Four-Step Writing Process

A proven writing process used by successful writers to create compelling content that resonates with readers and drives results.

The Four-Step Writing Process

1. Copy Work Phase

• Handwrite or type content from writers you admire for 10-15 minutes
• Acts as a warm-up exercise before writing your own content
• Helps absorb writing style and rhythm through osmosis
• Similar to musicians playing covers before writing original songs
• Most effective when done by hand rather than typing

2. Drafting Phase

• Write quickly without self-editing
• Accept that first drafts will be "bad" - this is normal and expected
• Focus on getting ideas down rather than perfection
• Don't show this version to anyone
• Common mistake: People get stuck here trying to make it perfect

3. Incubation Phase

• Step away from the writing completely
• Can last anywhere from 10 minutes to 48 hours
• Go for a walk, exercise, or do other activities
• Allows passive thinking to improve ideas
• Similar to "shower thoughts" - breakthroughs happen during downtime

4. Editing Phase

• "Where greatness happens" according to David Ogilvy
• Called "killing your darlings" by Stephen King
• Most important part of the process
• Focus on improving and refining content
• Common mistake: People skip this phase out of fear or rushing

Key Principles

• Don't try to edit immediately after drafting
• Give yourself at least 90 minutes between drafting and editing
• Great writing is really great editing
• Shift more time to editing than drafting
• Quick and dirty first draft > perfectionist drafting

Time Management

• Short draft phase - don't overthink
• Long editing phase - where the value is created
• Include mandatory break between phases
• Multiple editing passes often needed
• Don't rush the incubation period