Number one thing to know as a Writer (and probably as any kind of Artist too)...
mail that shit to yourself.
Anything you write or create, mail it, email it to yourself. The more copies the merrier and also the more gunpowder you have in the arsenal if Ren-Tixo-Shooter comes at you claiming that you stole his story. (In short-speak, good if you want to protect your work).
Now I don't know all there is to know about writing and the vast concepts of Universal Grammar (which people should look up it's fascinating), but I've had a pretty crash-course self-taught and mysteriously guided entrance into the world of writing.
Most of these tips are just things I picked up along the way.
So tip two...
THERE ARE NO RULES...time to RAAAAAGE!!!!!!
It's still kinda the learn them break them concept. If you have nothing to teach you then, learn from everything. Read as much as you can. Want to write Steampunk? READ Steampunk. Want to create your own style? (I know, the big taboo) Read everything, at some point they'll create a category to fit your style. I would also highly recommend, even if you're self-taught, to get a degree. You never know what you might find out. I have been challenged, inspired, had some of the most gratifying moments to do with my writing. It's also marvelous to be able to speak to other writers who are in the same head space as you.
Tip Three...look into Licences. This may sound odd but if you've got any completed work online, on your computer or otherwise, or a Blog, it may help you avoid thieves. Go check the CCL website out when you have a moment. It's free, and you just copy and paste the image/words to the bottom of each page.
Last tip for now...
WRITE. There is never a good time to write. It must be now.
YOU SHOULD BE WRITING.
