There are several benefits associated with creative writing and the following are some of them:

• Analytical thinking- Creative writing can sharpen one’s ability to think
• Brain stimulation- contributes to physical and mental health
• Innovation- Creativity breeds innovation. The more creatively you think, the higher your chances of innovative ideas.
• Clear communication- Helps to improve communication skills as well as builds vocabulary.
• Builds Confidence- creative writing helps you to feel more comfortable and confident when asserting your opinions and perspectives. It also boosts self-expression.
• Builds Cognitive Skills- helps retain attention, logic and processing.
• Broadens your horizon- It increases the range of one’s knowledge and encourages research.

Creative writing does not have to be daunting; anyone can write a good story. The single most important thing you need for creative writing is your imagination, put it to work. Here are some tips on how to write creatively

• Read- Read, Read, read. Reading helps to inform your writing. Read different resources, aim to read a few minutes every day.
• Find a Story Prompt- Anything can be a story prompt, keeping a journal or note pad can help you record events and observations
• Find a Story Prompt- Anything can be a story prompt, keeping a journal or note pad can help you record events and observationsFind a Story Prompt- Anything can be a story prompt, keeping a journal or note pad can help you record events and observations.
• Make some time just to sit and engage your mind.
• Build your character(s) - Progressively develop your character. Portraying characters in enough detail that they seem real both to your readers. The character in your story is the person or persons your essay is about.
• Capture the attention of the reader- Make sure your storyline is consistent and flows smoothly into each sequence of event
• Be original- Do not copy. Stay true to your imagination.
• Read, Proofread, re-write – Go over your writings a few times. Edit old stories, think of other possible outcomes.

Finally, in other to increase your chances of winning the Blooming Mind Young Writers awards, the following are the points considered when the judges grade your essays. Be careful to put into account each point highlighted below. Avoid starting your essays with words like

once upon a time”, “in a village called”, “My name is

GRADING CRITERIA for 2024 Entries

ORIGINALITY: Focuses on the story origin and content. The characters and events that make up the story should relate to Africa and be original, organic, new, creative and refreshing. It should not be a plagiarised concept.

CHARACTERS: Focuses on the people (protagonist, antagonist and supporting characters) that play various roles in the story. Main characters should be African.

LANGUAGE & GRAMMER: Focuses on the vocabulary, grammar, and voice used to tell the story. The language should be 'children-friendly' and correctly used in context. Distinctive stringing of words and semantics should be rewarded.

THEME/PLOT: Focuses on the series of events and sequence of these events in the story. The plot should reflect a smooth transition of one event to another. And the flow of ideas should be consistent and suspense enriched.

ENJOYMENT: Focuses on the emotional response the story content elicits. Does the story inspire emotional change? Does the story carry a message or lessons that resonate? These should inform your rewarding of marks.

All the best.