Nathan Bransford - The Forums

I'm wondering if they're worth the money. The Midwest Writers Workshop is coming up in a few months, and I'm wondering if it's worth my time to actually go, especially considering the registration fee is almost half of my monthly income.

What do you guys think? Have you been to these types of workshops? If so, have they helped? If not, why?

You should do your research as to the writers that are teaching these workshops. If they're competent and you put a lot of effort into them, then they could be beneficial. Though I've heard (from the very people that teach these workshops) that they're simply an atmosphere, one where you can relax and write all day, coupled with a little friendly competition (since you're trying to write better than the other people at the seminar).

On the other hand, there are a lot of other methods to improve your writing that don't cost as much. Subscriptions to Writers Magazines. Reading hundreds of books in the genre you want to write. 'How to' books (Stephen King's On Writing, Gardner's Art of Fiction, and many, many more!). Analyzing good novels in your genre. Stuff like that.

thanks, dan. i appreciate the advice. i just wondered if it was worthwhile. but i guess it depends on the person.