
Writ
ing For Magaz
ines
If
you want to make it as a professi
onal writer,
you will eventually need to be branch out
into the world of magaz
ines. While many new writers are
intimidated by the major magaz
ines and editors, it is important to realize that they are not so different from any other publicati
on. Aside from the fact that they pr
int m
onthly, most magaz
ines are just look
ing for knowledgeable writers who have a passi
on for their subject. If
you want to write for magaz
ines, or any other publicati
on, simply write
what you know and the rest will fall
into place. As
you progress through
your career,
you may want to experiment with subjects that require research.
The best approach to writ
ing for magaz
ines is to scour the supermarket for a few magaz
ines that cover a favorite sport, hobby or subject that
you are most knowledgeable about. Pick up a few copies and browse through the table of c
ontents page. There is generally a tab featur
ing the names of editors, al
ong with a mail
ing address for the magaz
ine, a website and perhaps an e-mail address. C
ontact the editors directly and
inquire about writ
ing for their publicati
on. If requested, send samples of
your work and several ideas for a column that
you would
like to write. It isn’t necessary to have previously published work samples, but it may help to show the editor that other publicati
ons,
includ
ing local newspapers, have published
your work.