intimate Relationships
  • Environment
  • Spirituality
  • Physical Well-Being

Next, I want you to rate each of those life areas on a scale of 1 (= not important) to 10 (= highly important). Keep in mind, this is not about how important they might be to others, but how important they are to you personally right now. There are no right or wrong answers here; only you decide.

Did you do it? Great! Then rate each of these areas on a scale of 1 to 10 once again, but this time in terms of how consistent your actions with your values have been in each of the areas. For instance, a “3” in Physical Well-Being might indicate that you eat a lot of junk food and rarely exercise, whereas an “8” in Family might show that you put in a lot of effort for your children.

After you rated each of the areas a second time, take a look at your answers. Particularly interesting are the areas with a high importance (a score between 8 and 10) and relatively low consistency scores (6 or less). These are clear problem areas, and I suggest doing your initial values work with any one of them.

So here comes your actual task: Take another sheet of paper, choose a life domain, and then write for 10 minutes about your deepest values in this area. Really do it—10 minutes is not very long! As you do so, please consider the following questions:

  • What do you care about in this area?
  • What do you want to do in this area that intrinsically reflects your caring?
  • When in your life has this value been important?
  • Who are the heroes in your life to manifest such values, and what do they mean to you?
  • What have you seen in your life when others pursue this value, or not?
  • When have you violated this value, and has that been costly?
  • What might you do to manifest this value more in your life?

writing groups on

Try to focus your writing on the qualities of your life as you want to live it—qualities you hold as being of intrinsic importance to what you do.

If it starts to feel like you are writing a wish list about what you want from life or others, redirect your writing by describing the qualities of actions you want to manifest. If you cannot think of anything else, just continue writing whatever shows up in your head (even if you write the same thing over and over again), until something new shows up.

Don’t continue reading until you’ve written for at least 10 minutes. Trust me on this. Just do it.

OK, now read what you wrote and see if you can distill a few examples of what you want to do in your chosen area. I’m talking about actual behavior. Can you name at least three actions that would bring you in closer alignment with what you care about in this life area?

Next, look for mentions of the qualities you want to manifest in your actions and see if you can note those qualities. You might want to do things lovingly, carefully, creatively, curiously, compassionately, respectfully, openly, joyously, industriously, healthfully, adventurously, thoughtfully, justly, supportively, learnedly, peacefully, humorously, simply, honestly, spiritually, fairly, charitably, traditionally, dependably, and so on and so forth.

As you read what you’ve written, write down the qualities that most stand out for you. It might just be one, or it might be several. If multiple qualities show up, see if you can capture their core in three or four words. These are verbal signposts for values choices, and you want to make a note of them.

Values only really matter when you embody them and allow them to guide your actions. How do you want to show up during an upcoming family event? At a work presentation? During your children’s school play? Or while you’re walking your dog? Humbly allow values to be your guide. Living by what you truly care about won’t always be easy, but in combination with learning how to be more open and aware, a values-based life will bring you more fulfillment, meaning, and a deeper sense that you are living a life well lived.

Lejeune, Jenna & Luoma, Jason. (2021). Values in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy . 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197550076.013.12.

Steven C. Hayes Ph.D.

Steven C. Hayes, Ph.D. , is Nevada Foundation Professor at the Department of Psychology at the University of Nevada Reno.

  • Find a Therapist
  • Find a Treatment Center
  • Find a Support Group
  • International
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Switzerland
  • Asperger's
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Chronic Pain
  • Eating Disorders
  • Passive Aggression
  • Personality
  • Goal Setting
  • Positive Psychology
  • Stopping Smoking
  • Low Sexual Desire
  • Relationships
  • Child Development
  • Therapy Center NEW
  • Diagnosis Dictionary
  • Types of Therapy

January 2024 magazine cover

Overcome burnout, your burdens, and that endless to-do list.

  • Coronavirus Disease 2019
  • Affective Forecasting
  • Neuroscience

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

  • View all journals
  • Explore content
  • About the journal
  • Publish with us
  • Sign up for alerts
  • 05 February 2024

First passages of rolled-up Herculaneum scroll revealed

  • Jo Marchant 0

Jo Marchant is a science journalist based in London.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

You have full access to this article via your institution.

Three rows of yellow papyrus with black writing in columns, on a black background.

Text from the Herculaneum scroll, which has been unseen for 2,000 years. Credit: Vesuvius Challenge

A team of student researchers has made a giant contribution to solving one of the biggest mysteries in archaeology by revealing the content of Greek writing inside a charred scroll buried 2,000 years ago by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The winners of a contest called the Vesuvius Challenge trained their machine-learning algorithms on scans of the rolled-up papyrus, unveiling a previously unknown philosophical work that discusses the senses and pleasure. The feat paves the way for artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to decipher the rest of the scrolls in their entirety, something that researchers say could have revolutionary implications for our understanding of the ancient world.

writing groups on

AI reads text from ancient Herculaneum scroll for the first time

The achievement has ignited the usually slow-moving world of ancient studies. It’s “what I always thought was a pipe dream coming true”, says Kenneth Lapatin, curator of antiquities at the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, California. The revealed text discusses sources of pleasure including music, the taste of capers and the colour purple. “It’s an historic moment,” says classicist Bob Fowler at the University of Bristol, UK, one of the prize judges. The three students, from Egypt, Switzerland and the United States, who revealed the text share a US$700,000 grand prize.

The scroll is one of hundreds of intact papyri excavated in the eighteenth century from a luxury Roman villa in Herculaneum, Italy. These lumps of carbonized ash — known as the Herculaneum scrolls — constitute the only library that survives from the ancient world, but are too fragile to open.

The winning entry, announced on 5 February, reveals hundreds of words across 15 columns of text, corresponding to around 5% of a scroll. “The contest has cleared the air on all the people saying will this even work,” says Brent Seales, a computer scientist at the University of Kentucky, Lexington, and co-founder of the prize. “Nobody doubts that anymore.”

Twenty-year mission

In the centuries after the scrolls were discovered, many people have attempted to open them, destroying some and leaving others in pieces. Papyrologists are still working to decipher and stitch together the resulting, horribly fragmented, texts. But the chunks with the worst charring — the most hopeless cases, adding up to perhaps 280 entire scrolls — were left intact. Most are held in the National Library in Naples, Italy, with a few in Paris, London and Oxford, UK.

A carbonized scroll rests on weighing scales.

This Herculaneum scroll was burnt and buried by an eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Credit: Vesuvius Challenge

Seales has been trying to read these concealed texts for nearly 20 years. His team developed software to “virtually unwrap” the surfaces of rolled-up papyri using 3D computed tomography (CT) images. In 2019, he took two of the scrolls from the Institut de France in Paris to the Diamond Light Source particle accelerator near Oxford to make high-resolution scans.

Mapping the surfaces was time consuming, however, and the carbon-based ink used to write the scrolls has the same density as papyrus, so it was impossible to differentiate in CT scans. Seales and his colleagues wondered whether machine-learning models might be trained to ‘unwrap’ the scrolls and distinguish the ink. But making sense of all the data was a gigantic task for his small team.

Seales was approached by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Nat Friedman, who had become intrigued by the Herculaneum scrolls after watching a talk by Seales online. Friedman suggested opening the challenge to contestants. He donated $125,000 to launch the effort and raised hundreds of thousands more on Twitter, and Seales released his software along with the high-resolution scans. The team launched the Vesuvius Challenge in March 2023, setting a grand prize for reading 4 passages, of at least 140 characters each, before the end of the year.

Key to the contest’s success was its “blend of competition and cooperation”, says Friedman. Smaller prizes were awarded along the way to incentivize progress, with the winning machine-learning code released at each stage to “level up” the community so contestants could build on each other’s advances.

The colour purple

A key innovation came in the middle of last year, when US entrepreneur and former physicist Casey Handmer noticed a faint texture in the scans, similar to cracked mud — he called it “crackle” — that seemed to form the shapes of Greek letters. Luke Farritor, an undergraduate studying computer science at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, used the crackle to train a machine-learning algorithm, revealing the word porphyras , ‘purple’, which won him the prize for unveiling the first letters in October . An Egyptian computer-science PhD student at the Free University of Berlin, Youssef Nader, followed with even clearer images of the text and came second.

A team of researchers used machine learning to image the shapes of ink on the rolled-up scroll. Credit: Vesuvius Challenge

Their code was released with less than three months for contestants to scale up their reads before the 31 December deadline for the final prize. “We were biting our nails,” says Friedman. But in the final week, the competition received 18 submissions. A technical jury checked entrants’ code, then passed 12 submissions to a committee of papyrologists who transcribed the text and assessed each entry for legibility. Only one fully met the prize criteria: a team formed by Farritor and Nader, along with Julian Schilliger, a robotics student at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich.

The results are “incredible”, says judge Federica Nicolardi, a papyrologist at the University of Naples Federico II. “We were all completely amazed by the images they were showing.” She and her colleagues are now racing to analyse the text that has been revealed.

Music, pleasure and capers

The content of most of the previously opened Herculaneum scrolls relates to the Epicurean school of philosophy, founded by the Athenian philosopher Epicurus, who lived from 341 to 270 bc . The scrolls seem to have formed the working library of a follower of Epicurus named Philodemus. The new text doesn’t name the author but from a rough first read, say Fowler and Nicolardi, it is probably also by Philodemus. As well as pleasurable tastes and sights, it refers to a figure called Xenophantus, possibly a flute-player of that name mentioned by the ancient authors Seneca and Plutarch, whose evocative playing apparently caused Alexander the Great to reach for his weapons.

Lapatin says the topics discussed by Philodemus and Epicurus are still relevant: “The basic questions Epicurus was asking are the ones that face us all as humans. How do we live a good life? How do we avoid pain?” But “the real gains are still ahead of us”, he says. “What’s so exciting to me is less what this scroll says, but that the decipherment of this scroll bodes well for the decipherment of the hundreds of scrolls that we had previously given up on.”

There is likely to be more Greek philosophy in the scrolls: “I’d love it if he had some works by Aristotle,” says papyrologist and prize judge Richard Janko at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Meanwhile, some of the opened scrolls, written in Latin, cover a broader subject area, raising the possibility of lost poetry and literature by writers from Homer to Sappho. The scrolls “will yield who knows what kinds of new secrets”, says Fowler. “We’re all very excited.”

The achievement is also likely to fuel debate over whether further investigations should be conducted at the Herculaneum villa, entire levels of which have never been excavated. Janko and Fowler are convinced that the villa’s main library was never found, and that thousands more scrolls could still be underground. More broadly, the machine-learning techniques pioneered by Seales and the Vesuvius Challenge contestants could now be used to study other types of hidden text, such as cartonnage, recycled papyri often used to wrap Egyptian mummies.

The next step is to decipher an entire work. Friedman has announced a new set of Vesuvius Challenge prizes for 2024, with the aim of reading 90% of a scroll by the end of the year. But in the meantime, just getting this far “feels like a miracle”, he says. “I can’t believe it worked.”

Nature 626 , 461-462 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00346-8

Reprints and permissions

Related Articles

writing groups on

  • Machine learning
  • Archaeology

What the EU’s tough AI law means for research and ChatGPT

What the EU’s tough AI law means for research and ChatGPT

News Explainer 16 FEB 24

How journals are fighting back against a wave of questionable images

How journals are fighting back against a wave of questionable images

News 12 FEB 24

Apple Vision Pro: what does it mean for scientists?

Apple Vision Pro: what does it mean for scientists?

Great ‘Stone Age’ wall discovered in Baltic Sea

Great ‘Stone Age’ wall discovered in Baltic Sea

Research Highlight 14 FEB 24

Stone tools in northern Europe made by Homo sapiens 45,000 years ago

Stone tools in northern Europe made by Homo sapiens 45,000 years ago

News & Views 31 JAN 24

Homo sapiens reached the higher latitudes of Europe by 45,000 years ago

Homo sapiens reached the higher latitudes of Europe by 45,000 years ago

Article 31 JAN 24

Artificial Intelligence and Data Science Faculty Positions in the SOE at the Westlake University

We are dedicated to achieving influential innovations in theories and applications of these research fields.

Yungu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Westlake University

writing groups on

Faculty Positions in School of Engineering, Westlake University

Tenured or tenure-track faculty positions in all ranks. We seek candidates with research interests in multiple areas.

School of Engineering, Westlake University

Global Faculty Recruitment of School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University

The School of Life Sciences at Tsinghua University invites applications for tenure-track or tenured faculty positions at all ranks (Assistant/Ass...

Beijing, China

Tsinghua University (The School of Life Sciences)

writing groups on

Professor of Biomedical Data Science (Assistant, Associate, and/or Professor Level)

OHSU Knight Cancer Institute CBDS is searching for multiple tenured or tenure-track faculty positions at all ranks in Biomedical Data Science.

Portland, Oregon

Oregon Health and Science University

writing groups on

Data Scientist (Qualitative)

Houston, Texas (US)

Baylor College of Medicine (BCM)

writing groups on

Sign up for the Nature Briefing newsletter — what matters in science, free to your inbox daily.

Quick links

  • Explore articles by subject
  • Guide to authors
  • Editorial policies
  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

Josh Burns

Publication of Jewish creatives WhatsApp group led to death threats, MP says

Josh Burns says one family is in hiding after contact information from a private group chat encouraging action over coverage of Israel and Palestine were leaked

  • Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
  • Get our morning and afternoon news emails , free app or daily news podcast

The publishing of a Jewish creatives WhatsApp group chat and the contact details of alleged participants has led to death threats and forced one family into hiding, Labor MP Josh Burns has said.

Writer and commentator Clementine Ford on Thursday published a link on her Facebook page to the log of a group chat of over 600 Jewish writers and artists. The Age, which first reported the story , alleged the link also contained a spreadsheet of links to social media accounts and another file that contained the photos of over 100 Jewish people.

Ford was not the only person to have shared a copy of the log, but she said it was to provide her 239,000 followers with an insight into “how coordinated efforts are to silence Palestinian activists and their allies” via a transcript of the leaked chat.

“This is a group of ‘creatives’ working to silence voices calling for Palestinian liberation,” she said.

Both the Bitly link and the host site for the document had removed the log at the time of reporting, on privacy grounds.

Burns, who is the federal MP for Macnamara, said it was “very distressing” to see people’s contact information be posted online

“This is beyond the sort of trivial social media posts that some people are putting up,” he said. “This has resulted in really serious consequences where people have received death threats.”

Burns said he had been in contact with a family who had to go into hiding after receiving an “avalanche of threats” and had to switch off devices and move to a different location.

“They were completely shattered by this whole experience, where … a sort of lynch mob of people were attacking them,” he said.

The Executive Council of Australian Jewry’s co-chief executive, Alex Ryvchin, said there was “shock and disbelief” that a list of the names of Jews was being drawn up.

“We call on our fellow Australians to resist the harassment and bullying, and when asked to sack or blacklist Australian Jews, to say not in our time and not in our country,” he said.

A spokesperson for Victoria police confirmed it is investigating earlier reports of the personal details of people who belong to a private social media chat group appearing to have been released online.

Guardian Australia has not verified the other documents, but has seen the purported log of the chat, which are believed to be the same as those posted by Ford and others, albeit without the social media details of the members of the group.

The chat includes members of the group, similar to the Lawyers for Israel group , encouraging contacting Ford’s publisher and others in the media over coverage of Israel and Palestine and the response to the leaked WhatsApp chats for Lawyers for Israel and its alleged campaign to oust journalist Antoinette Lattouf from a casual on-air role at the ABC.

Guardian Australia has contacted Ford.

The president of the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network, Nasser Mashni, said APAN was concerned by purpose of the WhatsApp group saying it appeared to be focused on targeting and “attempting to silence” people speaking out on Palestine.

“Palestine supporters from a range of backgrounds have been targeted for months, sometimes leading to job losses, sometimes resulting in threats to people’s physical safety.”

One of the former members of the group, journalist Ginger Gorman, said in a statement published on X she joined the group after the 7 October attack on the understanding it was a Jewish creative group about human rights. She said she muted the group and only viewed it occasionally, and missed what she said was bullying and harassment in the group and the targeting of public personalities.

She said once she became aware, she left the group before it was mentioned in the media. She said she condemned the bullying and harassment of anyone.

“Now that I am aware of what was happening in this group, I want to apologise to those who were victimised or targeted. You didn’t deserve this,” she said.

But Gorman said she and her family were the target of online abuse and threats due to being a member of the group.

“Personally, I support all calls for a ceasefire. Innocent civilians should not be targeted and killed,” she said.

Burns defended the members of the group organising together to express their views.

“There’s been a number of groups where some have been really focused on defending the Jewish community against attacks. And I don’t think it’s true to say that they have been focused on shutting down Palestinian voices,” he said.

“We have to be very careful about attributing some sort of sinister motivation with democratic activity.”

He said encouraging letter-writing is different to publishing someone’s personal information in a public arena and defended the group chats.

“I don’t have any issue with people in any organisation and any who were involved in any part of this conversation or any other conversation to associate with one another,” he said.

“That’s one of the fundamental rights of being an Australian is to be able to freely associate with your fellow citizen, and to come together and express your view.”

The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, told Radio 3AW it had been a real tragedy that there had been rising social disharmony, and while people had strong views about the conflict it was unacceptable that people do not feel safe in their communities.

“It’s not the Australia I want to see,” he said.

“The great thing about our country is we can be a microcosm for the world. And by and large we are a peaceful country – we live in harmony.

“The great thing is that people whether they be Catholic or Jewish, or Hindu, or Buddhist or Muslim, live side by side and enriched by the diversity which is there and that’s a sort of Australia but I want to see.”

Lattouf’s unlawful dismissal case with the ABC returns to the Fair Work Commission on Tuesday.

  • Australia news
  • Israel-Gaza war
  • Australian politics
  • Australian media

Most viewed

Federal government moves to criminalise 'doxxing' after publication of Jewish Australians' WhatsApp messages

The federal government will move to criminalise "doxxing" after the details of a WhatsApp group involving hundreds of Jewish Australians were published online.

The government said the legislation, aimed at outlawing the practice of publishing personal details with malicious intent, would be brought to parliament as soon as possible.

The log of the private WhatsApp group, involving Jewish Australians largely working in creative industries, was recently published online.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told Nine Radio the incident prompted a decision to move quickly to criminalise the practice.

"I've asked the attorney-general to bring forward legislation in response to the privacy act review, including laws that deal with so-called doxxing, which is basically the malicious publication of private information online," he said.

Lobby groups such as the Executive Council of Australian Jewry welcomed the new laws, having publicly called for the change in recent days.

Doxxing is commonly defined as publishing a person's private details, including names, addresses, emails and phone numbers with the intent of causing harm, such as harassment.

Pro-Palestinian advocates who shared the transcript from the WhatsApp group have defended the move as being in the public interest and rejected the suggestion it was doxxing. They argue personal details beyond names were largely redacted.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said the laws would fold into already-planned changes to privacy laws.

"The increasing use of online platforms to harm people through the malicious release of their personal and private information is a deeply disturbing development," he said.

"The recent targeting of members of the Australian Jewish community through doxxing was shocking, but sadly a far from isolated event."

The laws are expected to be tailored to avoid impacting public-interest journalism.

Cyber expert casts doubt on usefulness of laws

Details of how the laws will operate are relatively scant, but some are already questioning how doxxing can be policed.

A middle aged man in a suit

Nigel Phair, a professor in cybersecurity at Monash University, said finding culprits to prosecute could be very hard.

"It's pretty easy to have a degree of anonymity online," he said.

"It's pretty easy to set up social media profiles to share this information, and use jurisdictions far from where you live, to use devices that you don't normally do, and basically obstruct who you are.

"So actually trying to find who the people are that have released the information is super difficult."

He said people who discovered their personal details being were shared online should probably first contact the social media platform directly.

"The best bet people have got, really, is to go to the individual platforms where their information might be, and make formal requests for them to remove the posts," he said.

What is doxxing?  Doxxing is an abbreviation of the phrase "dropping documents". It involves releasing personal information — such as phone numbers, addresses, or social media profiles — to a digital audience. The practice developed out of the hacker culture in the 1990s but gained more prominence at the beginning of this decade, when the hacktivist group Anonymous deployed it against law enforcement.
  • X (formerly Twitter)
  • Government and Politics
  • Internet Culture
  • Social Policy

IMAGES

  1. Creating Writing Groups

    writing groups on

  2. 8 Top Writing Groups in CT

    writing groups on

  3. Writing Groups

    writing groups on

  4. 4 Terrific Types of Writing Groups to Ignite Your Writing

    writing groups on

  5. 10 Top Writing Groups in NJ

    writing groups on

  6. Peer Feedback in Writing Groups

    writing groups on

VIDEO

  1. ARTICLES learning lesson

  2. Morningstar-Book One

  3. ISSOTL23

  4. Group for regular answer writing

  5. Writing Groups Are A Bad Idea

  6. Articles

COMMENTS

  1. How to Find a Writing Group: 6 Benefits of Joining a Writing Group

    A writing group is a circle of people who meet regularly to read, discuss, and critique one another's work. Group members offer constructive feedback to help their peers shape their stories. A writing group can be an in-person gathering, or participants might convene online. 6 Benefits of Joining a Writing Group

  2. 19 Online Writing Groups And Online Communities

    Socialize with other writers Writing is a solitary activity and days can fly by without talking to another human. Socializing is good for our mental health though, so it's important not to overlook it. Online communities are the best way to get your social fix without leaving your desk. Get advice

  3. 23 Facebook Groups for Writers You Don't Want to Miss

    1. The Write Life Community Before we dig in deep about what's out there, we hope you've joined The Write Life Facebook group! Writers of all experience levels share their struggles and wins, ask each other questions, and generally support and encourage one another.

  4. 15 of the Best Online Writing Communities for Aspiring Authors

    1. Absolute Write Water Cooler With over 68,000 members, this is a large and highly active community. Here you can find threads on every genre imaginable, as well as discussions about freelance writing, the publishing industry, pop culture, writing prompts and exercises, and much more.

  5. Scribophile: The writing group and online writing workshop for serious

    How Scribophile works 1 Earn points by giving feedback Earn karma points by critiquing writing. Giving feedback to other writers is fast, easy, fun, and helps improve your own writing, too! 2 Get feedback on your own writing Spend karma points to post your own writing for critique — anything from flash fiction to novels.

  6. Should you join a writing group? Understanding the pros and cons

    Simply put, a writing group is a gathering of people who are passionate about the craft of writing and meet up regularly — either in person or online — to hone their skills. You should note that no two writing groups are the same. They often differ in purpose, format, and overall approach.

  7. 6 Writing Group Best Practices: How to Lead a Successful Writers Group

    John Peragine Oct 9, 2019 Learn how to start and lead a successful writers group. In this post, John Peragine shares 6 writing group best practices, including limiting your group size, how to effectively share work, and more. Three years ago, at the first Writer's Digest Novel Writers Conference in Los Angeles, I arrived with a mission.

  8. Want to Join a Writing Group? 8 Places to Look

    1. Local writing centers and communities Usually a quick Internet search with your city and "writing groups" will yield some results. Attend the group, meeting, or class and see if the group feels like a good fit. 2. Conferences Sharing your contact information with other writing conference attendees is a great way to expand your writing community.

  9. Connect With Other Writers Through These Online Writing Groups

    A Facebook group with the goal of helping writers connect. The Write Life has over 24,000 members. There are many more writing groups and communities available online—some in-person writing groups also have an online presence. It may take a few tries to find the writing group that's right for you, but don't give up!

  10. Team Up! What Makes Writing Groups Work

    Six writing groups from around the world share their tips to a supportive writing group. Writing often is a solitary endeavor, one that easily can lead to loneliness. You can spend hours alone at your desk, staring at your computer screen or a blank page, without encountering another human being (and no, tweets and Facebook messages don't ...

  11. Writing groups

    1 Shut Up & Write!® 128,961 members | Worldwide SU Organized by Shut Up & Write! Largest Writing groups 1 Free Comedy and New Friends NYC! FC Organized by Lisa Antonucci 2 Chicago Meetup 27,028 Members | Chicago, USA CM Organized by Ray 3 Free and Almost Free in Pittsburgh 26,425 PITTSBURGHERS! | Pittsburgh, USA FA Organized by Frank (Big Kahuna)

  12. Writing Groups: Everything You Need To Know

    1. Inspiration 2. Accountability 3. Constructive criticism 4. Professionalism proof 5. Knowledge 6. Encouragement 7. Networking 8. Tonality development How to find writing groups 1. Consult your local community centers 2. Attend a local writing workshop 3. Go on a retreat 4.

  13. List Of Writing Groups By State Or Region

    Writing groups can be useful tools for writers looking to gain constructive feedback on their work and improve their craft. At Writer's Relief, we've taken the time to curate a list of writers groups so you don't have to! Scroll down or click one of the links below to view the writing groups in your state or region.

  14. Activities for Writing Groups

    Decide, as a group, on a theme for the next meeting—brainstorming, drafting, proofreading, style, writer's block, etc. Choosing a writing issue to tackle together will help you understand the challenges each member is facing at the moment and enable you to plan meetings that will help group members meet those challenges. Systems for sharing work

  15. An Introductory Guide to Writers' Groups

    At the end of the meeting, the group may share what they've written — and if so they may or may not offer feedback. Critique groups center around sharing writing and exchanging feedback. How this looks varies based on the group. In an open group, members will bring their submissions to the meeting. They may read it aloud or exchange pieces ...

  16. 6 Ways to Find Writing Groups for Aspiring Authors

    Consider these potential sources: Contact local bookstores and inquire if they host a writing group, or might know of a local writing community. Check-in at the local library, as very often, the librarian has a list of writing groups in the area. Look up local Meetup groups. Depending on your area, you may find dozens of Meetup writer groups ...

  17. Starting a writing group

    Introduction Are you thinking about starting a writing group? Joining one? And what is a writing group anyway? First things first: A writing group is a bunch of people who come together to pursue the art or craft of writing. There are many possibilities for a group's structure and format.

  18. Writing Groups

    Free online writing communities and writing groups for fiction, nonfiction, poetry, novels, books, short short stories, and every other type of creative writing.

  19. Writing Group Starter Kit

    You might develop your own writing group "creed" at your first meeting to set the tone for future sessions. It may be a good idea to close your first meeting by scheduling the next meeting and setting an agenda for it.

  20. 11 Online Writing Clubs That Foster Support Among Writers

    Online Writing Clubs and Communities. Below are 10 great online writing clubs and communities where writers can support one another from all around the world. 1. Critique Circle. Critique Circle is an online writing community where you can review other writers' work and receive feedback on your own. Start by critiquing a few submissions to ...

  21. How To Run A Successful Writing Group

    Well, since writing groups can be so important for writers, maybe you should start your own. Here's how. Set objectives for your writing group. This is important to establish as early as possible. After all, success is based on achievement, so naturally you need something to achieve in order to feel like a successful writing group. And ...

  22. 15 Tips for Successful Writing Groups

    Offer suggestions for consideration. 9. Shut up and listen. Some writing groups actually have rules that prohibit writers from defending their work. The reason is obvious: any attempt to invalidate a comment about your writing subverts the reason why you're there in the first place - to get reaction from readers.

  23. What type of writing group to start?

    Critique groups - Exchanging critique. In critique groups, writers come together to share manuscripts and exchange feedback. As members get to know each other, writerly discussions, support and friendship build around the core purpose of critique. Many critique groups follow the workshop model. The manuscript is read and members give critique.

  24. The Power of Writing About Your Values

    Writing about your values has a significant impact on your actions and mental well-being. Living by what you truly care about won't always be easy, but it can bring you more fulfillment and meaning.

  25. First passages of rolled-up Herculaneum scroll revealed

    Meanwhile, some of the opened scrolls, written in Latin, cover a broader subject area, raising the possibility of lost poetry and literature by writers from Homer to Sappho.

  26. Publication of Jewish creatives WhatsApp group led to death threats, MP

    Writer and commentator Clementine Ford on Thursday published a link on her Facebook page to the log of a group chat of over 600 Jewish writers and artists. ... "This is a group of 'creatives ...

  27. Pigeon suspected of spying for China released in India after PETA ...

    A pigeon suspected of spying for China and held for eight months was released by Indian officials this week after intervention from animal rights organization PETA, the group said in a statement.

  28. Federal government moves to criminalise 'doxxing' after publication of

    The practice developed out of the hacker culture in the 1990s but gained more prominence at the beginning of this decade, when the hacktivist group Anonymous deployed it against law enforcement.