Why “Just Write” Isn’t Enough

Eric G Reid
3 min readOct 2, 2023

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Hey there, aspiring authors! Today, let’s dive headfirst into the nitty-gritty world of writing — the real deal that often gets overshadowed by the allure of eloquent prose and poetic lines. We’re here to debunk the myth that writing is all about fancy words and superficial charm. In reality, it’s so much more than that. Brace yourselves, because we’re about to spill the beans on why “just write” might be the worst advice you could follow.

The Sweet Exterior vs. The Meaty Core

Imagine writing as a delicious donut — the icing on top, the sugar-coated exterior, that’s the part everyone sees. But beneath that delectable surface lies the chewy, substantive core of exceptional writing — and that’s called research.

But wait, hold on! We’re not talking about the dull, snooze-inducing research you might associate with textbooks and library all-nighters. We’re talking about the kind of research that sparks your curiosity, takes you on thrilling adventures, and unveils hidden treasures.

Why Research Isn’t a Walk in the Park

Now, let’s get real — research isn’t glamorous. It’s not the exciting part of writing. Instead, it’s those late nights spent with countless browser tabs open, your desk cluttered with empty coffee cups, and the nagging feeling that there’s a missing puzzle piece out there somewhere.

But guess what? This is where the magic happens!

Beyond Facts: Finding Stories, Nuances, and Perspectives

When you dive deep into research, you’re not just collecting facts. You’re unearthing stories, discovering nuances, and exploring different perspectives. These are the gems that make your writing memorable. Forget about using ten-dollar words or overly flowery metaphors — it’s the genuine insights that make your readers stop and think, “Wow, I never looked at it that way before!”

Why Surface Knowledge Just Doesn’t Cut It

You might be thinking, “Why go through all this trouble? I’ve got a decent vocabulary, a touch of wit, and I’ve watched a TED Talk or two. Isn’t that enough?” Well, think of surface knowledge as fast food. Sure, it satisfies your hunger for a moment, but it leaves you craving something more substantial soon after.

Deep knowledge, fueled by genuine research, is the gourmet meal of writing. It not only satisfies your readers but nourishes their minds and leaves a lasting impression.

The Real Purpose of Research

Here’s the kicker: research isn’t about showing off how smart you are. It’s about enriching your own understanding, challenging your own biases, and serving your readers a platter of insights they didn’t even know they were hungry for. It’s about making your writing resonate with depth and authenticity.

So, the next time you sit down to write, remember this: the depth of your research defines the height of your content. Dive in, explore, and serve up something unforgettable. Good writing isn’t just about telling a story — it’s about unveiling a world of knowledge and insight.

Happy writing, and may your words shine brighter with every bit of research you uncover!

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Eric G Reid

I'm Eric G. Reid, Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief at Skinny Brown Dog Media. My mission: transform aspiring writers into authors, and help them create an impact