Stephen King’s On Writing combines memoir with practical advice for developing a writing habit, sharing insights on the craft of writing through his personal experiences and learned techniques. King structures the book into several parts, each with lessons on writing and storytelling that resonate with both aspiring and experienced writers, particularly those in academia who often face time constraints.

Key takeaways

1. Write every day. Consistent, daily practice helps ideas evolve naturally and keeps the writer engaged. For academics, this suggests setting aside regular time for writing to maintain momentum.
2. Cut the clutter. Avoid overloading sentences with unnecessary words and overly complex language (difficult advice for academics, IMO). This “lean” approach can help scholars make their points more effectively and enhance the readability of academic texts.
3. Write with the door closed, rewrite with the door open. First drafts should be unfiltered, while subsequent revisions should consider the audience. For academics, this technique encourages clarity in final drafts, making research more accessible to readers.
4. Read a lot, write a lot. Prolific reading and writing develop a writer’s voice and style. Academics, often burdened by heavy reading lists, could still benefit from diverse reading outside their field to strengthen their own writing.
5. Tell the truth. King stresses authenticity, encouraging writers to stay true to their voice. For scholars, this suggests that writing should not just convey research but also reflect personal investment and insight, making academic work more compelling.

Practical implications for academics

1. Adopt a writing routine. Setting a regular time to write, even if brief, can help academics balance research and writing, preventing projects from stalling due to busy schedules.
2. Streamline language. Academics can make their work more impactful by trimming jargon and complex sentences, making research more accessible to a broader audience.
3. First drafts without judgement. Allowing a draft to be “messy” on the first go can speed up initial writing. Later revisions can polish ideas, ensuring accuracy without hindering the creative process.
4. Focus on storytelling. Even academic writing can benefit from a narrative structure, using coherent transitions and logical flow to engage the reader.
5. Writing as a reflective practice. Writing as a tool for self-reflection can be helpful for academics, turning the writing process into a space for synthesising knowledge and exploring new ideas.

On Writing offers practical and philosophical advice that encourages a sustainable, productive writing habit for anyone facing time constraints. Its emphasis on authenticity, structure, and discipline makes it particularly relevant to academics balancing teaching, research, and publishing demands.

King, S. (2010). On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. Hodder & Stoughton.