@Dustin- Thank you for adding to this list as well. These are also great tips…and ones that even “seasoned” writers may have needed a refresher on.

I would add a couple of thoughts, though they may be more tactical than your strategic points.

1. Get a copy of the Writer’s Market book. It’s a list of publishers and agents. You can buy it via Amazon, Barnes & Nobles or check it out from the library (may not be most current version). Just know that the publishers listed are getting lots of inquiries. Be wise in how you approach them, but be bold. I haven’t bought a copy in a long time because I do more advertising copywriting and fewer articles as of late. Someone else may have more recent experience with the list in this book.

2. Join a local writing club. This will be people who will hold you accountable to make progress on your dream of being a writer. They’ll also give you good feedback that you can use.

There are also sites that will pay you for your writing, but if you’re spending a couple of hours researching and writing these pieces, but only making 10 or 15 bucks with each one that’s accepted, is it really worth it? If you’re making less than minimum wage when you break it down to an hourly rate, then I’d say no. Be wary of people who want to pay you unfair rates, and don’t let them take advantage of the fact that you’re new to the game.