Goodreads asked Patricia Wilkinson:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Patricia Wilkinson Read a lot of books, articles, and short stories in the genre(s) you like to write. Before long, you'll begin to recognize what works and what doesn't. You'll find favorite authors and begin to borrow nuances and techniques they use until you develop your own rhythm and style. Writing takes discipline. Carve out a specific time on specific days to write--even if you can only spare 15 minutes a day. You'll find you get pretty efficient with that limited amount of time. Practice makes better. There's no substitute for just getting your butt in the chair, clicking the keys, and keeping at it until you create something. Oh, and before you send out a piece for acceptance, hire an editor to help you polish. You'll have a much better chance of selling your work.

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