Hello again! Another AWC Tidbit has surfaced as October's contest is progressing. It is, of course, still open for entry! I love having as many contestants as possible, and I hope everyone who joins will stay with us! I know a month is a long time to wait around, but that is why I post the prompts fairly quickly. So that 1) you can get started writing as soon as you want and 2) because I'm sure you all want to know exactly what you're getting into before you commit!

Now, my tidbit for today pertains to writing of all forms! Whether it's for a contest, a book, or an assignment, here is... The Importance of Grammar.

Every writer makes mistakes in there... they're?... no, their*! Yes, every writer makes mistakes in their writing, no matter what. Whether it's a trivial mess-up that is hardly noticed, or something that stand out like a sore thumb, we all do it! That's why we have a rough draft. It is the saving grace for all writing. You are allowed to sit down and do whatever you want with your pen/pencil or keyboard! There are no expectations, other than you write your heart out. It cannot be left at just that, however. If you try to publish or submit your rough draft as a final draft, chances are you won't be taken very seriously.

Editing and revising are highly important to all forms of writing. As a writer, you want to create the best work of art you can! You wouldn't go to make cookies for a bake sale and stop at the point where you throw all the ingredients in a bowl! No one will want to buy uncooked cookies! Even if you mix it all together and make yummy cookie dough, if you were expected to make cookies, your dough will be a big no no!

The same goes for writing. You don't stop at the part where you've put all the ingredients together and expect it to be a complete work. There's so much to be done! You want your work to be as neat and as perfect as it can be! Editing is a huge key to success in writing. All publishers and teachers alike admire a polished piece of work.

Okay, so let's say you're one of those people who can pretty easily whip up a "final draft." By that I mean you pretty much only need one draft, a quick glance over, and done! Hand it in. Well, fancy you, you've got a gift! However, how much do you value your writing?

Maybe you can write a pretty coherent piece, but do you want to live your writing career by that premise? Or, would you rather be known for having a special gift to write clearly, but then take it even further and polish what you already have! No one is perfect the first time. I guarantee it. There is always a flaw to be found, always a better way something could be done.

In all this, I encourage you to really take pride in proper grammar! Write clearly, and when you finish a piece, clean it up even more! It takes your writing a long way from amateur.

There we have it,folks! Another AWC tidbit. To all my contestants: How goes the writing? Started on a prompt yet? If you're not a contestant, please feel free to join. Comment on the Obsessions of October chapter that you're interested in joining! Feel free to comment any questions or anything else you have to say right here as well!

Don't forget! Entry deadline to be apart of the contest is October 18th. All prompts must be written and posted by October 31st!

As always, my friends, happy writing!